In a radio episode, Amol Rajan talks with Sir Nick Clegg about the influence and responsibilities of big tech companies. Sir Nick suggests more regulation and user control instead of breaking up these companies. He also discusses the impact of technology on young people and the need for appropriate safeguards.
Key Facts
Sir Nick Clegg is a former UK deputy prime minister and former president of global affairs at Meta.
The discussion revolves around how to manage the power and accountability of big tech companies.
Sir Nick believes breaking up tech companies won't solve their dominance.
He advocates for more regulation and giving users more control.
Sir Nick talks about the influence of technology on young people's lives and calls for age-appropriate protections.
He argues that governments should set rules, not tech CEOs like Mark Zuckerberg.
The conversation also touches on AI, political polarization, and the race for AI dominance between the US and China.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Chinese AI models are becoming important for American companies, particularly in Silicon Valley. These models are popular because they are cheaper and still perform well compared to some U.S. models. Some American tech leaders and companies are starting to use Chinese AI models for their operations.
Key Facts
Chinese AI models are being used more in Silicon Valley by American companies.
Companies like Alibaba and Z.ai offer cheaper open language models.
U.S. companies find some Chinese models to be fast and cost-effective.
Airbnb and Social Capital have chosen Chinese AI models over U.S. ones like ChatGPT.
Chinese AI tools occupied seven spots among the 20 most-used models last week.
China’s cumulative AI model downloads surpassed 540 million by October.
Rui Ma noted that smaller startups favor Chinese models due to lower costs.
Open-weight AI models are important because they make their data available for free.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The creators of Stranger Things, Matt and Ross Duffer, have confirmed that a spin-off series is in development. While the original series will end after five seasons, the new show will explore different characters within the same universe. The Duffers express excitement about the new project and discuss their experiences creating the successful Netflix series.
Key Facts
Stranger Things creators, Matt and Ross Duffer, are working on a new spin-off series.
The spin-off will feature new characters and a new mystery, set in the same universe as Stranger Things.
The original Stranger Things series will conclude after its fifth season.
The final season of the original show is set in the autumn of 1987, in Hawkins, Indiana.
The Duffers planned for Stranger Things to have four or five seasons from the start.
The show was inspired by creators like Steven Spielberg and Stephen King.
The success of Stranger Things turned it into one of Netflix's biggest global hits.
The show's young cast formed strong friendships during filming, reflecting the relationships of their characters onscreen.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Apple has launched a passport-based Digital ID feature for iPhones and Apple Watches to help travelers clear TSA security lines in U.S. airports. This digital ID, which focuses on domestic travel, is encrypted and requires verification like Face ID or Touch ID. It is not a replacement for a physical passport for international travel.
Key Facts
Apple's Digital ID lets travelers use their smartphone or smartwatch to clear TSA security lines.
The feature is available in beta at over 250 U.S. airports for domestic travel.
The Digital ID is encrypted, and users access it with Face ID or Touch ID.
It does not replace a physical passport for international travel.
Apple currently allows users in 12 states and Puerto Rico to store driver's licenses in the Wallet app.
Future uses may include ID verification for businesses and organizations.
Setting up the Digital ID requires specific iPhone and Apple Watch models, the latest software, and a U.S. passport.
At TSA checkpoints, the Digital ID is confirmed by Apple's security features, and TSA agents do not handle the device.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A bipartisan group of officials and business leaders suggests that the U.S. government should play a bigger role in the technology sector to protect national security. The group highlights risks of relying too much on foreign countries, like China, for important tech resources, and recommends actions to strengthen American positions in AI, quantum technology, and biotechnology.
Key Facts
A bipartisan panel says government involvement in the tech sector is crucial for national security.
The group includes members like Justin Muzinich, Gina Raimondo, and Jim Taiclet.
The recommendations focus on AI, quantum technology, and biotechnology.
They suggest increasing U.S. production of semiconductors and pharmaceutical components.
The group advises establishing bio-manufacturing hubs with private companies.
The Department of Defense should help develop a quantum computer to boost U.S. capabilities.
Past government actions under President Trump include equity stakes in tech companies and imposing tariffs to secure tech resources.
The White House is moving towards a form of capitalism that involves more government control in strategic tech sectors.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Apple introduced a new product called the iPhone Pocket, a carrying case for iPhones priced at $229.95. The item received online criticism for its high price and its resemblance to a sock. The iPhone Pocket is part of a limited edition collaboration with the Japanese fashion brand Issey Miyake.
Key Facts
Apple launched a new carrying case for iPhones called the iPhone Pocket.
The price of the iPhone Pocket is $229.95.
The design resembles a sock, leading to online mockery.
The product is a collaboration with Japanese fashion brand Issey Miyake.
It is available with a short strap in eight colors and a long strap in three colors.
The product drew criticism for lacking features like zippers and structure for protection.
Some people defended the high price by noting the fashion collaboration.
A tech YouTuber suggested the product tests the loyalty of Apple fans.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Google has taken legal action against a phishing platform called "Lighthouse," allegedly run by China-based operators. This platform helps cybercriminals launch scams through text messages and fake websites. Google filed the lawsuit in New York, making it the first of its kind aimed at a phishing-as-a-service operation.
Key Facts
Google filed a lawsuit against the operators of the "Lighthouse" phishing platform.
The lawsuit claims the platform facilitates text message scams that mimic legitimate brands.
Scammers reportedly stole over $16 billion from consumers in the last year.
Lighthouse's software allows users to create fake websites, potentially compromising millions of credit cards.
The platform is described as a "phishing for dummies" kit, available for purchase through Telegram.
Victims are tricked into entering payment information on fake sites that mimic entities like the U.S. Postal Service and Apple.
Lighthouse uses techniques to evade detection, including capturing users' keystrokes in real time.
Google has also endorsed three anti-scam bills introduced in Congress to combat this type of fraud.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A Danish man received a suspended sentence for sharing nude scenes from films and TV shows on Reddit. He posted 347 clips, viewed over 4 million times, on a subreddit he moderated, which violated Danish copyright laws.
Key Facts
The man shared 347 clips of nude scenes from films and TV shows on Reddit.
His posts were viewed 4.2 million times before being reported.
He was sentenced to a seven-month suspended sentence for copyright infringement.
The case involved a rarely-used clause about artists' "moral rights" in Danish copyright law.
From March 2022 to May 2023, the man shared content featuring over 100 actresses.
The subreddit had more than 6,000 members and allowed clip requests.
The Danish anti-piracy group reported the violation, leading to the subreddit’s closure.
The case highlighted potential future challenges related to artists' work integrity with technological advances like AI.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The movie "Roofman," starring Channing Tatum, is now available to watch digitally from November 11, 2025, while still being shown in some theatres. This film, directed by Derek Cianfrance, is based on the true story of Jeffrey Manchester, who lived secretly in a Toys "R" Us after escaping prison. It will be released on DVD and 4K Ultra HD in January 2026, and may later stream on Paramount+.
Key Facts
"Roofman" stars Channing Tatum and is directed by Derek Cianfrance.
The film is based on the true story of Jeffrey Manchester, a former Army Ranger.
"Roofman" can be rented or bought on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV from November 11, 2025.
It will also release on DVD and 4K Ultra HD on January 20, 2026.
The movie includes co-stars like Kirsten Dunst and Ben Mendelsohn.
Special features will be available depending on the format, including featurettes and deleted scenes.
"Roofman" is expected to stream on Paramount+ at a future date.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Russia's first human-like robot, named AIdol, fell seconds after being introduced at a tech event in Moscow. The robot lost its balance on stage, prompting assistants to cover it with a cloth.
Key Facts
Russia unveiled its first anthropomorphic robot, AIdol, at a technology event.
The robot fell shortly after its debut.
The incident happened on stage in Moscow.
The fall occurred as AIdol was being led on stage with music from the film 'Rocky'.
Assistants tried to cover the fallen robot with a cloth, which got tangled.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Some churches are using AI technology to reach more people and deal with declining attendance. AI-powered apps allow users to "chat" with religious figures and provide personalized prayers and advice. This trend presents both opportunities and concerns regarding the role of AI in spiritual guidance.
Key Facts
Churches are using AI to interact with worshippers, often due to fewer attendees and staff.
AI apps can simulate conversations with religious figures and create personalized prayers.
29% of Americans now identify as religiously unaffiliated, leading to many church closures.
Chatbots in churches answer common questions and share religious teachings.
Some pastors use AI to help write sermons or manage church activities.
Apps like Text With Jesus simulate conversations with biblical characters for a fee.
There are concerns about the sources AI apps use for religious content.
Early adoption of AI in churches is experimental, with potential risks highlighted by experts.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
NASA is monitoring two asteroids the size of houses as they pass near Earth. These asteroids, named 2025 VW and 2025 VC2, will come within about 1.29 million miles and 1.92 million miles of Earth, respectively. Scientists note that these do not pose an immediate threat to Earth.
Key Facts
NASA is tracking two asteroids: 2025 VW and 2025 VC2.
2025 VW will come within 1.29 million miles of Earth.
2025 VC2 will pass by at about 1.92 million miles away.
2025 VW is moving at about 15,900 miles per hour and measures between 39 to 91 feet in diameter.
2025 VC2 is traveling around 20,500 miles per hour and is 32 to 75 feet in diameter.
Near-Earth objects are asteroids that come within 120 million miles of the sun.
Potentially Hazardous Asteroids (PHAs) are large asteroids that could pass within 4.6 million miles of Earth's orbit.
NASA monitors these objects to assess any potential risk to Earth, but no immediate danger is noted.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Apple has introduced a new product called the iPhone Pocket, a wearable pouch designed in collaboration with Japanese fashion house ISSEY MIYAKE. The pouch, which can carry any iPhone model, is priced between $149.95 and $229.95 and will be available starting November 14 in several countries, including the U.S., U.K., Japan, and France.
Key Facts
The iPhone Pocket is a 3D-knitted accessory made to carry iPhones.
It is offered in two strap styles; a short strap for $149.95 and a longer cross-body strap for $229.95.
Apple created the iPhone Pocket in partnership with ISSEY MIYAKE, a well-known Japanese fashion brand.
The product ties into Apple's history as Steve Jobs often wore ISSEY MIYAKE clothing.
It will be available in eight colors for the short strap version and three colors for the long strap.
The iPhone Pocket is set to launch on November 14 in the U.S., U.K., Japan, and France.
People reacted online with a mix of humor and disbelief about the price.
Other Apple iPhone accessories, like the Crossbody Strap and protective cases, also have notable price points.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The teaser trailer for Toy Story 5 has been released, featuring the original cast of toys and introducing a new high-tech tablet character named Lilypad. The trailer has sparked debate online, with some praising the plot while others question the necessity of another sequel. The movie will premiere on June 19, 2026.
Key Facts
Toy Story 5 teaser trailer was released on November 11.
The franchise began with the first film in 1995, which was the first fully computer-animated feature film.
Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, and Joan Cusack are returning to voice their characters.
New cast members include Anna Faris, Ernie Hudson, Conan O’Brien, and Greta Lee.
The new character, Lilypad, is a high-tech tablet that poses a challenge to traditional toys.
Some fans are confused about Woody's return, as he left the group in Toy Story 4.
The teaser has garnered over 2.2 million views on YouTube.
Toy Story 5 is set to be released in theaters on June 19, 2026.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A few countries, mostly with strict government control, block or limit Google Maps. In some places, like North Korea and China, the service is not available. South Korea restricts Google Maps for security reasons.
Key Facts
Google Maps is blocked or restricted in several countries.
North Korea allows internet access only for select officials, with Google Maps blocked.
China blocks Google Maps through the "Great Firewall," promoting its own similar apps.
Turkmenistan restricts internet access heavily, affecting Google services.
In Cuba, Google Maps works but lacks live updates and turn-by-turn navigation.
Syria has limited map services but expects improvements after recent political changes.
South Korea limits Google Maps features due to national security, requiring data to stay within the country.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Actor Ed Helms hosts the podcast "SNAFU," where he explores historical mishaps and unusual moments from the past. The podcast features a new historical moment each episode, and it has increased its number of episodes this season. Helms is deeply curious about these stories and puts considerable effort into researching them for discussions with his guests.
Key Facts
Ed Helms, known for acting, hosts a podcast called "SNAFU."
The podcast discusses historical mishaps and mistakes.
Each episode in the new season focuses on a different historical moment.
The latest season has 30 episodes, more than previous seasons.
Helms is passionate about researching each topic deeply.
He aims to offer detailed insights to his guests and audience.
Helms enjoys talking to guests who also share a curiosity about history.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Apple has removed two popular gay dating apps, Blued and Finka, from its app store in China. This action followed an order from the Chinese government, which has strict internet regulations. A lighter version of the Blued app and some other gay dating apps remain available in China.
Key Facts
Apple removed the apps Blued and Finka from its store in China after a government order.
The Cyberspace Administration of China was behind the directive to remove the apps.
Blued is a widely-used gay dating app in China with millions of downloads.
A "lite" version of the Blued app is still accessible on Chinese app stores.
Same-sex marriages are not recognized in China, even though homosexuality was decriminalized in 1997.
In 2022, the Cyberspace Administration of China began removing apps it considered inappropriate, such as Grindr.
The Chinese government requires apps to have licenses to operate locally, affecting foreign apps.
Apple's app store in China operates under local internet laws, limiting available apps like Instagram and WhatsApp.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The UK government plans to change the law to let approved groups test AI systems to ensure they can't create child sexual abuse images. This move aims to prevent the growing number of AI-related reports of illegal content. The government wants to include child safety from the start in the design of AI systems.
Key Facts
The UK announced changes to the Crime and Policing Bill to allow testing of AI systems for child safety.
Approved testers can now assess AI models to ensure they do not produce child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
The number of AI-related CSAM reports doubled over the past year, according to the Internet Watch Foundation.
The UK plans to be the first to make creating or possessing AI-generated CSAM illegal, with penalties of up to five years in prison.
The government is working to include child protection measures in AI development from the beginning rather than as an afterthought.
Several organizations were updated, like Thorn and NSPCC, supporting the changes for more responsible AI development.
Experts raised concerns that AI tools could be used to create realistic abuse imagery, complicating policing efforts.
The measures aim to stop AI tools from being misused to create harmful content.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The release of new gaming consoles has slowed compared to the past, with no PlayStation 6 on the horizon as the PS5 celebrates its fifth year. PlayStation's business head, Eric Lempel, says there is still a lot of life in the PS5, with popular games still to come. Longer game development times and strong PS5 sales contribute to the console's extended cycle.
Key Facts
New gaming consoles used to launch every five years, but this pattern has slowed.
The PS5 is five years old, and there is no sign of a PlayStation 6 being released soon.
Eric Lempel, PlayStation's business boss, says the PS5 still has a lot to offer gamers.
The PS5 faced supply chain issues at launch due to a global chip shortage but has sold over 84 million units worldwide.
Game development now takes longer, with fewer games being released per console generation.
Upcoming high-profile games for the PS5 include Marvel's Wolverine and new games from Naughty Dog.
Gamers are playing more diverse games, including smaller indie titles.
The PS5 outsells Microsoft's Series X and S consoles but not handhelds like the Nintendo Switch and its successor.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Seven top figures in artificial intelligence received the Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering at St James's Palace. King Charles presented the awards. The event also featured a discussion on space robots and driverless racing cars in Abu Dhabi.
Key Facts
Seven AI experts were honored with the Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering.
The award ceremony took place at St James's Palace in the United Kingdom.
King Charles presented the awards to the AI pioneers.
Professor Fei-Fei Li, often called the 'godmother' of AI, was present at the event.
Jensen Huang, the head of Nvidia, the world's most valuable company, attended the ceremony.
Talks covered the use of robots in space.
There was also coverage of driverless racing cars being tested in Abu Dhabi.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
