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 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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Apple and Microsoft are raising prices on some electronic products like computers and Xbox consoles. They say the reason for the price increase is a shortage of memory chips.
Key Facts
Apple is increasing prices on certain electronics.
Microsoft is also raising prices on some products, including Xbox consoles.
Both companies blame the price hikes on a shortage of memory chips.
Memory chips are important parts used in electronics to store information.
The shortage of chips affects the supply of electronic products.
Higher costs for chips lead companies to raise product prices.
The announcement comes amid ongoing supply chain challenges for tech companies.
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Researchers used artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced imaging to virtually unwrap and read ancient papyrus scrolls buried by Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. The University of Kentucky led a project that recovered large amounts of text from these fragile scrolls, revealing new Roman books and making it possible to study them in detail.
Key Facts
Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 A.D., burying Pompeii and Herculaneum, where the scrolls were found.
About 1,800 carbonized scrolls were discovered in an ancient library in Herculaneum in the 18th century.
The scrolls are too fragile to unroll physically without destroying them.
Researchers used a particle accelerator and AI to detect ink inside the scrolls and create virtual unwrappings.
A global contest called the Vesuvius Challenge helped decode parts of the scrolls, led by Brent Seales.
The University of Kentucky team virtually unwrapped a whole scroll and recovered over 70 columns of text from another.
They found new works by the ancient philosopher Philodemus, previously unknown except for one book.
More than 600 scrolls remain unopened, and ongoing teamwork combining AI and expert reading is needed to understand them fully.
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At VivaTech 2026, companies big and small focused on space technology, especially reusable rockets. The space industry is shifting from mainly government control to private businesses competing internationally.
Key Facts
VivaTech 2026 highlighted the growing importance of space technology in business.
Both startups and large technology companies are now active in the space sector.
Reusable rockets are a key technology discussed at the event.
The private sector is investing more money in space projects.
There is rising competition between countries and companies in space exploration.
Government agencies are no longer the only major players in space.
The 21st-century space race involves new technologies and commercial goals.
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SpaceX, led by Elon Musk, plans to launch a new Starlink mobile service in the US that would sell mobile phone contracts directly to consumers. This service would compete with major US mobile providers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile by using Starlink’s satellite network combined with a new terrestrial (land-based) mobile network.
Key Facts
SpaceX aims to offer a new Starlink retail mobile service in the US for individual customers.
Starlink currently provides satellite internet to over 10 million users worldwide and partners with telecom companies to supplement their networks.
The new service would compete directly with big US companies like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile.
SpaceX bought wireless spectrum licenses worth $17 billion to support this plan.
The company envisions serving customers not only in remote areas but also in cities and suburbs.
The plan comes shortly after SpaceX’s major stock market debut (IPO), which increased pressure for growth and new income sources.
Analysts are cautious, noting the high costs and challenges of building a large mobile network.
SpaceX has hinted at future projects like space data centers and Mars colonization during IPO presentations.
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A new golf video game called Normal Golf Game offers a very realistic and challenging golf experience. Players control a ragdoll stickman’s arms with a mouse and adjust the club’s angle and stance, making it much harder than previous golf games.
Key Facts
Normal Golf Game is designed to be the toughest golf game ever made.
Players must control both golfer limbs and club face angles at the same time.
The game uses simple graphics featuring a ragdoll stickman.
The perfect shot is only achieved about 10% of the time in the game.
It is much harder than other golf video games, including Golden Tee and Wii golf games.
The game includes funny elements like destroying signs and hitting hidden objects.
Completing the demo’s single hole took the writer nearly two hours and 428 strokes.
The game emphasizes the realistic challenge of the sport itself rather than quick fun.
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Rocket Lab launched a military mission called Victus Haze just under 17 hours after receiving the launch order, setting a new speed record. Meanwhile, German space company OHB plans to raise funds for its satellite and rocket projects, including Rocket Factory Augsburg’s development of the RFA One rocket.
Key Facts
Rocket Lab launched the Victus Haze mission 16 hours and 42 minutes after getting the go-ahead from the U.S. Space Force.
Victus Haze aims to show how the military and private companies can quickly launch satellites to respond to space threats.
Rocket Lab did not announce this launch widely or provide a livestream.
OHB, a German space tech company, plans to raise about 510.7 million euros (around $580 million) through new shares.
Part of this funding will support Rocket Factory Augsburg, an OHB spinoff working on the RFA One rocket.
Rocket Factory Augsburg’s rocket debut date is uncertain due to problems in testing its first stage.
Sirius Space Services secured a spot to use the Guiana Space Center for launching rockets.
Sirius Space is developing three small rockets, with the smallest carrying up to 180 kilograms to orbit.
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Neurowellness is a new field that uses technology and lifestyle changes to help people reduce stress and improve brain health. Devices like brainwave-reading headbands and nerve stimulators support better sleep and mental rest, while tests measure brain function to create personalized care plans.
Key Facts
Neurowellness helps people manage mental overload and stress by supporting brain health and nervous system adaptability.
Increased screen time has been linked to higher risks of insomnia, anxiety, and stress, especially in young people.
Cognitive Function Testing uses computer games to assess memory, attention, and reasoning, creating personalized brain health profiles.
SHA Wellness resort offers brain tests and treatments like acupuncture, massage, and yoga to improve cognitive performance and resilience.
Devices like Pulsetto FIT stimulate the vagus nerve to reduce stress, and the Elemind headband reads brainwaves to improve sleep quality.
Neurowellness focuses on prevention and lifestyle improvements rather than just treating illness.
The NeuroWellness Center uses a mix of therapy and brain mapping technology to provide personalized recommendations.
The Global Wellness Summit has recognized neurowellness as a major health trend for the year.
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The U.S. government is working to promote American artificial intelligence (AI) worldwide, but faces challenges because Chinese AI models are cheaper and more widely used in many countries. The U.S. export controls on AI tools have caused uncertainty, while China spreads its AI technology quickly across industries and countries, leading to concern about the future global balance in AI adoption.
Key Facts
China offers AI models that are less advanced than some American ones but are more affordable and widely available.
The U.S. export controls on advanced AI models, like those from Anthropic, have created uncertainty in the AI industry.
The U.S. State Department expanded the Pax Silica initiative to build an alliance of countries supporting U.S.-led AI technology and reduce dependence on China.
Experts warn that widespread use of Chinese AI in developing countries could create dependence on Chinese technology similar to the Huawei case.
Some countries, including in Europe and the UAE, seek "digital sovereignty," wanting more control over their own AI technology.
35 countries signed the "Declaration on AI Opportunity," supporting U.S. efforts to lead global AI development.
U.S. officials criticize the pursuit of independent AI infrastructure as limiting innovation and cooperation.
The main U.S. challenge is not just developing cutting-edge AI but convincing other countries to use American AI rather than Chinese alternatives.
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Apple and Microsoft have raised prices on their devices because AI technology is increasing the cost of key parts like memory chips. This price rise affects not only computers and tablets but also gaming consoles, as companies face higher costs they cannot absorb.
Key Facts
Apple increased prices by up to 25% on MacBook and iPad models due to higher memory chip costs linked to AI demand.
Microsoft raised Xbox console prices by up to $150 for the same reason.
Storage and memory costs have more than doubled since last fall.
Gaming consoles are often sold at a loss or very low profit, so higher component costs lead directly to price hikes.
The AI boom is driving up demand for resources like electricity, water, and data center space.
Consumer electronics prices, which usually fall over time, are now rising because of AI-related cost increases.
Computer software and accessories prices jumped a record 14.5% in May compared to last year.
AI’s effect on jobs is still uncertain, but its impact on product prices is already visible to consumers.
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Apple has raised prices on MacBooks and iPads in Australia by at least 20%, citing increased costs for computer parts driven by demand for artificial intelligence (AI). Microsoft also increased Xbox prices due to rising memory and storage costs. Retailers have not yet fully passed on these price hikes.
Key Facts
Apple increased MacBook Air 13-inch price from $1,799 to $2,099 and MacBook Pro 14-inch from $2,799 to $3,199 in Australia.
iPad prices also rose, for example, the standard iPad from $599 to $749 and iPad Pro from $1,699 to $1,999.
Apple’s smaller MacBook Neo, launched in March at $899, now costs $1,049.
Apple said it absorbed rising component costs until now, but the sharp increase forced price hikes.
Microsoft raised Xbox console prices by US$100 to US$150 due to rising storage and memory costs.
The shortage of computer chips and memory, driven by AI demand and data center growth, is leading to higher product costs.
Experts say the chip and memory shortage may permanently increase prices for affordable consumer devices.
Retailers like JB Hi-Fi still offer lower prices temporarily, but price increases are expected to spread.
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Apple and Microsoft have raised prices on some popular products because memory chip costs are going up fast due to demand from artificial intelligence (AI). Apple increased prices on Macs and iPads by about 20% or more, while Microsoft raised the cost of certain Xbox consoles.
Key Facts
Apple raised prices on many Mac and iPad models by 20% or more.
The base MacBook Air price rose from $1,099 to $1,299 in the U.S.
The Mac Studio M3 Ultra desktop increased from $3,999 to $5,299.
Apple said they delayed raising prices until now despite rising chip costs.
AI data centers are driving higher demand and prices for memory chips.
Apple’s stock dropped over 6% after the price increases were announced.
Microsoft increased prices on Xbox consoles by $100 to $150 for bigger storage models.
Microsoft expects memory and storage chip prices to double again by 2027.
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Many well-known Australian musicians discovered their songs were included without permission in large collections of music used to train artificial intelligence (AI) tools. They worry that using their creative work this way ignores their rights and takes away their control over how their art is used.
Key Facts
A tool from The Atlantic showed millions of songs used in AI training datasets, including works by Kylie Minogue, Nick Cave, Powderfinger, and others.
Musicians like Paul Dempsey, Bernard Fanning, and Darren Hayes found their entire music catalogues included without their consent.
The datasets contain millions of tracks gathered mainly from YouTube and lyrics websites.
Using songs for AI training can violate artists’ rights and bypass negotiated agreements or payments.
APRA AMCOS, a music licensing group, says this practice amounts to theft of creative work.
Some AI companies may not actually use all the songs in their training, but inclusion in datasets raises legal and ethical concerns.
Australia’s intellectual property laws require permission and payment when copyrighted work is used, but tech companies have pushed for exceptions.
The Australian government recently rejected proposed changes that would have allowed AI use of content without paying creators.
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African countries are working to develop their own artificial intelligence (AI) systems and digital infrastructure as foreign tech companies invest heavily in the continent. Governments want more control over this technology and are creating strategies to build local AI talent and reduce reliance on outside companies, but challenges remain, including limited data center capacity and infrastructure issues.
Key Facts
African Union ministers met in Morocco to discuss AI strategies and investment across Africa.
Countries like Nigeria, Kenya, Egypt, and Ghana have published national AI plans to build local capabilities.
The Africa Declaration on Artificial Intelligence calls for more investment in African AI infrastructure and innovation.
Africa holds less than 1% of the world’s data center capacity despite having about 18% of the global population.
South Africa withdrew a draft AI policy due to concerns about some content being generated by AI tools.
Kenya is considering a $1 billion data center project involving Microsoft and G42, which raised concerns about energy demands.
Global tech companies face increasing pressure from African governments to meet local needs and regulations.
Reliable electricity supply across much of Africa is a major barrier to expanding data centers and digital infrastructure.
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Apple raised prices on its iPad and MacBook products due to higher costs for memory and storage chips. This price increase is linked to strong demand for chips from companies building artificial intelligence (AI) data centers. Apple has not yet raised iPhone prices but may do so soon.
Key Facts
Apple increased the starting price of its lowest-cost MacBook, the Neo, from $599 to $699.
Prices for a MacBook Air with 512GB storage rose by $200, and a MacBook Pro with 1TB went up by $300.
Other Apple products like the HomePod smart speaker and Apple TV also saw price increases.
The price of key computer memory chips rose by nearly 100% in early 2026 and is expected to increase by 58% to 63% this quarter.
The rise in chip prices is driven by AI data center demand, with companies like Nvidia signing long-term contracts with chip makers.
Apple has tried to protect customers from these cost increases but could no longer do so.
Analysts predict iPhone prices will rise soon and say Apple timed its announcement ahead of the fall iPhone launch.
The high chip prices are expected to reduce smartphone and PC sales worldwide this year, with smartphone sales predicted to drop nearly 14% and PC sales 11.3%.
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Two young men, Owen Flowers and Thalha Jubair, pleaded guilty to a cyber-attack that disrupted Transport for London (TfL) services in 2024. Both had prior records of cyber-crime and were known to police before the attack, which exposed millions of people’s personal data and caused long service delays.
Key Facts
Owen Flowers (18) and Thalha Jubair (20) admitted to hacking TfL, causing months of disruption.
The attack affected personal data of millions and forced 28,000 TfL staff to reset passwords in person.
Both had histories of cyber-crime and were previously known to law enforcement.
Flowers was first noticed by police at age 16 and was given a cease and desist order, but no further intervention.
They were part of a cyber-crime group called Scattered Spider, linked to attacks on major UK retailers.
Police want stronger powers to stop high-risk cyber-criminals earlier, including new legal orders called Cyber Crime Risk Orders (CCROs).
During his arrest, Flowers had numerous electronic devices and cryptocurrency worth millions of pounds.
Investigation also linked Flowers to hacks on two US health organizations; he now faces charges in the US as well.
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Geothermal energy uses heat from beneath the Earth’s surface to produce power. New technologies, like enhanced geothermal systems and millimetre wave drilling, aim to access hotter and deeper parts of the Earth more efficiently and safely.
Key Facts
Geothermal energy produces low greenhouse gas emissions, appealing to both liberal and conservative politicians in the U.S.
Enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) create underground cracks by pumping pressurized fluid into wells to access heat.
The technique used in EGS is similar to fracking, but it focuses on clean energy instead of oil and gas.
New drilling technologies are being developed to reach deeper and hotter rock, including millimetre wave drilling that melts rock using electromagnetic waves.
Quaise, a company based on MIT research, is working on millimetre wave drilling to improve cost and speed by avoiding physical drill bits.
This drilling allows geothermal energy to be used almost anywhere, not just in traditional hot spots.
Water is recycled in these systems to avoid contamination and reduce usage.
U.S. lawmakers recently proposed a bill to support the development of next-generation geothermal technologies.
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Microsoft has extended its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10 by another year, now supporting the system until October 12, 2027. This extension allows users who still use Windows 10 to receive security updates for an extra year beyond the original end date.
Key Facts
Microsoft ended regular Windows 10 updates in October 2023.
The original ESU program provided free extended updates until October 12, 2026.
Microsoft quietly extended the ESU program by one more year, now until October 12, 2027.
About 26% of PCs still run Windows 10, while 72% use Windows 11.
Windows 11 requires newer PC hardware, which has slowed user upgrades from Windows 10.
The ESU updates are free in the EU, but elsewhere cost $30 or 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points unless users sync their Microsoft account and system settings.
The ESU license covers up to 10 personal devices; businesses pay per device.
Microsoft has extended support for old Windows versions in the past, like Windows XP.
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At a recent global summit in Edinburgh, experts discussed challenges in turning AI software advances into real-world products and factories. They highlighted that while AI software is improving very fast, making the physical machines and supply chains needed to use AI is much slower and faces legal and regulatory challenges.
Key Facts
The “World of Tomorrow” summit brought founders, ministers, and investors together to discuss AI and manufacturing.
AI software is advancing quickly, but factories and supply chains move slowly, creating a gap.
Startups rely on long-term deals with big companies like Nvidia and Intel to get hardware and funding.
Digital twins and simulations help speed up design by allowing thousands of virtual tests before building actual machines.
Legal experts warn there is uncertainty about who is responsible if AI systems cause harm.
Current laws are based on older software ideas and don’t fit well with AI, which can be unpredictable and hard to explain.
Autonomous vehicle incidents, like Tesla Autopilot crashes, show the challenges of proving safety and liability for AI.
Experts call for better regulations that protect users without stopping innovation.
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