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Why GTA 6 will launch without a disc - and what it means for gamers

Why GTA 6 will launch without a disc - and what it means for gamers

Summary

Rockstar Games will release Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6) without a physical disc, offering a boxed edition that contains only a digital download code. This change reflects a growing trend toward digital sales in the gaming market and the increasing number of consoles without disc drives.

Key Facts

  • GTA 6’s physical edition will not include a disc but a single-use digital download code instead.
  • The standard edition of GTA 6 is priced at £70, while the premium edition costs £90.
  • Many gamers value physical discs because they can lend or resell the game, but digital codes usually cannot be reused.
  • Digital sales now make up the majority of game revenue.
  • More than half of Xbox Series consoles and over a quarter of PlayStation 5 consoles in the US do not have disc drives.
  • Some gamers download most or all of their games digitally and are not concerned about the absence of discs.
  • Consumer rights groups worry that digital-only formats may limit players’ access if online servers are shut down in the future.
  • Rockstar’s decision shows the ongoing shift in the industry toward digital game ownership rather than physical products.
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California's AI job tracker finds no early evidence of unemployment from AI

California's AI job tracker finds no early evidence of unemployment from AI

Summary

California has created the first public dashboard that tracks jobs affected by artificial intelligence (AI), showing both new jobs created and jobs lost. So far, the data does not show any increase in unemployment linked to AI in the state.

Key Facts

  • California launched the first public AI job tracker in the United States.
  • The tracker monitors jobs created and lost due to AI technology.
  • Early data shows no rise in unemployment caused by AI in California.
  • The tracker is maintained by the California Policy Lab at UCLA.
  • Till von Wachter, a UCLA expert, discussed the findings publicly.
  • The dashboard aims to provide transparent, up-to-date information on AI’s impact on jobs.
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Streaming services’ obnoxiously loud ads become illegal on July 1 in California

Streaming services’ obnoxiously loud ads become illegal on July 1 in California

Summary

Starting July 1, streaming services in California cannot play ads louder than the shows or videos they accompany. This new law aims to treat streaming ads like those on traditional TV, which already have volume rules to prevent loud commercials.

Key Facts

  • California's new law (SB 576) bans streaming ads louder than the video content as of July 1, 2026.
  • Traditional TV ads are already regulated by the CALM Act to match the program volume.
  • Streaming services have not yet announced how they will follow California’s law.
  • Illinois will also require similar ad volume rules for streaming by July 1, 2027.
  • Industry groups like the Motion Picture Association opposed the bill, citing technical challenges.
  • Ads inserted by servers can have varying volumes due to different encoding methods.
  • Streaming must handle loudness control across many devices like TVs, tablets, and phones.
  • The FCC received thousands of complaints about loud TV ads from 2022 to 2024, showing ongoing viewer concern.
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Russian citizens told "switch to Android" after Apple blocks key Russian apps

Russian citizens told "switch to Android" after Apple blocks key Russian apps

Summary

Apple has removed key Russian apps like VKontakte and Max from its App Store in Russia, affecting iPhone users there. The Russian government criticized Apple’s actions and encouraged people to switch to Android and local app stores to keep using these services.

Key Facts

  • In 2025, Russia asked Apple to remove 1,213 apps, the highest number of app removal requests worldwide.
  • The blocked apps include VKontakte (a popular Russian social network) and Max (a government-mandated messaging app).
  • Apple removed these apps without prior notice, stopping push notifications and limiting their usefulness on iPhones.
  • VK Group claims their Android apps are still fully functional and available on several app stores like Google Play and RuStore.
  • Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Russia expects an explanation from Apple and criticized Apple's decisions as unusual.
  • Peskov suggested Russian users switch to Android or domestic app systems to continue using their favorite services.
  • Russia aims to create a controlled, spy-friendly internet with domestic apps, while blocking some apps to enforce censorship.
  • Vietnam was the second highest country requesting app removals from Apple but with far fewer demands than Russia.
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GTA VI Pre-Order Guide: Price, Editions, Release Date and How to Buy Now

GTA VI Pre-Order Guide: Price, Editions, Release Date and How to Buy Now

Summary

Pre-orders for Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA VI) are now available for PS5 and Xbox Series X. The game offers a Standard Edition and an Ultimate Edition Upgrade that adds extra story content, vehicles, weapons, and customization, which unlock as players progress in the campaign.

Key Facts

  • Rockstar Games has not revealed full gameplay details of GTA VI yet, following a usual pattern of late reveals close to launch.
  • Pre-orders are available on Amazon and official game stores for PS5 and Xbox Series X versions.
  • The Ultimate Edition Upgrade is an add-on requiring the base game and adds premium vehicles, weapons, outfits, and story-related content.
  • The upgrade’s content unlocks gradually during the game, enhancing the story with characters Jason and Lucia.
  • Vehicles include a 1995 Grotti Cheetah sports car, motorcycles, boats, and off-road vehicles.
  • Weapons include special revolvers and personalized sidearms with unique engravings.
  • Customization options include exclusive outfits, tattoos, and vehicle modifications.
  • Pre-order bonuses include the Vintage Vice City Pack and a free month of GTA+ online service.
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'D-Topia' and A Few Other Indies You Won't Want to Miss in July

'D-Topia' and A Few Other Indies You Won't Want to Miss in July

Summary

Several indie video games are set to be released in July 2026. These games offer unique experiences different from big-budget titles like "Grand Theft Auto 6" and highlight creativity in storytelling, puzzles, and gameplay styles.

Key Facts

  • "Cat Mail Co." launches July 6, 2026; players act as a cat postman sorting packages and uncovering stories.
  • "D-Topia" releases July 14, 2026; it is a puzzle game about life and happiness in an AI-controlled world with soft, Pokémon-style characters.
  • "Denshattack!" comes out July 15, 2026; players control a train conductor using a locomotive like a skateboard, with stylish tricks and battles.
  • "The Life and Suffering of Prince Jerian," releasing July 20, 2026, features a story-driven experience following a prince destined to rule.
  • Indie games provide different vibes and gameplay compared to expensive, open-world AAA games.
  • These indie titles emphasize unique storytelling, player choices, and artistic styles.
  • Demos for some games are already available for players to try before release.
  • Indie developers and publishers like Maracas Studio, Marumitti Games, Annapurna Interactive, Undercoders, and Fireshine Games are involved in these releases.
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Dozens of tech safety groups urge House to reject KIDS package

Dozens of tech safety groups urge House to reject KIDS package

Summary

Almost 100 groups that work on online safety and protecting children asked House leaders not to approve a new law called the KIDS Act. They worry this law, which may be voted on soon, could cause problems for online safety and children’s privacy.

Key Facts

  • Nearly 100 digital and child safety groups signed a letter opposing the KIDS Act.
  • The KIDS Act is a proposed law focused on kids’ online safety.
  • The groups sent their letter on Friday.
  • They want House leaders to reject the current version of the KIDS Act.
  • The law may be voted on in the House as early as next Monday.
  • The process to bring it to the floor is being fast-tracked, which means moving quickly.
  • The groups’ concerns include potential negative impacts on online safety and children’s privacy.
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Gadget prices have fallen for decades. Then AI happened.

Gadget prices have fallen for decades. Then AI happened.

Summary

Prices for consumer electronics like computers and game consoles are rising after decades of falling because of a shortage of memory and storage chips. This shortage is caused by big tech companies buying most of the chips to support new artificial intelligence (AI) data centers, making chips more expensive and harder to find for everyday devices.

Key Facts

  • Consumer electronics prices are rising due to a shortage of memory and storage chips.
  • Big tech companies like Alphabet, Amazon, and Meta are buying most chips for AI data centers.
  • This leaves fewer chips available for devices like smartphones, tablets, and game consoles.
  • Apple and Microsoft have increased prices on products such as iPads, MacBooks, and Xbox consoles.
  • Apple may also raise iPhone prices by up to $200 for Pro models to cover higher costs.
  • Leading chip makers Micron, Samsung, and SK Hynix focus more on profitable AI-related chip production than on consumer chips.
  • The current chip shortage and price increases are worse than those seen during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Building new chip factories is very expensive and takes up to five years, so supply cannot quickly increase.
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NYT slams Microsoft for building copyright-infringing supercomputer for OpenAI

NYT slams Microsoft for building copyright-infringing supercomputer for OpenAI

Summary

The New York Times wants to change its lawsuit against OpenAI and Microsoft to say Microsoft helped OpenAI steal its articles by building a special supercomputer. The Times says this supercomputer was made to train AI to copy its content without permission.

Key Facts

  • The New York Times filed a lawsuit accusing OpenAI and Microsoft of copyright theft.
  • The Times says Microsoft built a powerful supercomputer mainly to help OpenAI train AI on copyrighted works.
  • The lawsuit aims to improve claims after a recent Supreme Court decision changed how contributory infringement cases are judged.
  • The Times wants to drop some claims but strengthen others based on new legal standards and evidence.
  • Microsoft says the amended complaint is a last attempt to save the case after unfavorable court rulings.
  • The original complaint said Microsoft only provided cloud services; now it says Microsoft actively helped infringe copyrights.
  • The Times claims its articles were used heavily in training AI so the AI could better imitate their journalism.
  • The lawsuit says this use has harmed the Times financially and damaged its reputation.
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Former Indiana governor explains how his nonprofit will help workers impacted by AI boom

Former Indiana governor explains how his nonprofit will help workers impacted by AI boom

Summary

RAISE US, a nonprofit group, has started a new fund to support workers affected by the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). Former Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb, who co-chairs RAISE US, explains how the fund will help workers adjust to changes caused by AI technology.

Key Facts

  • RAISE US is a nonprofit organization focused on helping workers.
  • The group has launched a new fund to assist workers impacted by AI.
  • The fund aims to ease the transition for workers whose jobs are affected by AI.
  • Former Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb is a co-chair of RAISE US.
  • Holcomb spoke about the nonprofit and its goals on CBS News.
  • The growth of AI technology is causing changes in the job market.
  • The fund is part of efforts to support workers adapting to new technology.
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Netflix now requires every user profile to be tied to unique email address

Netflix now requires every user profile to be tied to unique email address

Summary

Netflix has started requiring every user profile on its service to have a unique email address. This change, which began rolling out on June 15, 2026, allows individual profiles to have separate login details and personalized settings.

Key Facts

  • Netflix now asks each profile under one subscription to register with a unique email address.
  • The change was confirmed by Netflix and started on June 15, 2026.
  • Profiles for children are exempt from the email requirement.
  • Users can set their own language, audio, and display preferences without needing the main account holder.
  • Some users are upset because this makes shared profiles on the same device more complicated.
  • Netflix may share users’ email addresses with advertising companies, as stated in its privacy policy.
  • Signing up with an email can lead to receiving marketing emails from Netflix, which users can unsubscribe from.
  • The email requirement does not affect multifactor authentication for regular users but applies only to Netflix business partners.
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OpenAI slow rolls new model release at ‘request’ of government

OpenAI slow rolls new model release at ‘request’ of government

Summary

OpenAI will first show its new GPT-5.6 model to a small group of partners instead of releasing it to the public right away. This decision is made following a request from the U.S. government.

Key Facts

  • OpenAI is the company behind ChatGPT.
  • The new model is called GPT-5.6.
  • It includes versions named Sol, Terra, and Luna.
  • OpenAI shared its plans for GPT-5.6 with the U.S. government.
  • The government asked OpenAI to limit the initial release.
  • The model will first be available to select partners.
  • A public release will happen later after this preview phase.
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Antibiotic "megacluster" discovery provides new strategy to fight superbugs

Antibiotic "megacluster" discovery provides new strategy to fight superbugs

Summary

Scientists discovered a large group of genes called a "megacluster" in certain bacteria that produce four molecules working together to block an important process bacteria need to survive. This new finding could lead to better antibiotics to fight resistant bacteria by attacking their vitamin-making system.

Key Facts

  • Antibiotic resistance makes some bacterial infections hard to treat.
  • Most antibiotics today come from natural molecules made by microbes.
  • New antibiotics are harder to find, and resistance is increasing.
  • Researchers found a "megacluster" of genes that produce four molecules targeting the biotin (vitamin B7) production pathway in bacteria.
  • These molecules work together to block different steps in biotin production, which bacteria need to grow and cause disease.
  • The megacluster was found in Streptomyces bacteria, known sources of many antibiotics.
  • Traditional methods look for single molecules, but this megacluster produces multiple molecules that attack bacteria in different ways.
  • This discovery offers a new method to find and use antibiotics against resistant bacteria.
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OpenAI limits its newest ChatGPT product to Trump-approved customers during cybersecurity review

OpenAI limits its newest ChatGPT product to Trump-approved customers during cybersecurity review

Summary

OpenAI is limiting access to its newest AI model, GPT-5.6 Sol, to a small group approved by President Donald Trump’s administration. This decision comes as part of a government review of AI products to reduce cybersecurity risks before a wider public release.

Key Facts

  • OpenAI’s newest AI model is called GPT-5.6 Sol.
  • Access to this model is currently restricted to trusted partners chosen by President Trump’s administration.
  • The government is reviewing advanced AI systems to check for national security and cybersecurity risks.
  • The review process comes after similar government actions impacted another AI company, Anthropic.
  • Anthropic had to remove two AI models from public use because of a Trump directive blocking their use by foreign nationals.
  • OpenAI says GPT-5.6 Sol helps find and fix software vulnerabilities but does not currently pose high risks for cyberattacks.
  • The company is using a phased release and stronger safety measures due to the model’s increased abilities.
  • President Trump signed an executive order in June to create a process for vetting advanced AI before they are widely released.
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China's AI Data Center Boom: How it Compares to the US

China's AI Data Center Boom: How it Compares to the US

Summary

Since 2022, both the U.S. and China have rapidly expanded their data centers to support growing artificial intelligence (AI) computing needs. The U.S. has thousands of centers scattered nationwide, while China is focusing on a large state-led buildout, especially in its western regions, to handle expected huge increases in AI demand.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. has over 3,000 data centers, with more than 1,400 under development in all 50 states.
  • These centers consume a lot of energy and need constant cooling, raising concerns about power grids and water supplies.
  • A March Gallup poll found 71% of Americans oppose building data centers in their communities.
  • China currently has less than one-tenth the number of U.S. data centers but plans to invest about $295 billion in new facilities by 2030.
  • China aims to increase AI computing demand by 500 times by 2030.
  • China’s government leads the effort, focusing construction in its less populated western regions to take advantage of land availability and renewable energy.
  • Data centers require large amounts of power and water, creating challenges, especially in China where water shortages are severe.
  • Cooling systems often use lots of water, which is a concern given China's issues with groundwater quality and availability.
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"Fortnite" Immortalizes Mongraal With New Icon Series Skin

"Fortnite" Immortalizes Mongraal With New Icon Series Skin

Summary

Kyle "Mongraal" Jackson, a well-known British Fortnite player, is getting a new character skin in the popular game Fortnite. The skin will be available in the Fortnite Shop starting July 28 and celebrates his impact on gaming.

Key Facts

  • Mongraal is a famous British professional Fortnite player.
  • His new Icon Series skin launches on July 28 at 8 PM ET / 1 AM BST in the Fortnite Shop.
  • Icon Series skins honor people who have influenced gaming or popular culture.
  • Previous Icon skin recipients include MrBeast, Travis Scott, Lady Gaga, and LeBron James.
  • The skin took 18 months to develop with Mongraal’s input, including color customization options.
  • Mongraal started playing Fortnite at age 13 and has millions of followers on YouTube and Twitch.
  • He took a break from the game to focus on health and balance life with fitness and travel.
  • To celebrate the skin, Mongraal did a skydiving stunt with a banner promoting his Fortnite code.
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Ars Live: What's the latest in the aftermath of the New Glenn catastrophe?

Ars Live: What's the latest in the aftermath of the New Glenn catastrophe?

Summary

Nearly a month ago, Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket exploded on its launch pad in Florida, destroying the pad itself. This accident has caused delays and raised questions about upcoming NASA missions and other customers relying on this rocket.

Key Facts

  • The New Glenn rocket exploded during a test at the Florida spaceport, creating a large fireball.
  • The explosion destroyed Blue Origin’s only launch pad for New Glenn, called LC-36A.
  • Blue Origin plans to return the rocket to flight from the same pad before the end of 2024, but many doubt this timeline.
  • The failure affects NASA’s Artemis Program, which aims to land humans on the Moon.
  • Other space companies and projects, like Amazon’s Project Leo and AST SpaceMobile, rely on New Glenn as a launch option.
  • The cause of the failure likely involves a problem with New Glenn’s main engines, called BE-4.
  • The BE-4 engines are also used by United Launch Alliance’s Vulcan rocket, raising concerns about its future.
  • Blue Origin has not shared many details publicly about the cause of the explosion.
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Top AI Models Might Be Confident—Doesn't Mean They're Right

Top AI Models Might Be Confident—Doesn't Mean They're Right

Summary

AI models can score high on public tests but still make mistakes in real company tasks. Experts say companies should test AI systems using their own data and needs, not just rely on general rankings.

Key Facts

  • Public benchmarks test AI on standard tasks but don’t show how well AI works for specific company needs.
  • Pearl Enterprise evaluated leading AI models and found OpenAI’s GPT-5.5 had 72.7% alignment with expert answers overall.
  • GPT-5.5 scored differently in various fields, doing better in business (80.9%) than in health (68.8%) or pets (62.1%).
  • Pearl measures AI’s match with expert answers rather than just right or wrong.
  • AI confidence (how sure it is) does not always mean the AI is correct.
  • Experts recommend testing AI in the specific work context before trusting it.
  • Public test scores can cause companies to overestimate AI’s real-world abilities.
  • AI is usually used for specialized tasks like contract review or customer support, not general intelligence.
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AI Shopping Gets Complicated at Checkout

AI Shopping Gets Complicated at Checkout

Summary

AI is improving how people find products online, but completing purchases with AI is still challenging. Experts say issues like payment problems and customer disputes make AI checkout complicated.

Key Facts

  • AI helps shoppers find products better through recommendations and understanding prompts.
  • Completing a purchase involves sending the order to the seller, processing payment, and handling disputes.
  • Disputes can be complicated with AI agents because it’s hard to prove the buyer gave permission.
  • Mastercard and Visa are working on rules for who is responsible in AI-driven payments.
  • AI assistants can prepare complex orders but often wait for shopper approval before buying.
  • Business purchases may use autonomous buying more easily than consumer sales.
  • AI checkout systems must handle payment failures, refunds, and other exceptions smoothly.
  • Sellers want to keep important information about shopper behavior, which AI agents might hide.
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OpenAI staggers AI model release after Trump administration request

OpenAI staggers AI model release after Trump administration request

Summary

OpenAI is releasing its new AI model, GPT 5.6, slowly and only to a few partners at first. This staged release follows a request from the US government, which wants to approve users during the preview before a wider launch in a few weeks.

Key Facts

  • OpenAI CEO Sam Altman announced GPT 5.6 will be available first to a limited group of partners.
  • The US government requested the staggered release and will approve customers one by one during the preview.
  • This approach is similar to how OpenAI’s rival Anthropic released its Mythos model.
  • Anthropic stopped public access to Mythos after the US government ordered restrictions on foreign users due to cybersecurity concerns.
  • The request came after talks with the Office of the National Cyber Director and the Office of Science and Technology Policy.
  • Donald Trump’s commerce secretary, Howard Lutnick, intervened asking for more agency approvals before release.
  • Recently, President Trump signed an order to create a voluntary system for the government to review powerful AI models before release.
  • This marks a change from previous White House policies that were less strict on AI regulation.
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