Webtagr - Technology News Summarizer

Subsea Desalination: A Deep Dive into Solving the World's Water Crisis

2025-08-16

Facing a looming global water shortage, several companies are pioneering subsea desalination – a technology that leverages deep-ocean pressure to desalinate seawater more efficiently and sustainably than traditional methods. While cost and environmental impact remain hurdles, companies like Flocean are developing large-scale projects, promising a potential solution for city-wide water supply in the future. Further research into environmental impact and achieving cost parity with other sources remains crucial for widespread adoption.

(www.scientificamerican.com)

Tech desalination deep sea technology water scarcity

UK Online Safety Act: Not Primarily for Child Protection

2025-08-15

A blog post reveals that the UK Online Safety Act, as admitted in a recent High Court case, wasn't primarily designed to protect children but to regulate "services that have a significant influence over public discourse." This suggests the act's true aim may be controlling online information flow, not solely child safety.

(bsky.app)

Tech UK Law Public Discourse

Record-Breaking Cosmic Neutrino Detected Deep Under the Mediterranean

2025-08-15

The KM3NeT detector, located deep beneath the Mediterranean Sea, has detected a cosmic neutrino with an unprecedented energy of 220 PeV, shattering the previous record. After rigorous analysis, the detection was confirmed, but its origin remains a mystery. Possible sources include extreme environments like galactic centers, gamma-ray bursts, or interactions with the cosmic microwave background. This discovery opens a new window into ultra-high-energy neutrino astronomy.

(www.sciencealert.com)

Tech cosmic neutrino

Palantir: The Data Integration Powerhouse Behind the Scenes

2025-08-15

Palantir provides data integration and analysis software for both government agencies and businesses. Its software seamlessly integrates data from various sources, even handling messy legacy systems. It allows clients to replace numerous dashboards and programs with a single system, without requiring a complete overhaul of their underlying architecture. The software is user-friendly, accessible to non-technical users via its two main platforms: Foundry (commercial) and Gotham (government and law enforcement). Gotham is a powerful investigative tool connecting people, places, and events of interest. Palantir's success stems from its timely response to the rise of 'Big Data', offering a practical solution for organizations struggling with legacy system upgrades. Supporting tools include Apollo for software updates and an AI platform.

(www.wired.com)

Tech

US Pharma Tax Avoidance Fuels Soaring Trade Deficit with Ireland

2025-08-15

A massive surge in the US trade deficit with Ireland is driven by American pharmaceutical companies exploiting loopholes in the 2017 tax code to avoid paying US taxes. They're manufacturing drugs abroad, primarily in Ireland, and importing them back into the US, even though domestic production is feasible. This practice reduces US tax revenue and exacerbates the trade deficit, prompting calls for tax law reform.

(www.cfr.org)

Tech tax avoidance pharmaceutical industry

Global Plastic Treaty Talks Hit a Snag

2025-08-15

Negotiations on a global treaty to end plastic pollution are nearing a close in Geneva, but nations remain deadlocked over whether to curb plastic production. The latest draft focuses on reducing problematic plastic products, improving plastic design for recyclability, and better waste management, but it stops short of limiting production or addressing chemicals used in plastics. Countries like Norway advocate for a comprehensive approach including production limits, while oil and gas producers and the plastics industry oppose such limits. Disagreements over the treaty's scope and definitions persist, leaving the outcome uncertain and potentially requiring further negotiations.

(www.pbs.org)

Tech environmental treaty

Apple Resurrects Blood Oxygen on Apple Watch, Bypassing Import Ban

2025-08-15

Apple announced Thursday a redesigned blood oxygen feature for select Watch Series 8, Series 10, and Apple Watch Ultra models, circumventing an International Trade Commission (ITC) import ban. Blood oxygen data is now processed on the paired iPhone, viewable only within the Health app's Respiratory section. This follows a recent U.S. Customs ruling allowing Apple to import watches with the revised feature. The change doesn't affect previously sold models or those purchased outside the U.S., applying only to watches sold after the ITC ban in early 2024. Users can access the redesigned feature via an iPhone and Apple Watch software update released Thursday. This follows Apple's ongoing legal battle with Masimo, which accused Apple of stealing its pulse oximetry technology. Masimo won a 2023 ITC ruling blocking Apple Watch imports with blood oxygen monitoring, prompting Apple's removal of the feature. Apple countersued, claiming Masimo copied Apple Watch features, and appealed the ban.

(techcrunch.com)

Tech Patent Dispute

Urgent: Plex Media Server Security Vulnerability, Update Now!

2025-08-15

Several versions of Plex Media Server (1.41.7.x through 1.42.0.x) contain a security vulnerability. Plex has released an urgent fix (1.42.1.10060 or later). While Plex hasn't publicly disclosed details, they strongly urge all users to update immediately. The risk is higher if your Plex server is exposed to the internet. Update now and review your server settings, disabling external access if necessary.

(nerds.xyz)

Tech

Self-Playing Guitar System: 9400 Hours of Mastery, $40,000 Price Tag

2025-08-15

Michael Kuzma, a guitarist and electrical engineer, spent 9,400 hours developing his Kuzma Self-Playing Guitar System. This invention, attachable to any guitar, uses 3D-printed parts, motors, and actuators to pick and fret. While not quite ready for Hendrix, it can handle Oasis covers. Kuzma even uses it for hands-free busking. The robot guitar can play at speeds exceeding human capabilities (44 notes per second!). Kuzma custom-builds these systems, starting at $40,000, with the final price depending on customizations, the chosen guitar, and delivery location.

(www.core77.com)

Tech robot guitar

Galileo and the Birth of Modern Science: A Telescope's Revolution

2025-08-15

Four hundred years ago, Galileo's telescopic observations shook the scientific world. His discovery of Jupiter's moons sparked controversy, with some scholars refusing to believe and others unable to verify. Only Kepler supported him, lacking a suitable telescope at the time. It wasn't until other astronomers independently confirmed his findings that Galileo's discoveries gained widespread acceptance. This period marked the birth of modern science, emphasizing the establishment of facts through experiments and observations rather than relying on textual interpretations. Galileo linked science to exploration, ushering in a new era of fact-based science, though he later faced religious persecution for supporting the Copernican heliocentric model. Today, we take the objectivity and authority of science for granted, a legacy of the era of discovery initiated by Galileo.

(www.historytoday.com)

Tech Galileo Telescope

Apple Watch Blood Oxygen Feature Redesign Rolls Out in the US

2025-08-14

Apple is releasing a redesigned Blood Oxygen feature for select Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Apple Watch Ultra 2 users in the US via an iOS 18.6.1 and watchOS 11.6.1 update. This follows a recent US Customs ruling, allowing blood oxygen data processing on the paired iPhone and display in the Health app's Respiratory section. The update doesn't affect previously purchased watches with the original feature or those bought outside the US.

(www.apple.com)

Tech Blood Oxygen

I Turned Down a Six-Figure Offer for My Dream Job in Fusion Energy

2025-08-14

After 15 years in the tech industry, the author received two competing job offers. One offered significantly higher pay, stock options, a large bonus, and even a company trip to the Bahamas. However, the author chose a lower-paying position at Commonwealth Fusion Systems, a fusion energy company. The author prioritized passion and the importance of meaningful work over higher compensation. They articulated the three key elements of job satisfaction as pay, work, and people; a balance of all three leads to genuine fulfillment.

(dillonshook.com)

Tech dream job

Lenovo's Record-Breaking Quarter: AI PCs Fuel Growth

2025-08-14

Lenovo kicked off its fiscal year with a bang, reporting record PC sales and dominating the AI PC market. Q1 2025/26 revenue hit $18.8 billion, a 22% year-over-year increase, with profits more than doubling. Its PC and smart devices division saw its fastest growth in 15 quarters, achieving a record 24.6% global market share. Over 30% of Lenovo's PC shipments were AI PCs, giving it a commanding 31% market share in the Windows AI PC segment. While the practical usage of AI PC features is debated, Lenovo's premium models and hybrid AI strategy are resonating with consumers. Motorola's foldable phone success also contributed significantly. Lenovo's Infrastructure Solutions Group also thrived, with revenue up 36% and AI infrastructure sales more than doubling. Despite the recovering PC market, Lenovo's strong performance puts it ahead of competitors, but the long-term success depends on sustained demand for AI PC features.

(nerds.xyz)

Tech PC Market

Game-Changing Molecule Shows Promise as Carbon Monoxide Antidote

2025-08-14

Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine have engineered a novel molecule, RcoM-HBD-CCC, showing significant promise as a carbon monoxide poisoning antidote with fewer side effects than existing treatments. This protein-based therapy acts as a carbon monoxide sponge, rapidly removing the toxic gas from the blood in mouse studies and safely eliminating it through urine. Unlike other treatments, it caused minimal blood pressure changes. This breakthrough offers potential for a rapid, intravenous antidote, potentially usable in emergency rooms and even by first responders.

(www.medschool.umaryland.edu)

Tech medical breakthrough

Meta Found Guilty of Accessing Sensitive Data from Women's Health App

2025-08-14

A jury ruled that Meta accessed sensitive information from Flo Health, a women's reproductive health tracking app, without consent. Flo Health collected highly personal data, including menstrual cycles, mood swings, and sexual activity, sharing it with companies like Facebook and Google. This case highlights serious data privacy concerns, particularly after the overturning of abortion rights in the US, increasing risks to women's reproductive health information. The verdict raises concerns about other apps' data-sharing practices and the balance between technological convenience and potential dangers.

(www.malwarebytes.com)

Tech

Data Brokers Hide Data Deletion Options in California

2025-08-14

California law requires data brokers to provide ways for consumers to delete their data, but many companies are making it incredibly difficult to find these options. An investigation by The Markup and CalMatters revealed that over 30 data brokers used code to prevent search engines from indexing their data deletion pages. This makes it nearly impossible for Californians to exercise their right to data removal. While some companies removed the code after being contacted, others either didn't respond or claimed the code was to prevent spam. This highlights the challenges of data privacy protection and the passive resistance of some companies to comply with the law.

(www.wired.com)

Tech California Consumer Privacy Act

India's 'De-Sinicization': A China-Dependent Electronics Revolution

2025-08-14

India's ambitious plan to displace China as the world's electronics manufacturing hub ironically relies heavily on Chinese companies for technology, manufacturing expertise, and operational models. Key Indian players, like Dixon Technologies, heavily depend on Chinese partners for crucial components and design. This dependence, despite significant government investment, casts doubt on the plan's long-term viability. The success hinges on maintaining stable commercial relations between India and China amidst escalating economic competition and geopolitical tensions – a considerable risk.

(indiadispatch.com)

Tech Chinese technology

Microsoft's Universal Print Gets 'Pull Print' Feature for Enhanced Security

2025-08-14

Microsoft has made its 'Pull Print' feature for Universal Print generally available, addressing the security risk of sensitive documents left unattended at printers. Users can now release print jobs from any registered printer without pre-selecting a device, simply by authenticating. Two release methods are offered: direct print and secure release (via QR code). While alternatives exist, this free addition to Universal Print is particularly attractive for Microsoft 365 organizations already using the service, significantly improving both security and convenience.

(www.theregister.com)

Tech Universal Print Print Security

Russia Tightens Internet Grip: WhatsApp and Telegram Calls Partially Restricted

2025-08-14

Russia has partially restricted calls on messaging apps Telegram and WhatsApp, citing the need to combat crime. The government regulator claims these platforms are used for fraud, extortion, and terrorist activities, accusing the companies of ignoring requests to take countermeasures. This is the latest move in Russia's long-standing effort to control the internet, involving restrictive laws, website bans, and online traffic manipulation. While VPNs can circumvent restrictions, they are also routinely blocked. The move raises concerns about freedom of communication and government surveillance, as Russia promotes its domestically developed messaging app, MAX, as a replacement for international platforms.

(apnews.com)

Tech russia communication security

Walkability and Physical Activity: Evidence from Millions of Smartphone Users

2025-08-14

Researchers analyzed anonymized data from over 2 million US smartphone users in the Azumio Argus health app, focusing on 5,424 participants who relocated across 1,609 cities. The study found a significant positive correlation between moving to a more walkable city and increased daily steps, consistent across various demographic and activity levels. This suggests that improving urban walkability can effectively boost physical activity. A nationwide simulation further estimated the impact of walkability improvements on US residents' physical activity, providing data-driven insights for urban planning.

(www.nature.com)

Tech

EV Range Records: More Nuance Than Meets the Eye

2025-08-14

Polestar 3's impressive single-charge drive is raising eyebrows, but the title of "longest EV drive on a single charge" is more nuanced. While the Polestar 3 used standard specs, tweaking factors like tires can yield greater range. Chevrolet's Silverado WT, with a massive 205 kWh battery and worn, over-inflated tires, drove 1,059 miles around Detroit. Lucid's Air Grand Touring managed 749 miles from St. Moritz to Munich. However, these feats often involve low average speeds and specific conditions (like AC off or downhill routes), making direct range comparisons tricky.

(arstechnica.com)

Tech

Kodak on the Brink: A Century-Old Giant Faces Potential Collapse

2025-08-14

Eastman Kodak, the company that revolutionized amateur photography, is teetering on the brink of collapse after more than 130 years. Facing over $470 million in debt and dwindling revenue, the company has expressed substantial doubt about its ability to continue operations. Despite attempts to diversify into specialty chemicals and pharmaceuticals following its 2012 bankruptcy, Kodak is struggling to stay afloat. The company is cutting costs, including its pension plan, in a desperate attempt to meet its debt obligations by August 15th. Kodak's precarious situation serves as a cautionary tale about the challenges of adapting to technological change.

(www.usatoday.com)

Tech

Molecular Sponge Clears Carbon Monoxide from Blood in Minutes

2025-08-14

Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine have engineered a protein, RcoM-HBD-CCC, that acts like a molecular sponge, rapidly clearing carbon monoxide (CO) from the bloodstream. Unlike the current slow treatment with pure oxygen, this new therapy effectively removes CO in minutes, significantly reducing long-term health risks. In mouse models, it cleared half the CO in under a minute without affecting blood pressure. This breakthrough offers new hope for CO poisoning treatment, potentially becoming a rapid, effective emergency antidote, even usable in the field by first responders.

(newatlas.com)

Tech carbon monoxide poisoning engineered protein blood purification

PCIe 8.0: Doubling Bandwidth for the AI Era

2025-08-14

PCI-SIG recently announced the PCIe 8.0 specification, slated for a 2028 release, which will double the throughput of PCIe 7.0. This means a PCIe 8.0 x16 link will boast an incredible 1TB/s of bandwidth. This surge is driven by the rapid advancement of AI and the consequent demand for faster interconnects. Charts illustrate the doubling of PCIe bandwidth every three years, and considering system-level increases in controllers and lanes, the cumulative I/O bandwidth growth is even more substantial.

(www.servethehome.com)

Tech

Governments Must Shift from Consuming Open Source to Sustaining It

2025-08-14

Fifteen years ago, the author predicted a three-stage evolution for Open Source: volunteer-driven, commercially involved, and government-supported. Today, Open Source underpins critical global infrastructure, yet its maintenance relies on a small number of contributors, creating significant risk. This article calls for increased government investment in Open Source, urging a shift from mere consumption to active contribution. Solutions include stable funding, incentivizing contribution in government contracts, and adopting "Public Money, Public Code" policies to ensure long-term stability and security. This isn't just a technical issue, but a strategic necessity for national security and societal well-being.

(dri.es)

Tech Government Investment Digital Infrastructure

Kodak on the Brink: A Century-Old Giant Faces Existential Threat

2025-08-14

133-year-old Eastman Kodak is warning investors it may not survive, citing a lack of funds to meet upcoming $500 million debt obligations. The company plans to halt retirement plan payments to raise cash and downplays the impact of tariffs. While the CEO claims progress on long-term plans, the stock plunged over 25%. Once a photography giant with 90% market share, Kodak's failure to adapt to digital photography led to bankruptcy in 2012. A government bailout in 2020 offered a brief reprieve, but the company again faces a precarious future, highlighting the disruptive power of technological change.

(www.cnn.com)

Tech Kodak

UK Police to Expand Use of Facial Recognition Tech, Sparking Controversy

2025-08-14

The UK government plans to deploy 10 facial recognition vans across seven police forces in England to help identify sex offenders and those wanted for serious crimes. This has sparked concerns from human rights groups who argue the technology is discriminatory and prone to misidentification, potentially leading to wrongful arrests. While the government cites independent testing showing accuracy and no ethnic bias, critics point to evidence suggesting lower accuracy for people of color. A public consultation and new legal framework are promised, but rights groups call for the immediate scrapping of the plan until adequate safeguards are in place.

(news.sky.com)

Tech policing

JPMorgan Chase's Open Banking Fees Spark Fintech Uproar

2025-08-14

JPMorgan Chase's announcement to charge fintechs exorbitant fees for accessing Open Banking data has ignited a fierce debate. This isn't just about data; it's a battle over payments and banks' attempts to monopolize and profit from all user economic activity, regardless of the payment method. Open Banking, designed to boost competition by granting users access to their financial data, is being stifled by these fees. The article delves into Open Banking's origins, functionality, and how banks are leveraging fees to maintain their payment dominance. It argues this approach stifles innovation and harms consumers.

(www.bitsaboutmoney.com)

Tech

NIST Finalizes Lightweight Cryptography Standard, Protecting IoT Devices

2025-08-14

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has finalized its lightweight cryptography standard (NIST SP 800-232), based on the Ascon algorithm family. Designed for resource-constrained devices like those in the Internet of Things (IoT), RFID tags, and medical implants, the standard offers robust protection against cyberattacks. It includes variants for authenticated encryption with associated data (AEAD) and hashing, and considers side-channel attack resistance. This flexible and extensible standard provides a strong foundation for securing the ever-growing number of connected devices.

(www.nist.gov)

Tech lightweight cryptography

DEF CON: Hackers, the Military, and a Jello Shot Showdown

2025-08-13

This year's DEF CON, the world's largest hacker conference, showcased a stark contradiction: close collaboration with the US military and intelligence agencies alongside sharp criticism of US military actions. Former NSA director Paul Nakasone's presence, alongside founder Jeff Moss, culminated in a dramatic ejection of hacktivist Jeremy Hammond, who shouted “Free Palestine!” and condemned Nakasone as a war criminal. This incident highlighted DEF CON's complex relationship with the military, featuring military-sponsored events and competitions alongside presentations exposing US war crimes (like Micah Lee's exposé on Signalgate and the Yemen bombing) and security vulnerabilities. The event underscored the ongoing tension between the countercultural hacker ethos and the increasingly close ties between the hacking community and the US military-industrial complex.

(jackpoulson.substack.com)

Tech military collaboration

Category: Tech