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Starmer tells Apple and Google to ban nude images on children's phones

Starmer tells Apple and Google to ban nude images on children's phones

June 08, 2026 • BBC Tech

Summary

The UK government has asked Apple, Google, and other tech companies to block access to nude images on devices used by children under 18. The government plans to introduce laws that could fine or penalize companies who do not enable these protections within three months.

Key Facts

  • UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called on Apple and Google to prevent children from taking, sending, or viewing sexually explicit images on phones and tablets.
  • Companies are asked to activate existing features or update their systems to block such content for users under 18.
  • Legislation will require compliance within three months or face fines and possible criminal liability.
  • The laws will cover both existing and new devices sold in the UK and include operating system providers and retailers.
  • The protections will not affect adults who verify their age.
  • Google and Apple have responded by working on privacy-friendly solutions and age verification methods.
  • The UK already enforces the Online Safety Act, which regulates online platforms to protect children.
  • Child safety groups support the move but call for better policy and clearer communication from the government.
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Goals review – disruptor football game attempts to smash the competition

Goals review – disruptor football game attempts to smash the competition

June 08, 2026 • Guardian Tech

Summary

A new free-to-play football video game called Goals was launched on June 4 by a new studio in Stockholm. Unlike big games like EA Sports FC, it uses randomly generated players and teams, focuses on skill without scripted assists, and aims for fast, responsive gameplay.

Key Facts

  • Goals is a football simulation game launched on June 4.
  • It is free to play and made by a new studio named Goals in Stockholm.
  • The game doesn’t have real teams or players; all squads are randomly created.
  • Players can improve skills by earning experience points and must adjust squads as players age and retire.
  • The game removes automated help in passing or shooting, relying purely on player skill.
  • Controls resemble those of EA Sports FC but allow faster player movement and more responsive physics.
  • It is available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox.
  • Goals offers online matches and tournaments but has limited single-player features.
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Guardian Tech
Bernie Sanders’ AI sovereign wealth fund plan is good. But we think this is better | Nathan E Sanders and Bruce Schneier

Bernie Sanders’ AI sovereign wealth fund plan is good. But we think this is better | Nathan E Sanders and Bruce Schneier

June 08, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

Senator Bernie Sanders proposed the U.S. government create a sovereign wealth fund by owning 50% of major AI companies like OpenAI and Anthropic. This idea aims to give the public democratic control over AI development and share the economic benefits. However, some experts argue that owning stakes in AI companies could make the government support corporate profits over public interest.

Key Facts

  • Bernie Sanders suggested the U.S. create a sovereign wealth fund that buys half the shares in leading AI firms.
  • The plan intends to give the government voting power and board representation in these companies.
  • It aims to ensure AI’s economic gains benefit all citizens, not just billionaires.
  • Experts agree with Sanders that AI power and wealth are too concentrated in a few companies.
  • Critics warn that government ownership in AI firms might lead to conflicts, favoring corporate growth over public welfare.
  • The Norwegian sovereign wealth fund’s stake in oil companies did not push those firms toward better environmental policies, showing limits of this approach.
  • Public control could reduce democratic regulation efforts if the government becomes financially tied to company profits.
  • The article suggests there are better ways than public ownership to influence AI companies responsibly.
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Guardian US Guardian Tech
Starmer gives tech firms ultimatum to block explicit images on children’s phones

Starmer gives tech firms ultimatum to block explicit images on children’s phones

June 08, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

The UK government, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, has given Apple and Google three months to add software that blocks children from taking, sharing, or viewing nude images on their phones. If the companies do not comply by September, the government will create laws to enforce these protections on all phones and tablets sold in the UK.

Key Facts

  • Apple and Google must install tools that detect and block explicit images on children’s devices by September.
  • The software will prevent children from taking photos or sharing images of genitalia unless verified as adults.
  • If companies fail to act, the UK government will pass laws requiring this protection on all new phones and tablets.
  • Adults will still be able to access nude content through an age verification system.
  • The move aims to protect children from exposure to pornography and online grooming by predators.
  • Some companies, like HMD Global, have already introduced devices with this blocking software called HarmBlock.
  • Current systems by Apple and Google only offer content warnings that can be bypassed with a passcode.
  • The UK plans to introduce tougher rules similar to Australia’s “nudity detection” model, combined with stronger age checks and restrictions.
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Guardian World Guardian Tech
Apple expected to unveil new AI features at last developers conference

Apple expected to unveil new AI features at last developers conference

June 08, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

Apple will reveal new artificial intelligence (AI) features at its annual developers conference starting Monday. This event will be the last one with CEO Tim Cook before John Ternus becomes CEO in September. Apple is expected to update its Siri voice assistant and may hint at new hardware like foldable devices and wearables.

Key Facts

  • Apple’s annual developers conference begins Monday and focuses mainly on software updates.
  • CEO Tim Cook will step down in September, with John Ternus taking over as CEO.
  • Apple is expected to introduce new AI features, especially improvements to Siri.
  • Siri may become more conversational, remember past talks, and handle multiple tasks at once.
  • Apple has been using Google’s Gemini AI model to power some of its AI features.
  • The conference might include hints about future products like foldable phones, wearables, and smart home devices.
  • Tim Cook led Apple for 15 years, during which the company’s market value grew by over $4 trillion.
  • AI is seen as causing major changes in the tech industry, similar to the impact of the first iPhone.
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ABC News
Apple expected to unveil new AI features at last developers conference with CEO Tim Cook

Apple expected to unveil new AI features at last developers conference with CEO Tim Cook

June 08, 2026 • AP News

Summary

Apple will reveal new artificial intelligence (AI) features at its annual developers conference starting Monday. This will be CEO Tim Cook’s last conference before he retires in September and hands over leadership to John Ternus.

Key Facts

  • The developers conference attracts thousands of software developers from about 60 countries.
  • Apple usually focuses on software updates rather than new hardware at this event.
  • New AI features are expected, especially improvements to the Siri voice assistant.
  • Siri may be upgraded to an AI chatbot that can remember past conversations and handle multiple tasks at once.
  • Apple uses Google’s Gemini AI model to power some of its AI functions.
  • CEO Tim Cook announced his retirement after 15 years, during which Apple’s market value grew by over $4 trillion.
  • John Ternus, who will become CEO, has worked at Apple for 25 years and leads hardware engineering.
  • Apple is working to catch up with competitors in AI technology after slow progress in recent years.
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AP News
Silicon Valley including Meta has embraced Maga politics, says Nick Clegg

Silicon Valley including Meta has embraced Maga politics, says Nick Clegg

June 08, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Nick Clegg, former UK deputy prime minister and Meta executive, said that Silicon Valley companies like Meta have started supporting MAGA politics, often for self-interest. He also criticized the UK's growing reliance on the US software company Palantir, raising concerns about dependency and the company's ideology.

Key Facts

  • Nick Clegg worked at Meta from 2018 until March 2025 as head of global affairs.
  • He observed a shift in tech companies embracing MAGA politics during President Trump’s second term.
  • Meta's content and products shifted towards algorithm-driven synthetic content.
  • Clegg criticized the UK government's contract with Palantir, a US software firm linked to surveillance.
  • The UK parliament committee called Palantir the main risky example of the public sector’s dependence on few big tech providers.
  • The committee recommended ending the UK’s contract with Palantir in 2027 when possible.
  • Palantir said its software improved UK healthcare outcomes, including faster cancer diagnosis and fewer delays.
  • Clegg said Palantir could be challenged or replaced by competitors using artificial intelligence.
  • Palantir’s UK chief said accusations of "vendor lock-in" (making clients dependent) are false.
  • Meta faced criticism over scandals, including Cambridge Analytica and alleged censorship and harassment reported by a former employee.
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Guardian World Guardian Tech
Spyro the Dragon returns with a new game after almost two decades

Spyro the Dragon returns with a new game after almost two decades

June 07, 2026 • Guardian Tech

Summary

A new Spyro the Dragon game called Spyro: Realms Beyond was announced, marking the character’s first original title since 2008. The game, developed by Toys for Bob, will come out in spring 2027 for multiple platforms and features updated gameplay allowing players to fly freely.

Key Facts

  • Spyro the Dragon is a popular character originally from 1990s PlayStation games.
  • The new game is named Spyro: Realms Beyond and is the first original Spyro title in nearly 20 years.
  • Toys for Bob, a California-based studio, is developing the game.
  • The game will release in spring 2027 on Xbox, PlayStation 5, PC, and Nintendo Switch 2.
  • Players can fly anytime and use fire-breathing for various gameplay effects.
  • Tom Kenny, the original voice actor, returns as Spyro’s voice.
  • Toys for Bob also made the 2018 Spyro Reignited Trilogy and the Skylanders series.
  • The game aims to appeal to both new young players and longtime fans, focusing on optimism and fun.
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Guardian Tech
Face the Nation: Bacon, Krebs, Buchanan, Barcott

Face the Nation: Bacon, Krebs, Buchanan, Barcott

June 07, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

On the CBS News program Face the Nation, GOP Representative Don Bacon, cybersecurity expert Chris Krebs, and former Biden AI adviser Ben Buchanan talked about artificial intelligence (AI). Rye Barcott, an author and co-founder of the group With Honor, also joined the discussion.

Key Facts

  • The show featured GOP Rep. Don Bacon from Nebraska.
  • Chris Krebs, a cybersecurity expert, participated.
  • Ben Buchanan, who advised President Biden on AI, was part of the conversation.
  • The focus was on artificial intelligence and its impact.
  • Rye Barcott, co-founder of With Honor and author, joined the discussion.
  • The program aired on CBS News Face the Nation.
  • The discussion covered important topics related to AI and public service.
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CBS News
Anthropic adviser says it's "not hypothetical" that AI could abet biological weapons risk

Anthropic adviser says it's "not hypothetical" that AI could abet biological weapons risk

June 07, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

An adviser to the AI company Anthropic said that artificial intelligence could realistically increase the risk of biological weapons being developed or used. Experts, including former and current government advisers, discussed the need for government rules on AI and how to create them.

Key Facts

  • Anthropic is an AI company with advisers concerned about AI risks.
  • An Anthropic adviser said the risk of AI helping biological weapons is real, not just a theory.
  • Chris Krebs, who led the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) under President Trump, talked about AI regulation.
  • Ben Buchanan, adviser to President Biden and a Johns Hopkins professor, also spoke on the topic.
  • The experts appeared on the show "Face the Nation" to discuss AI and government rules.
  • The conversation focused on whether and how the government should regulate AI technology.
  • Biological weapons refer to harmful agents like viruses or bacteria used as weapons.
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CBS News
"Disclosure Day" director Steven Spielberg on alien visitations

"Disclosure Day" director Steven Spielberg on alien visitations

June 07, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Steven Spielberg discusses his new movie, "Disclosure Day," which explores the idea of hidden alien visitations and secret data releases. The film mixes thriller and science fiction elements to show how people react if proof of aliens suddenly appears.

Key Facts

  • "Disclosure Day" is Steven Spielberg's new movie about hidden alien evidence being revealed to the public.
  • The story imagines a secret release of 80 years of visual proof about aliens.
  • The film is part chase thriller, part sci-fi, and involves big tech conspiracy themes.
  • Emily Blunt stars as a weathercaster who gains unexplained new abilities linked to the alien mystery.
  • The movie questions how alien existence might affect religious and cultural beliefs.
  • Spielberg calls "Disclosure Day" a follow-up to his 1977 film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind."
  • Spielberg’s interest in space began in childhood after seeing a meteor shower with his father.
  • The film reflects current public trust issues and curiosity about unidentified flying objects (UFOs).
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CBS News
NASA’s moon base might be nothing like science fiction’s predictions

NASA’s moon base might be nothing like science fiction’s predictions

June 07, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

NASA plans to build a moon base that will function more like a small city rather than simple outposts. Officials explained that the base needs to support many activities and people for long periods.

Key Facts

  • NASA wants the moon base to be more than just a basic shelter.
  • The base will support life and work for a group of people.
  • It will have infrastructure like a small city, including housing and workspaces.
  • The goal is to make the moon base sustainable for long missions.
  • NASA officials have discussed various design and function needs.
  • The base’s design differs from typical science fiction moon bases.
  • Building a real moon city involves complex planning and technology.
  • The project aims to support human presence and scientific research on the moon.
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The Hill
The promises and pitfalls of GLP-1 drugs

The promises and pitfalls of GLP-1 drugs

June 07, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

GLP-1 drugs, first approved to treat diabetes, are now widely used to help with weight loss and related health problems. These medicines show promise in reducing obesity and its many related diseases, though they can cause side effects for some people.

Key Facts

  • GLP-1 drugs have been approved for 20 years and originally treated diabetes.
  • Researchers found that patients using GLP-1 drugs often lost a lot of weight.
  • Over 30 million people in the U.S. use GLP-1 medications today.
  • These drugs can reduce joint inflammation and pain, as experienced by Carly Anderson.
  • Doctors believe treating obesity early with GLP-1s may prevent many other diseases like high blood pressure and diabetes.
  • Common side effects include stomach problems, and some patients report reduced interest in activities (called "ozempic personality").
  • More research is needed to fully understand the long-term impact of these drugs on obesity-related illnesses.
  • New forms of GLP-1 drugs, including pills, are being developed to provide more options.
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CBS News
Experts say we should use passkeys, but can a smartphone PIN really be safer than a password?

Experts say we should use passkeys, but can a smartphone PIN really be safer than a password?

June 07, 2026 • Guardian Tech

Summary

Some experts and organizations, like the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre, recommend using passkeys—like a phone PIN or facial recognition—instead of passwords because passkeys are harder for hackers to steal. However, some people find it confusing and worry about what happens if their phone is lost or stolen.

Key Facts

  • Passkeys can be a phone PIN, facial recognition, or other unique device-based security methods.
  • Passkeys are stored only on your device, not on company servers, making them harder to hack or phish.
  • The UK’s National Cyber Security Centre supports using passkeys for better security.
  • Some people worry that if a phone with a passkey is lost or stolen, it could be easier to access.
  • Traditional passwords and two-factor authentication are still widely used for security.
  • The article invites readers to share questions and experiences about passkeys.
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Guardian Tech
School shooting survivor sues AI gun detection firm after system failed to spot weapon

School shooting survivor sues AI gun detection firm after system failed to spot weapon

June 07, 2026 • Ars Technica

Summary

A teenager injured in a January 2025 high school shooting in Nashville sued Omnilert, the maker of an AI gun detection system that failed to spot the shooter’s handgun. The lawsuit claims the system had known limitations and that the company overstated how well it could detect guns in real emergencies.

Key Facts

  • The lawsuit was filed in Davidson County court by a shooting survivor from a Nashville high school.
  • Omnilert’s AI system did not detect the handgun during the shooting, which left two people dead.
  • The suit states the system’s effectiveness depends on factors like camera placement, distance, angle, lighting, and gun visibility.
  • Nashville schools spent over $1 million on installing the AI system across their cameras in 2023.
  • Officials said the shooter was positioned where cameras could not clearly capture the weapon.
  • Omnilert’s marketing claimed their AI could prevent tragedies like the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting but did not mention detection limits or false alarms.
  • Legal experts and critics question the reliability of AI detection systems and suggest funds could be better used on other safety measures like counseling.
  • This case may be the first lawsuit against an AI gun detection company like Omnilert after a shooting incident.
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Ars Technica
Billions spent and hypothetical returns: the AI boom explained with six charts

Billions spent and hypothetical returns: the AI boom explained with six charts

June 07, 2026 • Guardian Tech

Summary

The AI industry is growing rapidly, with huge investments in technology and infrastructure like datacenters. Major companies like SpaceX, Anthropic, and OpenAI are preparing to go public, and AI use among businesses and people is rising fast.

Key Facts

  • SpaceX seeks a $1.77 trillion valuation on the US stock market, while Anthropic has filed for an initial public offering.
  • OpenAI, maker of ChatGPT, is also expected to go public soon.
  • AI-related spending is projected to grow from $765 billion in 2024 to $1.6 trillion by 2031, mostly on infrastructure like datacenters and chips.
  • 41 AI-related stocks now make up almost half the market value of the S&P 500 index.
  • Nearly 80% of companies currently use AI, up from 33% in 2023.
  • ChatGPT has reached 1 billion monthly active users, a record for any app.
  • Anthropic’s Claude chatbot is rapidly gaining users and is known for enabling AI to complete tasks without needing people to guide every step.
  • Analysts warn that high AI valuations could risk a market crash similar to the dotcom bubble if expectations are not met.
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Steven Spielberg watches scene from "Close Encounters of the Third Kind"

Steven Spielberg watches scene from "Close Encounters of the Third Kind"

June 07, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Steven Spielberg, the director, watches a scene from his 1977 movie "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" with Turner Classic Movies host Ben Mankiewicz. They talk about the acting of Richard Dreyfuss, the wide screen format used in the movie, and the music by John Williams.

Key Facts

  • Steven Spielberg directed the film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" in 1977.
  • He appeared in a video with Ben Mankiewicz from Turner Classic Movies.
  • They reviewed a specific scene from the movie together.
  • They discussed actor Richard Dreyfuss’ performance in the scene.
  • The film uses a widescreen format, which means the picture is wider than usual.
  • John Williams composed the music for the movie, and it was part of their discussion.
  • The video is available on CBS News and their app.
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CBS News
‘A driver of political violence’: how the breakneck AI boom is fueling anti-tech extremism

‘A driver of political violence’: how the breakneck AI boom is fueling anti-tech extremism

June 07, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Several violent attacks linked to opposition against artificial intelligence (AI) have raised concerns among researchers and law enforcement. These incidents show that rapid AI development can fuel extremist feelings and sometimes violence against tech leaders and companies.

Key Facts

  • A 20-year-old man from Texas was arrested for trying to burn down OpenAI’s headquarters and CEO Sam Altman’s house.
  • The suspect carried an anti-AI manifesto, lighter, and kerosene.
  • In Italy, an influencer was charged with planning anti-tech attacks inspired by the Unabomber.
  • Two attackers in San Diego cited AI-related grievances in a deadly mosque attack.
  • An Indianapolis city councilor was shot at with a note saying “NO DATA CENTERS.”
  • Researchers say AI grievances are fueling old and new extremist groups across political views.
  • Anti-tech extremism is linked to fears about surveillance, job loss, and AI’s societal impacts.
  • Historical tech backlash, like the 19th-century Luddites, shows similar fears during major technology shifts.
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Weekly diabetes jab shown to reduce blood-sugar levels and body weight

Weekly diabetes jab shown to reduce blood-sugar levels and body weight

June 07, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A new weekly injection called retatrutide has been tested in people with type 2 diabetes. It showed greater reductions in blood sugar and body weight compared to a placebo over 40 weeks, by targeting three hormones that regulate appetite, blood sugar, and energy use.

Key Facts

  • Retatrutide acts like three gut hormones: GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon.
  • The trial involved 930 adults with type 2 diabetes not already on diabetes medication.
  • After 40 weeks, participants lost between 11.5% and 15.3% of their body weight on retatrutide, compared to 2.6% with placebo.
  • Blood sugar levels (measured by HbA1c) fell by about 1.7-1.9 points with retatrutide versus 0.8 with placebo.
  • Retatrutide also improved cholesterol and blood pressure.
  • Side effects were mostly mild to moderate, with digestive symptoms being most common.
  • Some experts say more studies are needed to compare retatrutide to existing drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide.
  • The drug could help people needing stronger treatment for type 2 diabetes, but lifestyle changes remain important.
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Guardian World
‘Poisoned’ AI: the ChatGPT shopping scams that lead to fake websites

‘Poisoned’ AI: the ChatGPT shopping scams that lead to fake websites

June 07, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Scammers use fake websites that look like real stores to trick people who use ChatGPT for shopping advice. These fake sites appear in ChatGPT’s answers and can steal money and personal information from buyers. Experts warn shoppers to be careful and check website addresses before making purchases online.

Key Facts

  • ChatGPT sometimes shows fake websites as sources in its shopping answers.
  • Scammers made cloned sites of stores like Russell & Bromley and Dunelm.
  • Russell & Bromley went into administration and was bought by Next, so its official site no longer exists.
  • Fake sites offer big discounts and may ask for payment by bank transfer, which is risky.
  • Legitimate UK store websites usually end with .co.uk or .com without extra words like “official” or “deals” in their names.
  • Experts advise going directly to a retailer’s official website instead of following AI links.
  • ChatGPT removed the fraudulent websites from its search index after being alerted.
  • If someone shares bank details on a fake site, they should report it to their bank and fraud authorities.
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Guardian World Guardian Tech