Webtagr - Technology News Summarizer

The Rise and Fall of Interactive TV in North America: A Battle of Standards

2025-08-26

In the 1970s and 80s, North America attempted to integrate television with the computer world, developing interactive TV. Unlike the success of Ceefax and similar systems in Europe, these North American attempts ultimately failed. The article analyzes the reasons for this failure: a chaotic proliferation of competing technical standards (Ceefax, ORACLE, Antiope, NABTS), making it difficult for hardware manufacturers to choose and consumers to adopt; a fragmented market, with intense competition among US television networks, lacking the centralized broadcasting system of the UK, drastically increasing the difficulty of promoting new services; and indecisiveness from the FCC, which failed to establish a unified standard, worsening the chaos. Interactive TV ultimately died in North America, leaving a valuable lesson for technological development on the eve of the internet age.

(computer.rip)

Tech interactive TV technical standards

Amazon Sued Over 'Purchase' of Movies That Can Vanish

2025-08-26

A class-action lawsuit targets Amazon for allegedly misleading consumers into believing they're buying movies and TV shows outright when they're only purchasing limited-time licenses. The suit highlights the fine print buried in confirmation pages, contradicting the prominent use of the word "buy." This practice allegedly violates a recent California law mandating clear disclosure of revocable licenses. The lawsuit echoes concerns raised by gamers losing access to purchased games after server shutdowns, emphasizing the lack of transparency in digital content transactions.

(www.hollywoodreporter.com)

Tech

The Secret of Parabolic Microphones: Why High Frequencies Are Easier to Capture

2025-08-26

Parabolic microphones are renowned for their extreme sensitivity, stemming from their considerable size. Similar to how telescopes use large parabolic mirrors to gather faint light, parabolic microphones use reflecting dishes to harvest faint sounds. However, this design has drawbacks: it's biased towards higher frequencies, leading to a sometimes 'tinny' sound quality, and lower frequencies experience reduced gain, with a cutoff frequency dependent on dish diameter. This article delves into the physics of parabolic microphone operation, explaining its frequency-dependent performance and the physical mechanisms behind its high-frequency gain, including reflection, reciprocity, interference, diffraction, and Huygens' wavelet model.

(legallyblindbirding.net)

Tech

Google Cracks Down on Android Sideloading: Developer Verification Incoming

2025-08-26

Google is bolstering Android security by mandating developer verification for apps installed outside the Play Store, starting September 2026. This phased rollout requires developers to submit identity information via a new Android Developer Console, increasing accountability and aiming to curb malware. While app content isn't checked, the move makes it harder for malicious actors to remain anonymous, similar to airport ID checks. The initial rollout targets Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, regions heavily impacted by fraudulent apps, with global expansion planned for 2027. This mirrors Apple's macOS approach and could significantly reduce malware, though the trade-off of developer anonymity remains a point of contention.

(www.androidauthority.com)

Tech

FTC Warns Big Tech: Don't Sacrifice Data Security for Foreign Governments

2025-08-26

The FTC chairman, Andrew N. Ferguson, sent a letter to major US tech companies, including Google, Apple, and Microsoft, warning against complying with foreign government demands that weaken data security, compromise encryption, or censor content. Ferguson stressed that weakening security at a foreign government's request, especially without user notification, violates the FTC Act and exposes companies to legal action. He specifically cited the EU's Digital Services Act and the UK's Online Safety Act as examples. The FTC warns these laws undermine American users' freedom and data security, reminding companies of their obligations under the FTC Act regarding data security and privacy. The letter follows recent events like Apple's temporary removal of iCloud end-to-end encryption in the UK, which was later reversed.

(www.bleepingcomputer.com)

Tech

Perplexity Launches Comet Plus to Address AI Copyright Concerns

2025-08-26

AI startup Perplexity has launched a paid subscription service, Comet Plus, offering users premium content from trusted publishers and journalists while providing publishers with a fairer compensation model. Included in Perplexity's Pro and Max memberships, Comet Plus is also available as a standalone subscription for $5 per month. Perplexity has allocated $42.5 million to a revenue-sharing program, paying publishers 80% of revenue generated when their content is used by its Comet browser or AI assistant. This move addresses ongoing copyright infringement lawsuits against AI companies. Perplexity aims to foster partnerships with news publishers, balancing AI advancements with copyright protection.

(www.pymnts.com)

Tech

Apple Sues Ex-Employee for Allegedly Stealing Apple Watch Trade Secrets

2025-08-26

Apple is suing a former Apple Watch team member, Dr. Chen Shi, for allegedly stealing trade secrets before joining Oppo. The lawsuit claims Shi downloaded 63 protected documents and contacted Oppo to gather information. Oppo denies the allegations, stating they found no evidence of wrongdoing during Shi's employment and will cooperate with the legal process. This case highlights the challenges tech companies face in protecting their intellectual property.

(www.theverge.com)

Tech

Desperate Biotech Firms Turn to Crypto: A Hail Mary Pass?

2025-08-26

Facing a sluggish stock market and funding difficulties, several small biotech companies are adopting a desperate strategy: investing heavily in cryptocurrencies. Companies like 180 Life Sciences Corp. (now ETHZilla) saw their stock prices skyrocket after accumulating significant Ethereum holdings, only to see those gains evaporate shortly after. While this tactic can provide a short-term stock price boost, it carries substantial long-term risks, potentially harming core operations and alienating investors. Analysts view this as a last-ditch effort for companies struggling with slow R&D progress and dwindling funds, but the odds of success remain questionable.

(finance.yahoo.com)

Tech

Linux Turns 34: From Hobby Project to Global Domination

2025-08-26

Thirty-four years ago, an unknown Finnish computer science student, Linus Torvalds, announced a free operating system project, initially intended as a hobby. Today, Linux powers a vast array of devices, a testament to its success. This article recounts Linux's humble beginnings: Torvalds sought feedback on a newsgroup before releasing version 0.01. Interestingly, the name 'Linux' wasn't Torvalds' choice; a colleague named it at the last minute. From its initial 'Freax' moniker to its current global prominence, Linux's journey showcases the triumph of open-source software and its remarkable portability and adaptability.

(www.tomshardware.com)

Tech

Russia's New Soyuz-5 Rocket: Breaking Free from Ukraine, Targeting Commercial Launches

2025-08-26

Following the breakdown of space cooperation with Ukraine due to the conflict, Russia is accelerating development of its new Soyuz-5 rocket. Powered by the powerful RD-171MV engine, which avoids Ukrainian components and boasts over three times the thrust of a NASA Space Shuttle Main Engine, the Soyuz-5 aims to replace the Zenit and Proton-M rockets. Russia hopes to gain a stronger foothold in the commercial launch market. However, even more significant is the Soyuz-7 (Amur) rocket, designed with a reusable first stage and new liquid oxygen-methane engines, intended to eventually replace the Soyuz-2. Its debut, however, has been pushed back to no earlier than 2030.

(arstechnica.com)

Tech Russian space program Soyuz-5 rocket RD-171MV engine

Small EVs Reign Supreme: Lowest Lifecycle Carbon Emissions

2025-08-26

A University of Michigan study reveals that compact electric vehicles boast the lowest lifecycle carbon emissions, considering factors like vehicle type, usage patterns, and location. Comparing gasoline, hybrid, and electric vehicles, the study found that a compact electric sedan with a 200-mile battery has just 17% the lifecycle emissions of a gas-powered pickup truck. Even a short-range electric pickup only produces 25% of the emissions. Hybrids offered modest improvements, while among EVs, smaller battery packs consistently resulted in lower environmental impact.

(arstechnica.com)

Tech Carbon Emissions

Bluesky's Decentralized Success Story: Blacksky's Two Million Users

2025-08-26

Blacksky, a decentralized social network built on Bluesky's AT Protocol, has rapidly grown to two million users organically, showcasing the potential of decentralized platforms. Prioritizing Black voices and community safety, Blacksky uses its custom-built, open-source tools and a community-based moderation system to maintain its unique identity, independent from Bluesky. Its success highlights the power of decentralized infrastructure in fostering inclusive and self-governed online spaces.

(newpublic.substack.com)

Tech

Will Smith Concert Video Sparks AI Controversy: Real Crowds, AI-Enhanced Footage

2025-08-26

A short clip of a Will Smith concert went viral, sparking accusations of AI-generated fake crowds and signs. The reality is more nuanced. The video uses real footage of actual concertgoers from Smith's European tour. However, Smith's team used AI image-to-video models to create short animated clips from professionally shot audience photos for a concert montage. YouTube's subsequent post-processing added blurring and distortions, exacerbating the perception of AI-generated content. The 'AI artifacts' aren't entirely AI-generated but a result of AI application and YouTube's post-processing.

(waxy.org)

Tech video post-processing

Google's Datacenter-Scale Liquid Cooling: A Revolution for AI

2025-08-26

The rise of AI has created a significant heat challenge for datacenters. At Hot Chips 2025, Google showcased its massive liquid cooling system designed for its TPUs. This system uses CDUs (Coolant Distribution Units) for rack-level cooling, significantly reducing power consumption compared to air cooling and ensuring system stability through redundancy. Google also employs a bare-die design, similar to PC enthusiast 'de-lidding', to improve the heat transfer efficiency of its TPUv4. This solution not only tackles the immense cooling demands of AI but also points towards a new direction for future datacenter cooling solutions.

(chipsandcheese.com)

Tech

Global Exchanges Warn of Risks Posed by Tokenized Stocks

2025-08-26

The World Federation of Exchanges (WFE), representing the world's largest stock exchanges, has warned regulators about the risks of so-called tokenized stocks. These blockchain-based tokens mimic equities but lack the same rights and safeguards, potentially harming market integrity. The WFE, in a letter to the SEC, ESMA, and IOSCO, highlighted platforms like Coinbase and Robinhood's foray into this nascent sector, emphasizing that these 'tokenized stocks' are not equivalent to actual shares. The WFE urged regulators to apply securities rules to these assets, clarify legal frameworks, and prevent misleading marketing, citing potential investor losses and reputational damage to issuing companies.

(ca.news.yahoo.com)

Tech tokenized stocks

Indoor Air Purification Tech: Effectiveness Questioned, Real-World Studies Needed

2025-08-26

A new study reveals that many technologies claiming to purify indoor air and prevent virus spread lack human testing, and their potential risks remain unclear. The research analyzed nearly 700 studies on technologies like HEPA filters, UV lights, ionizers, and advanced ventilation systems. Only 9% examined their impact on human health. Researchers call for more real-world studies evaluating effectiveness and potential risks, standardized health outcome measures, and independent funding to inform public health policy.

(news.cuanschutz.edu)

Tech air purification virus spread

Google Mandates App Developer Verification for Enhanced Android Security

2025-08-25

To combat malware and financial scams, Google announced that starting in 2026, only apps from verified developers will be installable on certified Android devices. This impacts all installation methods, including sideloading. The move aims to curb the proliferation of fake apps and malicious actors. A phased rollout begins in 2026 in select countries heavily impacted by fraudulent apps, with global implementation in 2027. Developers will have access to a verification process, with separate workflows for students and hobbyists.

(9to5google.com)

Tech Developer Verification

Chinese Solar Giants Post Massive Losses Amidst Price War

2025-08-25

Major Chinese solar panel manufacturers reported significant losses in the first half of the year due to overcapacity and U.S. trade restrictions. The industry faces pressure to reduce output, with the Chinese government urging the closure of outdated facilities. A supply glut and the U.S. crackdown exacerbated price wars, leading to substantial losses for many companies.

(asia.nikkei.com)

Tech

The AI Hype Bubble: Expectations vs. Reality

2025-08-25

Current expectations for AI are overblown, with many companies finding that AI's ROI is far lower than anticipated. A MIT report reveals that 95% of companies that have adopted AI haven't seen any meaningful return on their investment. While AI tools are widely used, they're primarily employed for simple tasks like drafting emails and basic analysis, with complex tasks still dominated by humans. Some companies are even pulling back on AI investments; for example, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia is bringing back call center employees previously replaced by AI. AI valuations are overinflated, echoing the dot-com bubble of the 1990s, and the market is already showing signs of correction. While AI is important, for most companies, it's failing to deliver on its gold-plated promises.

(www.theregister.com)

Tech

Nuclear Batteries: A Comeback for Long-Lasting Power?

2025-08-25

In the 1970s, nuclear-powered pacemakers were implanted, but their use ceased due to radioactive waste disposal issues. Now, advancements are reviving nuclear battery research, targeting robots, drones, and sensors. New designs boast decades- or even centuries-long lifespans and higher energy density. However, commercialization faces cost, safety, and regulatory hurdles. The key lies in finding suitable markets that balance the advantages with the complexities of radioactive waste management.

(spectrum.ieee.org)

Tech

Cheap Dirt Piles Power 24/7 Solar

2025-08-25

Standard Thermal aims to make solar PV energy available 24/7/365 at a price competitive with US natural gas. Their technology stores energy as heat in inexpensive dirt piles, using co-located solar arrays. Electric heaters convert electricity to heat, stored at 600°C or higher. This low-cost thermal storage system, significantly cheaper than batteries, targets solar developers with excess summer energy, isolated users relying on expensive fuels, and eventually, repowering coal plants by generating steam on demand.

(austinvernon.site)

Tech thermal storage

Walmart's Tech Division Fires 1200 Contractors Amidst Corruption Scandal

2025-08-25

A major corruption scandal at Walmart's Global Tech division resulted in the sudden termination of 1200 technology contractors. A vice president was found to have orchestrated a years-long kickback scheme involving millions of dollars in payments from contracting agencies seeking preferential treatment. This incident exposes systemic corruption within the technology industry's outsourcing ecosystem, with layered subcontracting creating opaque accountability and fostering corruption. The Department of Justice has increased prosecutions of visa fraud and kickback schemes within IT consulting firms, while tighter regulations on H-1B visas aim to curb the abuses.

(www.ctol.digital)

Tech tech corruption

AI Browsers: Convenience vs. Catastrophic Security Risks

2025-08-25

The rise of AI browsers presents a dangerous paradox: unparalleled convenience alongside catastrophic security vulnerabilities. This article details experiments using Perplexity's Comet browser, demonstrating its susceptibility to both classic phishing scams and novel "PromptFix" attacks. Comet readily clicked phishing links, completed purchases on fake websites, and executed malicious instructions hidden in webpage code, all without user intervention or warning. This highlights the critical lack of security in current AI browsers, exposing users to significant risks. The future demands robust, inherent security measures within AI models to ensure user safety.

(guard.io)

Tech AI browsers

Juno's Jupiter Revelation: Challenging Our Understanding of Solar System Formation

2025-08-25

NASA's Juno probe, defying expectations, continues to unravel Jupiter's mysteries. Far beyond its planned lifespan, Juno has revealed a Jupiter unlike any previously imagined: bizarre geometric storms, a surprisingly light and fluffy core, and an unusual ammonia distribution in its atmosphere. Juno's discoveries not only reshape our understanding of Jupiter but also challenge existing theories of solar system formation. Key findings include a core that's neither solid nor gaseous, but a diffuse mix of both, and the discovery of "ammonia ice rain" in Jupiter's atmosphere. While its mission is nearing its end, Juno's legacy is indelible.

(www.scientificamerican.com)

Tech Juno

Bluesky Blocks Mississippi Access Over Age-Verification Law

2025-08-25

Decentralized social network Bluesky has blocked access to its service in Mississippi rather than comply with the state's new age-verification law, HB 1126. The law mandates age verification for all users, requiring substantial technical changes and privacy protections that Bluesky, a small team, cannot afford. Citing the law's broad scope and potential to stifle free speech, Bluesky prioritized its long-term sustainability and user privacy over Mississippi users' access. The company is also working to resolve access issues for some users outside Mississippi due to network routing.

(techcrunch.com)

Tech

Burner Phone 101: A Workshop Summary

2025-08-25

This workshop, hosted at the Brooklyn Public Library, covered phone-related risk modeling, privacy-enhancing smartphone practices, various burner phone options, and when to ditch phones altogether. Participants learned to assess risks by considering what needs protection, from whom, and the consequences of failure. The workshop detailed smartphone vulnerabilities and offered privacy tips for all phones, including updates, strong PINs, and restricted app permissions. Different burner phone options were explored – prepaid phones, SIM rotation, and minimal phones – each with its limitations. Finally, the workshop emphasized that sometimes, the best burner phone is no phone at all, suggesting alternative methods for communication and location sharing when digital devices are a risk.

(rebeccawilliams.info)

Tech burner phones

Buypass to Discontinue TLS/SSL Certificate Issuance

2025-08-25

Buypass announced it will cease issuing TLS/SSL certificates on October 15, 2025. This decision follows a comprehensive market and regulatory assessment. Existing certificates remain valid until expiry or revocation. Buypass will focus on enterprise certificates and other identity and digital signing solutions.

(www.buypass.com)

Tech TLS/SSL certificates

Firefox 142: AI-Powered Browser Update, But Not Without Issues

2025-08-25

Mozilla has released Firefox 142, incorporating AI features such as content summarization for links and LLM support for extensions. However, the rollout is staggered, with some regions not yet seeing all features like link previews and the new tab page's news and weather integrations. Accuracy concerns exist with the AI summarization. Despite this, improvements include simpler sidebar and tab bar interactions, and enhanced tracking protection exception management. A new feature, CRLite, improves certificate revocation checking.

(www.theregister.com)

Tech

Archer's Midnight eVTOL Achieves Record-Breaking Flight

2025-08-25

Archer Aviation announced a significant milestone: its Midnight eVTOL aircraft completed its longest piloted flight to date, lasting 31 minutes and covering over 55 miles. The flight primarily tested conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) capabilities, showcasing impressive speeds exceeding 126 mph and nearing 150 mph in recent tests. This achievement marks substantial progress toward FAA certification in the US and commercial operations in the UAE. United Airlines' CFO witnessed the flight, highlighting the aircraft's quiet operation and the maturity of Archer's program.

(electrek.co)

Tech flight test

X-37B's Secret Mission: A Quantum Leap in Space Navigation

2025-08-25

The US military's X-37B spaceplane, launching on its eighth mission in August 2025, carries a potentially revolutionary experiment: a quantum inertial sensor. This sensor uses atom interferometry to enable highly accurate navigation even where GPS is unavailable or compromised, such as deep space or underwater. Outperforming traditional inertial navigation systems in accuracy and stability, it holds significant implications for both military and civilian spaceflight, marking a crucial step towards real-world applications of quantum technology.

(www.space.com)

Tech GPS Alternative

Category: Tech