A new book called "The New Age of Sexism" examines how biases against women are being reflected in new technologies like artificial intelligence and virtual worlds. The book's author, Laura Bates, discusses these issues in an interview.
Key Facts
The book explores sexism that appears in artificial intelligence and new technologies.
Laura Bates is both the author and a feminist activist.
Technologies like ChatGPT and the Metaverse are mentioned as areas where these biases exist.
The book aims to highlight ongoing gender inequalities in the digital world.
Amna Nawaz interviewed Laura Bates to talk about these issues.
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Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) experienced a cyber-attack that may have led to data theft, affecting its production. A group called Scattered Lapsus$ Hunters has claimed responsibility for the attack. The cyber-attack has halted JLR's car production in the UK, and they are investigating the incident.
Key Facts
Jaguar Land Rover says hackers might have taken some data during a cyber-attack.
The attack stopped car production at JLR's UK plants, halting around 1,000 cars daily.
The data affected is still being assessed; it's unclear if it involves customers, suppliers, or just JLR.
The hacking group Scattered Lapsus$ Hunters claimed they were behind the attack.
JLR has reported the incident to the UK's data watchdog and is working to fix its IT systems.
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is helping JLR with the investigation.
JLR's parent company is Tata Motors, an Indian firm.
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NASA's Mars rover, Perseverance, found rocks in a former river on Mars that might contain signs of ancient microscopic life. Scientists say more tests are needed on these samples, ideally on Earth, to confirm any signs of past life. The samples are waiting to be collected from Mars, but the return mission has been delayed.
Key Facts
NASA's Perseverance rover discovered rocks that might hint at past microscopic life on Mars.
The samples were collected from a dry river channel called Neretva Vallis.
The rocks contain iron phosphate and iron sulfide, which on Earth are linked to microorganisms.
The rover collected 30 samples so far, and scientists want to study them on Earth.
The return mission to bring samples back has been delayed to the 2040s due to budget issues.
Researchers stated that both biological and non-biological processes could explain the findings.
The findings appeared in the journal Nature.
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Two former safety researchers from Meta have claimed that the company covered up risks associated with its virtual reality (VR) products that could harm children. They testified before a US Senate committee, alleging that Meta ignored problems and deleted evidence of potential risks. Meta denies these allegations, pointing to numerous studies on youth safety it has conducted.
Key Facts
Two former Meta researchers testified about their concerns over child safety with Meta's VR products.
They claimed that Meta hid evidence showing potential harm, including risks of sexual abuse.
The researchers said that Meta asked them to avoid studies that might show harm to children.
Meta, the owner of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, denies these claims, calling them untrue.
Meta stated it supports research on safety, with numerous approved studies on related issues.
One researcher claimed that Roblox on Meta's VR platform was used for inappropriate activities.
Roblox disagreed with these claims, asserting safety is their top priority with constant moderation.
Meta provides parental control tools on VR products but some, like Senator Ashley Moody, found them hard to use.
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Apple introduced new products at its annual event, highlighting a slim iPhone Air with an advanced battery and processor. Other announcements included the iPhone 17 with enhanced features and new versions of AirPods Pro and Apple Watch. The company faces potential trade challenges due to tariffs, impacting its financial outlook.
Key Facts
Apple launched a slimmer iPhone Air with a high-density battery and a new processor.
The iPhone 17 will feature a brighter, more durable screen and an A19 processor with AI capabilities.
New AirPods Pro will allow live language translation between users and cost $249.
Apple Watch includes a new blood pressure feature, pending approval, available in many countries.
Apple did not increase prices for its watches; the SE model starts at $249.
There are concerns about Apple's potential tariff costs, estimated at over $1 billion this quarter.
Analysts are monitoring Apple's AI partnerships as they prepare to update their virtual assistant, Siri.
Apple's stock price fell by about 1.5% during the product launch day.
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Robot sailboats are used to help weather forecasters predict hurricane landfalls. This technology aims to improve hurricane tracking and forecasting accuracy.
Key Facts
Robot sailboats are being used to track hurricanes.
These sailboats help predict where hurricanes will make landfall.
The program with robot sailboats was released on September 9, 2025.
The technology is available for over a year.
The aim is to improve the accuracy of hurricane forecasts.
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The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed changes to speed up building data centers for artificial intelligence (AI) by allowing some construction to start before obtaining air permits. The EPA's proposal is part of a broader effort to quickly develop AI infrastructure in the United States.
Key Facts
The EPA announced a proposal to fast-track construction for AI-related infrastructure.
The focus is on building data centers, which need quick development due to increasing demand.
Companies could begin some construction without first obtaining air permits.
The plan is part of the "Powering the Great American Comeback" initiative.
This initiative aims to address power demand from data centers.
The proposal involves redefining pre-construction requirements for facilities like power plants.
The U.S. is in a technological race with China, facing pressure to develop AI capabilities.
The current regulations under the Clean Air Act require air permits before major construction.
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Two former Meta employees will speak to the Senate Judiciary Committee about claims that the company did not share research about child safety on Facebook and Instagram. The hearing will look into whether Meta tried to hide bad findings about children using their platforms. Meta denies the accusations.
Key Facts
Two ex-Meta workers, Jason Sattizahn and Cayce Savage, will testify about child safety research at Meta.
They allege that Meta did not disclose important research about child users on Facebook and Instagram.
Sattizahn claimed a report about a teen's negative experience on Meta's virtual reality headset was altered.
Meta's lawyers allegedly tried to create doubt about the dangers reported by the researchers.
Meta denies these claims and calls them misleading.
The testimony is part of a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing focused on child safety issues.
The hearing is set to start at 2:30 p.m. ET.
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Accenture CEO Julie Sweet discusses how large companies find it challenging to implement AI smoothly, despite high interest in its potential. Many companies are not yet seeing the expected productivity improvements and are struggling to adjust their processes and staff for successful AI integration. A survey indicates companies will increase AI spending, but this may lead to job reductions as AI systems evolve.
Key Facts
Julie Sweet is the CEO of Accenture, a consulting company with a focus on AI.
Big companies find using AI slower and more challenging than expected.
A study found 95% of companies using generative AI see no return on investment.
An Accenture survey showed 85% of executives plan to increase AI spending this year.
Companies need to update their processes to effectively use AI at scale.
AI implementation might reduce some jobs because AI can perform certain tasks.
New jobs and business opportunities might emerge after initial job losses.
To scale AI successfully, companies need strategic leadership, not just technology updates.
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Category: technology
Tech companies are investing heavily in AI infrastructure, focusing on building data centers and acquiring computing hardware. Even if AI doesn't meet expectations, these investments in physical assets like data centers remain valuable. The companies view these projects as a strategic advantage in technological and geopolitical competition.
Key Facts
Tech companies are spending a lot on data centers and computing power, not just on AI itself.
This spending serves as a safe investment, as the infrastructure holds value even if AI technology doesn't succeed.
Microsoft, Google, and other tech firms see AI as the next big industry platform and are preparing for its growth.
Data centers built for AI can be repurposed for other computing tasks if AI ambitions aren't realized.
Nvidia's GPUs, initially for graphics and gaming, are now crucial for AI and cryptocurrency computations.
Investments in AI infrastructure are also seen as a key part of the U.S. strategy against Chinese technological competition.
Tech companies have substantial cash reserves, but limited productive ways to utilize them, leading to large infrastructure projects.
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President Trump aims for the U.S. to lead in artificial intelligence (AI) development. However, his immigration policies might make it harder to achieve this.
Key Facts
President Trump wants the U.S. to be at the forefront of AI development.
AI development is a key focus for global technology leadership.
Trump's immigration policies could affect the AI sector's progress.
Immigration rules can influence the availability of skilled workers in tech.
The article discusses the potential impact on AI progress due to policy.
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The article discusses how publishers are worried that AI-generated summaries on Google are reducing the number of visitors to their websites. This decline in online traffic is significant because it affects the revenue publishers earn from their content. Some publishers claim that AI summaries have led to a decrease in clicks by up to 89%.
Key Facts
Publishers believe AI summaries on Google are reducing website traffic.
Reach, a publisher, noticed fewer people visiting their sites after stories appeared in AI summaries.
DMG Media reported an 89% drop in click-through rates due to AI summaries.
Publishers feel they aren't being fairly compensated for their content when users rely on AI summaries.
Google's new AI Mode feature presents information with fewer links, raising concerns for publishers.
Despite these concerns, Google claims the number of website clicks has remained stable.
Google says AI summaries help users by answering more complex questions.
Bauer Media has not yet seen a traffic drop due to AI summaries, but expects future challenges.
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SpaceX has agreed to buy wireless spectrum licenses from EchoStar for $17 billion to expand its Starlink satellite network. This deal will allow SpaceX to improve its 5G services and extend satellite coverage to more areas. The transaction includes cash, stock, and addressing EchoStar's debt.
Key Facts
SpaceX is buying spectrum licenses from EchoStar for approximately $17 billion.
The deal aims to expand SpaceX's Starlink satellite network and improve 5G services.
EchoStar's Boost Mobile users will gain access to Starlink's satellite service.
SpaceX plans to deploy upgraded satellites, which could significantly increase network capacity.
SpaceX has launched over 8,000 Starlink satellites, with 600 dedicated to direct-to-cell services.
The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) had concerns about EchoStar meeting 5G deployment obligations.
SpaceX will pay EchoStar in cash and stock and cover about $2 billion in EchoStar's debt interest payments.
EchoStar will continue operating its existing services, such as Dish TV and Hughesnet.
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A small town in Vermont is taking steps to protect its water system from hackers, who could potentially disrupt services or cause harm. An NPR report provides insight into the measures being implemented to safeguard this critical infrastructure.
Key Facts
The Vermont town is working to protect its water system against potential hacking threats.
Hackers could target the water system, potentially disrupting services or causing damage.
The town is implementing measures to enhance the security of its water infrastructure.
The report on these efforts was presented on NPR by Jenna McLaughlin.
Protecting water systems from cyber threats is important to ensure public safety and service continuity.
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Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has extended the closure of its factories in the UK and other countries due to a cyber attack. The attack led JLR to shut down its IT systems to prevent further damage, disrupting car production and affecting dealerships and suppliers.
Key Facts
Jaguar Land Rover's UK factories and other global sites are closed due to a cyber attack.
The cyber attack occurred on August 31, leading the company to shut down its IT systems.
Production at factories in places like Halewood, Solihull, and Wolverhampton is affected.
JLR normally makes about 1,000 cars a day; production is currently stopped.
The cyber attack also affected dealerships' ability to register new cars.
JLR is working with cybersecurity experts and law enforcement to resolve the issue.
The company has not confirmed how long the disruption will continue.
The attack impacted suppliers, causing some to tell their employees to stay home.
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Hollow Knight: Silksong, a game created by the small Australian studio Team Cherry, has been released after six years. Originally announced in 2017 as a sequel to the popular game Hollow Knight, its launch was eagerly awaited by fans, sparking much online anticipation and community creativity.
Key Facts
Hollow Knight: Silksong is a sequel to the 2017 game Hollow Knight.
Team Cherry, an Australian studio, developed both games.
Hollow Knight sold over 15 million copies and was highly acclaimed.
Silksong's protagonist is Hornet, a character from the original game.
Fans waited six years for Silksong, creating memes and content to cope with the long wait.
The game features challenging gameplay, requiring players to be focused and skillful.
Silksong uses religious imagery and is set in a world with deep exploration elements.
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A small town in Vermont is working to protect its water treatment plant from cyberattacks. NPR explores how the town is implementing security measures to prevent hackers from causing harm.
Key Facts
A Vermont town aims to secure its water treatment plant.
Hackers target critical infrastructure, like water plants, to disrupt services.
The town uses cybersecurity methods to stop potential threats.
Protecting such facilities is important for public safety.
This effort highlights the need for cybersecurity in critical public services.
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Microsoft's Azure cloud services are facing delays due to undersea cable cuts in the Red Sea. These cable cuts have affected data traffic moving through the Middle East. Microsoft has rerouted traffic, but users in the region may still experience slower service.
Key Facts
Microsoft's Azure cloud services are disrupted due to cable cuts under the Red Sea.
The disruption affects internet traffic going through the Middle East.
Microsoft rerouted traffic to minimize the impact, but delays may still occur.
Undersea cables help transmit data across continents and are crucial for internet services.
NetBlocks, a group monitoring internet access, noted these cuts affected countries like India, Pakistan, and the UAE.
The cuts happened near the Saudi city of Jeddah.
The damage can happen from ship anchors or targeted attacks.
Similar incidents have happened in the Baltic Sea, linked to geopolitical conflicts.
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Many workers in the U.S. are feeling anxious about how quickly AI is being used in jobs, especially as the job market weakens. This anxiety is growing because it is unclear how AI will affect jobs, and workers feel uncertain and powerless about future changes.
Key Facts
Workers at all stages of their careers are worried about AI being used more in their jobs.
The number of unemployed people in the U.S. is now higher than the number of job openings, a shift not seen in four years.
Hiring in the U.S. is slowing, with only 22,000 new jobs added in a recent month.
Some company leaders, like Salesforce's CEO, have reduced staff while using more AI but plan to hire more sales staff.
Behavioral scientists say this anxiety is due to the fast pace of AI adoption and the uncertainty it brings.
Some workers fear companies will use AI in ways that are not responsible.
Anxiety is affecting workers' views of their own value, linking it to the misconception that self-worth is defined by profession.
Experts suggest that AI anxiety can encourage workers to develop new skills or consider new job roles.
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Undersea cables in the Red Sea were cut, leading to internet disruptions in the Middle East and South Asia. Microsoft reported that the cuts affected its Azure cloud services but did not impact general network traffic. The disruptions began on September 6, 2024, causing slow speeds and intermittent internet access in several countries.
Key Facts
Internet disruptions occurred in the Middle East and South Asia due to undersea cable cuts in the Red Sea.
The internet watchdog NetBlocks reported slow and intermittent access in countries like Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, the UAE, and India.
Microsoft confirmed these disruptions affected its Azure cloud services, the world's second largest after Amazon.
The disruptions began at 05:45 GMT on September 6, 2024.
Microsoft stated that general network traffic not passing through the Middle East was not affected.
Undersea cables carry global internet data and can be damaged by ships' anchors or targeted in attacks.
The cables affected include the SMW4 and IMEWE systems near Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Microsoft has faced criticism for its ties to Israel amidst ongoing conflicts.
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