Alvaro Lopez Ortega / 2026-02-24 Briefing

Created Tue, 24 Feb 2026 20:12:54 +0000 Modified Tue, 24 Feb 2026 20:13:14 +0000
7646 Words

AWS unveiled “AI Functions,” a novel library allowing Large Language Models to generate and execute code within applications, returning native Python objects and employing automated verification. Developers can now define function behavior in natural language, receiving validated code through the Strands Agents SDK. Simultaneously, a performance optimization demonstrated a dramatic reduction in data processing time by loading data in batches, showcasing efficiency gains applicable across various systems. Elsewhere, Federated Credential Management adoption is being actively encouraged for decentralized web sign-in, and Pixi GUI offers a user-friendly interface for the Pixi package manager.

💻 Development & Programming

Coile Blogs Flying with Software Legend Wirth

Software pioneer Niklaus Wirth recently flew with Brantley Coile, known for his work on PIX firewalls and ATA-over-Ethernet. Coile documented their flights in a four-part blog series, detailing experiences ranging from gusty conditions to a long takeoff roll. The posts recount the logistics and aerial adventures of transporting Wirth between Oklahoma and Albuquerque.

Sometimes it’s just better to load “all” the data

Loading data in larger batches can significantly improve performance, especially in batch processing. A real-world example demonstrated a reduction from a 24-hour process to just 15 minutes by grouping and loading data daily instead of processing individual items. This technique, while context-dependent, can be applied to other areas like HTTP requests and file I/O to minimize round trips and enhance application speed.

WebGPU Fundamentals

This resource offers a detailed guide to WebGPU, a new web graphics API, designed for developers. It provides tutorials, API documentation, and references covering fundamental concepts, WGSL, and practical rendering techniques for both 2D and 3D graphics. The site aims to help developers learn and implement WebGPU in their projects.

λProlog: Logic programming in higher-order logic

λProlog is a logic programming language, initially developed in the late 1980s, distinguished by its use of higher-order logic and features like modular programming. It was the first programming language to directly support higher-order abstract syntax and is experiencing renewed interest, particularly in meta-programming. Online resources and execution capabilities are available through implementations in OCaml and JavaScript.

Extending C with Prolog

The integration of Prolog and C allows developers to combine the strengths of both languages. Prolog excels in pattern matching and search due to its dynamic memory management and unification capabilities, which are advantageous for symbolic comparisons. This hybrid approach enables more efficient solutions for complex projects that require both procedural and declarative programming elements.

Pixi GUI: modern alternative to Anaconda Navigator

Pixi GUI is a new graphical user interface for the Pixi package manager, aiming to simplify workflows and broaden its user base. Available on Linux, Windows, and macOS, it offers a more accessible alternative to Pixi’s command-line interface, especially for those new to package management. The project, initially a bachelor’s thesis, will be maintained by the prefix.dev team.

TLA+ By Example

This resource provides a practical introduction to the TLA+ specification language. It features a tutorial on TLA+ syntax, data structures, and model checking, alongside a detailed walkthrough of a blocking queue example. The tutorial builds upon existing work by Markus Kuppe.

Row Locks With Joins Can Produce Surprising Results in PostgreSQL

A PostgreSQL edge case can cause join queries to unexpectedly return no results due to row locks. This occurs when concurrent sessions attempt to update the same record, and one session’s lock prevents another from seeing updated data during a SELECT ... FOR UPDATE operation. The issue can lead to seemingly valid join queries failing to retrieve expected data.

Reducing the size of Go binaries by up to 77%

Datadog engineers significantly reduced the size of Go binaries in their Agent software, achieving reductions of up to 77% between versions 7.60.0 and 7.68.0. This was accomplished through dependency auditing, code refactoring, and linker optimizations, reversing previous growth without removing features. The improvements also led to enhancements in the Go compiler and linker, benefiting other projects.

Building your own blogging tools is a fun journey

The author shifted their focus from optimizing static site generators to building custom blogging tools to improve their writing workflow. They developed a Firefox add-on and posting interface, prioritizing user experience and personalized solutions over site generation speed. The author encourages others to experiment with creating their own blogging tools to overcome frustrations with existing systems.

Rust debugging survey 2026

The Rust community is conducting a survey to better understand and address the challenges developers face when debugging Rust code. The anonymous survey, open until March 13, 2026, aims to gather data to improve debugging support across debuggers, operating systems, and code types. Results will inform future improvements and create a more robust and consistent debugging experience.

Racket v9.1

Racket v9.1 has been released, featuring improvements to documentation navigation, the DrRacket IDE with new visual elements, and several performance enhancements. The update also includes library updates like OpenSSL and Typed Racket, along with numerous bug fixes and documentation improvements. Users are encouraged to migrate from version 9.0 and contribute to the open-source project.

Where Do Specifications Fit in the Dependency Tree?

Software projects often struggle to manage runtime dependencies, with critical language and compiler specifications frequently overlooked. This lack of standardized tracking leads to build failures and debugging difficulties, as dependencies are declared inconsistently across different tools and files. Package managers like Spack demonstrate the importance of explicitly declaring these underlying dependencies to improve reliability and resolution.

GhostBSD to ditch Xorg for XLibre as Red Hat’s Wayland crusade leaves X11 fans out in the cold

GhostBSD, a FreeBSD-based distribution, will switch to the XLibre X11 server due to concerns about the decline of Xorg and the increasing adoption of Wayland in the Linux ecosystem. This change aims to ensure continued compatibility with GhostBSD’s desktop environments, including MATE, Xfce, and Gershwin, and avoid potential software update issues. The decision highlights the broader impact of Linux development trends on BSD-based systems.

Go library maintainer brands GitHub’s Dependabot a ’noise machine'

Go library maintainer Filippo Valsorda has criticized GitHub’s Dependabot, calling it a “noise machine” due to excessive and inaccurate security alerts. He argues the tool generates false positives, hinders proper security practices, and advocates for developers to disable it in favor of more targeted analysis. Valsorda also expressed concerns about Dependabot’s automatic dependency updates, recommending controlled upgrades instead.

KDE Plasma 6.6 isn’t forcing systemd but the arguments rage on

KDE Plasma 6.6 has been released with functional improvements and enhanced OpenBSD support, while maintaining a commitment to not requiring systemd for the core desktop environment. FreeBSD 15.1 will now offer KDE Plasma as an installation option, improving BSD desktop usability. Despite KDE’s clarifications, debates regarding systemd dependencies continue within the community.

Intel backs SambaNova’s $350M bid to challenge GPUs in AI inference

SambaNova has secured $350 million in funding, including a significant investment from Intel, to develop its dataflow architecture as an alternative to GPUs for AI inference. Intel and SambaNova are collaborating on a multi-year project to integrate SambaNova’s RDUs with Intel Xeon CPUs, aiming to provide a more cost-effective AI solution. The new SN50 accelerator is designed to offer improved performance compared to Nvidia’s offerings, leveraging a dataflow architecture to reduce data movement overhead.

AI Model Training Hurdles: Parsing Trillions of Tokens From PDFs

Despite advances in AI, the PDF format poses a significant challenge for extracting usable data due to its design prioritizing visual preservation over machine readability. Companies like Reducto are developing specialized AI to parse these difficult files, enabling the creation of searchable applications and unlocking insights from previously inaccessible documents. This technology is crucial for tasks such as analyzing large document sets related to figures like Jeffrey Epstein.

I’m helping my dog vibe code games

A researcher has trained their dog, Momo, to generate code for video games using a Bluetooth keyboard, a Raspberry Pi, and the Claude Code AI model. Momo’s keystrokes are interpreted as cryptic instructions, resulting in fully functional games built in Godot 4.6. This unconventional method highlights the surprising potential of AI-assisted coding with an animal collaborator.

Why the KeePass format should be based on SQLite

KeePass, a popular password manager, is facing limitations due to its aging XML-based KDBX file format. The rigid structure hinders the seamless integration of modern security features, often forcing developers to rely on workarounds and custom attributes, leading to fragmentation and compatibility issues. Switching to a more flexible format like SQLite could resolve these problems and improve the user experience.

SNKV – SQLite’s B-tree as a key-value store (C/C++ and Python bindings)

SNKV is a new library that allows developers to utilize SQLite’s B-tree engine directly for key-value storage, bypassing the SQL parsing and planning layers. This approach offers significant performance improvements for read-heavy workloads compared to standard SQLite, while still providing ACID properties and concurrency. The library is available in both Python and C/C++ implementations and is designed as a drop-in replacement for certain use cases.

AI-generated replies really are a scourge these days

The increasing prevalence of AI-generated responses online is causing frustration and confusion. Writer Simon Willson highlights the difficulty in distinguishing between genuine human replies and those created by artificial intelligence. This proliferation of AI content is being described as a “scourge” due to its impact on online communication.

Decimal-Java is a library to convert java.math.BigDecimal to and from IEEE-754r

The decimal-java library facilitates conversions between Java’s BigDecimal and IEEE-754r decimal byte representations (decimal32, decimal64, and decimal128). It provides encoding and decoding methods with overflow handling options, and is designed for Java 17 and later. The library is stable, modularized, and licensed under the MIT license.

No Good Engineer Is Arrogant

The article argues that effective engineers demonstrate humility, as arrogance often signals a lack of challenging work or self-awareness. True engineering involves embracing failure and experimentation, recognizing the inevitability of setbacks and the need for constant learning. Confidence in engineering stems from proven problem-solving abilities, not from a sense of inflated knowledge.

Intel XeSS 3: expanded support for Core Ultra/Core Ultra 2 and Arc A, B series

Intel has released graphics driver version 32.0.101.8509, expanding support for Intel Arc GPUs (A and B series) and Core Ultra processors with integrated graphics. The update includes enhancements to XeSS 3 and extends compatibility to newer platforms like Battlemage and Lunar Lake/Arrow Lake. Note that installing this generic driver will replace any customized OEM drivers.

I turned off ChatGPT’s memory

The author argues against using ChatGPT’s memory feature, introducing the concept of “context rot” where accumulated errors degrade results. He illustrates this with examples of ChatGPT misinterpreting past instructions, leading to unpredictable and sometimes humorous outputs. Ultimately, disabling memory ensures more unbiased and consistent responses from the AI.

ChatGPT finds an error in Terence Tao’s math research

Mathematician Terence Tao acknowledged that ChatGPT identified a significant error – a sign error – in his research regarding small primes. He subsequently corrected the mistake by referencing a paper by Hildebrand and utilizing a specific inequality related to the Dickman function. Tao confirmed that this approach resolved the issue and repaired his argument.

🌐 Web & Infrastructure

FedCM + IdP Registration — Call to action

The article encourages developers and communities to adopt Federated Credential Management (FedCM) for decentralized web sign-in, specifically promoting Identity Provider (IdP) registration within the framework. Resources are provided to help developers implement FedCM, including guides for IndieAuth and OAuth. The initiative seeks real-world use cases to demonstrate the feature’s value and drive its adoption.

Scheduling in a Bare-Metal Web Server

The Tatix web server kernel utilizes a specialized scheduler to efficiently handle multiple concurrent client requests. This scheduler avoids blocking the server during data transmission to one client by strategically pausing execution and switching between connections. The design prioritizes simplicity and eliminates the need for explicit locking.

How macOS controls performance: QoS on Intel and M1 processors (2022)

macOS utilizes Quality of Service (QoS) settings to prioritize processes, with values ranging from 9 to 33. While QoS has a minimal impact on Intel Macs, it significantly affects performance on M1 chips by directing tasks to different processor cores. Currently, users have limited control over QoS settings within applications.

Sprites on the Web

To create a performant animation for liking tweets on low-end mobile devices, Twitter developers utilized a technique called sprites, commonly used in video games. Sprites combine multiple animation frames into a single image, which is then displayed sequentially using CSS properties like object-fit, object-position, and the steps timing function. This approach allowed for complex animations without relying on resource-intensive DOM nodes.

Remote Terminal Access via WebRTC

New tools are emerging to simplify accessing and distributing terminal applications. Trolley offers a streamlined way to package and run text-based interfaces (TUIs) across Linux, macOS, and Windows, while a new iPhone app leverages WebRTC for secure, remote access to Mac terminals with AI coding assistance. Both solutions aim to enhance the accessibility and development experience for terminal-based workflows.

Microsoft teases ‘reimagined SharePoint experience’ landing in April

Microsoft will release a redesigned SharePoint experience in April, emphasizing simplified knowledge discovery and AI integration. Users will also gain the ability to customize their OneDrive folder names for better organization and shorter file paths. The company has also resolved an issue affecting the recognition of Advanced Security add-ons for the Business Premium + Copilot bundle.

Cisco turns to titanium spoons and sand dunes to build a better … box?

Storage company Pure Storage has rebranded to “Everpure” to reflect a broader focus on data management. Simultaneously, Cisco redesigned its Room Kit Pro G2 device using biomimicry, creating a lighter and stronger enclosure inspired by titanium spoons and sand dunes. The redesign significantly reduces material usage, eliminating the equivalent mass of multiple vintage Volkswagen Beetles.

YouTube Premium Lite Now Lets You Download Videos

YouTube is enhancing its $7.99 Premium Lite subscription by adding features like offline video downloads and background playback, previously exclusive to the full $13.99 Premium plan. This update, based on user feedback, aims to make the Lite tier more attractive while reserving ad-free music access for the higher-priced subscription. The Premium Lite subscription is now widely available globally, contributing to YouTube’s growing subscription base.

ADT to Buy Origin Wireless for $170M, Boosts AI Security

ADT has acquired Origin Wireless for $170 million to integrate advanced AI motion classification into its home security systems. Origin’s technology uses existing Wi-Fi signals to identify the type of motion detected, differentiating between people, pets, and other objects. The integration, slated to begin in 2027, will enhance ADT’s security offerings without requiring additional hardware.

Apple to Make Mac Minis in Houston by 2026

Apple will shift Mac Mini production from Asia to a Foxconn facility in Houston, Texas, beginning later in 2026. The move will utilize a newly converted 220,000 square foot warehouse within the existing Foxconn site. This is part of Apple’s commitment to invest $600 billion in the U.S. over four years and reshore its supply chain.

Osaka: Kansai Airport proud to have never lost single piece of luggage (2024)

Kansai Airport in Osaka has maintained a perfect record of never losing a piece of luggage in its 30-year history, earning it the title of “World’s Best Airport for Baggage Delivery” for the eighth time. The airport attributes its success to meticulous handling processes, including manual handle alignment and sensor monitoring. However, the airport is currently facing staffing shortages in preparation for the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo.

Firefox 148 Launches with AI Kill Switch Feature and More Enhancements

Firefox 148 now includes an “AI kill switch” allowing users to permanently disable AI features and prevent future re-enablement. The update also provides users with increased control over remote updates and data collection, alongside various enhancements to web platform capabilities and accessibility. Detailed release notes are available for those seeking more information.

Panasonic, the former plasma king, will no longer make its own TVs

Panasonic is discontinuing its TV manufacturing operations and will partner with Chinese company Skyworth to produce and sell Panasonic-branded televisions. Skyworth will handle sales, marketing, and logistics, while Panasonic will focus on quality assurance and OLED model development. This marks a shift for Panasonic, which once led the plasma TV market but has faced profitability challenges in recent years.

💰 Business & Finance

Google’s Android Developer Registration Changes

Google’s new policy mandating developer registration and identity verification for Android app distribution, even outside the Google Play Store, is facing widespread opposition. Civil society organizations and developer groups are concerned the measure will stifle innovation, harm developer privacy, and broaden Google’s control over the Android ecosystem. They are urging Google to reconsider the policy and explore alternative security solutions that preserve Android’s open nature.

AMD copy-pastes 6 GW chips-for-stock deal in new Meta agreement

AMD has signed a significant agreement with Meta to supply 6 gigawatts of custom AI GPUs and sixth-generation EPYC CPUs, mirroring a previous deal with OpenAI. The agreement includes a warrant for Meta to purchase AMD shares contingent on performance milestones, including a stock price of $600. This deal is expected to generate substantial revenue for AMD and further its position in the AI chip market.

Microsoft gives Windows laggards the ‘gift of time’ wrapped in licensing fees

Microsoft is offering Extended Security Updates (ESU) for older Windows versions, providing continued security patches beyond their official end-of-life dates. These updates require a paid license, starting at $61 per device for Windows 10 and expected to be significantly higher for Windows Server 2016. The program allows organizations more time to upgrade, but at a considerable financial cost.

SambaNova Raises $350M for AI Chip, Backed by SoftBank, Vista

SambaNova, an AI chip developer, has secured $350 million in Series E funding led by Vista Equity and Cambium. The company claims its SN50 chip offers five times the speed of competing products and has a deployment agreement with SoftBank. This investment will support SambaNova’s continued development and expansion.

Kraken Launches Regulated Tokenized Stock Futures (Non-US)

Kraken has launched the first regulated perpetual futures contracts based on tokenized U.S. stocks, initially including versions of the S&P 500, Apple, and Nvidia. These 24/7 contracts, available to non-U.S. users, offer up to 20x leverage and aim to bring crypto-style trading to traditional equities. The move expands Kraken’s tokenized equity offering and marks a new approach to global capital markets.

AI Agent Startup Nimble Raises $47M Series B

Nimble, a startup using AI agents to structure real-time web data into queryable tables, has raised $47 million in Series B funding. Their platform validates web data and integrates with existing data warehouses, addressing limitations of current AI systems by providing reliable and accessible information. This technology enables businesses to leverage web data within their current data infrastructure for tasks like competitor analysis and pricing research.

Shein Founder Invests $1.45B in Guangdong Supply Chains

Shein founder Xu Yangtian made a public appearance in Guangdong, China, pledging a $1.45 billion investment in the region’s supply chains over three years. Yangtian credited the Communist Party and the province for Shein’s rapid growth, highlighting the company’s Chinese roots. This marks a rare public appearance for the typically reclusive founder.

Roku Posts $88M Profit After Years of Losses, Fueled by Ads

Roku reported a significant $88.4 million profit in 2025, marking a turnaround from substantial losses in previous years. The company’s return to profitability is attributed to new advertising deals and cost-cutting measures implemented to address prior overinvestment. This represents Roku’s first profitable year since 2021.

Meta, IRS Dispute Overseas Profits

The IRS is pursuing a $16 billion claim against Meta, alleging the company improperly reported overseas profits by undervaluing intellectual property. This is one of the largest tax disputes ever, and represents a new IRS strategy to combat tax avoidance by multinational corporations. Meta is contesting the claim in U.S. Tax Court, with the potential for broader implications for corporate tax practices.

Terraform Admin Sues Jane Street Over Alleged Insider Trading

The administrator of Terraform Labs is suing Jane Street, accusing the trading firm of insider trading related to the crypto firm’s collapse. The lawsuit claims Jane Street used nonpublic information to profit and accelerate Terraform’s downfall. Administrator Todd Snyder is seeking damages from Jane Street and several employees.

Tesla registrations crash 17% in Europe as BEV market surges 14%

Tesla vehicle registrations in Europe plummeted 17% in January 2026, significantly underperforming the rapidly growing battery-electric vehicle market, which increased by 14%. This decline, occurring a year after a production transition was previously cited as the cause for weakness, suggests deeper challenges for Tesla’s sales. Competitors like BYD are experiencing substantial growth, surpassing Tesla’s volume and market share in the region.

1Password Raising Prices ~33%

Password manager 1Password announced it will raise prices for individual plans by approximately 33%, from $35.88 to $47.88 per year. The price increase will go into effect at renewal dates on or after March 27, 2026, citing investments in new features and continued innovation. The company states the change will allow them to maintain their security standards.

Stripe valued at $159B, 2025 annual letter

Stripe has announced a tender offer providing liquidity to employees, valuing the company at $159 billion. The company processed $1.9 trillion in total volume, representing 1.6% of global GDP, and reported record growth among new businesses. Stripe’s expanding financial services suite is projected to reach a $1 billion annual run rate.

Wealthy spouses are hiding crypto assets in divorce cases, say lawyers

Lawyers are observing a rising trend of wealthy individuals concealing cryptocurrency assets during divorce proceedings. This practice hinders accurate asset assessment and complicates property division, requiring legal professionals to be more diligent. The Financial Times reports on this growing issue impacting divorce cases.

One day in crypto: negotiations with hackers, closed platforms, and an “attack” on Trump’s project

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🛡️ Security & Privacy

Goodbye innerHTML, Hello setHTML: Stronger XSS Protection in Firefox 148

Firefox 148 introduces the new standardized Sanitizer API, a tool designed to simplify and improve cross-site scripting (XSS) protection for developers. This API offers a safer default for HTML insertion by sanitizing untrusted content and is compatible with Trusted Types for enhanced security. Replacing innerHTML assignments with the new setHTML() method allows for easier XSS prevention with minimal code changes.

Patch these 4 critical, make-me-root SolarWinds bugs ASAP

SolarWinds’ Serv-U file transfer software has four critical vulnerabilities that could allow attackers to execute code as root. Patches are available in version 15.5.4 to address issues including broken access control and insecure direct object references. While not currently exploited, SolarWinds products are frequent targets, emphasizing the importance of immediate patching.

Korean cops charge teens over bike hire breach that exposed data on 4.62M riders

Two South Korean teenagers have been charged with hacking Seoul’s public bike service, Ttareungyi, and stealing data on 4.62 million users. The breach, discovered during an investigation into a separate DDoS attack, exposed sensitive personal information like addresses and phone numbers. While authorities believe the teens intended to profit, there’s no evidence the data was leaked or sold.

Attackers Move Faster: Breakout Time Drops to 29 Minutes

CrowdStrike’s latest report reveals a significant increase in the speed of cyberattacks, with attackers now taking an average of 29 minutes to move between network systems – a 65% year-over-year rise. This acceleration is attributed to refined attacker techniques, social engineering, and exploitation of cloud infrastructure vulnerabilities. The report also highlights a rise in attacks from North Korea and China, along with a growing reliance on malware-free tactics and abused credentials.

Meta Execs Warned Encryption Could Hinder CSAM Reporting

Meta executives pushed forward with end-to-end encryption for Facebook and Instagram messaging despite internal warnings that the feature would impede the company’s ability to identify and report child exploitation material to law enforcement. Internal documents revealed concerns about the impact on safety operations and potential reduction in harmful content reporting. New Mexico’s Attorney General alleges Meta misled the public regarding the safety of this encryption implementation, and a jury trial is currently underway.

enveil – hide your .env secrets from prAIng eyes

Enveil is a new tool designed to protect sensitive environment variables from being exposed to AI coding assistants. It replaces plaintext secrets in .env files with symbolic references and encrypts the actual values, decrypting them only when needed. The tool utilizes strong encryption and a master password to ensure secure storage and prevent unauthorized access.

NIST Seeking Public Comment on AI Agent Security (Deadline: March 9, 2026)

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is seeking public comment on AI agent security. The Federal Register is displaying a prototype “Web 2.0” version, which is currently an unofficial informational resource and lacks legal authority. Comments must be submitted by March 9, 2026.

Ashley Madison pivots to shake cyberattack ghost, promises privacy this time

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Hackers now deploying the same undetectable spy tool your boss uses

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📰 Geopolitics & Society

Minor Error Sparks Debate Over Accuracy

Early Apple computers included a “breathing light,” a pulsing LED initially designed to indicate system status and later mimicking human respiration for a comforting effect. This unique detail, intended to reassure users, was a distinct element of Apple’s design philosophy before being discontinued in the 2010s. Though it wasn’t a major sales driver, the breathing light remains a fondly remembered feature.

Apple Reshuffles Production, Bringing Jobs Home

Apple is expanding its U.S. manufacturing footprint by initiating Mac Mini production in Texas and partnering with TSMC to build a major chip-manufacturing facility in Arizona. These initiatives, representing a significant investment exceeding $165 billion, aim to secure tariff exemptions, create domestic jobs, and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. While Mac Minis for international markets will still be produced in Asia, these moves mark a substantial effort to bolster U.S. tech manufacturing.

North Korea’s Lazarus Group targets healthcare orgs with Medusa ransomware

North Korean state-sponsored hackers, the Lazarus Group, are now employing the Medusa ransomware to target healthcare organizations in the US and Middle East. This marks a shift in their tactics, potentially aimed at generating revenue for the North Korean regime, and follows their previous use of other ransomware strains. Security researchers have linked the attacks to Lazarus Group through technical indicators, though definitive attribution remains complex.

West Midlands Police earn red card over Copilot’s imaginary football match

A parliamentary committee found that West Midlands Police improperly used Microsoft Copilot, an AI chatbot, to generate false information about a football match, which influenced a decision to ban fans. The report criticized the force’s lack of oversight and transparency in utilizing AI, leading to the former chief constable’s retirement. This incident highlights concerns about the expanding use of AI in policing and the need for caution and verification.

Euro allies aiming to rapidly build low-cost air defense weapons

European nations, including the UK, have launched the LEAP initiative to rapidly develop low-cost air defense systems to counter drone threats, learning from Ukraine’s experiences. The program aims for faster development cycles and will incorporate solutions from both large and small companies, with initial elements expected by 2027. This collaborative effort seeks to enhance European defense capabilities and create more affordable countermeasures against increasingly prevalent drone technology.

Epstein charmed Microsoft execs, aiding post-prison release

DOJ filings reveal that convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein cultivated extensive relationships with top Microsoft executives over two decades. These connections provided him with access to internal company information, including succession discussions, and reportedly aided his reintegration into society following a prison release in 2009. The documents shed light on Epstein’s unique ability to penetrate the inner workings of the tech giant.

Silicon Valley Dismissed Taiwan Risk, US Warned Tech Giants

Silicon Valley’s reliance on Taiwan for high-end computer chips poses a significant risk to the U.S. economy, as a potential Chinese invasion or blockade could cripple the tech industry. Despite warnings and incentives from multiple U.S. presidents, companies like Apple and Qualcomm have largely maintained this dependence. Officials are now voicing concerns that this inaction could trigger a global economic crisis.

Russian soldiers tell BBC they saw fellow troops executed on commanders’ orders

Four Russian soldiers have provided accounts to the BBC alleging brutal conditions and executions of their fellow troops on the front lines in Ukraine. The soldiers described instances of commanders ordering executions for disobedience or retreat, alongside torture and inhumane treatment, indicating a breakdown in order within the Russian military. These testimonies corroborate reports of extreme risks and casualties faced by Russian forces involved in what they describe as suicidal assaults.

An NPR investigation revealed the Justice Department withheld files related to Jeffrey Epstein, some containing allegations of sexual abuse against former President Trump. These omissions, including FBI interviews and witness statements, prompted a House Oversight Committee investigation into the DOJ’s actions. The Justice Department claims the withheld files were due to privilege, duplication, or ongoing investigations.

Teen social media ban group funded and co-staffed by firm making gambling ads (2025)

The “36 Months” campaign advocating for a teen social media ban in Australia was initiated by advertising firm FINCH, with key personnel involved in its launch. Simultaneously, FINCH was creating advertising campaigns for gambling companies, including a controversial ad for TAB. This raises concerns about the potential conflict of interest given FINCH’s involvement in both social media regulation and promoting gambling.

Trump Fake Electors Plot

Following his 2020 election loss, Donald Trump and his allies orchestrated a plot to submit false certificates of ascertainment in multiple states, falsely claiming victory in the Electoral College. The scheme, led by figures like Rudy Giuliani, aimed to pressure Vice President Mike Pence to reject legitimate votes and overturn the election. Numerous individuals involved in the plot have since faced indictments, and the Justice Department is investigating the matter.

IDF Killed Gaza Aid Workers at Point Blank Range in 2025 Massacre: Report

A joint investigation revealed that Israeli soldiers fired over 900 bullets, including multiple point-blank shots, killing 15 Palestinian aid workers in southern Gaza on March 23, 2025. The report details an ambush and prolonged assault, with some victims allegedly executed, and contradicts initial Israeli military accounts. An internal inquiry subsequently cleared the soldiers of criminal action.

Gig workers in Africa had no idea they were helping the U.S. military

A US surveillance plane, the Rivet Joint, used intelligence gathered with the help of gig workers unknowingly employed by the Australian company Appen. Appen recruits workers globally to train AI systems, which have been used in lucrative, decade-long contracts with the US military for linguistic data projects. The workers were not informed that their labor contributed to military intelligence programs like the Rivet Joint, which was recently deployed near Venezuela.

Paul Brainerd, conservationist who pioneered desktop publishing, dies at 78

Paul Brainerd, 78, co-founded Aldus Corp. and pioneered desktop publishing with the creation of PageMaker, significantly impacting the personal computing revolution. Following the sale of Aldus, he dedicated his wealth to environmental conservation, establishing organizations like the Brainerd Foundation and IslandWood. He leaves behind a legacy of innovation in technology and a commitment to protecting the environment.

Psychology suggests making a shopping list is a sign of sharper thinking

Psychologists are finding that creating shopping lists indicates strong cognitive skills like planning, organization, and self-control. List-making helps manage memory overload, reduces impulsive decisions, and reflects executive functions that contribute to mental efficiency. While not a direct measure of intelligence, the habit suggests valuable foresight and mental discipline.

Epstein-Musk email trail proves Space X “girls” visit wasn’t just a rumour

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Scammers have the advantage: no one can reliably detect AI faces, study finds

A new study reveals that current methods are unreliable at distinguishing between real human faces and those generated by artificial intelligence. This makes it increasingly difficult to detect AI-generated faces, potentially benefiting scammers and malicious actors. The findings highlight a growing challenge in verifying online identities and combating fraud.

💡 Innovation & Future

AI Functionality Updates

AWS has launched AI Functions, dubbed “Software 3.1,” an experimental library enabling Large Language Models to generate and execute code directly within applications. This innovative system returns native Python objects and employs automated verification to continuously ensure code correctness, removing the need for manual review. Developers can define function behavior through natural language, receiving automatically generated and validated code via the Strands Agents SDK.

framedeck: A Framework mainboard based Cyberdeck

Framework Computer has released its mainboard as a single-board computer and accompanying technical documentation. A developer collaborated with Framework to create “FrameDeck,” a unique slab-style computer utilizing the mainboard and components from a Framework laptop. The FrameDeck’s design files and documentation are now publicly available, encouraging custom projects and innovation.

How I got Claude to teach me dbt

The author experimented with using the AI language model Claude as a personalized “Instructor” to learn dbt, a data transformation technology. This approach combined interactive explanations, troubleshooting assistance, and a tailored learning environment, mimicking the benefits of tutorials, courses, and support systems. The author believes this AI-powered tutoring has the potential to revolutionize self-paced learning.

Vish: Visual Scripting for Bash

Vish is a new visual editor designed to simplify Bash script creation through a node-based, drag-and-drop interface. Aimed at educational purposes, it offers a graphical way to visualize and construct scripts without replacing traditional methods. The editor is available via Flatpak and AppImage and is currently under active development.

Desk Setup: From Multi-Monitor to Single Screen with Virtual Desktops

The author has refined their computer desk setup over time, ultimately opting for a single 27-inch monitor paired with virtual desktops accessed via keyboard shortcuts. This streamlined approach prioritizes focus and efficient task switching, often utilizing a laptop screen for video conferencing. The current setup was inspired by others, including ThePrimeagen, and incorporates various productivity tools.

Permacomputing

Permacomputing is a community-driven, anti-capitalist movement inspired by permaculture, seeking to fundamentally rethink computer technology and its impact on the environment and society. The project prioritizes collective action and technical design over readily available technological solutions, encouraging a radical reimagining of computational culture. It is not a product or a quick fix, but an invitation to participate in a broader, transformative effort.

Right to Repair Advances in Iowa

Iowa is poised to pass a “Right to Repair” bill granting farmers access to tools, information, and parts needed to repair their own agricultural equipment, challenging manufacturer restrictions. The legislation seeks to reduce repair costs and downtime for farmers, potentially saving billions annually and addressing a growing national movement. This follows similar laws passed in other states and would significantly impact Iowa’s agricultural sector.

Waymo Robotaxis Now in Dallas, Houston, & More Cities

Waymo has expanded its robotaxi service to Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Orlando, bringing its total number of U.S. operating cities to ten. The company is initially offering rides to select users through its app, with broader availability planned by late 2026. This expansion strengthens Waymo’s position in the autonomous vehicle market as it faces competition from rivals.

New AI Model “Mercury 2” Faster, Cheaper Than Rivals

AI pioneer Stefano Ermon’s startup, Inception, is launching Mercury 2, a new AI model focused on text interaction. Mercury 2 aims to answer user questions faster and at a lower cost compared to competing services. The model utilizes diffusion techniques to process data more efficiently, a departure from traditional methods.

OpenAI resets spending expectations, from $1.4T to $600B

OpenAI has lowered its projected compute spending to $600 billion by 2030, a significant decrease from previous estimates, aligning it with anticipated $280 billion in revenue. The company is finalizing a funding round exceeding $100 billion with investments from Nvidia, SoftBank, and Amazon, while its chatbot ChatGPT now has 900 million weekly active users. This revised spending plan comes as OpenAI faces increasing competition and seeks to refine its growth strategy.

Nearby Glasses

The free, open-source app Nearby Glasses uses Bluetooth scanning to alert users to the presence of smart glasses. Due to its reliance on company identifiers, the app is prone to false positives, potentially identifying other devices like VR headsets as smart glasses. Users are strongly cautioned to verify any alerts before reacting and the app developer accepts no liability for its functionality.

I pitched a roller coaster to Disneyland at age 10 in 1978

In 1978, ten-year-old Kevin Glikmann designed an upside-down roller coaster, creating a detailed balsa wood model with heated plastic loops. Inspired by Space Mountain, his concept was ultimately realized with Magic Mountain’s “Revolution” roller coaster, though with fewer loops than his original design. The experience highlighted his ingenuity and persistence, despite facing construction challenges and a past fire-related incident.

AI Will Never Be Conscious

Recent discussions surrounding artificial intelligence have shifted after a report suggested building conscious AI may not be impossible. While current AI systems lack consciousness, the report challenges long-held assumptions and prompts ethical considerations about the potential development of conscious machines. This prospect could significantly impact humanity’s understanding of its own identity and moral obligations.

The Righteous EV Owners Who Won’t Let Their Broken Cars Die

Following Fisker’s bankruptcy, owner Svein Hodne became trapped in his electric car and was rescued by a network of Fisker enthusiasts. This incident led to the formation of the Fisker Owners Association, which now provides support and parts sourcing for owners. The group’s efforts highlight a growing movement towards consumer control and independence from tech companies for vehicle maintenance.

Blood test boosts Alzheimer’s diagnosis accuracy to 94.5%, clinical study shows

A new clinical study demonstrates that a blood test measuring the p-tau217 protein significantly improves the accuracy of Alzheimer’s diagnosis, raising it from 75.5% to 94.5%. The test also increased clinicians’ confidence and, in some cases, led to changes in initial assessments. This offers a potentially less invasive and more accessible diagnostic option compared to current methods.

Steerling-8B, a language model that can explain any token it generates

Steerling-8B is a new language model notable for its inherent interpretability, allowing users to trace each generated token back to its origins in input context, understandable concepts, and training data. This smaller model achieves competitive performance while enabling capabilities like concept-level steering and training data provenance, offering unprecedented control and transparency in its output. The model’s architecture achieves this by decomposing embeddings into explicit pathways for both known and discovered concepts.

Shatner is making an album with 35 metal icons

William Shatner is producing a metal album featuring 35 prominent guitarists, inspired by a recent collaboration and a gifted guitar. The album will feature original material and covers, aiming for a cinematic and emotionally raw sound. While details like the title and full lineup are still unannounced, Shatner describes the project as “fearless” and impactful.