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US Robotics Firms Urge National Strategy Amidst China's Rise

2025-03-28

US Robotics Firms Urge National Strategy Amidst China's Rise

American robotics companies are pushing for a national robotics strategy to compete with China's growing dominance in the field. While the US boasts advancements in AI and robotics, the lack of a cohesive national strategy risks losing its lead. Proposed solutions include tax incentives, funding for research and training, and a dedicated federal robotics office. China's significant investment and progress are undeniable, but the long-term viability may favor more practical, polyfunctional robots over humanoids. This race is not just about technological supremacy but also national strategy and economic future.

(apnews.com)

Tech

Supreme Court Weighs Fate of $8 Billion Telecom Subsidy

2025-03-26

Supreme Court Weighs Fate of $8 Billion Telecom Subsidy

The Supreme Court is hearing a case that could determine the fate of an $8 billion annual subsidy for phone and internet services in schools, libraries, and rural areas. The Universal Service Fund, which is funded by a tax on phone bills, is challenged on constitutional grounds. While both liberal and conservative justices expressed concern over the potential consequences of eliminating the fund, some justices questioned the level of authority delegated to the FCC and its reliance on a private administrator. A decision is expected by late June, with significant implications for tens of millions of Americans.

(apnews.com)

Tech Supreme Court Subsidy Telecommunications

Millions Help Fish Migrate via a Quirky 'Fish Doorbell' Livestream

2025-03-24

Millions Help Fish Migrate via a Quirky 'Fish Doorbell' Livestream

Utrecht, Netherlands, has installed a 'fish doorbell' – a live stream showing fish attempting to migrate through a city lock. Viewers can click a button to alert authorities when fish are spotted, prompting them to open the lock and aid the fish's journey to their spawning grounds. This unique blend of slow TV and ecological activism has garnered millions of viewers worldwide, proving a simple idea can make a big difference in conservation efforts.

(apnews.com)

Tech ecological activism slow tv

Russia's Shadow War in Europe: 59 Incidents Exposed

2025-03-22

Russia's Shadow War in Europe: 59 Incidents Exposed

Since the invasion of Ukraine, Russia and its proxies have been accused of orchestrating dozens of attacks and incidents across Europe, ranging from cyberattacks and propaganda to assassinations, arson, sabotage, and espionage. The goal: to sow discord, undermine support for Ukraine, and erode public trust in European governments. While the Kremlin denies involvement, mounting evidence points to Russia's culpability. This "bold" campaign highlights a new strategy of hybrid warfare, demanding increased cooperation and intelligence sharing among European nations to counter the threat.

(apnews.com)

Tech Ukraine War Hybrid Warfare

Tesla Cybertruck Faces Massive Recall: Side Window Panel Detachment Risk

2025-03-20

Tesla Cybertruck Faces Massive Recall: Side Window Panel Detachment Risk

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has recalled over 46,000 Tesla Cybertrucks due to a potential detachment of the side window panel, posing a road hazard. The recall covers all 2024 and 2025 models. Tesla will replace the part free of charge, with notification letters expected to be mailed on May 19th. This is the eighth recall for the Cybertruck in just over a year, following previous recalls for issues like electric inverter faults and stuck accelerator pedals. Simultaneously, Tesla faces increased competition and attacks targeting its vehicles and facilities, leading to a 42% plummet in its stock price in 2025.

(apnews.com)

Tech

Greenpeace Ordered to Pay $666M Over Dakota Access Pipeline Protests

2025-03-20

Greenpeace Ordered to Pay $666M Over Dakota Access Pipeline Protests

A North Dakota jury ordered Greenpeace to pay over $666 million in damages to Energy Transfer for defamation and other claims related to protests against the Dakota Access pipeline. Energy Transfer accused Greenpeace of defamation, trespassing, nuisance, civil conspiracy, and other actions. Greenpeace plans to appeal, stating the fight against Big Oil continues. The case stems from 2016-2017 protests against the pipeline and its crossing of the Missouri River upstream from the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe's reservation.

(apnews.com)

Tech Greenpeace Dakota Access Pipeline Protests

SSA Tightens Identity Verification, Sparking Controversy

2025-03-19

SSA Tightens Identity Verification, Sparking Controversy

To combat fraud, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will implement stricter identity verification measures starting March 31st, requiring millions of recipients and applicants to visit agency offices in person instead of verifying by phone. This impacts new applicants and existing recipients changing direct deposit information, disproportionately affecting elderly individuals in rural areas, those with disabilities, and those with limited internet access. This comes as the SSA plans to close dozens of offices and lay off thousands of workers, fueling concerns about access to benefits. Democratic representatives have even accused this move as a prelude to privatizing Social Security.

(apnews.com)

Misc

Nine Months Stranded: Space Rescue Mission a Success

2025-03-15

Nine Months Stranded: Space Rescue Mission a Success

After nine months stranded on the International Space Station due to malfunctioning spacecraft, astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams were finally rescued. A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket successfully launched a Crew Dragon spacecraft carrying four astronauts, paving the way for the stranded duo's return. The rescue mission was fraught with challenges, including helium leaks, thruster failures, and battery repairs, even involving political elements. The astronauts will return to Earth after a crew handover, concluding an unexpectedly long mission that set a new record for female spacewalking time and highlighted the complexities of space exploration.

(apnews.com)

Tech

AI Surveillance in Schools: A Privacy Tightrope Walk

2025-03-12

AI Surveillance in Schools: A Privacy Tightrope Walk

Numerous US schools employ AI-powered surveillance software to monitor student online activity, aiming to prevent school violence and student suicide. However, this practice raises serious privacy concerns. Unredacted student data obtained by news organizations reveals the software captures not only potential threats but also vast amounts of sensitive personal information, including struggles with depression, heartbreak, family issues, and even outing LGBTQ+ students. While the software helps schools intervene in crises, its high false-positive rate, privacy violations, and uncertain long-term effectiveness fuel ethical debates about student privacy, safety, and mental health.

(apnews.com)

Tech student privacy school safety

Thousands Trapped After Myanmar Scam Center Rescue: A Humanitarian Crisis Unfolds

2025-03-10

Thousands Trapped After Myanmar Scam Center Rescue: A Humanitarian Crisis Unfolds

Thousands of young men and women rescued from Myanmar's scam centers find themselves trapped in overcrowded detention facilities, facing a humanitarian crisis. Despite a large-scale operation involving Thai, Chinese, and Myanmar authorities, repatriation efforts are slow, leaving many stranded without adequate medical care or food. The rescue highlights the rampant issue of cross-border cyber scams and the need for greater international cooperation to combat this criminal industry. Many victims, initially lured by promises of lucrative jobs, endured brutal conditions, including beatings and starvation, before their release.

(apnews.com)

Misc cyber scams humanitarian crisis

Palestinian Grad Student Arrested: Political Protest Leads to Visa Crisis

2025-03-10

Palestinian Grad Student Arrested: Political Protest Leads to Visa Crisis

Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian graduate student at Columbia University who played a prominent role in anti-Israel protests, was arrested by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Authorities revoked his student visa and green card, citing support for Hamas. The arrest is seen as an escalation of the Trump administration's crackdown on student political activism, sparking debate about free speech and political retaliation. Khalil was a key negotiator in student protests and faced disciplinary action from the university for his social media activity. The arrest is also linked to the Trump administration's threat to cut funding to Columbia University over its handling of antisemitism on campus.

(apnews.com)

Misc political protest visa crisis

US Halts Global Air Quality Data Sharing: A Public Health Crisis Looms

2025-03-06

US Halts Global Air Quality Data Sharing: A Public Health Crisis Looms

The US government has stopped sharing air quality data collected from its embassies and consulates due to funding cuts, raising concerns among scientists worldwide. This data was crucial for monitoring global air quality and improving public health, particularly in developing countries. The loss of this reliable, independent data source will leave many vulnerable populations, especially in heavily polluted areas like Pakistan and India, at greater risk. While some nations plan to bolster their own monitoring efforts, this won't fully compensate for the significant gap left by the US's decision. The move, seen as part of the Trump administration's deprioritization of environmental initiatives, highlights the importance of international collaboration in tackling global environmental challenges.

(apnews.com)

Tech

German Town's Geothermal Gamble: Deep-Rock Energy for a Cleaner Future

2025-03-04

German Town's Geothermal Gamble: Deep-Rock Energy for a Cleaner Future

Geretsried, Germany, once abandoned its hopes for geothermal energy after traditional methods failed. Now, Eavor is pioneering a new approach, building its first commercial power plant in the town. Their technology taps into deep, dry hot rock, drilling kilometers deep to create closed loops that heat water for electricity generation and district heating for around 36,000 homes. This innovative solution addresses Germany's energy transition challenges and holds global potential for a cleaner, more secure energy future, combating climate change.

(apnews.com)

Tech geothermal energy

Private Lander Makes Historic Moon Landing

2025-03-04

Private Lander Makes Historic Moon Landing

Firefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost lunar lander successfully touched down on the moon, marking the first successful lunar landing by a private company. The mission, carrying ten NASA experiments including lunar soil analysis and subsurface temperature measurements, paves the way for future lunar exploration and commercial development. This success signals a new era of private sector involvement in lunar exploration, with more private landers expected to follow.

(apnews.com)

Tech Private Spaceflight

Grumpy German Bread Celebrates 25 Years of Unintentional Adult Appeal

2025-03-03

Grumpy German Bread Celebrates 25 Years of Unintentional Adult Appeal

Bernd das Brot, a perpetually pessimistic bread puppet from a German children's show, is celebrating his 25th anniversary. Initially a sketch on a napkin, Bernd's grumpy demeanor and signature exclamation, "Mist!" resonated unexpectedly with adult viewers, making him a cult classic. His journey includes winning a German Emmy equivalent, a kidnapping incident, and now, an attempt at becoming a bread influencer. This year's celebrations include new episodes and online activities.

(apnews.com)

Misc German Culture Children's Television Cult Classic

Chess Champ Auctions Controversial Jeans for Charity: #JeansGate Continues

2025-03-01

Chess Champ Auctions Controversial Jeans for Charity: #JeansGate Continues

Magnus Carlsen, the world's top chess player, is auctioning off the Italian Corneliani jeans that caused a dress code controversy at the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships. After being fined and withdrawing from the New York tournament, Carlsen is donating the proceeds from the eBay auction (currently at $8,200) to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. The auction ends March 1st. The charity will use the funds to expand youth mentorship programs, including chess clinics and community events.

(apnews.com)

Misc Carlsen Charity Auction JeansGate

Nationwide Blackout Plunges Chile into Darkness

2025-02-26

Nationwide Blackout Plunges Chile into Darkness

A massive blackout hit Chile on Tuesday, leaving millions without power and causing widespread disruption. The outage, affecting 14 of Chile's 16 regions, was caused by a disruption in a high-voltage transmission line from the Atacama Desert to Santiago. The incident led to transport chaos, business closures, and the suspension of Santiago's subway system. Authorities are working to restore power and have activated backup generators in essential services like hospitals and prisons.

(apnews.com)

Tech Blackout Power Outage

80-Year-Old Crafts Retailer Joann to Liquidate All Stores

2025-02-25

80-Year-Old Crafts Retailer Joann to Liquidate All Stores

Joann Inc., an 80-year-old fabric and crafts retailer, is going out of business and closing all its stores after failing to overcome operational challenges. The company, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy twice in less than a year, cited weak consumer demand and inventory issues. Despite initially vowing to stay open, Joann ultimately accepted a bid from GA Group to liquidate its assets, leading to going-out-of-business sales at all locations. While the website and app will remain operational for the time being, the closure of all stores marks the end of an era for the long-standing retailer.

(apnews.com)

Startup retail liquidation

Mysterious Illness Kills Over 50 in Northwest Congo

2025-02-25

Mysterious Illness Kills Over 50 in Northwest Congo

A mysterious illness has claimed the lives of over 50 people in northwestern Congo. The outbreak, which began on January 21st, has seen 419 cases reported with 53 deaths. The rapid progression of the illness, with most patients dying within 48 hours of symptom onset, is alarming health officials. Initial investigations suggest a possible link to children consuming bats. Samples have been sent for testing to rule out Ebola and other hemorrhagic fevers; some tested positive for malaria. The incident highlights concerns about zoonotic diseases, particularly in areas where wild animal consumption is common.

(apnews.com)

Tech unknown illness Congo

Canada Unveils Multi-Billion Dollar High-Speed Rail Plan

2025-02-24

Canada Unveils Multi-Billion Dollar High-Speed Rail Plan

The Canadian government announced a multi-billion dollar plan to build a high-speed rail network connecting Quebec City and Toronto. The approximately 1000km, 300kph electric rail line will be Canada's largest infrastructure project ever, with completion time and final cost yet to be determined. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the Liberal Party's future, Prime Minister Trudeau expressed confidence in the project's continuation, highlighting its importance for Canada's transportation system and its role in addressing traffic congestion and environmental concerns. The project, named Alto, aims to provide a faster, more efficient alternative to car and air travel.

(apnews.com)

Tech high-speed rail

MLB Tests Automated Ball-Strike System: Robot Umpires on the Horizon?

2025-02-23

MLB Tests Automated Ball-Strike System: Robot Umpires on the Horizon?

Major League Baseball (MLB) is testing an Automated Ball-Strike System (ABS) during spring training exhibition games after four years of minor league trials. The system uses cameras to track pitches and determine if they're in the strike zone, relaying the call to the umpire via earbud, who then signals to players and fans. A challenge system is in place, allowing each team two challenges per game. ABS is installed in 13 spring training ballparks, with roughly 60% of games slated for testing. Hawk-Eye technology is used, but the strike zone is a rectangle as defined by the rulebook, not the oval shape used by human umpires. Tests show slight increases in strikeouts and walks with ABS. MLB plans to refine broadcast displays and gather player feedback via the ProTABS app, aiming for potential integration as early as 2026 to assist, not replace, human umpires.

(apnews.com)

Tech baseball

Malaysia's Data Center Boom: A Double-Edged Sword

2025-02-19

Malaysia's Data Center Boom: A Double-Edged Sword

Johor, Malaysia, is experiencing a data center boom, attracting billions in investment but raising concerns about energy and water scarcity. The high energy and water consumption of data centers directly conflicts with local businesses, forcing some, like a thriving tropical fish farm, to relocate. While the government hopes data centers will modernize the economy, experts question their job creation benefits and worry about potential 'digital colonialism' and unsustainable environmental impacts. Johor's case highlights the challenges developing nations face in balancing economic growth with environmental protection.

(apnews.com)

Tech

South Korean Actress Kim Sae-ron's Death Sparks Debate on Celebrity Treatment

2025-02-18

South Korean Actress Kim Sae-ron's Death Sparks Debate on Celebrity Treatment

The death of 24-year-old South Korean actress Kim Sae-ron has ignited a widespread conversation about the harsh realities faced by celebrities in South Korea. Kim, known for her role in the hit film "The Man from Nowhere," struggled to revive her career after a 2022 drunk driving incident, facing relentless online criticism and negative media coverage. Her passing has prompted calls for reform, with many criticizing the unforgiving culture and demanding a more compassionate approach to celebrity missteps. The incident echoes similar tragedies involving other Korean celebrities and highlights the pervasive issue of cyberbullying.

(apnews.com)

Misc cyberbullying korean entertainment celebrity pressure

Mexico to Sue Google Over 'Gulf of America' Naming on Maps?

2025-02-18

Mexico to Sue Google Over 'Gulf of America' Naming on Maps?

Mexico is threatening legal action against Google after the tech giant refused to fully restore the name "Gulf of Mexico" to its maps service. The dispute stems from a decision during the Trump administration to refer to the body of water as the "Gulf of America." Google maintains its current policy, using "Gulf of America" in the US and "Gulf of Mexico" elsewhere, citing impartial mapping practices. Mexico argues this violates its sovereignty, as it controls a significant portion of the gulf. The controversy has also highlighted tensions between the US and Mexico, and raised concerns about press freedom in the US after the White House barred AP reporters from events due to their continued use of "Gulf of Mexico."

(apnews.com)

Tech Geopolitical Dispute

Chilean Kayaker Briefly Swallowed by Humpback Whale

2025-02-17

Chilean Kayaker Briefly Swallowed by Humpback Whale

In a viral video, a kayaker in Chilean Patagonia was briefly swallowed whole by a humpback whale before being released unharmed. Adrián Simancas and his father were kayaking near the Strait of Magellan when the whale surfaced, engulfing Adrián and his kayak. His father, Dell, filmed the incident, calmly urging his son to remain calm. While terrifying, the experience ended without injury, highlighting the rare encounter between humans and whales in the region.

(apnews.com)

Misc whale kayaking Chile

Uncontacted Tribe Member Makes Rare Contact in the Amazon

2025-02-16

Uncontacted Tribe Member Makes Rare Contact in the Amazon

A young man from an uncontacted Indigenous tribe in the Brazilian Amazon made a rare appearance near a river community. The man, seen Wednesday evening, appeared healthy and calm, prompting speculation he was seeking assistance. Local villagers attempted to communicate, and FUNAI (Brazil's Indigenous affairs agency) intervened, providing food and shelter. The man is believed to be from the Mamoriá Grande group, whose existence was confirmed in 2021 but whose members had never before been seen. The area is a protected zone to safeguard the tribe from land grabbing and conflict. FUNAI is providing care and has arranged for a member of a nearby tribe to attempt communication.

(apnews.com)

Tech Amazon Rainforest Uncontacted Tribe Indigenous

Tesla's Reign in China: Power, Lawsuits, and Silence

2025-02-12

Tesla's Reign in China: Power, Lawsuits, and Silence

Tesla's success in the Chinese market is inextricably linked to its aggressive suppression of critics. This article exposes numerous instances where Tesla sued car owners and media outlets in China, almost always winning. It details how Tesla's connections with high-ranking Chinese officials secured preferential treatment and policies. The case of Zhang Yazhou, a car owner sued and defeated for publicly questioning Tesla's brake system, highlights concerns about Tesla using legal means to silence critics and harm consumer rights. This underscores Tesla's unique business model in China and the intertwined relationship between power and capital in influencing business operations and public opinion.

(apnews.com)

Tech Legal Battles

DeepSeek Chatbot: Data Security Concerns Spark Alarm

2025-02-06

DeepSeek Chatbot: Data Security Concerns Spark Alarm

Security researchers have discovered that the website of DeepSeek, a Chinese AI company whose chatbot became the most downloaded app in the US, contains code that could send user login information to China Mobile, a state-owned telecommunications company banned from operating in the US. The code, found within DeepSeek's web login page, appears to connect to China Mobile's infrastructure and seems integrated into account creation and login processes. While DeepSeek's privacy policy acknowledges data storage in China, this discovery reveals a closer-than-previously-known link to the Chinese state. This raises significant national security concerns and underscores the growing worry about data security and privacy risks posed by Chinese-controlled digital services.

(apnews.com)

Tech

FDA Approves Novel Analgesic, Challenging Opioid Dominance?

2025-02-01

FDA Approves Novel Analgesic, Challenging Opioid Dominance?

The FDA has approved Vertex Pharmaceuticals' Journavx, a new pain medication designed to eliminate the risks of addiction and overdose associated with opioids. Journavx works differently than opioids, blocking proteins that trigger pain signals before they reach the brain. Trials showed it was more effective than a placebo, but not significantly better than a common opioid-acetaminophen combination. Despite its high cost ($15.50 per pill), its non-opioid mechanism and potential offer a significant step in combating the opioid crisis. However, disappointing results in later-stage trials for chronic pain cast uncertainty on its future.

(apnews.com)

Tech new painkiller opioids FDA approval

Shell Pulls Out of Major New Jersey Offshore Wind Project

2025-01-31

Shell Pulls Out of Major New Jersey Offshore Wind Project

Shell has abandoned its participation in the large Atlantic Shores offshore wind project off the coast of New Jersey, citing increased competition, delays, and a shifting market. This decision follows President Trump's early actions against offshore wind, creating regulatory uncertainty. While the Biden administration approved the project, the lingering effects of Trump's executive order, coupled with the high cost of offshore wind, led Shell to write off a nearly $1 billion investment. The move raises concerns about the future of offshore wind projects and highlights the importance of stable policy support for renewable energy investment.

(apnews.com)

Tech energy policy

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