undefined 10, 2024
Everything Apple announced: iPhone 16, Apple Watch 10 and AirPods 4
Apple unveiled new iPhones, a redesigned Apple Watch, and updated AirPods at its Glowtime event. The iPhone 16 series introduces the Action Button, Camera Control button, and larger screens for Pro models. The Watch Series 10 features a larger, lighter design with sleep apnea detection. New AirPods 4 offer active noise cancellation and spatial audio. iOS 18, launching September 16, will bring AI features and enhanced personalization. Preorders for devices start September 13, with availability on September 20.
Two astronauts left behind on ISS as troubled Boeing Starliner capsule lands on Earth empty
Boeing's Starliner capsule, plagued by issues, safely returned to Earth after a six-hour journey, leaving astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams on the ISS due to safety concerns. Originally planned as an eight-day trip, they’ll stay on the ISS until February. Starliner faced thruster failures and helium leaks but landed successfully. Boeing's contract with NASA has been problematic, with costly repairs. Meanwhile, SpaceX has outpaced Boeing, with its next crewed flight set for later this month. NASA remains committed to both companies.
Going back in time: the schools across Europe banning mobile phones
Six years ago, Calvijn College in the Netherlands considered banning smartphones, sparking mixed reactions. Despite some opposition from parents and teachers, the ban was enforced to restore social culture. Four years later, the school has seen a transformation, with students interacting more and fewer class disruptions. Other European schools have followed suit, and a Dutch government recommendation now urges phone bans in classrooms. Though some students miss their phones, the overall impact has been positive, reducing distractions and cyberbullying.
DOJ claims Google has “trifecta of monopolies” on Day 1 of ad tech trial
The DOJ's monopoly trial against Google focuses on its dominance in ad tech, accusing the company of stifling competition and taking 30% of ad revenue. The DOJ seeks the breakup of Google’s Ad Manager to restore competition, with major publishers set to testify. Google argues its services are effective and warns that a breakup could harm small businesses. The trial could have severe consequences, possibly leading to further litigation and billions in losses for Google.
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What does the universe sound like?
The universe, though visually stunning, can also be experienced through sound thanks to "sonifications." Kim Arcand and her team at the Smithsonian use data from telescopes to create sounds from celestial phenomena. Partnering with SYSTEM Sounds, they turn light data into music, offering new ways to experience the cosmos. Their album "Universal Harmonies" showcases these sounds, making space accessible to the visually impaired and enhancing the study of astronomy through audio experiences.
Australia plans social media minimum age limit, angering youth digital advocates
Australia is planning to introduce a minimum age limit for social media use, aiming to address concerns about mental and physical health in children. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said an age verification trial would be conducted before setting the age limit, likely between 14 and 16. Critics, including digital rights advocates and Australia's eSafety Commissioner, warn that the move could push young users toward unsafe, unregulated platforms and hinder access to essential online support for minors.
Goodbye Tinder, hello Strava: have "hobby" apps become the new social networks?
People are turning to hobby apps like Strava, Goodreads, and Letterboxd to meet new people, including romantic partners, as they move away from traditional social media platforms. These apps focus on shared interests rather than algorithm-driven content. Strava, for example, has seen user growth and added messaging features, while Letterboxd has seen a 55% user increase. Hobby apps are often seen as kinder, less chaotic alternatives to platforms like Twitter/X, creating more meaningful, less sexualized connections.
How Telegram became a playground for criminals, extremists and terrorists
A New York Times investigation revealed that Telegram has become a platform for widespread criminal activity, including disinformation, terrorism, child sexual abuse material, and drug trafficking. The platform allows extremists, criminals, and terrorists like Hamas and ISIS to operate largely unchecked. Channels selling illegal drugs and weapons have also thrived. Despite Telegram's founder, Pavel Durov, being arrested in France, the platform has been slow to cooperate with law enforcement, frustrating governments worldwide. Telegram's lax moderation and refusal to cooperate have led to increased scrutiny, with the EU considering new oversight under the Digital Services Act.
SpaceX set to launch billionaire's private crew on breakthrough spacewalk mission
A crew of four private astronauts is set for SpaceX’s Polaris Dawn mission, marking the first private spacewalk. Launching from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, the mission includes billionaire Jared Isaacman, pilot Scott Poteet, and SpaceX engineers Sarah Gillis and Anna Menon. They will orbit Earth at up to 1,400 km and conduct a spacewalk at 700 km. Delayed by technical issues and weather, the launch is now scheduled for early Tuesday.
The bitcoin ATM has emerged as one of cryptocurrency’s biggest threats
Bitcoin ATMs are growing in the U.S., but experts warn they're vulnerable to cybercrime. Unlike cash ATMs, Bitcoin machines are high-value targets for hackers due to crypto’s decentralized nature and lack of oversight. They face risks like malware attacks, data interception, and scams. The Federal Trade Commission reports a 1,000% increase in crypto scams since 2020. Users should verify transactions and use licensed ATMs to avoid fraud.
Source: interestingengineering
Japan starts removing melted nuclear fuel 13 years after Fukushima disaster
Tokyo Electric Power Company (Tepco) has launched a crucial operation to remove radioactive debris from Fukushima's damaged plant. After technical issues delayed the start, Tepco’s pilot extraction aims to collect a small sample of radioactive material using specialized robotic technology. This task, essential for decommissioning, involves advanced robots due to high radiation levels. The plant's decommissioning is ongoing, with Japan releasing treated wastewater, which has caused diplomatic tensions, and Tepco promoting local food to aid recovery.
Mobile phone use doesn't increase brain cancer risk, says research review
A WHO-commissioned review of 63 studies found no link between mobile phone use and increased brain cancer risk. Led by the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency, the review examined research on radio frequencies used in mobile phones and other technologies. It found no elevated risk of brain cancer or leukemia, even with extensive mobile phone use. The study, which covered data from 1994 to 2022, concluded that newer 3G-4G networks emit lower RF levels than older ones, and 5G has not shown increased risks in related research.
James Earl Jones, voice of Darth Vader, has died at 93
James Earl Jones, the iconic actor known for voicing Darth Vader, has died at 93. Born in 1931 in Arkabutla, Mississippi, Jones overcame a speech impediment to achieve a storied career in film, TV, and theater. His notable roles include Darth Vader in *Star Wars* and Mufasa in *The Lion King*. Jones won an EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony) and recently gave rights to his voice work to Ukrainian startup Respeecher for use in *Obi-Wan Kenobi*.
How to make a budget that actually works
Struggling with saving money? Use budgeting and savings calculators to help manage your finances. The 50/30/20 rule divides your income into 50% needs, 30% wants, and 20% savings and debt. Savings calculators help you track goals and determine monthly savings needed. These free online tools guide your budgeting and saving. For personalized advice, consult a financial professional.
Could powerful lasers unlock cheap fusion power?
In the 1980s, the US conducted secret nuclear fusion experiments in Nevada, sparking interest in fusion’s potential for clean energy. Recently, Xcimer, founded by Conner Galloway and Alexander Valys, is developing more powerful lasers to advance fusion technology. Their goal is to build a working fusion reactor by the mid-2030s, using lasers that could deliver up to 20 megajoules of energy. Xcimer has raised $100 million to fund initial experiments, with hopes to revolutionize clean energy.
Apple loses EU court battle over 13 billion euro tax bill in Ireland
Europe’s top court ruled against Apple in its decade-long tax dispute with Ireland. The European Court of Justice upheld the 2016 European Commission ruling that Apple received illegal tax benefits, overturning a previous court decision favoring Apple. This ruling comes as Apple launched new products and amid ongoing EU scrutiny of tech giants. Apple’s shares fell 1% in premarket trading, and the company has yet to comment. The case underscores the EU’s continued efforts to address taxation and competition issues with major tech firms.
Giving children salt water nasal drops can cut duration of a cold
A study suggests that saltwater nasal drops can reduce the duration of a cold in children by two days, from eight days with usual medicine to six days. The research, presented at the European Respiratory Society Congress, involved 407 children and found that those using saline drops also needed fewer medicines. The salt solution, which requires a 2.6% concentration, helps by boosting the production of hypochlorous acid, which may suppress viral replication. Fewer families experienced secondary colds with this method.
Source: interestingengineering
The Secret To Fully Sustainable Housing?
The Earthship movement turns recycled materials like tires and beer cans into affordable, sustainable homes. These eco-friendly houses are energy-efficient and self-sustaining, using natural resources for heating, cooling, water, and electricity. The innovative use of waste materials creates beautiful, off-grid homes that blend practicality with environmental responsibility.
Bitcoin rebounds from its worst week in more than a year, jumping above $57,000
Bitcoin surged to $57,000 on Monday, up 5.6%, following Wall Street’s rebound from a tough week. Last week, Bitcoin fell 9%, marking its worst performance since August 2023. Coinbase and MicroStrategy also saw gains. Bitcoin’s price has been fluctuating and is sensitive to broader market trends. Analysts suggest that stability in U.S. equities could ease selling pressure on Bitcoin and support a recovery.
US seeks to agree principles on safety of submarine cables with EU
The EU is reviewing a draft of the "New York Principles on Undersea Cables," focusing on submarine cable safety and resilience, which is crucial for global communications. The European Commission has asked member states for feedback by September 9, with further discussions scheduled for later in the month and a potential endorsement on September 25. This follows earlier EU recommendations on submarine cable security and the introduction of a Digital Networks Act (DNA) to enhance connectivity and infrastructure. The final proposal is expected in early 2025.
