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New Game of Thrones Spinoff Divides Fans

New Game of Thrones Spinoff Divides Fans

Summary

HBO released the trailer for a new "Game of Thrones" spinoff called "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms." The series will follow stories from George R. R. Martin's books and will premiere in January 2026. Fans have had mixed reactions to the trailer, noting both excitement and concerns over production delays.

Key Facts

  • "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms" is a new TV series based on George R. R. Martin's novellas "Tales of Dunk and Egg."
  • It is the third series in the "A Song of Ice and Fire" franchise after "Game of Thrones" and "House of the Dragon."
  • The show will have six episodes, each about 50 minutes long.
  • The series will premiere on HBO and HBO Max on January 18, 2026.
  • Production for the series began in June 2024 and finished in September 2024.
  • The main characters, Ser Duncan the Tall and his squire Aegon Targaryen, are played by Peter Claffey and Dexter Sol Ansell.
  • Fans have mixed feelings, with some appreciating the new tone and others concerned about delays and production issues.
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Smart Insulin May Solve 'Ever-Present Challenge' With Diabetes

Smart Insulin May Solve 'Ever-Present Challenge' With Diabetes

Summary

Researchers at Indiana University have developed a new "smart insulin" that can help manage blood glucose levels in people with type 1 diabetes. This new insulin combines insulin and glucagon, offering a potentially more effective treatment option for managing blood sugar levels.

Key Facts

  • Smart insulin is a new treatment option for type 1 diabetes.
  • It combines insulin and glucagon into one molecule.
  • About 2 million Americans have type 1 diabetes, including 304,000 children.
  • Type 1 diabetes patients need insulin because their bodies do not produce enough naturally.
  • The smart insulin switches roles depending on blood sugar levels: insulin acts when levels are high, glucagon when levels are low.
  • This new insulin aims to be stable without refrigeration before use.
  • Researchers saw positive results in rats, but more studies are needed before it can be used by humans.
  • The goal is to develop one weekly injection type and another for use with insulin pumps.
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Google may be forced to make changes to search engine in UK

Google may be forced to make changes to search engine in UK

Summary

Google might have to change its search engine in the UK due to a new rule from a UK regulator. The regulator, called the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), gave Google a "strategic market status," meaning Google has a big position in the market. The CMA will start discussing possible changes in 2025 to make the market more competitive.

Key Facts

  • The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) gave Google "strategic market status."
  • This status recognizes Google as having a major role in the search engine and search advertising sectors in the UK.
  • Google handles more than 90% of searches in the UK.
  • The CMA plans to start talks about making changes in 2025 to improve competition.
  • Potential changes may include a "choice screens" option for users to select different search engines.
  • Google warns that changes could slow innovation and product launches.
  • Consumer group Which? supports the CMA's decision, calling it an important step.
  • The CMA created a "roadmap" that includes giving publishers more control and having an effective complaints process.
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Apple will pay up to $2M for finding an iPhone security flaw

Apple will pay up to $2M for finding an iPhone security flaw

Summary

Apple is offering larger payments to security researchers who find bugs in iPhones and Macs, with some rewards going up to $2 million. This move is intended to help discover potential vulnerabilities that hackers or spyware could exploit. The iPhone 17 includes new security measures, and Apple's larger payouts aim to encourage researchers to find and report these issues.

Key Facts

  • Apple has increased the maximum reward for finding security bugs to $2 million.
  • Security researchers can earn these rewards by identifying vulnerabilities in iPhones and Macs.
  • The iPhone 17 introduced Memory Integrity Enforcement to protect its software.
  • Apple introduced Lockdown Mode for extra security against spyware.
  • Zero-click vulnerabilities, which require no user interaction, could earn researchers up to $2 million.
  • Payouts for one-click vulnerabilities can now reach $1 million.
  • Apple has also increased rewards for flaws involving close proximity and physical access.
  • Apple is donating 1,000 iPhone 17 units to organizations that aid at-risk journalists and activists.
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3D Printed Lungs Made With Living Cells May Be Treatment ‘Game Changer’

3D Printed Lungs Made With Living Cells May Be Treatment ‘Game Changer’

Summary

Scientists at the University of Saskatchewan have developed a 3D-printed lung model using living cells. This new model aims to improve the study of lung diseases and the development of treatments. The ultimate goal is to create lab-grown lungs for future transplants.

Key Facts

  • A team at the University of Saskatchewan created a 3D-printed lung model with living cells.
  • Current lung disease research often uses 2D models or animal studies, which do not perfectly represent human lungs.
  • The new 3D lung model allows researchers to study therapies directly on a human-like model.
  • This approach may improve the development of personalized treatments, especially in cancer research.
  • The 3D printing uses 'bioinks,' which contain living cells, to form the lung tissue.
  • Researchers are exploring the potential for lab-grown lungs to be used in organ transplants.
  • The team uses the Canadian Light Source to study the printed lung tissues without damaging them.
  • Scientists hope these models will advance understanding and treatment of lung diseases over the next 5–10 years.
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Cisco Exec Thinks AI Could Bring Back Lifelong Company Loyalty

Cisco Exec Thinks AI Could Bring Back Lifelong Company Loyalty

Summary

Fran Katsoudas, a long-time executive at Cisco, believes artificial intelligence (AI) could help people have longer careers within a single company. She thinks AI can support employees staying at one company for a long time, similar to how it used to be more common. A report from the AI Workforce Consortium highlights the importance of balancing AI skills with human-centric abilities like communication and critical thinking.

Key Facts

  • Fran Katsoudas has worked at Cisco for 29 years, starting her career there unexpectedly.
  • She is now the Chief People, Policy and Purpose Officer at Cisco.
  • Career-long employment at one company used to be common but has become less so since the 1990s.
  • Many people now prefer flexible work, often through freelancing or gig jobs.
  • The current job market sees higher unemployment and low wage growth according to recent statistics.
  • Katsoudas believes AI could encourage longer careers at a single company by supporting workers.
  • The AI Workforce Consortium, which includes major tech firms, released a report emphasizing the need for human-centric skills in the AI-driven job market.
  • The report points out that 80% of tech jobs require AI knowledge but also stress the importance of communication and critical thinking skills.
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Amazon Recall Update: Risk of Death Warning Issued for Multiple Products

Amazon Recall Update: Risk of Death Warning Issued for Multiple Products

Summary

Several products sold on Amazon have been recalled due to safety risks such as injury, death, and fire hazards. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued warnings about these products and provided instructions for consumers to obtain refunds or repairs. Amazon and the companies involved are notifying customers and are working to remove these products from sale.

Key Facts

  • The CPSC has recalled multiple consumer products sold on Amazon due to serious safety concerns.
  • Affected items include children's LED tutu skirts, retractable safety gates, and wireless power banks.
  • About 740 children's LED tutu skirts were recalled for battery ingestion risks that violate safety standards.
  • Around 920 retractable safety gates were recalled for risks of entrapment and injury.
  • The recall of ESR HaloLock Wireless Power Banks expanded after reports of batteries overheating and igniting.
  • Amazon stated it stops offering recalled products immediately and informs affected consumers and sellers.
  • No injuries from these products have been reported to date, but there have been incidents of property damage.
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Sora gives deepfakes 'a publicist and a distribution deal.' It could change the internet

Sora gives deepfakes 'a publicist and a distribution deal.' It could change the internet

Summary

The article discusses OpenAI's app, Sora, which uses AI technology to create and spread deepfake videos on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. These videos are becoming widespread, affecting how people perceive reality and truth online. Experts express concern about the potential misuse of these technologies.

Key Facts

  • OpenAI's app Sora is producing AI-generated deepfake videos.
  • These videos are increasingly visible on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
  • The app has moderation features to prevent misuse, but some users find ways to bypass these safeguards.
  • Experts worry that deepfakes could blur lines between real and fake information online.
  • Deepfake videos could be used for false propaganda or to manipulate beliefs and opinions.
  • OpenAI and other companies might relax safety measures to remain competitive.
  • Concerns exist over potential abuse, such as creating harmful synthetic content without regulation.
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Huge buzz but a big gamble: Battlefield 6 takes aim at Call of Duty

Huge buzz but a big gamble: Battlefield 6 takes aim at Call of Duty

Summary

Battlefield 6 is a new video game that aims to compete with Call of Duty. It has generated a lot of excitement and involved major investments by its publisher, Electronic Arts. The game features a return to a single-player campaign and is developed by teams in several countries.

Key Facts

  • Battlefield 6 is a new military shooter video game trying to compete with Call of Duty.
  • Electronic Arts (EA) invested hundreds of millions of dollars in developing the game.
  • Four EA-owned studios worked on the game, located in Sweden, the U.S., Canada, and the UK.
  • The game introduces a single-player campaign, which was missing in its predecessor, Battlefield 2042.
  • The game had a preview weekend earlier this year that broke records and created a lot of excitement.
  • Developers held invite-only community playtests to get feedback from players.
  • Analysts predict that the game might sell up to five million copies in its first week.
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Tech billionaires seem to be doom prepping. Should we all be worried?

Tech billionaires seem to be doom prepping. Should we all be worried?

Summary

Some tech billionaires are reportedly preparing properties with underground shelters, which some interpret as doomsday bunkers. Mark Zuckerberg and other Silicon Valley leaders have invested in properties with significant underground spaces. Discussions also highlight concerns about artificial general intelligence (AGI), with some tech experts worried about its potential impact.

Key Facts

  • Mark Zuckerberg has developed a large property in Hawaii, which includes an underground area described as a "shelter" or "basement."
  • Zuckerberg purchased multiple properties in Palo Alto with underground construction, which some speculate to be bunkers.
  • LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman suggests many wealthy individuals have "apocalypse insurance" and invest in safe locations like New Zealand.
  • Ilya Sutskever, co-founder of OpenAI, supposedly suggested building a bunker before releasing powerful AI technology.
  • There is ongoing concern about the future of artificial general intelligence (AGI) and its potential effects.
  • Tech leaders predict AGI might arrive sooner than expected, which has fueled fears about its transformative power.
  • OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, is advancing its AI technology swiftly, adding to these concerns.
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How South Korea is using a holographic cop to fight crime

How South Korea is using a holographic cop to fight crime

Summary

South Korea has set up a life-sized holographic police officer in a busy park in Seoul to help reduce crime. This hologram appears every two minutes in the evening and has reportedly led to a 22% drop in crime, leading to discussions about expanding its use to other areas.

Key Facts

  • A holographic police officer has been installed in central Seoul, South Korea.
  • The hologram is projected in Jeo-dong Park between 7:00 PM and 10:00 PM.
  • The area is known for being busy at night due to nearby bars.
  • Police report a 22% decrease in crime since the hologram was installed.
  • Authorities are considering using the hologram in more locations.
  • The initiative aims to deter crime by making people feel monitored.
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Ex-PM Sunak joins Microsoft and AI firm as paid advisor

Ex-PM Sunak joins Microsoft and AI firm as paid advisor

Summary

Rishi Sunak, the former UK Prime Minister, has become a part-time advisor for Microsoft and an AI start-up called Anthropic. The Advisory Committee on Business Appointments has restricted him from lobbying the UK government for these companies. Sunak plans to donate his earnings from these roles to a charity he started.

Key Facts

  • Rishi Sunak is now a part-time advisor for Microsoft and Anthropic, an AI company.
  • Anthropic aims to compete with companies like OpenAI, Google, and Meta.
  • Sunak cannot lobby UK government officials on behalf of these firms for two years after leaving office.
  • Payments for these advisory roles will go to a charity founded by Sunak.
  • As prime minister, Sunak prioritized tech regulation and organized an AI safety summit in 2023.
  • Sunak will also work as a paid advisor for Goldman Sachs, a bank he worked at previously.
  • Sunak plans to remain an active Member of Parliament for Richmond and Northallerton.
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AI Could Be Reducing Burnout Among Workers: Report

AI Could Be Reducing Burnout Among Workers: Report

Summary

A report by the AI platform UKG found that workers using artificial intelligence (AI) experience lower burnout rates than those not using it. While some fear AI could replace jobs, the technology appears to help workers by handling simple tasks, allowing them to focus on more important work.

Key Facts

  • A survey by UKG involved 8,200 front-line workers.
  • Workers using AI reported burnout rates of 41%, compared to 54% for those not using AI.
  • Front-line workers make up 80% of the global workforce.
  • Over one-third of front-line workers use AI.
  • 66% of workers are worried AI might replace their jobs.
  • 25% of workers said AI has already replaced part of their job.
  • 20% predict their jobs will be replaced by AI in five years.
  • Education and training can help workers feel more comfortable using AI.
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Tesla investigated over self-driving cars driving on wrong side of road

Tesla investigated over self-driving cars driving on wrong side of road

Summary

The U.S. government is investigating Tesla's self-driving cars for driving on the wrong side of the road and not stopping at red lights. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found 58 reports of such incidents, affecting approximately 2.9 million cars equipped with Tesla's full self-driving technology. The investigation will evaluate the safety and scale of these issues.

Key Facts

  • Tesla is under investigation by the U.S. government for traffic violations by its self-driving cars.
  • Reports include incidents of cars driving on the wrong side of the road and not stopping for red lights.
  • The NHTSA is the agency conducting the investigation.
  • Around 2.9 million Tesla cars with the full self-driving feature are involved in the investigation.
  • There have been six crashes reported due to failure to stop at red lights, with four resulting in injuries.
  • Tesla has attempted to fix an issue at a Maryland intersection where cars repeatedly ran red lights.
  • The full self-driving mode allows the car to change lanes and make turns but requires the driver to stay attentive.
  • Tesla is also under investigation for issues with door locking mechanisms that reportedly trapped children inside some cars.
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U.S. opens Tesla probe after more crashes involving its so-called full self-driving technology

U.S. opens Tesla probe after more crashes involving its so-called full self-driving technology

Summary

U.S. auto safety regulators are investigating Tesla's full self-driving technology after reports of crashes and traffic violations. The investigation looks into 58 incidents where Tesla vehicles reportedly drove through red lights or on the wrong side of the road. Tesla continues to claim that their system requires driver attention.

Key Facts

  • The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened an investigation into Tesla's full self-driving technology.
  • 58 reports involve Tesla vehicles violating traffic laws while in full self-driving mode.
  • Tesla drivers often said they received no warning before the vehicles behaved unexpectedly.
  • The investigation includes nearly 2.9 million Tesla vehicles.
  • Tesla faces separate investigations for other driver-assist features, including a "summon" feature.
  • NHTSA started another probe in August on Tesla for not reporting crashes quickly.
  • Tesla's CEO, Elon Musk, plans to deploy many self-driving cars by next year.
  • Recently, Tesla shares dropped by 2%.
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Viral Photo Shows Two Scales, Same Person—Viewers Stunned by Weight Gap

Viral Photo Shows Two Scales, Same Person—Viewers Stunned by Weight Gap

Summary

A Reddit user noticed a 9-pound difference when weighing themselves on two different smart scales, sparking discussion about the accuracy of smart scales. Dr. Olalekan Otulana explained that such variations are common due to factors like skin temperature and hydration levels.

Key Facts

  • A Reddit user found a 9-pound weight difference between two smart scales.
  • The user shared their findings on the subreddit r/mildlyinfuriating.
  • Dr. Olalekan Otulana said variations in weight measurements on smart scales are common.
  • Smart scales use a small electrical current to measure body composition.
  • Factors like skin temperature, hydration, and floor surface can affect scale readings.
  • Different smart scale brands may use different algorithms to calculate body composition.
  • Reddit users debated whether the issue was with the scales or user error.
  • Some users suggested recalibration or checking the scales on the same floor surface.
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'Assassin's Creed' Game Where Black Assassin Fought KKK Reportedly Scrapped

'Assassin's Creed' Game Where Black Assassin Fought KKK Reportedly Scrapped

Summary

Ubisoft reportedly canceled a planned video game in the Assassin's Creed series. The game, which was set during the American Civil War and featured a Black assassin fighting the Ku Klux Klan, was scrapped due to concerns about the tense political climate in the United States.

Key Facts

  • Ubisoft is a French video game company.
  • The canceled game was part of the Assassin's Creed series.
  • The game was planned to be set in the American Civil War and Reconstruction era.
  • Players would have played as a former slave recruited as an assassin.
  • The decision was reportedly due to concerns about the political climate in the U.S.
  • The game's development was stopped in July according to reports.
  • Ubisoft has not confirmed or commented on these reports.
  • Social media posts about the cancellation have gained significant attention.
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Health Care's Data-Sharing Dilemmas Hinder Interoperability, Experts Say

Health Care's Data-Sharing Dilemmas Hinder Interoperability, Experts Say

Summary

Health care experts discussed the challenges of making patient information easily shareable across different systems at a forum. Despite investments, sharing this data effectively still faces obstacles. Leaders emphasize the importance of sharing data to improve patient care and system efficiency.

Key Facts

  • Health care leaders envision a system where patient information can move easily across different platforms.
  • Despite significant investments, full interoperability is still not achieved.
  • Interoperability aims to connect patient records across various health institutions.
  • A model created by City of Hope, called HopeLLM, helps organize patient data across research and care.
  • Sharing data is crucial to addressing cost and quality issues in health care.
  • Indiana University Health manages over 1,500 applications and is switching its electronic health record to a new system called Epic.
  • Indiana University Health has identified and plans to retire 600 applications to streamline processes.
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Ferrari's First EV Has Over 1,000 Horsepower and Many Question Marks

Ferrari's First EV Has Over 1,000 Horsepower and Many Question Marks

Summary

Ferrari will launch its first electric car, the Elettrica, in 2026. This new model will have over 1,000 horsepower and is part of Ferrari's strategy to attract electric car enthusiasts. The company is also focusing on maintaining control over the battery production process to ensure high quality.

Key Facts

  • Ferrari's first electric vehicle (EV), the Elettrica, will be available for sale in 2026.
  • The car is expected to have over 1,000 horsepower, potentially around 1,100.
  • Ferrari aims to attract new customers interested in electric vehicles.
  • The company's CEO, Benedetto Vinga, stated this move is an important step to expand their customer base.
  • Ferrari's cars have a high profit margin, with recent reports showing approximately $136,000 per car.
  • The Elettrica is built on lessons learned from Ferrari's Formula 1 involvement and previous hybrid models.
  • Ferrari is assembling each battery pack in-house with precision to ensure quality.
  • The Elettrica can accelerate from zero to 62 mph in 2.5 seconds.
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How nuclear startups are using side products to chase profit

How nuclear startups are using side products to chase profit

Summary

Some nuclear startups are using side products from their work, like ingredients for cancer drugs, to make money. They do this to support their main goal of building advanced nuclear power plants, which takes a long time and is expensive. Companies like TerraPower and SHINE Technologies are involved in these efforts, aiming to use profits from these side projects to fund their nuclear energy developments.

Key Facts

  • Nuclear startups are creating side products, such as cancer drug ingredients, to generate early profits.
  • TerraPower is focusing on producing medical isotopes, which are radioactive atoms used for medical purposes.
  • TerraPower's first advanced nuclear reactor's target start date moved from 2028 to 2030 due to fuel shortages.
  • Fusion startups are developing side businesses, as their primary technology takes longer to develop.
  • SHINE Technologies follows a phased approach, selling fusion energy to sectors like defense before producing electricity.
  • High-paying customers in the defense sector, like jet engine makers, pay significantly for fusion-generated energy.
  • SHINE Technologies removed "Medical" from its name to clarify its focus on fusion energy.
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