Webtagr - Technology News Summarizer

Popular：

Virtualization DNS security formal verification reachability analysis compiler errors macro conflict web extension development framework Bitmap Graphics API inconsistencies All Tags

Verizon and T-Mobile Scrap DEI Initiatives Under FCC Chair Pressure

2025-05-19

Verizon and T-Mobile Scrap DEI Initiatives Under FCC Chair Pressure

Facing pressure from FCC Chair Brendan Carr, telecom giants Verizon and T-Mobile have announced modifications or cancellations of their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. Verizon stated it will eliminate its dedicated DEI team, reassigning employees to other roles. T-Mobile is conducting a comprehensive review of its DEI policies. This move has sparked controversy, with media outlets criticizing Verizon's actions as "cowardly," a surrender to political pressure prioritizing profit over social responsibility. Carr's actions have also been condemned as using regulatory power to suppress civil rights protections and equal opportunity.

(arstechnica.com)

Tech diversity equity

Harvard Loses $450M in Federal Grants Amid Antisemitism Accusations

2025-05-18

Harvard Loses $450M in Federal Grants Amid Antisemitism Accusations

The federal government terminated $450 million in research grants to Harvard University, citing antisemitism. This follows previous cuts totaling $2.2 billion and signals a potential complete cutoff of future funding. The government accuses Harvard of insufficient action to address antisemitic incidents and discriminatory practices, although the announcement lacks specifics on recent events or Harvard's efforts. Multiple federal agencies issued similar letters, indicating a coordinated effort to withdraw funding.

(arstechnica.com)

Tech Federal Grants Antisemitism

Australian Rocket Launch Delayed Due to Payload Fairing Malfunction

2025-05-17

Australian Rocket Launch Delayed Due to Payload Fairing Malfunction

The maiden launch of Gilmour Space Technologies' Eris rocket has been delayed due to a premature payload fairing deployment. The company will conduct a full investigation and replace the fairing before attempting another launch. This setback follows over a year of delays attributed to regulatory approvals. Despite this, Gilmour remains confident in its hybrid propulsion system, aiming for only 10-20 seconds of stable flight on the initial launch to gather crucial data. Eris aims to be Australia's first orbital launch vehicle.

(arstechnica.com)

Tech Eris Rocket Payload Fairing Failure Australian Space

Meta Fights Back Against FTC Monopoly Claims: Instagram and WhatsApp Acquisitions Were Saviors, Not Killers

2025-05-16

Meta Fights Back Against FTC Monopoly Claims: Instagram and WhatsApp Acquisitions Were Saviors, Not Killers

Meta is vigorously defending itself against the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) antitrust claims. Meta argues that its acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp were not intended to stifle competition, but rather to save the platforms. They point to Instagram's pre-acquisition state as "broken and duct-taped," vulnerable to spam, and WhatsApp founders' testimony that they never intended to become a social media platform. Meta emphasizes that its resource investment allowed both platforms to thrive, attracting hundreds of millions and then billions of users, and successfully monetizing. Meta dismisses evidence suggesting increased ad revenue and refutes emails implying Zuckerberg's intent to bury competitors as irrelevant.

(arstechnica.com)

Tech

The Extremely Large Telescope: A Giant Leap for Astronomy

2025-05-16

The Extremely Large Telescope: A Giant Leap for Astronomy

The Atacama Desert in Chile, one of the darkest places on Earth, is hosting the construction of the Extremely Large Telescope (ELT). With a primary mirror 39 meters in diameter—nearly four times larger than existing telescopes—the ELT promises a revolutionary leap in astronomical observation. Competing projects, such as the Giant Magellan Telescope and the Thirty Meter Telescope (currently stalled due to local opposition), aim for similar breakthroughs within the decade. These next-generation telescopes will dramatically alter our view of the cosmos, unveiling previously unseen wonders.

(arstechnica.com)

Tech telescope

Telegram Takes Down $35 Billion Cybercrime Marketplaces

2025-05-15

Telegram Takes Down $35 Billion Cybercrime Marketplaces

Telegram announced the takedown of two massive darknet marketplaces, Xinbi Guarantee and Huione Guarantee, which allegedly generated over $35 billion since 2021 for cybercriminals and scammers. This surpasses the notorious Silk Road's estimated $3.4 billion valuation. The shutdown, following US Treasury sanctions against Huione Group for money laundering, represents a significant blow to online fraudsters, cutting off their access to stolen data, money laundering services, and telecoms infrastructure. This action highlights a major victory in the global fight against cybercrime.

(arstechnica.com)

Tech darknet markets

Netflix Tests AI-Powered Ads to Boost Cheaper Subscription Tier

2025-05-15

Netflix Tests AI-Powered Ads to Boost Cheaper Subscription Tier

Netflix is experimenting with different ad formats, including interactive mid-roll and pause ads powered by generative AI, to make its cheaper subscription tier more attractive. These ads will start rolling out in 2026. The ad-supported plan, launched in November 2022, now boasts 94 million subscribers, representing a significant portion of Netflix's total subscriber base of 300 million and a substantial growth since its launch. Half of new subscribers are opting for the ad-supported $8 plan instead of ad-free options.

(arstechnica.com)

Tech

Venus Aerospace Successfully Tests Rotating Detonation Rocket Engine

2025-05-15

Venus Aerospace Successfully Tests Rotating Detonation Rocket Engine

US-based propulsion company Venus Aerospace completed a short flight test of its rotating detonation rocket engine at Spaceport America, New Mexico. This marks the first US flight test of a high-thrust rotating detonation engine, a concept explored for decades. The test, using a 2,000-pound thrust engine, lasted about half a minute and didn't break the sound barrier. However, it represents a significant step towards realizing hypersonic travel and improved fuel efficiency in various applications, potentially enabling global travel in under two hours.

(arstechnica.com)

Tech rotating detonation engine hypersonic travel rocket technology

Grok AI's Obsession with South African White Farmers: Algorithmic Bias or Human Intervention?

2025-05-15

Grok AI's Obsession with South African White Farmers: Algorithmic Bias or Human Intervention?

Elon Musk's AI chatbot, Grok, has recently sparked controversy with its frequent and unsolicited mentions of the alleged "genocide" of white farmers in South Africa. This aligns with Musk and Trump's long-standing interest in the issue, but former US Ambassador to South Africa Patrick Gaspard has labeled the idea of widespread killings as a "disproven racial myth." While Grok claims to pursue "maximal truth-seeking," its output has raised concerns about potential human manipulation of its political biases.

(arstechnica.com)

AI South Africa

SteamOS Expands Beyond the Steam Deck: A New Compatibility Label Arrives

2025-05-14

SteamOS Expands Beyond the Steam Deck: A New Compatibility Label Arrives

Valve is expanding its Linux-based SteamOS beyond the Steam Deck to other handheld PCs like the Asus ROG Ally. To prepare, Steam is introducing a "SteamOS Compatible" label indicating whether a game and its middleware are supported on SteamOS, including game functionality, launcher functionality, and anti-cheat support. Over 18,000 titles will initially be labeled compatible. While Proton technology has greatly improved compatibility, not every Windows game will run flawlessly. This signifies a major step towards broader SteamOS adoption.

(arstechnica.com)

Game

Nextcloud Android App Blocked: Google Revokes File Upload Access

2025-05-14

Nextcloud Android App Blocked: Google Revokes File Upload Access

Nextcloud, a self-hosted cloud platform, has been unable to upload non-media files on its Android app since mid-2024. Google refused to reinstate the necessary access permissions, citing privacy concerns, significantly impacting user experience. Nextcloud's team states they've attempted communication with Google, but to no avail. This issue hinders file syncing and uploading, making it difficult for Nextcloud to fully replace Google Workspace.

(arstechnica.com)

Development

FCC Investigates EchoStar's 2GHz Spectrum Use Amidst SpaceX and VTel Disputes

2025-05-14

FCC Investigates EchoStar's 2GHz Spectrum Use Amidst SpaceX and VTel Disputes

SpaceX's apparent lack of due diligence regarding EchoStar's extensive use of the 2GHz band has prompted an FCC investigation. EchoStar claims over 80% US population coverage with 23,000+ 5G sites deployed. However, VTel Wireless petitioned the FCC, arguing that granting EchoStar more time to complete its 5G network violates prior commitments made during the T-Mobile/Sprint merger. The FCC is now seeking public comment on EchoStar's 2GHz spectrum usage and VTel's petition for reconsideration.

(arstechnica.com)

Tech Spectrum Dispute

US Reconciliation Bill: Hands-Off Approach to AI Regulation Sparks Backlash

2025-05-13

US Reconciliation Bill: Hands-Off Approach to AI Regulation Sparks Backlash

A US reconciliation bill, while primarily focused on Medicaid cuts and healthcare fee increases, includes a provision limiting state-level AI regulation. This has drawn criticism from tech safety groups and some Democrats, who argue it benefits Big Tech while leaving consumers vulnerable to AI harms like deepfakes and bias. The move aligns with the Trump administration's close ties to the tech industry, with several prominent tech CEOs advising the administration. By restricting states' ability to use federal funds for AI oversight, the provision could stifle state-level initiatives and reinforce a deregulatory approach.

(arstechnica.com)

Tech tech policy government-industry ties

VPNSecure Cancels Lifetime Subscriptions, Angering Users

2025-05-12

VPNSecure Cancels Lifetime Subscriptions, Angering Users

The new owners of VPN provider VPNSecure have angered users by canceling all lifetime subscriptions. They claim they were unaware of these subscriptions during the acquisition and cannot honor them. This has led to widespread complaints, prompting VPNSecure to offer discounted subscriptions as compensation. However, this hasn't appeased users, highlighting issues of transparency and responsibility in business acquisitions.

(arstechnica.com)

Tech lifetime subscription

Pope Francis on AI: History Repeats, Ethical Quandaries Resurface

2025-05-12

Pope Francis on AI: History Repeats, Ethical Quandaries Resurface

Pope Francis's call for respecting human dignity in the age of AI echoes Pope Leo XIII's 1891 encyclical Rerum Novarum, which addressed the social upheaval of the Industrial Revolution. Leo XIII condemned the exploitation of workers in horrific factory conditions. He rejected both unchecked capitalism and socialism, proposing Catholic social doctrine to uphold workers' rights. Similarly, AI now threatens employment and human dignity, prompting Pope Francis to advocate for the Church's moral leadership in navigating these new challenges, defending human dignity, justice, and labor rights.

(arstechnica.com)

AI

The Hidden Cost of AI: Boosting Productivity, Damaging Reputation?

2025-05-10

The Hidden Cost of AI: Boosting Productivity, Damaging Reputation?

New research from Duke University reveals a double-edged sword: while generative AI tools can boost productivity, they may also secretly damage your professional reputation. A study published in PNAS shows employees using AI tools like ChatGPT are perceived as less competent and motivated by colleagues and managers. This negative judgment isn't limited to specific demographics; the social stigma against AI use is widespread. Four experiments confirmed this bias, highlighting the social cost of AI adoption, even with productivity gains.

(arstechnica.com)

AI reputation

Viral Chromebook Challenge Sparks Fires and Chaos in US Schools

2025-05-09

Viral Chromebook Challenge Sparks Fires and Chaos in US Schools

Schools across the US are warning parents about a dangerous TikTok trend called the "Chromebook Challenge." Students are deliberately damaging school-issued Chromebooks by inserting objects into ports, causing short circuits, fires, and school evacuations. The trend has led to disciplinary actions and even legal consequences for students involved. One incident in Connecticut resulted in a student being hospitalized after smoke inhalation from a damaged Chromebook, leading to potential criminal charges.

(arstechnica.com)

Tech Chromebook Challenge School Safety

Tesla's RoboTaxi Trademark Rejected

2025-05-09

Tesla's RoboTaxi Trademark Rejected

Tesla CEO Elon Musk's vision of an AI and robotics future, including a sub-$30,000 driverless two-seater dubbed "robotaxi," has hit a snag. The USPTO rejected Tesla's trademark application, citing the term's generic and descriptive nature, lacking originality. This setback complicates Tesla's marketing plans, requiring them to demonstrate their product's unique features to avoid renaming or further legal challenges. This isn't Tesla's first trademark dispute; they previously faced a lawsuit over vehicle design similarities with Blade Runner 2049.

(arstechnica.com)

Tech

CISA and DOGE Employee's Credentials Found in Multiple Public Leaks

2025-05-09

CISA and DOGE Employee's Credentials Found in Multiple Public Leaks

Login credentials belonging to Kyle Schutt, a software engineer working for both the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), have appeared in multiple public leaks from info-stealer malware. This strongly suggests his devices have been compromised. Schutt accessed FEMA's core financial management system, potentially exposing sensitive information about US civilian federal government networks and critical infrastructure. Journalist Micah Lee found Schutt's usernames and passwords in at least four stealer malware logs since 2023. These credentials also surfaced in massive data breaches affecting companies like Adobe, LinkedIn, Gravatar, and The Post Millennial. The exact timing and frequency of the hacks remain unclear, highlighting significant cybersecurity risks within the government.

(arstechnica.com)

Tech

Congress Kills FCC Hotspot Lending Program: A Political Battle Over the Digital Divide

2025-05-08

Congress Kills FCC Hotspot Lending Program: A Political Battle Over the Digital Divide

A Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program lending Wi-Fi hotspots to schools has been killed by Congress. Senator Blumenthal criticized the move as pointless and unhelpful to schools and families. Senator Markey called it a "cruel and shortsighted decision" that will widen the digital divide. The program stemmed from the termination of the Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) authorized in 2021, with the FCC attempting to compensate by adjusting the E-Rate program. However, FCC Chairman Carr opposed the plan, arguing that only Congress could decide whether to reinstate it. Representative Fulcher argued that the FCC's move exceeded legal boundaries and was a "political stunt." The E-Rate program itself has limited funds, capped at $4.94 billion annually, with $2.48 billion spent in 2023. Funding comes from fees levied on phone companies. The core of the controversy centers on understanding digital equity, governmental authority, and the allocation of limited public resources.

(arstechnica.com)

Tech Congress

Microsoft Quietly Raises Prices on Surface Accessories and Xbox Games

2025-05-08

Microsoft Quietly Raises Prices on Surface Accessories and Xbox Games

Microsoft recently increased prices on several Surface accessories, including a $20 price hike for the Surface USB-C Travel Hub and a $10 increase for the Surface Arc Mouse. Simultaneously, Xbox console prices have also risen, and some game prices may reach $80 later this year. While Microsoft claims the starting price for new Surface Pro and Laptop models remains unchanged, the discontinuation of the 256GB versions represents a de facto price increase. Analysts suggest that Trump-era import tariffs and rising global supply chain costs are contributing factors to these price hikes.

(arstechnica.com)

Hardware

Paris Crypto Kidnappings: A Series of Brutal Ransom Schemes

2025-05-08

Paris Crypto Kidnappings: A Series of Brutal Ransom Schemes

Paris has seen a string of brutal kidnappings linked to cryptocurrency. Criminals are targeting family members of those wealthy in crypto, cutting off fingers to demand multi-million euro ransoms. Police have successfully rescued hostages and arrested suspects, utilizing phone signals and other investigative techniques. These incidents highlight the security risks associated with cryptocurrency wealth and the audacity of the criminal gangs involved.

(arstechnica.com)

Tech

Broadcom Sends Cease-and-Desist Letters Over Expired VMware Perpetual Licenses

2025-05-07

Broadcom Sends Cease-and-Desist Letters Over Expired VMware Perpetual Licenses

Following its acquisition of VMware, Broadcom has ended sales of VMware perpetual licenses and is sending cease-and-desist letters to users with expired support contracts. These letters demand users stop using any updates, patches, or releases beyond zero-day security fixes. This aggressive move to push users towards subscription models has angered many, with some even receiving letters after migrating to alternative virtualization platforms.

(arstechnica.com)

Tech

AI-Generated Bug Reports Flood HackerOne: Security Researcher Calls for Action

2025-05-07

AI-Generated Bug Reports Flood HackerOne: Security Researcher Calls for Action

Security researchers have discovered a surge in AI-generated, false vulnerability reports flooding bug bounty platform HackerOne. These reports, often perfectly worded and formatted, lack actual security value, wasting security researchers' time and potentially obscuring real vulnerabilities. Researchers are calling on HackerOne to strengthen its review mechanisms and crack down on this behavior, suggesting solutions like bond systems or leveraging existing network infrastructure for review. This is a worrying trend potentially impacting open-source projects on a large scale.

(arstechnica.com)

Development

WhatsApp Wins $511M in Lawsuit Against Spyware Firm NSO Group

2025-05-07

WhatsApp Wins $511M in Lawsuit Against Spyware Firm NSO Group

A jury awarded WhatsApp $511 million in damages—$167 million in punitive damages and $344 million in compensatory damages—in its lawsuit against the Israeli spyware firm NSO Group. NSO exploited a vulnerability in WhatsApp to remotely install Pegasus spyware on approximately 1,400 phones belonging to journalists, activists, and government officials. This landmark victory is a significant blow to the spyware industry and a win for privacy advocates.

(arstechnica.com)

Tech

Android 16's Material 3 Expressive: A Gen Z Delight?

2025-05-06

Android 16's Material 3 Expressive: A Gen Z Delight?

Google's Material 3 Expressive design is a hit with younger users but less so with older ones. While Android 16 will feature it, the actual experience varies greatly depending on the device due to Android's open-source nature and OEM customizations. Google Pixel devices will get the full experience, while others like Samsung and OnePlus might only partially adopt it. Furthermore, app developer adoption of Material 3 Expressive remains to be seen, and Google is unlikely to enforce widespread use.

(arstechnica.com)

Development

Roku OS Update Causes Washed-Out HDR Colors

2025-05-05

Roku OS Update Causes Washed-Out HDR Colors

A recent Roku OS update has caused washed-out colors in HDR content on several Roku apps, including Disney+. Complaints started appearing a week ago, affecting apps like Apple TV+ and Netflix as well. Roku is investigating, asking users to report their experiences and devices. Affected TVs include multiple TCL, Hisense, and Sharp models, while Roku streaming sticks seem unaffected. One user reported that plugging a streaming stick into a Roku TV solved the issue. Users report the problem impacting both movies and shows across various apps, causing significant viewing disruption.

(arstechnica.com)

Hardware Color Distortion

Massive E-commerce Supply Chain Attack Exposes Millions

2025-05-05

Massive E-commerce Supply Chain Attack Exposes Millions

Security researchers have uncovered a supply chain attack targeting hundreds of e-commerce sites, including a $40 billion multinational company. Attackers compromised at least three software providers, implanting malware that lay dormant for six years before activating in recent weeks to steal payment card information and other sensitive data. At least 500 sites are affected, with the true number potentially double that. The malware allows attackers to execute arbitrary code in visitor browsers, enabling remote code execution and data theft. Affected software providers include Tigren, Magesolution, and Meetanshi, all offering Magento-based software.

(arstechnica.com)

Tech

SpaceX Explosion: The FBI Investigation That Went Nowhere

2025-05-05

SpaceX Explosion: The FBI Investigation That Went Nowhere

The 2016 SpaceX rocket explosion prompted widespread concern. SpaceX attributed the incident to possible sabotage, submitting evidence to the FAA and FBI. However, the FBI investigation found no evidence of criminal activity. Although the failure of the Amos-6 mission briefly threatened SpaceX's financial viability, the company quickly rebounded, achieving remarkable success in subsequent years and ultimately surpassing ULA in the commercial launch market.

(arstechnica.com)

Tech rocket explosion

Cicada Cyborgs Play Pachelbel: Insect-Based Bio-Robotics Take a Leap

2025-05-04

Cicada Cyborgs Play Pachelbel: Insect-Based Bio-Robotics Take a Leap

Scientists at the University of Tsukuba have transformed cicadas into cyborg insects capable of producing sounds resembling Pachelbel's Canon. By implanting electrodes into the cicadas' tymbals (sound-producing organs), researchers can control their muscle contractions, altering the pitch and rhythm of their chirps. This builds upon previous research using cockroaches as cyborgs, and holds potential for future applications in emergency communication.

(arstechnica.com)

Tech bio-robotics insects

← Previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 … 13 14 Next →