undefined 25, 2025
Meet the iPhone 16e, Apple's latest budget-friendly smartphone
The iPhone 16e, Apple’s latest budget smartphone, is now available for pre-order. Priced at $599, it boasts a 6.1-inch OLED display, 48MP camera, Face ID, and Apple's first cellular modem, the Apple C1, offering 5G connectivity. The phone features a new action button, USB-C port, and enhanced AI tools like Genmoji and improved Siri. Compatible with iOS 18, it delivers up to 12 hours longer battery life than previous SE models. Pre-order starts Feb. 21, with stores opening on Feb. 28.
Seven planets to be visible in night sky for last time until 2040
A rare planetary parade offers a brief chance to spot all seven planets, with the best view just after sunset. Dr. Edward Bloomer from the Royal Observatory Greenwich advises heading to a location with a clear horizon and minimal light pollution. Venus, Jupiter, and Mars will be the easiest to see, while Uranus is visible with perfect conditions. The weather is expected to improve by Thursday, with the best viewing on Friday evening. Don't miss this chance to witness the solar system in action!
What’s the deal with all these airplane crashes?
In the past 10 weeks, four commercial jet crashes and several private airplane accidents have raised concerns about air travel safety. Despite this, statistics show that the risk of a fatal crash remains very low, with only one fatal crash per 18 million flights in recent years. Experts note that the aviation system's safety has drastically improved over the years, but challenges persist, such as understaffed air traffic control centers and inexperienced personnel due to the pandemic's impact. The aviation industry's safety system is still fragile, with pressure on airlines and manufacturers to maintain safety standards.
World’s first flying car hops over vehicle in public test
A US startup, Alef Aeronautics, has demonstrated its Model Zero prototype, claiming it to be the world’s first flying car. The prototype flew over a parked car on a California road, showcasing the vehicle's ability to drive and fly. Unlike most flying car designs with rotor blades or fold-down wings, Alef’s Model Zero hides its rotor blades within the car’s chassis, giving it a more conventional automotive look. The 100% electric car boasts a 320-kilometer driving range and a 160-kilometer flight range. Alef Aeronautics has over 3,300 pre-orders for its Model A, which is expected to enter production soon, and plans to produce a more affordable Model Z priced at around $35,000.
'Worst hack in history' as $1.5bn in cryptocurrency stolen
The Dubai-based Bybit exchange reported a massive hack, with attackers gaining control of an Ethereum wallet and stealing $1.5 billion worth of cryptocurrency. The breach occurred during a routine transfer of Ethereum from the company's offline wallet to its "warm" wallet. Bybit assured users that no other wallets were affected, and withdrawals continued as usual. The company’s CEO, Ben Zhou, stated that all client assets were backed one-to-one, and Bybit could cover the loss. This theft highlights growing concerns over the security of the cryptocurrency industry, especially as hackers increasingly target human vulnerabilities like phishing.
Microsoft says it has created a new State of matter to power quantum computers
Microsoft has created a groundbreaking "topological qubit," a new phase of matter that could revolutionize quantum computing. By combining semiconductors and superconductors, this technology promises more stability and power than existing quantum methods. Although still in early stages and prone to errors, the development could accelerate advancements in AI, medicine, and battery tech, bringing quantum computing closer to practical use in the near future.
Artists release silent album in protest at AI copyright plans
Over 1,000 musicians, including Kate Bush and Damon Albarn, have recorded *Is This What We Want?*, a silent album protesting UK copyright law changes that could allow AI to use artists' work without consent. The album highlights concerns that AI could replace human musicians. Profits will go to the Help Musicians charity. Critics argue the proposals exploit creators and harm the industry, with strong support from artists like Sir Paul McCartney and Elton John. The consultation ends today.
Tomb of ancient Egyptian pharaoh is 1st to be discovered in 100 years
A tomb of Pharaoh Thutmose II, who ruled Egypt 3,500 years ago and was married to Queen Hatshepsut, has been discovered west of the Valley of the Kings. Unlike King Tut’s tomb, this one is mostly empty, with grave goods removed after flooding shortly after his burial. Pottery bearing his name confirmed the discovery. While some scholars are skeptical, others, like Aidan Dodson, believe it is Thutmose II's tomb. The discovery offers insight into Egypt’s burial practices and royal history.
Source: interestingengineering
UK scientists use cooking oil to recycle dead lithium batteries in minutes
Researchers at the University of Leicester have developed a simple, sustainable method for recycling lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries using water and cooking oil. By creating nano oil droplets with ultrasound, the team separates graphite from valuable metals in the "black mass" leftover after battery shredding. This approach avoids the use of heat and acid, maintaining the quality of recovered materials for reuse in new battery cells. The researchers hope to scale this technique to create a circular economy for Li-ion batteries, making recycling cheaper and more eco-friendly.
Why your most attractive qualities can give your partner 'the ick'
"Fatal attraction" describes how traits that initially attract us to a partner, like confidence or humor, can later become annoying or overwhelming. Extreme qualities tend to stand out at first but may cause dissatisfaction over time. This is common in long-term relationships, but sharing similar traits with a partner can help maintain compatibility. Despite the challenges, fatal attraction doesn’t always end relationships, as understanding and accepting these traits can lead to success.
