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Technology News

Breaking news and analysis from the world of technology

What happens to the internet if no one clicks search links?

What happens to the internet if no one clicks search links?

August 04, 2025
Google's new AI Overviews feature offers answers directly on the search page without users having to click on links. This change affects how online publishers earn revenue because their income relies on clicks and site visits. Some smaller publishers are already struggling due to fewer page visits.

Key Facts:

  • Google's AI Overviews give answers without needing to click on search links.
  • Publishers rely on site visits to make money from ads.
  • Some smaller publishers are closing because of fewer clicks.
  • The Verge's publisher called the situation an "extinction-level event."
  • Google financially supports NPR, but NPR reports on Google like any other company.
  • The changes are part of a larger shift caused by AI in online search.

Source Information

NPR Business

How businesses are adapting to the AI chatbots' takeover of search engines

August 04, 2025
Businesses are changing how they operate because AI chatbots are making big changes to search engines. Companies need to adapt to these new technologies to keep up.

Key Facts:

  • AI chatbots are changing how people use the internet.
  • These chatbots alter the traditional way search engines work.
  • Companies are working quickly to adjust to these changes.
  • The shift affects the "search-for-clicks" model that has been common on the web for years.
  • Businesses need to adapt their strategies due to this shake-up.

Source Information

NPR Technology
Engineer restores pay phones for free public use

Engineer restores pay phones for free public use

August 04, 2025
An engineer in Vermont, Patrick Schlott, has repurposed old pay phones to allow free calls in areas with poor cell service. He covers the costs himself and aims to provide a reliable communication option, especially as local schools plan to limit cell phone use.

Key Facts:

  • Patrick Schlott is an electrical engineer from Vermont.
  • He restores old pay phones to provide free public calls.
  • These phones work with an internet connection and do not require coins.
  • Schlott funds the project himself, seeing it as a valuable community service.
  • Pay phones are placed in three towns in Orange County, Vermont.
  • The phones are popular for emergencies and everyday communication.
  • Vermont plans to ban cell phones in schools starting in 2026, increasing the need for alternative communication methods.
  • Schlott is exploring options to sustain his project as it grows, but he is committed to keeping calls free.

Source Information

NPR Home
What's the deal with electrolyte drinks – do you need them to stay hydrated?

What's the deal with electrolyte drinks – do you need them to stay hydrated?

August 04, 2025
The article discusses the popularity of electrolyte drinks, which are marketed as beneficial for replacing micronutrients lost through sweat. Experts say these drinks are not necessary for most people unless they are sweating heavily for long periods or losing fluids due to illness. Regular water intake and a balanced diet usually provide enough electrolytes.

Key Facts:

  • Sports drinks like Gatorade and Powerade claim to replace electrolytes lost through sweat.
  • U.S. consumers spend over $10 billion annually on sports drinks.
  • Electrolytes are minerals like sodium, potassium, and magnesium that help with cell function.
  • Experts say electrolyte drinks are not needed unless experiencing heavy, prolonged sweating or rapid fluid loss from illness.
  • A balanced diet with fruits and vegetables provides sufficient electrolytes for most people.
  • The body regulates electrolytes naturally, such as through kidney function and releasing stored electrolytes from bones.
  • Excess electrolytes are excreted, so extra intake is often unnecessary.

Source Information

NPR Home
What to know about Delta’s use of AI to adjust ticket prices in real time

What to know about Delta’s use of AI to adjust ticket prices in real time

August 03, 2025
Delta Airlines is using artificial intelligence (AI) to help set ticket prices. This marks a new approach in the airline industry to adjust prices based on real-time data.

Key Facts:

  • Delta Airlines is the first major airline to use AI for ticket pricing.
  • AI helps in setting fares based on real-time information.
  • The airline industry is trying new methods to change prices quickly.
  • This approach represents a shift in how airlines determine ticket costs.
  • Reuters reporter David Shepardson shared details about this development.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

Minnesota is set to include warning labels on social media sites.

August 03, 2025
Minnesota plans to add warning labels on social media websites to alert users about potential mental health risks. Social media companies are trying to stop the law from being enforced. New York might also pass a similar law soon.

Key Facts:

  • Minnesota plans to add mental health warning labels on social media sites.
  • These warnings will appear when people in Minnesota use these sites.
  • The goal is to inform users about possible mental health effects.
  • The law is expected to be in place by next year.
  • Social media companies are opposing this law in court.
  • New York is considering a similar warning label law.

Source Information

NPR Technology
First UK testing of unmanned police helicopter

First UK testing of unmanned police helicopter

August 03, 2025
The UK has conducted its first test of an unmanned police helicopter, designed to join existing air support fleets. The new drone can fly for up to 12 hours and is intended to assist in searches for suspects and missing people while reducing emissions and noise. The test program is funded by the Home Office and involves collaboration with aviation authorities.

Key Facts:

  • The unmanned police helicopter is larger and has a greater range than current police drones.
  • It can fly for up to 12 hours continuously.
  • The aircraft uses the same high-powered infrared cameras as manned police helicopters.
  • The drone is expected to be quieter and produce fewer emissions compared to traditional helicopters.
  • Night-time test flights are happening over the Bristol Channel.
  • The Home Office funds these tests, with oversight from the Civil Aviation Authority and National Air Traffic Services.
  • Initial applications include searching for missing persons, with trial flights continuing through October.
  • NPAS aims for a mixed fleet of manned and unmanned aircraft in future operations.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories

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AI slop is ruining all of our favorite places to scroll

AI slop is ruining all of our favorite places to scroll

August 03, 2025
A recent AI-generated video of rabbits jumping on a trampoline fooled many people into thinking it was real. Similar AI content is becoming more common across the internet, affecting various online communities and platforms by replacing human-made content. This rise in fake content is partly because it attracts attention and engagement, which algorithms favor.

Key Facts:

  • An AI-generated video of rabbits on a trampoline went viral, misleading many viewers.
  • AI content is appearing in different online spaces, like gardening and DIY communities.
  • AI-generated images often lack the small imperfections seen in real photos.
  • A Vogue ad used an AI model, raising concerns about job losses in modeling and photography.
  • AI-generated content is profitable because it can increase viewer engagement.
  • Tools from companies like OpenAI, Google, and Meta are creating this synthetic content.
  • The term "AI slop" describes the overflow of AI-generated media into human-focused spaces.
  • There is concern about platforms promoting this type of content, which may drive users away.

Source Information

Axios
Criminals cash in on TikTok Labubu trend with dangerous fakes

Criminals cash in on TikTok Labubu trend with dangerous fakes

August 02, 2025
Police in London seized fake Labubu dolls, popularized by TikTok, after tracing them from a south Wales shop. The fake dolls are dangerous as small parts can come off easily and may cause choking hazards. Counterfeit sales rise quickly as criminals aim to profit from popular trends.

Key Facts:

  • Police seized fake Labubu dolls from an industrial estate in London.
  • The dolls are popular due to a TikTok trend, boosting sales for Pop Mart.
  • Some people wait in long lines to buy genuine Labubu dolls.
  • Fake dolls have parts that can easily come apart, posing choking risks.
  • Authorities found many fakes in UK ports, indicating a large influx.
  • The Intellectual Property Office links quick counterfeiting to criminal profits.
  • A mother bought fake dolls because genuine ones were too expensive.
  • Counterfeiting is a major source of criminal income.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
New book explores the science behind ‘super aging’ and longer, healthier lifespans

New book explores the science behind ‘super aging’ and longer, healthier lifespans

August 02, 2025
Dr. Eric Topol discusses the future of slowing down aging and extending healthy life spans in his new book, "Super Agers: An Evidence-Based Approach to Longevity." He explains advances in science that might help people live active and disease-free lives into very old age.

Key Facts:

  • Dr. Eric Topol wrote a book called "Super Agers: An Evidence-Based Approach to Longevity."
  • The book looks at scientific ways to slow down aging.
  • The goal is to help people live longer, healthier lives, staying active and free from diseases.
  • Advances in science could make extended healthy aging a reality soon.
  • Dr. Topol discussed these ideas with Ali Rogin.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
Tea encouraged its users to spill. Then the app's data got leaked

Tea encouraged its users to spill. Then the app's data got leaked

August 02, 2025
A data breach at the Tea app, which is used for sharing information about online dating matches, exposed users' sensitive personal data. The breach affected users who signed up before February 2024 and led to legal action against the company.

Key Facts:

  • The Tea app focuses on sharing information about online dating matches.
  • In July 2025, a data breach leaked users' sensitive data, like government IDs and direct messages.
  • Users' data was accessed and spread on forums like 4chan.
  • The breach affected users who registered before February 2024.
  • The app has over 6.2 million female users.
  • Two class action lawsuits have been filed in California because of the breach.
  • Whisper networks, like Tea, are online platforms where women share information about safety in dating.

Source Information

NPR Home
Beijing's hackers are playing the long game

Beijing's hackers are playing the long game

August 02, 2025
Chinese hackers are increasingly targeting sensitive U.S. systems, including federal agencies and infrastructure, by gaining long-term access. They aim to maintain this access for potential disruptive activities. Several China-based hacker groups have been linked to numerous cyberattacks over recent years, growing more sophisticated in their methods.

Key Facts:

  • Chinese hackers aim to maintain long-term access to U.S. systems, targeting areas like federal agencies and water utilities.
  • At least three China-based hacking groups exploited SharePoint server weaknesses, compromising more than 400 systems.
  • Hackers stole machine keys, allowing them to regain access even after system patches unless manual actions are taken.
  • More than 330 cyberattacks linked to China were reported last year, as per CrowdStrike.
  • The Volt Typhoon group targets U.S. infrastructure like pipelines and railways to prepare for potential disruptive actions.
  • Silk Typhoon has targeting links to the U.S. Treasury Department using zero-day vulnerabilities.
  • China is using private contractors to enhance capabilities and obscure state involvement.
  • The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency has reduced its workforce, affecting cyber defense capabilities.

Source Information

Axios
I've seen her name and photo - but we can't talk before the date. Will it work out?

I've seen her name and photo - but we can't talk before the date. Will it work out?

August 02, 2025
A new dating app skips pre-date chatting and connects users straight to their dates. This app aims to reduce online dating fatigue by shortening the talking stage before meetings. The article explores how dating apps are evolving to address user dissatisfaction and burnout.

Key Facts:

  • The app allows users to match online but stops them from chatting until a few hours before their date.
  • The writer previously used dating apps like Hinge, Tinder, and Bumble.
  • Online dating gained popularity during Covid lockdowns.
  • Many people experience online dating burnout due to repetitive profiles and behaviors.
  • New apps and features, like Tinder's double date and Hinge's premium services, aim to meet user interests.
  • A survey showed that almost 10% of UK adults met their partner through a dating app.
  • Studies show dissatisfaction with online dating: women receive too many matches, whereas men often struggle and pay for features.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Tech Now

Tech Now

August 02, 2025
The article discusses a new research paper that looks at the potential impacts of artificial intelligence (AI), including the possibility of AI posing a danger to humanity. This episode is part of a series called "Tech Now," which examines different technological developments.

Key Facts:

  • The article highlights a research paper about the future impacts of artificial intelligence.
  • The research considers whether AI could become a threat to human existence.
  • The discussion is part of a series called "Tech Now."
  • The series covers various technology topics, including AI and esports.
  • "Tech Now" episodes explore technological innovations and their effects on different areas like gaming and sustainability.

Source Information

BBC Tech
Tesla found partly to blame for fatal Autopilot crash

Tesla found partly to blame for fatal Autopilot crash

August 01, 2025
A Florida jury decided that Tesla was partly responsible for a 2019 crash where a self-driving Model S killed a pedestrian and injured another. The jury awarded $329 million in damages, with Tesla responsible for paying a significant portion. Tesla plans to appeal the verdict.

Key Facts:

  • The crash took place in 2019 in the Florida Keys, involving a Tesla Model S using Autopilot.
  • The incident resulted in the death of Naibel Benavides Leon and severe injuries to her boyfriend, Dillon Angulo.
  • The court found Tesla partly liable, awarding $329 million in total damages, with Tesla required to pay one-third of the compensatory damages and all punitive damages.
  • Tesla argues the driver, George McGee, was at fault, saying he was speeding and not looking at the road.
  • Tesla plans to appeal the decision, claiming the verdict undermines automotive safety.
  • The verdict is significant as it marks the first jury decision in an Autopilot case involving Tesla.

Source Information

BBC US
Watch: SpaceX and Nasa launch crew headed to the ISS

Watch: SpaceX and Nasa launch crew headed to the ISS

August 01, 2025
SpaceX and NASA successfully launched a Falcon 9 rocket from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The mission aims to send a three-man, one-woman crew to the International Space Station (ISS) after a weather-related delay.

Key Facts:

  • SpaceX and NASA launched a Falcon 9 rocket to the ISS.
  • The launch occurred one day later than planned due to weather.
  • The rocket took off from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
  • The crew heading to the ISS consists of three men and one woman.
  • The mission is part of ongoing space exploration efforts.
  • The International Space Station serves as a space research facility.

Source Information

BBC US
Astronaut crew launches to ISS after being sidelined by Boeing’s troubled Starliner

Astronaut crew launches to ISS after being sidelined by Boeing’s troubled Starliner

August 01, 2025
Four astronauts, previously delayed due to issues with Boeing's Starliner, launched to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard a SpaceX capsule. This crew, consisting of members from the U.S., Japan, and Russia, will stay at the ISS for at least six months. NASA is adapting its plans for longer missions and fewer crew members due to budget constraints and Starliner's continued problems.

Key Facts:

  • Four astronauts launched to the ISS using a SpaceX capsule after delays due to Boeing's Starliner issues.
  • The crew includes astronauts from the U.S., Japan, and Russia.
  • The SpaceX capsule will remain at the ISS for at least six months.
  • NASA is considering extending space station missions from six to eight months to save money.
  • Boeing's Starliner spacecraft faced thruster failures and helium leaks, delaying further crewed missions until at least 2026.
  • NASA and Russia plan to cooperate on steering the aging ISS into the Pacific by 2030.
  • SpaceX's final mission for NASA will involve returning the deorbit vehicle to the space station by 2029.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

A camera built for forensics aims to make exams for sexual assault survivors easier

August 01, 2025
New forensic cameras are being used in Ohio hospitals to assist in the examination of sexual assault survivors. These cameras are intended to make collecting evidence more straightforward and effective.

Key Facts:

  • Hospitals in Ohio are using new forensic cameras in emergency rooms.
  • The cameras aim to help medical personnel conduct exams more easily.
  • These exams are important for gathering evidence in sexual assault cases.
  • The new technology could improve the accuracy of the examinations.
  • The goal is to make the process more conclusive and less difficult for survivors.

Source Information

NPR National
Is AI transforming the future of healthcare?

Is AI transforming the future of healthcare?

August 01, 2025
Artificial intelligence is now being used in healthcare to help diagnose diseases and support mental health. There are questions about trust, responsibility, and the future impact of AI in healthcare.

Key Facts:

  • AI helps diagnose rare diseases and supports people with anxiety and depression.
  • Traditional roles of healthcare professionals are being supplemented by AI.
  • There are trust issues concerning AI in critical healthcare decisions.
  • Accountability for mistakes made by AI in healthcare is a concern.
  • Experts involved in the discussion include a psychologist, an ICU doctor, and a technologist.
  • The integration of AI in healthcare is causing changes and could reshape the industry.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
SpaceX launches international crew to space station on 6-month NASA mission

SpaceX launches international crew to space station on 6-month NASA mission

August 01, 2025
An international crew launched on SpaceX's Crew-11 mission from Florida to the International Space Station (ISS). The crew includes astronauts from NASA, Japan's space agency, and Russia. They will live and work on the ISS for about six months, conducting scientific experiments.

Key Facts:

  • SpaceX launched Crew-11 to the ISS on a Falcon 9 rocket from Kennedy Space Center, Florida.
  • The mission includes NASA's Zena Cardman and Mike Fincke, Japan's Kimiya Yui, and Russia's Oleg Platonov.
  • The crew will conduct experiments on plant cell division and the effects of microgravity on viruses.
  • Another experiment focuses on producing a high volume of human stem cells.
  • Crew-11 marks SpaceX's 12th mission with NASA astronauts to the ISS under the Commercial Crew Program.
  • The ISS has had people living on it continuously since October 31, 2000.
  • Zena Cardman is making her first trip to space as the mission commander.
  • The ISS is expected to be retired by the end of the decade.

Source Information

NPR Home