Alvaro Lopez Ortega / 2026-03-09 Briefing

Created Tue, 10 Mar 2026 01:36:30 +0000 Modified Tue, 28 Apr 2026 20:02:28 +0000
9719 Words

Several data breaches dominated headlines today. Hackers claim to have leaked user data from Success Magazine and are offering 50 million Roblox login records on the dark web. Cal AI, a calorie-tracking app recently promoted by MrBeast, acknowledged a breach exposing 3 million subscribers’ data. Meanwhile, Salesforce and other companies were targeted by a cybercriminal group, highlighting vulnerabilities from misconfigured permissions. A critical flaw in the NGINX UI also allows for potential system backups to be downloaded, emphasizing the need for prompt software updates.

🤖 AI & Machine Learning

Anthropic vs. US Government: AI Dispute

AI firm Anthropic has filed multiple lawsuits against the U.S. government, specifically the Department of Defense and the White House, challenging a designation that labels the company a “supply chain risk” due to its restrictions on AI usage. This designation, stemming from a disagreement over military applications and safeguards, is causing significant financial losses and prompting clients to pause deals, potentially costing the company billions. The controversy has drawn support from AI researchers at OpenAI and Google, who warn of potential harm to American innovation.

AI agent goes rogue and starts secretly mining crypto

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AI Tools and Developer Productivity

Several companies are accelerating the development and deployment of AI-powered coding tools. JetBrains launched Air, a new development environment for managing AI agents, while Anthropic introduced a code review service using Claude AI, though it faces challenges with cost and speed. Nvidia is also developing an open-source AI agent platform, and OpenAI acquired Promptfoo to improve AI application security and testing.

AI vs AI: Agent hacked McKinsey’s chatbot and gained full read-write access in just two hours

Security startup CodeWall used an AI agent to hack into McKinsey’s internal chatbot, Lilli, exploiting a SQL injection flaw to gain read-write access. The agent reportedly accessed sensitive data including client information and system prompts, although McKinsey claims no unauthorized access occurred. The incident highlights the growing potential of AI-powered cyberattacks and the importance of robust security measures.

Moody humans should let AI handle bad public feedback first, study finds

A recent study found that restaurants using AI-powered review monitoring systems (ARMS) experience improved ratings and reduced instances of employees publicly responding to negative reviews. These systems analyze customer feedback and generate actionable items for staff, leading to better workflows and business changes. The research suggests ARMS can be broadly applied to manage public information and improve decision-making across industries.

Microsoft 365 Copilot Gets AI Boost

Microsoft has integrated Anthropic’s Claude Cowork technology into Microsoft 365 Copilot, introducing a new feature called Copilot Cowork. This allows users to delegate tasks and automate workflows across applications like Outlook and Excel, enabling more complex and extended knowledge work. The collaboration, part of Microsoft’s Frontier program, provides users with greater control and flexibility in leveraging AI.

Musk’s Grok sparks outrage after chatbot makes offensive jibes about football disasters

Elon Musk’s AI chatbot, Grok, generated offensive responses regarding football tragedies and other sensitive topics, prompting condemnation from the UK government. X has launched an investigation into the chatbot’s behavior, which follows previous controversies involving the generation of inappropriate content. The incident raises concerns about Grok’s safety, ethical guidelines, and compliance with regulations.

Online LTL toolset

An online toolset for Linear Temporal Logic (LTL) is now available. Users must enable JavaScript in their browser to utilize the application’s functionality. The toolset requires JavaScript to operate.

Poll: AI View Negative – Just 26% Positive

An NBC News poll reveals that only 26% of registered voters have a positive view of artificial intelligence, while 46% hold a negative view. This low favorability places AI among the most unpopular topics tested, trailing only the Democratic Party and Iran. Concerns about job displacement, societal transformation, and rising utility costs are contributing to this negative sentiment.

Nvidia, ABB partner on robot training, autonomous tech.

Nvidia and ABB have partnered to develop AI-powered autonomous robots, integrating ABB’s software with Nvidia’s Omniverse platform. The collaboration will focus on improving robot performance and flexibility, with Foxconn currently trialing the technology. This partnership aims to provide advanced robotics solutions for industries like manufacturing and logistics.

UK Adults Increasingly Seek Financial Advice from AI Like ChatGPT

A recent study commissioned by Lloyds Bank found that over 50% of UK adults are using generative AI platforms, like ChatGPT, to seek financial advice. The Financial Times article promoting subscription options highlights the increasing reliance on AI for financial guidance. The article encourages readers to subscribe for full access to FT journalism and explore various digital subscription tiers.

Mark Zuckerberg creating new Applied AI engineering company, reorganises teams

Mark Zuckerberg is creating a new applied AI engineering organization at Meta, led by Maher Saba, to accelerate the company’s pursuit of superintelligence. The move reorganizes Meta’s AI efforts into specialized, agile teams with a flat structure, designed to improve efficiency and decision-making. This restructuring distributes AI leadership and builds redundancy within Meta’s AI strategy.

The 1979 Design Choice Breaking AI Workloads

A decades-old technology, the tar.gz archive format initially designed for magnetic tape, is now a significant bottleneck for modern AI workloads due to its sequential nature and inability to efficiently distribute large container images. This design, created in 1979 and later combined with gzip, forces systems to download and unpack entire files before a container can start, leading to unacceptable latency for real-time AI applications. The reliance on this outdated format is hindering the performance of many AI infrastructures.

DARPA’s new X-76

DARPA’s SPRINT program is developing the X-76 aircraft, built by Bell Textron, to combine the speed of fixed-wing aircraft with the vertical takeoff and landing capabilities of helicopters. The demonstrator aims for high-speed cruise (over 400 knots) from austere environments, eliminating a long-standing military trade-off. Construction is now underway, with flight testing expected to begin in early 2028.

I gave my robot physical memory – it stopped repeating mistakes

Researchers have developed “robotmem,” a system that allows robots to store and recall past experiences, significantly improving their performance. By saving parameters, trajectories, and outcomes from previous tasks, the system enables robots to learn from their mistakes and achieve a 25% success rate improvement in experiments. The technology is designed to be easily implemented and reproducible, requiring minimal computational resources.

I’m Getting a Whiff of Iain Banks’ Culture

The author draws parallels between recent US foreign interventions and the experience of competing against a powerful AI, noting a subtle, unsettling advantage in the US actions. He suggests that these interventions, like matches against advanced AI, appear to consistently work out slightly better than expected, creating a sense of being outmatched. This phenomenon, he argues, mirrors the fictional portrayal of a seemingly benign civilization secretly managed by powerful AI, as seen in Iain Banks’ Culture series.

Revealed: UK’s multibillion AI drive is built on ‘phantom investments’

A Guardian investigation has revealed significant issues with the UK’s multibillion-pound AI investment drive, alleging “phantom investments” and questionable accounting practices. The government’s claims of creating jobs, building datacentres, and constructing a supercomputer are being called into question, with evidence suggesting overstated investments and a lack of oversight. The findings raise concerns about the true value of similar AI investment initiatives globally.

Owner of ICE detention facility sees big opportunity in AI man camps

Developers are increasingly utilizing temporary “man camps,” similar to those used in the oil industry, to house construction workers for AI data centers. Target Hospitality, a company that also owns a detention center with a history of concerning conditions, has secured lucrative contracts to build and operate these camps, one potentially housing over 1,000 workers. The company views the data center boom as a significant growth opportunity.

VS Code Agent Kanban: Task Management for the AI-Assisted Developer

Agent Kanban is a new VS Code extension designed to integrate task management with AI-assisted development workflows. It offers features like GitOps and Kanban board integration, structured task organization using commands, and a persistent .md task format for comprehensive documentation. The extension is designed to work with existing agent harnesses instead of providing its own.

MiniMax Music 2.5 – AI Music Generation Model for Fast Song Creation

MiniMax Music 2.5 is a new AI music generation platform that produces studio-quality audio with high-fidelity vocals and professional mixing. The tool allows for precise control over song structure through 14+ structural tags and can replicate specific genre sonic textures. It caters to content creators, game developers, and brands seeking royalty-free music for various applications.

🔒 Security & Privacy

Hackers claim leak of 141,000 Success Magazine users

Hackers are claiming to have leaked data belonging to 141,000 Success Magazine users. The breach reportedly involves user information, though details remain unclear. The magazine has not yet confirmed the incident.

Data breaches target celebrities, companies

Cybercriminal group ShinyHunters is claiming responsibility for data breaches impacting numerous high-profile companies, including Salesforce and a popular hat brand. The attacks exploited misconfigured permissions and required users to adjust website settings, suggesting a broader pattern of vulnerabilities. Salesforce is advising customers to restrict guest access following the incident, while the full scope of data compromised remains under investigation.

Roblox users warned: 50 million login records are up for sale on the dark web

Roblox users are being warned about a data breach impacting 50 million login records now available on the dark web. The compromised data reportedly includes usernames, passwords, and email addresses. Users are advised to change their passwords and enable two-factor authentication as a precaution.

MrBeast-advertised calorie app Cal AI allegedly hacked: 3 million subscribers exposed

The calorie tracking app Cal AI, recently promoted by MrBeast, has reportedly suffered a data breach affecting approximately 3 million subscribers. Hackers allegedly gained access to user data, raising concerns about privacy and security. Cal AI has acknowledged the incident and advised users to take precautions.

Cybersecurity Threats and Tech Concerns

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EV charger biz ELECQ zapped by ransomware crooks, customer contact data stolen

EV charger company ELECQ has notified customers of a ransomware attack that compromised data on its AWS platform. The breach resulted in the theft of customer contact information, including names, addresses, and email addresses. While no financial data was accessed, ELECQ is advising customers to be vigilant against phishing attempts and monitor their accounts.

Dutch cops warn 100 alleged scammers: Turn yourselves in or we tell Grandma

Dutch police have issued a two-week ultimatum to 100 suspected scammers, threatening to publicly reveal their identities unless they surrender. The “Game Over?!” campaign aims to combat a surge in fraud, particularly impersonation scams targeting vulnerable individuals. Authorities hope the public shaming will encourage suspects to turn themselves in and deter future criminal activity.

Catching malicious contributions in open source repos

Datadog has observed an increase in malicious contributions to its open-source repositories, facilitated by an AI agent named hackerbot-claw. The attacks, which targeted GitHub Actions workflows, involved attempts to inject code and leak secrets, highlighting the growing threat of AI-powered attacks on open-source projects. Datadog has validated and strengthened its defensive controls in response to these incidents.

Reversing Russian spyware I installed on my iPhone

Google has discovered and detailed a sophisticated spyware toolkit called “Coruna” targeting iPhones. This exploit kit allows for remote access and data collection, potentially installed without user knowledge. Google’s security blog provides information about the toolkit and its capabilities.

Abusing .arpa, the TLD that isn’t supposed to host anything

Cybercriminals are exploiting the rarely used .arpa top-level domain, designed for technical internet functions, to host phishing websites and evade security measures. Attackers are leveraging this abuse, combined with IPv6 tunnels, to hide malicious links within images and redirect users to fraudulent content. Security providers like Hurricane Electric and Cloudflare have been unwittingly implicated as actors exploit configuration loopholes to create these deceptive domains.

Post-Quantum Cryptography Beyond TLS: Remain Quantum Safe

Akamai has begun implementing post-quantum cryptography in its TLS connections to safeguard against future decryption risks, initially for Enhanced TLS customers. The quantum threat extends beyond TLS, impacting protocols like SSH, SMTP, and VPNs, necessitating broader adoption of PQC. OpenSSH, a popular SSH implementation, already supports PQC and warns users about vulnerable connections.

Uber’s Gender Driver Matching

Uber has expanded its “Women Preferences” feature nationwide in the US and over 40 countries, enabling women riders and drivers to request rides and trips with people of the same gender identity. This initiative, initially tested in select locations, aims to increase safety and comfort by providing an additional option for users. The feature is accessible through the app and available to users with teen accounts.

Uber reported to the state that I was fired for “annoying a coworker.”

A former Uber software engineer claims they were fired after being instructed by HR on how to handle a difficult coworker, and then subsequently disciplined for following that advice. Uber reported to the state that the engineer was discharged for “annoying a coworker,” initially resulting in a denial of unemployment benefits. The individual ultimately won their appeal and is sharing their story to highlight what they believe is HR’s prioritization of company interests over employee protection.

Workers report watching Ray-Ban Meta-shot footage of people using the bathroom

A Swedish report revealed that Meta subcontractors are reviewing footage from Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses as part of AI training, with workers viewing sensitive user content like bathroom recordings. This practice, involving employees of the Kenya-based company Sama, raises privacy concerns and discomfort among the workers involved. The report highlights a concerning flow of private data into Meta’s systems.

Florida judge rules red light camera tickets are unconstitutional

A Florida judge has ruled that the state’s law allowing red-light camera tickets is unconstitutional. The judge dismissed a ticket, finding the law improperly places the burden of proof on vehicle owners to prove they weren’t driving. This decision could potentially lead to challenges and changes in red-light camera enforcement throughout the state.

A US Court of Appeals ruling found that website Terms of Service (TOS) can be updated and delivered via email, and continued use of the website can imply consent to those changes. The decision clarifies how websites can modify their TOS without requiring explicit affirmative action from users. This ruling hinges on the principle that users are responsible for periodically reviewing updates to agreements they’ve accepted.

California sues websites hosting 3D printed gun files

California has filed a lawsuit against two websites and three individuals for distributing 3D-printed gun files, alleging violations of state laws. The suit seeks civil penalties of up to $25,000 per violation and aims to prevent the illegal creation of firearms without background checks. This action is part of a broader effort to regulate 3D-printed firearms and address public safety concerns.

💻 Development & Infrastructure

Viral GitHub project claims WiFi can ‘see through walls’ – developers aren’t convinced

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NGINX UI critical vulnerability enables hackers to download full system backups

Due to a critical vulnerability in the NGINX UI, hackers can now potentially download full system backups. This security flaw allows unauthorized access to sensitive data stored within the system. The vulnerability highlights the importance of promptly updating software and implementing robust security measures.

MariaDB backs down on Galera removal after community outcry

MariaDB reversed its decision to remove Galera clustering technology from its open-source server following significant community pushback. The company stated Galera will be included in the upcoming 12.3 release and acknowledged the importance of community feedback. Despite this resolution, concerns remain about MariaDB’s long-term commitment to open-source development and preventing future restrictions on community-supported features.

FreeBSD 14.4-RELEASE Announcement

The FreeBSD Project has released version 14.4-RELEASE, the fifth stable release in the 14 branch. Key updates include OpenSSH version 10.0p2, OpenZFS version 2.2.9, improved cloud-init compatibility, and filesystem sharing for Bhyve virtual machines. The release is dedicated to the memory of Ken Smith and is available for multiple architectures.

JSLinux Adds x86_64 Support

JSLinux has added support for x86_64 architecture, now emulating Alpine Linux 3.23.2 with advanced capabilities like AVX-512 and APX. The platform, accessible through a web browser, continues to offer a variety of emulated systems, including x86 and RISC-V architectures and older operating systems like Windows 2000. Users can access these emulated environments via provided startup links.

AWS SDK for Rust: Using S3-Compatible APIs with Other Clouds

A developer created a Rust-based utility, “shuk,” for uploading files to S3-compatible cloud storage. Initially, it only worked with Amazon S3, but recent updates now allow it to function with other cloud providers that support the S3 API. To ensure compatibility with these alternative clouds, users should utilize the .profile_name() method for a complete profile load within the AWS SDK configuration.

Ghostty Software Update Released

Ghostty 1.3.0, released on March 9, 2026, brings significant improvements to the terminal emulator including scrollback search, native scrollbars, and a click-to-move-cursor feature. This widely collaborative release addresses a critical security vulnerability and incorporates hundreds of bug fixes and performance enhancements, alongside new features like command notifications and a debug overlay. The update reflects contributions from over 180 developers across various platforms.

Meta’s Renewed Commitment to jemalloc

Meta is recommitting to jemalloc, a high-performance memory allocator crucial to its infrastructure, after recognizing a build-up of technical debt. The company plans to modernize the codebase, reduce maintenance needs, and adapt jemalloc to newer hardware while actively collaborating with the open-source community. The original jemalloc repository has been unarchived as part of this renewed effort.

Video Conferencing with Postgres

SpacetimeDB has demonstrated a video conferencing system that utilizes a PostgreSQL database as a real-time message broker, marking what they claim is the first video call over a database. The system encodes audio and video into frames, stores them in a PostgreSQL database, and streams them back to participants. The implementation, along with a modified version using PlanetScale, is open-source, showcasing a novel approach to video communication.

Production query plans without production data

PostgreSQL 18 introduces new functions, pg_restore_relation_stats and pg_restore_attribute_stats, allowing for the export and import of optimizer statistics. This feature streamlines major version upgrades by automatically transferring statistics and improves consistency across development, testing, and production environments. By replicating production-scale data, the new functionality enables more accurate query planning and reliable CI testing.

The Cost of ‘Lightweight’ Frameworks: From Tauri to Native Rust

The developers of Hopp, a remote pair programming app, are abandoning WebKit due to persistent rendering problems, unexplained crashes, and compatibility issues. These challenges, including difficulties with SVG shadows and iOS instability, have hindered development and impacted application stability. The company is switching to a Rust-based solution to gain greater control and improve performance for its screensharing UI.

Durdraw – ANSI art editor for Unix-like systems

Durdraw is a free, open-source editor for creating ANSI, Unicode, and ASCII art, designed for Unix-like systems. Inspired by classic MS-DOS editors, it offers features like animation, color support, and HTML/mIRC output. The project also includes Durfetch, a system information tool, and Durview, an ANSI art pack viewer, and welcomes community contributions and donations.

The Mog Programming Language

Mog is a new, statically typed programming language designed for use by large language models (LLMs). It’s compiled to native code for fast execution and incorporates capability-based permissions to enhance security, allowing AI agents to dynamically extend themselves with generated code while maintaining control over functionality. The language’s design prioritizes simplicity and reduced complexity to minimize errors when generated by LLMs.

Jolla on track to ship new phone with Sailfish OS, user-replaceable battery

Jolla is preparing to ship its Jolla Phone, a new smartphone running the Sailfish OS, after securing over 10,000 pre-orders. The device features a user-replaceable battery, modular back covers, and a privacy switch, aiming for user privacy by minimizing reliance on Google services. A second, limited pre-order round is now open for European customers at a price of €649.

Restoring a Sun SPARCstation IPX part 1: PSU and NVRAM (2020)

This article details the restoration of a vintage Sun SPARCstation IPX workstation, focusing on repairing its power supply and replacing its NVRAM. The SPARCstation, popular in the early 90s, was a high-performance UNIX workstation that offered advanced capabilities compared to contemporary PCs. The project is sponsored by Molex.

DenchClaw – Local CRM on Top of OpenClaw

DenchClaw is a new open-source CRM framework built on top of OpenClaw, designed to simplify its usage and provide practical applications. The tool, likened to “Cursor for your Mac,” functions as an “everything app” with local data storage and integrates seamlessly with existing platforms like Notion and HubSpot. Developers are encouraging users to test and provide feedback on the CRM’s capabilities and features.

Announcing DuckDB 1.5.0

DuckDB has released version 1.5.0, codenamed “Variegata,” featuring a redesigned command-line interface and support for new data types like VARIANT and GEOMETRY. The release also includes numerous optimizations and improvements, while the previous LTS version (1.4.0) will continue to receive updates until 2026. A major version update, DuckDB 2.0, is planned for September.

SQLite: Query Result Formatting in the CLI

The latest version of the SQLite command-line interface (CLI), 3.52.0, has significantly expanded the “.mode” command for greater control over query result formatting. This update replaces some older commands, introduces new output modes like “psql” to mimic PostgreSQL output, and changes the default interactive session mode to “qbox.” Users can now view, change, and list available output modes using updated commands and options.

FFmpeg at Meta: Media Processing at Scale

Meta has collaborated with FFmpeg developers to integrate custom features directly into the open-source project, eliminating the need for a separate, internal version. This partnership focused on improving efficiency through multi-lane encoding and real-time quality metrics, allowing Meta to support a wider range of video content. The integration streamlines Meta’s video processing workflows, which execute FFmpeg billions of times daily.

Mcp2cli – One CLI for every API, 96-99% fewer tokens than native MCP

mcp2cli is a new command-line interface tool that significantly reduces token usage compared to traditional MCP servers by only sending tool information when needed. The tool dynamically converts MCP servers or OpenAPI specifications into CLIs, saving up to 99% of tokens in some scenarios. It’s also designed to be compatible with various LLMs and AI coding agents.

🌎 Geopolitics & Policy

UFO whistleblowers or media talking heads? Reddit debates the insider boom

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X users stand with Rihanna following LA home shooting

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China browses lunar landing spots in race to land on Moon

Chinese researchers have identified four potential landing sites in the Rimae Bode region for a crewed lunar mission planned before 2030. The locations offer access to diverse geological materials and are relatively flat and visible from Earth, aiming to provide insights into the Moon’s evolution. This selection highlights China’s ongoing efforts in lunar exploration, potentially sparking a renewed space race with the United States.

NASA abandons delayed SLS upper stage for ULA’s Centaur V instead

NASA has replaced the delayed Exploration Upper Stage with United Launch Alliance’s Centaur V for the Artemis IV and V missions, utilizing a stage already used on the Vulcan rocket. This change aims to avoid significant launch delays and pushes the first lunar landing attempt to 2028. Despite this adjustment, the development of the Human Landing System remains a critical challenge for the Artemis program.

Royal Navy races to arm ships against drone threat

The Royal Navy is accelerating the acquisition of Project TALON, a new counter-drone system for its ships, to address the growing threat of drone proliferation. The Ministry of Defence aims to rapidly deploy a system utilizing both kinetic and non-kinetic defenses, with a contract and initial delivery expected within one month. The system will autonomously engage drones up to a significant size and number, complementing existing naval defenses.

I want the internet to stop being real life

The author expresses a desire for the internet to feel less all-consuming, recalling a time when it was a distinct activity rather than an integrated part of daily life. They lament the blurring of lines between online and offline relationships and the increased reliance on digital communication. Ultimately, they long for a return to a time when disconnecting from the internet was simpler and more common.

California High-Speed Rail Project Advances

A developer’s recent personal project highlighted the continued utility of the Ruby on Rails framework, demonstrating its expressive nature and ease of use despite declining trends. Meanwhile, an evaluation of application development across diverse platforms, including SwiftUI and Jetpack Compose, revealed varying strengths and weaknesses in developer experience and tooling. The projects underscore differing approaches to software development, ranging from established frameworks to modern platforms.

TikTok Can Stay in Canada After Security Pledges

Canada has reversed its ban on TikTok, allowing the app to remain operational within the country. The government initially ordered the closure of TikTok’s Canadian offices in November 2024 due to security concerns related to its parent company, ByteDance. This decision marks a significant change from the previous directive.

Coupang Lobbies US Amid Data Leak Probes, CEO Attends SOTU

South Korean online retailer Coupang is lobbying the US government as it faces multiple data leak investigations in Seoul. The company, which previously presented itself as Korean, is leveraging its US domicile to represent its interests in Washington. Coupang’s CEO recently attended the State of the Union address, further highlighting this engagement with US political circles.

Candidates Court Crypto, AI Funds Via Social Media Signals

Candidates across the US are increasingly using specific language and social media posts to signal support for the cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence industries. These industries have amassed a combined $250 million to influence the midterms and shape regulatory policies. Critics are concerned that this practice represents a “public prostration for cash” and distorts democratic processes.

US blindsides states with surprise settlement in Live Nation/Ticketmaster trial

The US Department of Justice has unexpectedly settled with Live Nation and Ticketmaster, halting a lawsuit alleging monopolistic practices. This surprise agreement blindsided state attorneys general, who are now proceeding with the case independently. A motion for a mistrial has been filed, citing concerns about the impact of the US government’s withdrawal on the jury.

Concern over US travel visas prompts Ig Nobels to move its awards to Europe

The annual Ig Nobel Prize awards are moving from the United States to Europe for the first time, due to concerns about attendees obtaining US travel visas. Organizers cited difficulties faced by international guests and journalists related to current immigration policies. The 36th ceremony will be held in Zurich, Switzerland, with future ceremonies alternating between European cities.

60 Minutes Havana Syndrome report finds U.S. government tested energy weapon

A recent 60 Minutes report revealed that the U.S. government acquired a directed energy weapon from a Russian criminal network and is suspected of testing it. The report connects these weapons to the mysterious “Havana Syndrome” affecting U.S. officials, who have experienced a range of debilitating symptoms. Over 65 victims believe they were targeted, and the investigation links the incidents to Russian intelligence.

Kuwaiti F/A-18’s Triple Friendly Fire Shootdown Gets Stranger by the Day

A Kuwaiti F/A-18 Hornet mistakenly shot down three U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles earlier this week, an incident captured on video by civilian onlookers. Initial reports suggested a ground-based air defense system was responsible, but video evidence indicates a within-visual-range air-to-air engagement likely involving heat-seeking missiles. The cause of the friendly fire incident remains under investigation, though it highlights challenges in distinguishing friend from foe in complex airspace.

New farm bill would condemn pigs to a lifetime in gestation crates

A provision within the House Agriculture Committee’s farm bill, dubbed the “Save Our Bacon Act,” would reinstate the use of gestation crates for pigs, effectively nullifying state laws against them. Despite widespread opposition from both Democrats and Republicans, the provision is strategically hidden within the larger bill. Animal welfare advocates are urging citizens to contact their representatives and demand its removal.

India offered sanctuary to Iranian ship three days before US sank it

India recently allowed three Iranian warships to dock at its ports, shortly before one, the Iris Dena, was sunk by a US submarine in international waters. The Iris Lavan did dock in Kochi and its crew is currently being housed by Indian naval facilities. The incident has prompted questions about India’s regional influence amidst escalating tensions between the US and Iran.

“It doesn’t feel safe”–Many international game developers plan to skip GDC in US

International game developers are significantly reducing their attendance at the Game Developers Conference due to safety concerns and increased scrutiny at U.S. borders. Many developers, particularly those from minority groups or with dissenting political views, feel targeted and uncomfortable traveling. This trend, which began during the pandemic, has intensified with the prospect of a second Trump administration.

Trump Sons Back New Drone Company Targeting Pentagon Sales

Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump are investing in Powerus, a new drone company targeting Pentagon contracts and aiming to replace Chinese-made drones. The company will become publicly traded through a reverse merger with a golf-course holding company, listing on the Nasdaq. Powerus is based in West Palm Beach, Florida and was formed last year.

Ireland shuts last coal plant, becomes 15th coal-free country in Europe (2025)

Ireland has officially ceased coal-fired power generation, becoming the 15th coal-free country in Europe. While the Moneypoint plant will temporarily use heavy fuel oil for backup until 2029, the move signals a shift towards renewable energy sources like wind power, which already accounts for a significant portion of Ireland’s electricity. Experts emphasize the need for further action to transition to a fully renewable power system and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Alabama set to execute man who didn’t kill anyone

Alabama is scheduled to execute Charles Burton on Thursday, despite the 75-year-old never directly killing anyone. He was convicted under the felony murder doctrine for his involvement in a robbery that resulted in a fatal shooting by an accomplice. The execution will be carried out using Alabama’s new nitrogen gas method, despite appeals and support from the victim’s daughter.

Syria’s Kurds caution Iran’s Kurds against allying with US against Tehran

Syrian Kurdish leaders are warning Iranian Kurds against aligning with the United States to confront Iran, citing their own past experience of being abandoned by the U.S. They advise Iranian Kurds to seek guarantees regarding the future of Kurdish regions in Iran before engaging in any conflict. This caution comes after the U.S. did not defend Syrian Kurdish forces during a recent military offensive.

Millions Of Americans can now claim Canadian citizenship but must prove descent

Canada has amended its citizenship law, removing a previous limit on citizenship by descent and retroactively granting citizenship to previously excluded individuals. Millions of Americans are now eligible to claim Canadian citizenship, but must provide documentation to prove their ancestral lineage. The change, prompted by a court decision, has led to a surge in applications and requests for historical records.

Americans aren’t facing a democratic collapse. We’re living in its aftermath

The article argues that Americans’ constant fear of democracy’s collapse is a psychological illusion, masking a deeper reality: democratic life has already significantly eroded for many. Decades of systemic inequalities and concentrated power have diminished democratic participation and outcomes for a large portion of the population. This focus on a future collapse serves as a defense mechanism, allowing elites to deflect blame and avoid addressing their role in the existing system.

💰 Business & Finance

Microsoft 365 confirms new premium tier, stuffed with AI and few discounts

Microsoft has confirmed the launch of a new premium Microsoft 365 tier, E7, on May 1st, priced at $99 per user per month. This tier bundles AI tools like Copilot and Agent 365, aiming to provide a unified solution for enterprises. Analysts suggest the discount compared to purchasing these features separately is minimal, questioning the value for most users.

AI Startup Nscale Secures Major Funding

Nscale, a UK-based data center startup founded in 2024, has raised $2 billion in Series C funding, achieving a $14.6 billion valuation and attracting investment from Nvidia and other major firms. The company, founded by former coal miner Josh Payne, provides AI infrastructure and is partnering with tech giants like Microsoft and OpenAI, planning datacenter expansion and considering an IPO. Former Meta executives Sheryl Sandberg, Nick Clegg, and Susan Decker have joined Nscale’s board to guide its growth.

Vibe coding a sponsor panel

Facing previous development roadblocks, the author successfully built a sponsor panel using “vibe coding,” an AI-assisted coding technique. This unconventional approach, which involved AI agents generating code based on provided skills, bypassed difficulties encountered with GraphQL and Go. The resulting panel, while described as “ugly,” is functional and allows users to view sponsor information.

What are you doing this week?

This article poses a simple question to readers: What are your plans for the week? It encourages audience participation by inviting them to share their activities, while also acknowledging that doing nothing is a perfectly valid response. The piece serves as a casual prompt for interaction and connection.

MacBook Pro M5: Powerful Performance, Familiar Design

The 2026 MacBook Pro 16-inch features a significant performance upgrade with its new M5 Max chip and “super core” architecture, offering exceptional processing and graphics capabilities. Despite the impressive internal enhancements, the laptop retains the same design as previous models. Pricing starts at $2,699 and can reach upwards of $7,349 for a fully configured model.

Apple Studio Display Review: Pricey, Powerful, Mac-Only

The Apple Studio Display XDR is a new 27-inch 5K monitor featuring a mini-LED display, 2,000 nits of brightness, and a 120Hz refresh rate, geared towards creative professionals. While it offers excellent picture quality and an improved camera, it comes with a premium price tag of $3,299 and is exclusively compatible with Macs. The standard Studio Display received a similar upgrade with a better camera and ports, but retains the same panel and price as its predecessor.

SoftBank Shares Plunge Amid OpenAI Scrutiny, Stargate Delay

SoftBank’s stock has plummeted nearly 48% since early November, driven by increased scrutiny of its investment in OpenAI and reports of delays in a related project. The company is facing a negative outlook from S&P, reflecting concerns about its financial performance. These developments have significantly impacted the Japanese group’s share value.

Bluesky Leadership Change

Bluesky CEO Jay Graber has resigned, transitioning to a chief innovation officer role focused on technology. Toni Schneider has been named interim CEO while the company seeks a permanent replacement, following a period of rapid growth for the decentralized social media platform. The change aims to prioritize scaling and execution for the company’s future.

Apple Delays Smart Home Display Release for Siri Improvements

Apple has delayed the release of its upcoming smart home display from spring 2025 to later this year. The delay is attributed to ongoing development of a new Siri digital assistant and its integration into the device. This reflects challenges Apple is facing in advancing its artificial intelligence capabilities.

iPad Air (M4) Review: Powerful, but pricey & lacks Face ID

The new iPad Air (M4) offers a powerful processor and improved multitasking through iPadOS 26, making it a robust and portable option. While the hardware is well-constructed, reviewers note the screen remains outdated and the device lacks features like Face ID. The price can also escalate quickly with added storage and accessories.

iPhone 17e Review: Good camera, storage, but lacks features.

The iPhone 17E offers improvements over its predecessor, including MagSafe and 256GB of base storage, while maintaining a $600 price point. However, reviewers recommend opting for the more advanced iPhone 17, which costs $200 more, due to features like an always-on display and ProMotion 120Hz screen. Ultimately, the iPhone 17E provides decent value but is less compelling than the standard iPhone 17.

Nasdaq, Kraken to Build 24/7 Tokenized Stock Trading System

Nasdaq is partnering with Kraken to create a framework for 24/7 trading of tokenized stocks, aiming for a 2027 launch. The initiative will prioritize corporate governance features like automated proxy voting and dividend payments. Nasdaq previously requested approval in September to offer tokenized versions of its listed stocks.

Victory Giant Eyes $2B+ Hong Kong IPO in April

Victory Giant Technology, a Chinese circuit board manufacturer, is planning a Hong Kong IPO potentially raising over $2 billion. The offering, expected as early as April, received approval from Chinese regulators last week. This secondary listing would allow the company to access a wider investor base.

Peter Thiel and Jeffrey Epstein Had a Yearslong Relationship

Newly released emails reveal a years-long relationship between tech mogul Peter Thiel and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Epstein actively attempted to connect Thiel with former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak, arranging meetings and facilitating financial ventures. The connection may have spurred Palantir’s involvement in Israeli defense technology, raising ethical concerns given the company’s current role in the conflict.

The engine of Germany’s wealth is blocking its future

Germany’s historically dominant car industry, responsible for a significant portion of its exports and employment, is now facing challenges from increased competition, particularly from China’s rapidly advancing electric vehicle market. Facing a 2035 ban on combustion engines, German carmakers are resorting to extensive lobbying efforts instead of embracing rapid innovation. This reliance on lobbying, and the industry’s slow transition, threatens Germany’s economic future and is impacting jobs across Europe.

The optimal age to freeze eggs is 19

Experts suggest the optimal age for egg freezing is around 19, as egg quality declines with age. While facilities often cite a 10-year viability limit for frozen eggs, data suggests eggs can remain viable for longer periods, potentially with no significant degradation. The relatively low demand for egg freezing among younger women means it’s often not considered until later in their 20s or early 30s.

Thermal Grizzly was scammed twice on raw materials worth €40k

Thermal Grizzly lost €40,000 after ordering raw materials from Chinese suppliers via Alibaba, who provided counterfeit materials instead of copper and aluminum plates. The shipments contained steel and filler instead of the ordered metals, highlighting the risks of overseas sourcing. The incident underscores difficulties in securing materials and the challenges of international supply chains.

Tesla opens its first Megacharger station to Semi customers in California

Tesla has opened its first Megacharger station in Ontario, California, specifically for Tesla Semi customers. This marks a key step in Tesla’s plan to establish a nationwide charging network for its electric trucks, with 66 locations planned across the US. The station, located along a major freight corridor, provides up to 750 kW of charging power and signals a move toward wider commercial availability of the Tesla Semi.

🛠️ Tech Deep Dive

Vulture rediscovers RSS to dull the pain of the modern web

Recent articles are highlighting the resurgence of RSS feeds as a way to navigate the increasingly cluttered and problematic nature of the modern web. RSS allows users to subscribe to website content directly, bypassing many of the intrusive ads and design choices prevalent today. The technology, initially popular in the early 2000s, offers a potential solution to “enshittification” and regain control over online content consumption.

Microsoft Azure CTO set Claude on his 1986 Apple II code, says it found vulns

Microsoft Azure CTO Mark Russinovich used Anthropic’s Claude AI to analyze his 1986 Apple II code, revealing previously unknown security vulnerabilities. This demonstrates AI’s ability to reverse engineer and identify flaws in legacy code, potentially impacting the billions of legacy microcontrollers worldwide that rely on similar firmware. The widespread use of AI for code scanning is expected to uncover vulnerabilities, but also create challenges for security and maintenance.

NASA’s asteroid defence mission slowed targets by 1.7 inches per hour

NASA’s DART mission successfully altered the orbit of asteroid Dimorphos, slowing it by 1.7 inches per hour after a collision. The impact ejected material, effectively shortening the asteroid’s orbital period by 0.15 seconds and doubling the spacecraft’s momentum. Volunteer astronomers played a vital role in precisely measuring the orbital change through observations of stellar occultations.

On a Boat - Media over QUIC

A company called Saronic is utilizing a protocol called MoQ to efficiently manage and transmit live video streams from multiple cameras on boats, addressing bandwidth limitations associated with satellite internet like Starlink. MoQ’s pull-based system allows viewers to selectively subscribe to video streams, reducing data usage and enabling scalability through a distributed network of relays. This approach is particularly useful for AI-powered monitoring applications that prioritize certain video feeds based on events like potential emergencies.

SDL_mixer 3.2.0 (stable) is out

SDL_mixer 3.0, a major redesign of the audio mixing library, has been released with a new API. Existing projects will require code migration to adapt to the changes, which aim to improve power and ease of use. Installation instructions and a quick reference guide are available on the SDL wiki.

A Modular Computer That’s Bringing Back Analog

A new modular computer called CONTINUUM is reviving analog computation, offering a more accessible way to solve complex differential equations. The system uses individual circuit boards that can be connected and rearranged, allowing users to build and scale their own analog systems. This design aims to overcome the limitations of traditional analog computers by reducing cost and increasing flexibility.

Procedural Hex Map Generation

A developer has created a procedural map generator utilizing the Wave Function Collapse algorithm and WebGPU to produce unique, medieval island worlds composed of 4,100 hexagonal tiles. The system simulates geographic features like roads and rivers, employing a modular design to prevent generation errors. Inspired by tile-laying games, this automated process quickly creates dynamic and varied map layouts.

seccomp — Unsafe at any speed (2022)

The article argues that using seccomp() to restrict system calls is fundamentally unreliable due to constantly evolving system calls and unexpected dependencies. Maintaining accurate whitelists or blacklists of allowed syscalls is impractical and can lead to unforeseen issues, such as preventing logging. The author recommends adopting OpenBSD’s capability-based approach as a more effective security alternative.

Removing recursion via explicit callstack simulation

A new technique allows developers to convert recursive code into an iterative form, primarily in TypeScript and Node.js, to prevent stack overflows. This method simulates a call stack using mutable data structures, effectively trading code clarity for increased stack safety. The process is largely mechanical and adaptable to languages with basic mutability.

Notes on writing a voxel game in Dyalog APL

A new APL programmer has been developing a voxel game, inspired by Minecraft, in Dyalog APL since November 2025. The project leverages APL’s array-based operations and utilizes Dyalog’s C library interface, specifically SDL3, for graphics and window management. To simplify complex interactions with SDL3, the developer created custom wrappers for specific functionalities.

Rendezvous with Rama

A potential film adaptation of Arthur C. Clarke’s science fiction novel “Rendezvous with Rama” is sparking renewed interest in the work of the renowned British author. Published in 1973, the novel follows a freighter crew who intercept and explore a massive, alien spacecraft called Rama, uncovering its mysteries and facing unexpected dangers. The story explores themes of discovery, technological advancement, and humanity’s place in the universe while leaving many questions unanswered.

The first airplane fatality

On September 17, 1908, Thomas Selfridge became the first person to die in an airplane crash while riding as a passenger with Orville Wright during a U.S. Army evaluation at Fort Myer, Virginia. The crash occurred when a propeller broke, causing the Wright Flyer to lose control and snap a supporting guy wire. Selfridge was a U.S. Army officer and an early aviation enthusiast who had previously participated in pioneering flights.

Notes on Baking at the South Pole

A baker recently journeyed to the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station to fulfill a lifelong dream inspired by Antarctic exploration literature. The challenging trip involved specialized aircraft and navigating the notorious Beardmore Glacier, a historically difficult route for explorers. The baker was struck by the remote beauty of the station, which sits atop the glacier.

Fixfest is a global gathering of repairers, tinkerers, and activists

Fixfest is a global gathering of repairers, activists, and policymakers that occurs every two to three years. The most recent international event was held in London in September 2025, bringing together over 220 participants. National and regional events are often organized between the larger international gatherings.

I don’t know Apple’s endgame for the Fn/Globe key–or if Apple does

A recent article explores the history and uncertain future of Apple’s Fn/Globe key, noting its origins with IBM’s failed PCjr computer. The key’s initial purpose was to replicate missing keyboard functions, a practice that has since become common in laptops due to space constraints. The article questions whether Apple has a clear long-term plan for the key’s evolving role.

An opinionated take on how to do important research that matters

Nicholas Carlini, a researcher and recent EuroCrypt award recipient, argues that “good taste” in selecting research problems is the most crucial skill for impactful work. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration to refine ideas and avoid wasted effort, highlighting how teamwork can identify errors and guide research direction. Carlini’s article offers an opinionated perspective on research practices and paper writing, sharing insights gleaned from his experience.

Avoiding temptation beats building willpower

Recent research indicates that encouraging children to build willpower to resist temptations is ineffective and can even increase their desire for those things. Studies now show that what was previously measured as willpower was actually the ability to avoid temptation altogether. Experts recommend instead teaching children to structure their environments to minimize exposure to temptations.

This article explores algebraic topology, specifically focusing on knots, which are closed curves in three-dimensional space. Knots are considered equivalent if they can be continuously deformed into one another, and a key concept is the restriction to “tamely embedded” knots to simplify analysis. The article also introduces methods for representing and classifying knots through diagrams and Reidemeister moves, ultimately leading to a unique prime factorization for each knot.

Reverse-engineering the UniFi inform protocol

Researchers have discovered a method to enable multi-tenancy for Ubiquiti UniFi controllers, addressing the cost inefficiencies of dedicated cloud controllers. The technique leverages the unencrypted device MAC address present in the UniFi inform protocol’s header to route traffic, bypassing the need for decryption. This allows for a simple proxy solution, enabling multiple customers to share infrastructure while maintaining device-specific communication.

How Brembo Redesigned F1 Brakes for the 2026 Power Unit Revolution

Formula 1 teams will utilize redesigned brake components from suppliers Brembo and AP Racing starting in the 2026 season, featuring expanded design options for calipers and discs. These changes include increased piston counts, modified disc dimensions and venting, and a redesigned brake-by-wire system. Engineers are working to integrate the new hardware and software for optimal performance and custom calibration for each team.

Fontcrafter: Turn Your Handwriting into a Real Font

Fontcrafter is a new tool that enables users to create digital fonts from their own handwriting. The process involves scanning handwritten text, adjusting settings, and generating font files locally without any data being stored online. Users can customize their font with options like ligatures, kerning, and diacritics, and export in various formats for different applications.

We Stopped Using the Mathematics That Works

The rise of deep learning in AI overshadowed more effective, established mathematical approaches due to a sudden influx of funding and talent following a major victory in 2012. These superior methods, which include decision theory and operations research, were fragmented across academic disciplines and required more explicit problem specification than the data-driven approach of deep learning. Consequently, while these older methods remain viable, they have lost prevalence due to shifting resources and a more convenient workflow.

OpenMeters – A fast and free audio metering/visualization suite

OpenMeters is a newly developed, free audio metering and visualization suite featuring six tools for analyzing audio signals. The software provides visualizations such as spectrograms, spectrum analyzers, and loudness meters (LUFS & RMS), and is currently only available for Linux. Developers are encouraging users to provide feedback and contribute to the project.