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It's 2025, the year we decided we need a widespread slur for robots

It's 2025, the year we decided we need a widespread slur for robots

August 06, 2025
In 2025, the word "clanker" emerged as a derogatory term for robots, gaining popularity on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. The origin of "clanker" traces back to the Star Wars universe, and it has become more commonly used as robots become more present in everyday life. The term reflects an "us versus them" mindset, ironically assigning human-like traits to non-human entities.

Key Facts:

  • "Clanker" is a term used to insult robots.
  • The word comes from the Star Wars universe, where it describes robots by the sound they make.
  • "Clanker" became viral on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
  • The term fulfills a cultural need as robots are more present in daily life.
  • Some people are using the word to express frustration with interacting with robots in customer service.
  • Using "clanker" can create a divisive mindset, akin to other forms of discrimination.
  • The term's popularity reflects cultural themes, like the fear of robots taking over jobs.

Source Information

NPR Home
'Facial recognition tech mistook me for wanted man'

'Facial recognition tech mistook me for wanted man'

August 06, 2025
Shaun Thompson is taking legal action against the Metropolitan Police for wrongly identifying him as a suspect using live facial recognition technology. This is the first legal case in the UK challenging the police's use of this technology. The Met Police plans to increase the use of facial recognition, arguing it helps catch dangerous criminals.

Key Facts:

  • Shaun Thompson was mistakenly identified as a suspect by the police using facial recognition technology.
  • He was stopped by police near London Bridge in February last year.
  • A privacy group called Big Brother Watch supports his legal challenge, concerned about the technology's privacy implications.
  • The Met Police plans to double the use of live facial recognition in London.
  • As of 2024, the Met Police reported over 1,000 arrests using the technology, with 773 resulting in charges or cautions.
  • There were 457 arrests and seven false alerts since January 2025.
  • Facial recognition maps facial features and matches them against a database of suspects.
  • The legal challenge aims to review the use of facial recognition's rules and its societal impact.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
US charges Chinese nationals with illegally shipping Nvidia chips to China

US charges Chinese nationals with illegally shipping Nvidia chips to China

August 06, 2025
The United States charged two Chinese nationals with illegally exporting Nvidia chips to China against US export rules. The charges say the chips were shipped without permission, and the accused could face up to 20 years in prison.

Key Facts:

  • Two Chinese citizens are accused of illegally exporting Nvidia chips to China.
  • The exports occurred between October 2022 and July 2025, according to US authorities.
  • The accused are Chuan Geng and Shiwei Yang, aged 28.
  • They allegedly organized 21 shipments through their company ALX Solutions Inc.
  • The shipments were falsely labeled and lacked the required US export license.
  • Payments for the chips came from companies in Hong Kong and China.
  • A search of their office found evidence of communication to evade US export restrictions.
  • If convicted, the accused could face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
WhatsApp says it removed 6.8m accounts linked to scams

WhatsApp says it removed 6.8m accounts linked to scams

August 06, 2025
WhatsApp removed 6.8 million accounts linked to scams in the first half of the year. Many accounts were connected to scam operations in South East Asia. WhatsApp introduced new features to help users avoid falling victim to scams.

Key Facts:

  • WhatsApp removed 6.8 million accounts involved in scams.
  • Many of these scams were connected to organized crime in South East Asia.
  • WhatsApp has introduced new features to alert users about potential scams.
  • Scammers often hijacked accounts or added users to fake group chats.
  • WhatsApp worked with Meta and OpenAI to identify and stop some scams.
  • Some scams involved fake investment schemes or false offers for services.
  • Scammers used ChatGPT to create messages for potential victims.
  • People are advised to use features like two-step verification to secure their accounts.

Source Information

BBC Tech
Call to vet YouTube ads like regular TV to stop scams

Call to vet YouTube ads like regular TV to stop scams

August 06, 2025
The Liberal Democrats are calling for YouTube ads to be checked like traditional TV ads to protect users from scams and harmful content. They want media regulator Ofcom to issue fines and oversee ad screening. YouTube is now the UK's second-most-watched media service after the BBC.

Key Facts:

  • The Liberal Democrats propose that ads on YouTube be vetted like TV ads to prevent scams and harmful content.
  • Ofcom, the media regulator, is urged to issue fines and screen YouTube ads.
  • YouTube is the UK's second-most-watched media service, after the BBC.
  • At present, TV and radio ads are pre-approved by industry bodies, unlike YouTube ads.
  • Max Wilkinson MP says current ad regulations for digital platforms are too lenient compared to TV.
  • The ASA handles complaints about scam ads but tackling them falls under Ofcom's responsibilities.
  • The ASA reported over 1,600 potential online scam ads in 2024, with many involving deepfake videos.
  • Google removed over 411 million UK ads in 2024 and suspended over 1 million ad accounts.

Source Information

BBC Tech
Tech Life

Tech Life

August 05, 2025
DeepSeek, a Chinese AI technology, gained significant attention in the AI field this year. The article discusses current information about the technology and explores concerns about AI-related risks.

Key Facts:

  • DeepSeek is an AI technology developed in China.
  • It received major attention in the AI industry this year.
  • The article examines what has happened to DeepSeek recently.
  • There are discussions about potential risks associated with AI, sometimes called "AI doomsday."
  • It is available as a 26-minute program on BBC Sounds.
  • The release date of this program was August 5, 2025.

Source Information

BBC Tech
Drones delivering coffee? Trump administration wants more companies using UAVs

Drones delivering coffee? Trump administration wants more companies using UAVs

August 05, 2025
The Trump administration has proposed new rules to make it easier for companies to use drones for business tasks like delivering goods and inspecting infrastructure. This proposal aims to streamline the approval process and establish clear regulations for commercial drone use in U.S. airspace. The rules will include safety measures such as requiring collision avoidance technology.

Key Facts:

  • The proposal aims to simplify the approval process for businesses to use drones in the U.S.
  • Previously, companies needed individual waivers to operate drones beyond their line of sight.
  • President Trump signed an executive order to promote drone use by businesses.
  • The proposed rules require drones to have industry-standard safety technology to avoid collisions.
  • Commercial drones would not be allowed to fly over large gatherings like concerts or sports events.
  • Certain drone-related employees must pass a security check by the TSA.
  • The proposal is open for public comments for 60 days.
  • The FAA emphasizes the need for regulation to create safer and more organized airspace.

Source Information

NPR Home

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Exclusive: Anthropic's Claude AI model takes on (and beats) human hackers

Exclusive: Anthropic's Claude AI model takes on (and beats) human hackers

August 05, 2025
Anthropic's AI model, Claude, has been successfully participating in student hacking competitions, achieving high ranks with minimal human help. The AI, entered by a team member into several competitions, has solved challenges quickly, often outperforming human teams. This highlights the potential of AI in cybersecurity.

Key Facts:

  • Claude is an AI model developed by Anthropic.
  • It was entered in student hacking competitions like PicoCTF.
  • Claude ranked in the top 3% of participants at PicoCTF.
  • In some competitions, Claude solved multiple challenges rapidly, placing in the top rankings.
  • AI agents like Claude are showing near-expert levels in cybersecurity tasks.
  • In the Hack the Box competition, AI teams performed better than many human teams.
  • AI challenges included reverse-engineering and system hacking but struggled with unexpected tasks.
  • There is potential for AI to significantly impact offensive and defensive cybersecurity in the future.

Source Information

Axios
WATCH: U.S. government proposes easing some restrictions on drones traveling long distances

WATCH: U.S. government proposes easing some restrictions on drones traveling long distances

August 05, 2025
The U.S. government proposed a new rule to make it easier for companies to use drones over long distances. This rule would allow drones to operate beyond the operator's sight without needing a special waiver. The rule aims to expand the use of drones in deliveries, infrastructure inspection, and agriculture.

Key Facts:

  • The new rule allows drones to fly beyond the operator's sight more easily.
  • Previously, companies needed a waiver to fly drones long distances; 657 waivers had already been approved.
  • The rule is intended to help with deliveries, infrastructure inspections, and agricultural use.
  • Michael Robbins described the rule as a key step for improving drone operations.
  • The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) ensures drones won't disrupt aviation.
  • The rule follows President Trump's executive orders to promote drone technology.
  • Drones' uses include search and rescue, package delivery, and even in military contexts.
  • There are concerns about drones being used in terrorism, espionage, and drug smuggling.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
Nasa to put nuclear reactor on the Moon by 2030 - US media

Nasa to put nuclear reactor on the Moon by 2030 - US media

August 05, 2025
The U.S. space agency, NASA, plans to build a nuclear reactor on the Moon by 2030. This project is part of a larger effort to establish a permanent human base on the lunar surface. NASA is seeking commercial partners to design a reactor capable of providing continuous power, which is crucial due to the Moon's unique day-night cycle.

Key Facts:

  • NASA aims to put a nuclear reactor on the Moon by 2030.
  • The goal is to support a permanent human base on the Moon.
  • Continuous power is needed on the Moon because its day-night cycle lasts about four Earth weeks.
  • NASA is inviting commercial companies to propose designs for a reactor that generates at least 100 kilowatts of power.
  • There is competition from countries like China and Russia, which also plan Moon projects.
  • Concerns exist about the feasibility and motivation behind these plans, partly due to recent NASA budget cuts.
  • Safety concerns include launching radioactive materials into space.
  • NASA's plans are linked to its Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the Moon.

Source Information

BBC US
Inside AI's billion-dollar job offer lottery

Inside AI's billion-dollar job offer lottery

August 05, 2025
Big tech companies are competing to hire top AI experts with high compensation packages, sometimes offering amounts that could reach over a billion dollars. These offers mostly consist of stock options, which can fluctuate in value depending on the company's stock performance. Many top researchers prioritize their mission and research freedom over financial gain.

Key Facts:

  • Tech companies are eager to hire top AI experts, offering very high compensation.
  • Mark Zuckerberg from Meta offered Andrew Tulloch a package worth up to $1.5 billion over six years.
  • These compensation packages usually involve stock options, not direct cash payments.
  • Stock options can decrease in value if the company’s stock price drops after hiring.
  • Researchers are often motivated by solving challenging problems more than by money.
  • Sam Altman of OpenAI suggests that a strong mission focus can attract top talent better than high pay.
  • In the past, similar hiring battles occurred in tech over skills like machine learning and internet networking.
  • High-tech AI work requires access to powerful and expensive computing resources.

Source Information

Axios
The history behind the QR code

The history behind the QR code

August 05, 2025
The article discusses the history of the QR code, which is a type of barcode used to store information. QR codes are widely used today for various purposes, like making payments and sharing information quickly.

Key Facts:

  • QR code stands for "Quick Response" code.
  • It was invented in 1994 by a Japanese company called Denso Wave.
  • Originally, QR codes were used to track auto parts during manufacturing.
  • QR codes can store a lot of information compared to regular barcodes.
  • They are commonly scanned using smartphones to access websites or make payments.
  • The use of QR codes has increased globally, especially for contactless transactions.

Source Information

BBC Tech
Jobs in video games dried up, so we made our own

Jobs in video games dried up, so we made our own

August 05, 2025
Recent graduates Holly Hudson and Harvey Hayman started their own video game studio after struggling to find jobs in the gaming industry. They released a game called "Morgan: Metal Detective" despite facing challenges like limited job vacancies and reduced funding. Others in the gaming field have also turned to creating content for platforms like Fortnite to find success.

Key Facts:

  • Holly Hudson and Harvey Hayman graduated from a game design course in 2023.
  • They faced a tough job market with many layoffs and studio closures in the gaming industry.
  • Only a small number of gaming job vacancies in the UK are for junior positions.
  • Holly and Harvey released their own game, "Morgan: Metal Detective."
  • Funding for new games has declined in the past two years, making their project largely self-financed.
  • Many graduates are starting their own studios due to the tough job market.
  • Some creators, like Sonny Tranter, find success on platforms like Fortnite by creating engaging content.
  • Fortnite shares 40% of net revenue with creators based on user engagement with their content.

Source Information

BBC Tech
First UK-based firm gets space launch licence

First UK-based firm gets space launch licence

August 05, 2025
A Scottish company, Skyrora, has become the first UK-based rocket firm to receive a space launch licence. The licence, granted by the Civil Aviation Authority, allows Skyrora to launch rockets from SaxaVord Spaceport in Shetland. The firm plans to conduct multiple launches yearly by 2030.

Key Facts:

  • Skyrora is the first UK-based rocket company to get a space launch licence.
  • The Civil Aviation Authority gave the licence to Skyrora.
  • Skyrora plans to launch from SaxaVord Spaceport in Shetland.
  • The Skylark L rocket can be launched up to 16 times a year by 2030.
  • The rocket is 11 meters tall and can reach 3.5 times the speed of sound.
  • Skylark L is designed for microgravity experiments.
  • Skyrora uses 3D-printed components for the rocket.
  • The UK space industry supports tens of thousands of jobs.

Source Information

BBC Business
He said, she said, it said: I used ChatGPT as a couple's counselor. How did we fare?

He said, she said, it said: I used ChatGPT as a couple's counselor. How did we fare?

August 05, 2025
The article discusses an individual's experience using ChatGPT, an AI chatbot, as a mediator for relationship counseling with her boyfriend. The writer explores how AI is becoming a tool for providing dating advice, particularly among younger generations. The article describes a session where the couple uses ChatGPT to address their communication differences and emotional challenges.

Key Facts:

  • ChatGPT was used as a mediator to help an individual and her boyfriend with relationship counseling.
  • AI is increasingly used by Generation Z for dating advice, as reported by a survey by Match Group.
  • Some users find AI chatbots offer objective advice, potentially better than friends or therapists.
  • The writer and her boyfriend used ChatGPT to discuss the boyfriend's stress management and their communication issues.
  • ChatGPT provided a summary of their conversation, which the writer found surprisingly candid.
  • The article mentions a perceived irony in adding technology to dating while exploring its potential benefits.
  • The writer’s friend found ChatGPT useful for evaluating potential dating partners.

Source Information

NPR Home
AI could widen the wealth gap and wipe out entry-level jobs, expert says

AI could widen the wealth gap and wipe out entry-level jobs, expert says

August 05, 2025
Experts warn that artificial intelligence (AI) could increase the wealth gap by removing many entry-level jobs. Jobs in areas like coding, software engineering, and call centers might see the most changes due to AI automation. While AI could create wealth, it may increase economic inequality unless focused measures are taken.

Key Facts:

  • AI adoption is raising concerns about potential job losses in many industries.
  • Former U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg says the impact might be felt soon, affecting many jobs in a few years.
  • Erik Brynjolfsson from Stanford highlights coding, software engineering, and call centers as sectors likely to see significant changes.
  • Brynjolfsson suggests that future jobs will need human skills like communication and creativity.
  • There is a concern that AI could widen economic inequality by benefiting technology creators over workers who lose their jobs.
  • Companies are integrating AI into daily operations, but there is a call for preparing the economy to handle these changes.

Source Information

NPR Technology

An AI expert on the future of our workforce

August 05, 2025
An AI expert, Erik Brynjolfsson, discusses the future impact of artificial intelligence on jobs. The conversation highlights concerns about whether policymakers are fully understanding these impacts.

Key Facts:

  • Erik Brynjolfsson is part of the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence.
  • He spoke with Steve Inskeep from NPR.
  • The discussion focused on how AI might change the workforce.
  • There are concerns that policymakers might not be aware of the full effects of AI on jobs.
  • The conversation is part of an NPR segment discussing technology and its impacts.

Source Information

NPR Technology
'Zombie' cells have scientists rethinking how we age — and what to do about it

'Zombie' cells have scientists rethinking how we age — and what to do about it

August 05, 2025
Scientists are studying "zombie" cells to understand and possibly change how we age. These cells are affected by stress, which impacts DNA in ways similar to aging.

Key Facts:

  • "Zombie" cells refer to damaged or stressed cells that stop dividing but don't die.
  • Research shows that stress impacts DNA changes similar to those seen in aging.
  • Scientists are exploring how these cells affect the aging process.
  • Regina G. Barber discussed this topic with science journalist Diana Kwon on NPR's Short Wave.
  • The episode looks at how stress and aging are connected on a molecular level.
  • Shortened telomeres, a part of DNA, are linked to aging and stress.
  • Understanding these connections might lead to new ways to slow or reverse aging.

Source Information

NPR Home
Will new greener brake pads be more expensive?

Will new greener brake pads be more expensive?

August 04, 2025
The European Union is introducing the first rules to limit brake emissions to help reduce pollution. New regulations will set limits on particles from brakes, and the auto industry is exploring new methods to meet these standards. These changes might lead to greener brake pads that could be more expensive.

Key Facts:

  • Brake dust and tire wear contribute significantly to pollution in cities.
  • New EU rules (Euro 7) will limit brake emissions, starting next year.
  • Current brakes emit about 8.8 mg/km of PM10 particles.
  • By 2035, EU regulations aim to cut brake emissions by 27%.
  • China is expected to introduce similar rules by 2025, focusing on even smaller particles (PM2.5).
  • Manufacturers can reduce brake emissions by strengthening brake discs or changing brake pad materials.
  • Different regions use different materials for brake pads, such as low-steel or non-asbestos organic pads, based on performance and comfort needs.

Source Information

BBC Business
James May flies to the edge of space in a U2 spy plane

James May flies to the edge of space in a U2 spy plane

August 04, 2025
James May, a television presenter, flew 70,000 feet above Earth in a U2 spy plane. He traveled to a zone known as the "edge of space," a rare experience for civilians.

Key Facts:

  • James May is a TV presenter known for his work on shows like "Top Gear."
  • May flew in a U2 spy plane, which is known for high-altitude flights.
  • The flight reached 70,000 feet, which is very high and close to space conditions.
  • This high altitude area is sometimes called the "space equivalent zone."
  • The flight took place on June 21, 2009.
  • Such flights are rare and usually not available to the general public.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories