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Technology News

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US tech firms successfully lobbied EU to keep datacentre emissions secret

US tech firms successfully lobbied EU to keep datacentre emissions secret

April 17, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

US tech companies, including Microsoft, successfully influenced the European Union to keep information about datacentre emissions secret. This decision prevents the public from seeing pollution details from individual datacentres, allowing only country-level data to be shared.

Key Facts

  • Microsoft and other US tech firms lobbied the EU to block public access to environmental data on datacentres.
  • The European Commission included a confidentiality rule in its 2024 proposal, closely matching the tech industry's wording.
  • This secrecy stops detailed pollution monitoring at the individual datacentre level, limiting transparency.
  • Datacentres use a lot of energy, partly from burning fossil gas, to support AI technology growth.
  • The EU plans to triple datacentre capacity to strengthen its position in artificial intelligence.
  • Tech companies argued data must remain secret for commercial reasons during 2024 public consultations.
  • The rule prevents freedom of information requests for detailed datacentre emissions data.
  • Groups involved in lobbying include Microsoft, DigitalEurope (members like Google, Amazon, Meta), and Video Games Europe (includes Netflix).
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Guardian World Guardian Tech
Liz Kendall urges UK public to embrace AI as government makes first £500m fund investment

Liz Kendall urges UK public to embrace AI as government makes first £500m fund investment

April 17, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

The UK government has started investing in artificial intelligence (AI) through a new £500 million fund, aiming to support local AI companies and innovation. Despite concerns about job losses and cybersecurity risks, officials say AI presents an important opportunity to create jobs and solve major problems.

Key Facts

  • The UK government launched a £500 million sovereign AI fund to invest in AI companies.
  • The first investment was made in Callosum, a London-based company that helps different computer chips work together to improve AI performance.
  • The government also invested in a second, unnamed AI business.
  • Six UK AI startups are getting access to government-funded supercomputers to help develop AI models.
  • Startups benefiting from supercomputers include Prima Mente (disease research), Cursive (autonomous AI agents), and Odyssey (AI world simulations).
  • Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said AI will create new jobs even though some roles may be automated.
  • Chancellor Rachel Reeves said supporting UK AI companies helps keep competitive businesses in Britain.
  • Callosum's co-founder highlighted the UK's strong universities and AI labs like DeepMind as reasons to build the company there.
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Guardian World Guardian Tech
‘How do I end a call?’: the elderly Japanese people determined to master smartphones

‘How do I end a call?’: the elderly Japanese people determined to master smartphones

April 17, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A group of elderly people in Tokyo are attending beginner classes to learn how to use smartphones. This effort comes as Japan’s mobile networks have ended older 3G services, pushing users to adopt newer 4G and 5G phones to keep communication and services.

Key Facts

  • The class includes mostly people in their 70s learning to use iPhones and Android phones.
  • Japan fully shut down its 3G networks by March 2024 to save energy and retire old equipment.
  • Around half a million people and over 400 phone models were affected by the 3G shutdown.
  • Some older flip phones still work on 4G, but many users must switch to smartphones or lose phone service.
  • Phone companies offer classes to teach older users how to manage calls, online shopping, photos, and security.
  • Participants want to learn about health trackers, weather apps, and safe internet habits.
  • Many elderly users feel overwhelmed by smartphone features but are determined to stay connected.
  • Instructors emphasize practice and caution with scams, recommending ignoring suspicious messages or calls.
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Guardian World Guardian Tech
Popular weight loss medications linked to hidden side effects, study finds

Popular weight loss medications linked to hidden side effects, study finds

April 17, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

A recent study found that about 4% of people who use popular weight loss drugs experience irregular menstrual cycles. This side effect was not widely known before the research.

Key Facts

  • The study focused on common weight loss medications.
  • 4% of users reported problems with their menstrual cycles.
  • The side effect involves irregular or abnormal periods.
  • Neil Sehgal is the lead author of the study.
  • The study reveals hidden side effects that users should know about.
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The Hill
AI version of Val Kilmer to star in new movie after his death

AI version of Val Kilmer to star in new movie after his death

April 16, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Actor Val Kilmer, who passed away in April, will appear in a new movie through the use of artificial intelligence (AI). Filmmakers used AI to recreate his voice and image for the film after his death.

Key Facts

  • Val Kilmer died in April before the new movie was made.
  • His voice and image were recreated using AI technology.
  • AI allows filmmakers to digitally bring back actors who are no longer alive.
  • This technology can produce realistic versions of a person’s speech and appearance.
  • The movie featuring Kilmer’s AI version will be released after his death.
  • This use of AI in movies is part of a growing trend in the film industry.
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CBS News
Artemis II astronauts detail 'intense' reentry in interview with ABC News' David Muir

Artemis II astronauts detail 'intense' reentry in interview with ABC News' David Muir

April 16, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

The astronauts of NASA's Artemis II mission described their intense experience returning to Earth after a 10-day trip around the moon. They explained how the spacecraft heated to 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit and experienced a six-minute communication blackout caused by Earth's atmosphere during reentry.

Key Facts

  • The Artemis II crew included commander Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor Glover, mission specialist Christina Koch, and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen.
  • Reentry into Earth's atmosphere is much more intense than rocket launch, creating extreme heat and a plasma bubble around the spacecraft.
  • The heat reached up to 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit during reentry.
  • The plasma bubble blocked radio signals for about six minutes, causing a communications blackout with Mission Control.
  • The astronauts experienced a strong "rumbling" sensation that cannot be replicated on Earth before landing.
  • Commander Wiseman reassured the crew by saying "Everything's nominal," meaning everything was working normally.
  • Pilot Victor Glover maintained precise control of the spacecraft under four times Earth's gravity for 13 minutes, which was key to a safe reentry and splashdown.
  • The splashdown in the ocean was described as textbook, meaning it went exactly as planned.
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ABC News
Could a digital twin make you into a 'superworker'?

Could a digital twin make you into a 'superworker'?

April 16, 2026 • BBC Tech

Summary

A company called Bloor Research has created "digital twins," which are AI copies of their employees that can help with work tasks by using knowledge from meetings, documents, and calls. These digital twins assist employees with business decisions and even help cover workloads during absences. Other companies are starting to test this technology, and it could become common soon.

Key Facts

  • Richard Skellett, chief analyst at Bloor Research, has built an AI "Digital Richard" that knows everything he does.
  • Digital Richard helps with work tasks like decision-making and presentations and can also assist with personal tasks.
  • Bloor Research offers digital twins to all its employees and has used them to support retiring staff and those on leave.
  • Around 20 other companies are testing digital twin technology, with plans for wider release later this year.
  • Analysts predict digital replicas of workers will become mainstream, similar to AI mimicking artists.
  • There are questions about who owns the digital twins, access rights, payment for extra work, and responsibility for mistakes.
  • Bloor Research says employees should own their digital twins and companies pay to access them.
  • Bloor pays its staff based on results rather than hours worked, allowing employees to earn more through their digital twin’s help.
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BBC Tech BBC Business
This is the fastest-growing job for young workers, LinkedIn says

This is the fastest-growing job for young workers, LinkedIn says

April 16, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

LinkedIn reports that "AI engineer" is the fastest-growing job title for young workers in the U.S. for the second year in a row. These engineers design and manage artificial intelligence tools that help businesses work better and solve problems.

Key Facts

  • LinkedIn studied millions of profiles to find the most hired entry-level jobs in the past three years.
  • From 2023 to 2025, there were 639,000 AI-related job postings in the U.S., with 75,000 for AI engineer roles.
  • AI engineers build and maintain AI systems that can make decisions, find patterns, and improve over time.
  • Tech companies hire the most AI engineers, followed by finance, defense, universities, and consulting firms.
  • Job listings say AI engineers help solve business challenges, boost efficiency, and reduce manual work.
  • Young workers face higher unemployment (6.4%) than the overall rate (4.3%) as some jobs are replaced by AI tools.
  • After ChatGPT launched in 2022, jobs with repetitive tasks dropped by 13%, showing AI’s impact on the job market.
  • Employers increasingly want entry-level workers with AI skills to help use AI effectively in their companies.
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CBS News
Intel refreshes non-Ultra Core CPUs with new silicon for the first time

Intel refreshes non-Ultra Core CPUs with new silicon for the first time

April 16, 2026 • Ars Technica

Summary

Intel has introduced new non-Ultra Core laptop processors called "Wildcat Lake," which use new silicon rather than relying on older designs. These chips have simpler designs compared to Intel’s higher-end Core Ultra Series 3 processors but bring improvements in battery life and modern connectivity features.

Key Facts

  • The new chips are named "Wildcat Lake" and belong to Intel’s Core Series 3 lineup for laptops.
  • They include up to two performance cores and four efficiency cores in the CPU design.
  • Each processor has an integrated GPU with one or two of Intel’s latest Xe3 cores.
  • An NPU (Neural Processing Unit) is included but supports up to 17 trillion operations per second, lower than some high-end AI requirements.
  • These chips support modern connections like Thunderbolt 4, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth 6.0.
  • They can use up to 48GB of LPDDR5X or 64GB of DDR5 memory.
  • The processors run on a 15 W base power with a boost of up to 35 W.
  • Intel claims improved battery life on these chips compared to previous generations, with over 12 hours of office work and up to 18 hours of video streaming on a 59 WHr battery.
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Ars Technica
Why Prime Video Crime Drama With 100% on Rotten Tomatoes Was Cancelled

Why Prime Video Crime Drama With 100% on Rotten Tomatoes Was Cancelled

April 16, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Amazon Freevee's crime show "Bosch: Legacy," which had perfect reviews on Rotten Tomatoes, was cancelled after three seasons. The decision surprised the cast and was likely due to financial reasons despite plans for a fourth season.

Key Facts

  • "Bosch: Legacy" aired on Amazon Freevee and received a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
  • The show was cancelled in September 2024, before the third season even premiered.
  • Actor Titus Welliver, who plays Harry Bosch, said the cancellation came as a surprise to the cast.
  • Financial issues and budget limits at studios may have contributed to the cancellation.
  • "Bosch: Legacy" is a sequel to the original "Bosch" series, which ran for seven seasons on Prime Video.
  • No official fourth season of "Bosch: Legacy" is planned.
  • Amazon approved a spin-off show centered on Renee Ballard, a character from the same book series.
  • Titus Welliver said he wouldn’t be shocked if "Bosch: Legacy" returns someday depending on fan interest.
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Newsweek
OpenAI starts offering a biology-tuned LLM

OpenAI starts offering a biology-tuned LLM

April 16, 2026 • Ars Technica

Summary

OpenAI has created a new large language model called GPT-Rosalind that is specially trained to help biology researchers. This model focuses on common biology tasks and databases and aims to assist with understanding complex biological processes and identifying drug targets.

Key Facts

  • GPT-Rosalind is named after Rosalind Franklin, a famous scientist.
  • The model is trained on 50 common biology workflows and major public biology databases.
  • It helps connect genetics (genotype) to physical traits (phenotype) by understanding biological pathways.
  • The model is designed to be skeptical and caution users about poor drug target suggestions.
  • Access to GPT-Rosalind is currently limited to certain US-based researchers to avoid misuse.
  • OpenAI also plans to release a simpler Life Sciences Research Plugin for wider use.
  • Unlike other science models, GPT-Rosalind is focused specifically on biology rather than multiple scientific fields.
  • The model’s effectiveness and ability to avoid errors like hallucinations are still being evaluated.
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Ars Technica
Mozilla launches Thunderbolt AI client with focus on self-hosted infrastructure

Mozilla launches Thunderbolt AI client with focus on self-hosted infrastructure

April 16, 2026 • Ars Technica

Summary

Mozilla has introduced Thunderbolt, a new AI client designed for businesses and users who want to run their own AI systems without using cloud services. Thunderbolt works with an open-source AI framework called Haystack and supports secure data use and privacy features.

Key Facts

  • Thunderbolt is an AI client that runs on self-hosted infrastructure, meaning users control their own AI setup.
  • It is built on Haystack, an open-source AI framework for creating custom AI workflows.
  • Thunderbolt can connect to various AI services compatible with ACP or OpenAI APIs, including Claude, Codex, and others.
  • The system can use local enterprise data and an offline SQLite database for reliable data access.
  • Security features include optional end-to-end encryption and device-level access controls.
  • Thunderbolt supports many AI uses such as chat, search, research, automation, and workflows that work across devices.
  • Native apps are available for Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, and web platforms.
  • Mozilla encourages businesses to contact them for paid licenses and on-site setups as Thunderbolt is still being developed and security-checked.
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Ars Technica
Artemis II crew describes Moon mission and splashdown moment

Artemis II crew describes Moon mission and splashdown moment

April 16, 2026 • BBC US

Summary

The Artemis II crew, made up of NASA and Canadian astronauts, completed a 10-day mission flying around the Moon and held a press conference to share their experience. Their trip started on April 1 from Florida, and the Artemis program aims to send humans back to the Moon, build a permanent base there, and prepare for missions to Mars.

Key Facts

  • The Artemis II mission lasted 10 days and orbited the Moon.
  • Astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen were on the crew.
  • The mission launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on April 1.
  • The spacecraft traveled beyond the far side (the side facing away from Earth) of the Moon.
  • Artemis missions are designed to return humans to the Moon’s surface.
  • The long-term goal is to create a permanent base on the Moon.
  • NASA plans to send astronauts to Mars in the future using knowledge gained from Artemis.
  • This was the crew’s first press conference after the mission, where they described their trip and the landing back on Earth.
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BBC US BBC World
WATCH: Roblox reaches $10 miillion settlement with Nevada in regards to child safety

WATCH: Roblox reaches $10 miillion settlement with Nevada in regards to child safety

April 16, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

Roblox, a popular online gaming company for children, has agreed to pay $10 million to settle a case with the state of Nevada about child safety. The settlement was announced by Nevada’s attorney general on April 16, 2026.

Key Facts

  • Roblox is a digital platform where children play games online.
  • Nevada raised concerns about how Roblox protects children on its platform.
  • Roblox agreed to a $10 million settlement with Nevada.
  • The settlement is related to child safety issues on Roblox.
  • The announcement was made by Nevada’s attorney general.
  • The date of the announcement was April 16, 2026.
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ABC News
Altman attack suspect suggested ‘Luigi’ing some tech CEOs’ in online chat

Altman attack suspect suggested ‘Luigi’ing some tech CEOs’ in online chat

April 16, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

A man named Daniel Moreno-Gama, suspected of trying to kill OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, wrote in an online chat about "Luigi’ing" tech CEOs. This term refers to Luigi Mangione, who is accused of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.

Key Facts

  • Daniel Moreno-Gama is suspected of attempting to murder Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI.
  • Moreno-Gama mentioned "Luigi’ing" tech CEOs in an online conversation late last year.
  • "Luigi’ing" refers to actions linked to Luigi Mangione, accused of killing a healthcare CEO.
  • The suspect was first contacted by a team member from the podcast “The Last Invention.”
  • The online chat reveals discussions about targeting technology company leaders.
  • The situation involves threats against important figures in the tech industry.
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The Hill
New Codex features include the ability to use your computer in the background

New Codex features include the ability to use your computer in the background

April 16, 2026 • Ars Technica

Summary

OpenAI has released a new version of its Codex desktop app that can perform tasks on a computer while running in the background without disturbing the user. The update also adds features like an in-app web browser, the ability to schedule tasks in advance, generate images, and support for more plugins to work beyond software development.

Key Facts

  • Codex can now use apps in the background by controlling the mouse and keyboard without interrupting the user.
  • Multiple Codex agents can work on a Mac at the same time without interference.
  • The app can schedule tasks hours, days, or weeks ahead and run them at the right time.
  • It includes an in-app web browser for reviewing tasks and leaving feedback on web pages.
  • Codex can generate images using a tool called gpt-image-1.5 for design mockups.
  • It supports running multiple terminal tabs and acting on GitHub review comments.
  • The update adds 90 new plugins for both developer and general knowledge work.
  • These changes are steps toward building OpenAI’s planned “super app,” combining various tools into one platform.
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Ars Technica
The Ukraine war's deep impact on Metro 2039’s development, story

The Ukraine war's deep impact on Metro 2039’s development, story

April 16, 2026 • Ars Technica

Summary

The developers of the video game Metro 2039 explain how the war in Ukraine has changed their game’s story and development process. Most of the team is Ukrainian and has faced challenges like power outages and attacks while working on the game. The game’s story now focuses more on the consequences of war, reflecting the developers’ real-life experiences.

Key Facts

  • Metro 2039 is the next game in the Metro series, developed by 4A Studios.
  • 4A Studios was founded in Kyiv, Ukraine, but is now officially based in Malta.
  • The majority of the developers working on Metro 2039 are Ukrainian.
  • The ongoing war in Ukraine has interrupted their work with power cuts and drone attacks.
  • The game’s story has shifted to show the harsh realities and consequences of war.
  • Metro 2039 is set in a post-apocalyptic Moscow metro with themes of authoritarian control and propaganda.
  • The developers use their own game engine to create detailed, ray-traced environments.
  • The game features "frozen stories," where scenes show moments stopped by sudden events, like a death or an unfinished activity.
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Ars Technica
Microsoft and Stellantis want to use AI to help car owners

Microsoft and Stellantis want to use AI to help car owners

April 16, 2026 • Ars Technica

Summary

Stellantis, a global car company, has started a five-year partnership with Microsoft to use artificial intelligence (AI) to improve its cars and services. They plan to enhance vehicle features, boost cybersecurity, and make their digital systems better, all while aiming to reduce the use of large data centers.

Key Facts

  • Stellantis owns brands like Alfa Romeo, Vauxhall, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram.
  • Microsoft will help Stellantis improve digital services, cybersecurity, and engineering using AI.
  • AI will be used for things like predictive maintenance (warning about car issues before they happen) and efficiency coaching (helping drivers save fuel).
  • The partnership aims to strengthen connected services, such as ensuring Jeep drivers stay connected even in remote areas.
  • They want to reduce Stellantis’ data center size by 60% by 2029, meaning they will use computing power more efficiently.
  • Stellantis is already using AI in areas such as vehicle design and manufacturing.
  • Microsoft’s cloud and security technology will support Stellantis in making these changes safely.
  • The collaboration focuses on responsible and secure use of AI in the automotive industry.
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Ars Technica
Gemini can now create personalized AI images by digging around in Google Photos

Gemini can now create personalized AI images by digging around in Google Photos

April 16, 2026 • Ars Technica

Summary

Google’s AI tool Gemini can now use your Google Photos to create more personalized images. If you choose to allow it, Gemini will look at your photos and labels to better understand prompts and produce AI-generated images that fit your personal context.

Key Facts

  • Google introduced “personal intelligence” in Gemini earlier this year to customize AI chatbot experiences.
  • Gemini’s image generator, Nano Banana 2, can now access your Google Photos if you opt in.
  • Access to your photos helps Gemini understand prompts like “my family” or “my dog” without extra details from you.
  • This feature aims to make generating AI images easier and more accurate by using your photo content and labels.
  • Google does not use your photos for AI training but uses your text prompts and AI outputs to improve its services.
  • Personal intelligence is off by default and currently available only to paying Google AI users, with plans to expand.
  • You can control which Google services Gemini connects to, including Gmail and YouTube.
  • Users can manually select photos for Gemini to use if automatic choices are not accurate.
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Ars Technica
First look: Also's upcoming e-bike disconnects the pedals and wheels

First look: Also's upcoming e-bike disconnects the pedals and wheels

April 16, 2026 • Ars Technica

Summary

A startup called Also is making a new electric bike that does not directly connect pedaling to turning the wheels. Instead, pedaling powers a generator that sends electricity to a motor, with software controlling how much effort the rider feels and how the motor assists. The bike aims to feel like a normal bike most of the time but can switch to a stronger electric mode for help when needed.

Key Facts

  • Also’s bike, called the TM-B, separates pedaling from wheel movement using a generator and motor system.
  • The feeling of pedaling and assistance is controlled fully by software.
  • The bike has rear suspension, a belt drive, and a swappable seat design.
  • Also designed its own custom motor and generator housed in a strong magnesium frame.
  • The battery uses the same type of cells as those in Rivian electric cars but with lower density.
  • Also’s team wants the bike to feel natural and familiar to riders despite its new technology.
  • The company was inspired by how electric cars use software to control driving.
  • The bike’s parts are mostly made in-house, with only some standard components sourced from other manufacturers.
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Ars Technica
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