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Apple at 50: Three products that changed how we live - and three that really didn't

Apple at 50: Three products that changed how we live - and three that really didn't

April 04, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Apple, now 50 years old, has significantly influenced everyday technology use. Some of its major hits include the iPod, iPhone, and Apple Watch. The company has experienced both big successes and some failures over the years.

Key Facts

  • Apple was founded 50 years ago by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak in a garage in San Francisco.
  • The iPod, released in 2001, revolutionized digital music by making it easy to download and manage music legally.
  • The iPhone, introduced by Steve Jobs in 2007, brought together music, phone, and internet functions into one device.
  • More than 200 million iPhones are sold each year, with one selling every seven seconds worldwide.
  • The Apple Watch, launched in 2015 under CEO Tim Cook, marked Apple's entry into wearable technology.
  • Apple products are owned by nearly one-third of the global population.
  • Apple's marketing strategy played a crucial role in the widespread adoption of its products.
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BBC Top Stories BBC Tech
Everyone is Saying the Same Thing About Netflix's New Detective Drama

Everyone is Saying the Same Thing About Netflix's New Detective Drama

April 04, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Netflix released a new detective drama called "Detective Hole," based on a novel by Jo Nesbø. The series is nine episodes long and has received generally positive reviews, but some critics feel it is a bit too lengthy.

Key Facts

  • "Detective Hole" is a Netflix detective series adapted from Jo Nesbø's novel.
  • The show was released in March 2026 and has nine episodes.
  • The series stars Tobias Santelmann as the main character, Harry Hole, and Joel Kinnaman as Tom Waaler.
  • Critics gave the show a 92% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
  • The story follows Harry Hole, an Oslo detective investigating a serial killer.
  • Critics say the series is long, with some suggesting it could benefit from fewer episodes.
  • The soundtrack is composed by Nick Cave and Warren Ellis.
  • The series is part of Netflix's Nordic noir presentation.
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Newsweek
Robot Police Dogs Powered by AI Take Over Atlanta's Streets

Robot Police Dogs Powered by AI Take Over Atlanta's Streets

April 04, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Robot police dogs powered by AI use cameras and sensors to help patrol areas in Atlanta. These robots provide a cheaper and continuous security option but have raised concerns about privacy and civil liberties.

Key Facts

  • Robot dogs powered by AI are patrolling streets, apartments, and construction sites in Atlanta.
  • The robots are developed by companies like Undaunted and Cobalt Robotics.
  • These robot dogs have cameras, lights, sirens, and speakers to help with surveillance.
  • They follow pre-set routes and stream 360-degree video to operators who can intervene if needed.
  • The Atlanta Police Department plans to use these robots to help reduce crime in high-crime areas.
  • There are concerns about the impact on privacy and civil liberties with the use of such surveillance technology.
  • The AI-powered dogs are equipped with object recognition software and thermal imaging sensors.
  • The police robots, known as Hound Units, will operate around the clock.
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Newsweek
Paramount+ is Cancelling Crime Series With 100% Rating on Rotten Tomatoes

Paramount+ is Cancelling Crime Series With 100% Rating on Rotten Tomatoes

April 04, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Paramount+ will end the crime series "Mayor of Kingstown" after its fifth season, despite its rising popularity and a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Paramount hasn't explained why it isn’t renewing the show, which did not consistently rank in top viewership like other shows by creator Taylor Sheridan.

Key Facts

  • "Mayor of Kingstown" will conclude after its fifth and final season.
  • The show received a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes for season four.
  • Paramount+ did not give a reason for not renewing the series.
  • Season five will have eight episodes, fewer than previous seasons, which had ten each.
  • The series started on November 14, 2021.
  • Shows like "Landman" and "Tulsa King," also by Taylor Sheridan, have seen more consistent viewer numbers.
  • Paramount+ is focusing on other projects by Taylor Sheridan, including several "Yellowstone" spin-offs.
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Newsweek
NASA Releases New Lunar Photos as Artemis II Passes Halfway Point

NASA Releases New Lunar Photos as Artemis II Passes Halfway Point

April 04, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

NASA's Artemis II mission, which has reached its halfway point, aims to test new deep-space systems by sending astronauts around the moon. The mission involves four astronauts taking photos of the moon's far side, but they will not land. This mission is part of NASA's plan to establish a lasting human presence on the moon and prepare for missions to Mars.

Key Facts

  • Artemis II is a NASA mission focused on testing new space systems with a crew flying around the moon.
  • The mission does not involve landing on the moon but tests life-support, navigation, and communication systems.
  • The crew includes the first non-American, first woman, and first Black astronaut to journey to the moon.
  • NASA plans to use lessons from Artemis II for future missions, including lunar landings and a human presence on the moon.
  • The mission's halfway point was announced with images taken during the journey.
  • The mission is set to end with a splashdown in the Pacific Ocean on April 10.
  • President Trump expressed support for the mission and its astronauts.
  • Artemis II is a precursor to future missions, such as Artemis III and IV, which aim for moon landings.
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NASA unveils first images of Earth from Artemis II

NASA unveils first images of Earth from Artemis II

April 04, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

NASA released new pictures of Earth taken by the astronauts on the Artemis II mission. This mission aims to take humans farther from Earth than ever before as part of the effort to explore the moon again.

Key Facts

  • NASA shared new images showing Earth from space.
  • The pictures were taken by astronauts on the Artemis II mission.
  • Artemis II is part of NASA's effort to explore the moon.
  • The mission aims to take humans farther from Earth than ever before.
  • Artemis II is a significant part of plans for humanity to return to lunar exploration.
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Al Jazeera
Tech Now

Tech Now

April 04, 2026 • BBC Tech

Summary

The article discusses using new technologies in the restoration of Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It covers how tech is helping in this preservation effort and highlights several tech-related topics from a program called "Tech Now."

Key Facts

  • Blenheim Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • New technologies are being used in its restoration.
  • The article is part of a program called "Tech Now."
  • The program features various tech-related topics, such as climate science, high-tech farming, and phone innovations.
  • Other segments in the program include visits to tech exhibitions, discussions on artificial intelligence, and efforts to tackle climate change.
  • The restoration of Blenheim Palace is one of several tech innovation stories covered.
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BBC Tech
Power-washing, pool-cleaning and mowing: Why millions are playing games about mundane jobs

Power-washing, pool-cleaning and mowing: Why millions are playing games about mundane jobs

April 04, 2026 • BBC Tech

Summary

Many people are playing video games that simulate everyday jobs like cleaning and mowing. These games, such as PowerWash Simulator, provide a low-stress, repetitive experience that some find relaxing. PowerWash Simulator has been very successful, selling over 17 million copies and being nominated for BAFTA Games Awards.

Key Facts

  • PowerWash Simulator is a video game where players clean virtual places.
  • The original game released in 2021 sold over 17 million copies.
  • A sequel was released in 2025 and nominated for two BAFTA Games Awards.
  • Such games fall under the genre of "mundane job simulations," which is growing in popularity.
  • Players enjoy these games for their calming and repetitive nature.
  • The game's creator, Kirsty Rigden, took inspiration from watching power-washing videos on YouTube.
  • Other similar games include Lawn Mowing Simulator, which focuses on mowing virtual lawns.
  • These games are popular with YouTubers and Twitch streamers, as they are easy to play while chatting with viewers.
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BBC Tech BBC Top Stories
Apple TV Confirms Fate of ‘Silo’ — What Fans Must Know About New Seasons

Apple TV Confirms Fate of ‘Silo’ — What Fans Must Know About New Seasons

April 04, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Apple TV has announced that the sci-fi series "Silo" will conclude with its fourth season. The show, based on Hugh Howey's book series, will have its third season premiere in summer 2026, followed by the fourth season possibly in early 2027. The series takes place in a dystopian future, following the last ten thousand people on Earth living in a giant underground silo.

Key Facts

  • Apple TV is ending the "Silo" series after its fourth season.
  • The series is based on Hugh Howey’s book trilogy, including "Wool," "Shift," and "Dust."
  • The show stars Rebecca Ferguson as engineer Juliette Nichols.
  • Season 3 will premiere in summer 2026, with the fourth season following potentially in early 2027.
  • The series is set in a future where people live in an underground silo due to a toxic outside world.
  • Other cast members include Rashida Jones, David Oyelowo, Tim Robbins, and Steve Zahn.
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Newsweek
Think Twice Before Upgrading Your Flight—Expert Issues Warning

Think Twice Before Upgrading Your Flight—Expert Issues Warning

April 04, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A video on social media warns air travelers to research thoroughly before upgrading to premium economy seating on flights. The video highlights that the quality of premium economy seats varies greatly between airlines, using Emirates and Lufthansa as examples.

Key Facts

  • A social media video explains why travelers should research premium economy upgrades carefully.
  • Premium economy seats are more profitable for airlines than regular economy.
  • Emirates offers premium economy with features like wider seats, more legroom, upgraded menus, and quiet, separate sections.
  • The video points out significant differences between Emirates’ premium economy and Lufthansa’s business class options.
  • Emirates' premium economy is described as much better than similar classes on U.S. airlines.
  • Users commented that premium economy often feels like a slightly improved economy class rather than true business class.
  • Travelers are advised to do research to ensure the value of a premium seat upgrade.
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Newsweek
Bus or Lime bike? New subscription heats up the race for a cheaper commute

Bus or Lime bike? New subscription heats up the race for a cheaper commute

April 03, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Lime, a company offering e-bikes and e-scooters, has introduced a new subscription service called LimePrime. This service offers a fixed price for the first 20 minutes of a ride in certain UK cities, which could make using e-scooters and bikes cheaper than taking the bus for some commuters.

Key Facts

  • Lime has launched a subscription service called LimePrime.
  • LimePrime charges £1.50 for the first 20 minutes of a ride with a £2.99 monthly fee.
  • The service is available in cities like Salford, Nottingham, London, Oxford, and Milton Keynes.
  • The aim is to make e-scooters and e-bikes more affordable than buses for short commutes.
  • Other companies like Forest and Bolt offer similar schemes.
  • Using Lime e-scooters and e-bikes can be faster and more convenient than buses.
  • Lime bikes and scooters need to be parked neatly in approved zones.
  • In Manchester, different transport schemes mean Lime cannot operate city-center rides.
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BBC Top Stories
Nintendo Confirms What’s Next for ‘Super Mario Galaxy Movie’ Sequel

Nintendo Confirms What’s Next for ‘Super Mario Galaxy Movie’ Sequel

April 03, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Category: technology Nintendo has announced that a sequel to "The Super Mario Galaxy Movie" will not feature a large ensemble of Nintendo characters like the "Super Smash Bros." series. Instead, the movie will focus on individual fun scenes rather than a long-term story plan.

Key Facts

  • Nintendo confirmed a sequel to "The Super Mario Galaxy Movie."
  • The sequel will not include many Nintendo characters like "Super Smash Bros."
  • Shigeru Miyamoto, a Nintendo producer, shared this information.
  • The focus will be on fun, individual movie scenes.
  • Illumination CEO Chris Meledandri mentioned it won't follow a long-term plan like Marvel movies.
  • There is interest in a possible "Luigi's Mansion" movie, but nothing is confirmed.
  • "The Super Mario Galaxy Movie" was first released on April 1, 2026.
  • No definite sequel has been announced yet, but the possibility exists due to Nintendo's rich character library.
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Newsweek
NASA releases first stunning Artemis II photos of Earth from moon mission

NASA releases first stunning Artemis II photos of Earth from moon mission

April 03, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

NASA released the first pictures from the Artemis II mission showing Earth from the Orion spacecraft, which is flying around the moon. The spacecraft, carrying four astronauts, is part of a 10-day mission to orbit the moon and return to Earth without landing. The mission aims to gather important information and marks the first human trip this far into deep space in over 50 years.

Key Facts

  • NASA shared photos showing Earth from the Orion spacecraft on the Artemis II mission.
  • Four astronauts, including three Americans and one Canadian, are onboard.
  • The mission involves flying around the moon without landing.
  • The spacecraft was 100,000 miles from Earth and headed towards the moon on Friday.
  • The mission is 10 days long, with the closest moon approach happening on the sixth day.
  • The astronauts will be the first humans to travel this far into deep space in over 50 years.
  • The mission aims to observe scientific phenomena and test procedures.
  • The journey will conclude with a return to Earth, landing in the Pacific Ocean near San Diego.
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Al Jazeera
Artemis II crew take 'spectacular' image of Earth

Artemis II crew take 'spectacular' image of Earth

April 03, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

The Artemis II crew, on a mission to orbit the Moon, captured high-resolution images of Earth. These pictures were taken from the Orion spacecraft as it set a path towards the Moon, highlighting Earth's features and nearby Venus.

Key Facts

  • NASA shared images taken by the Artemis II crew on their mission around the Moon.
  • The photos were taken by mission commander Reid Wiseman from the Orion spacecraft.
  • One image, "Hello, World," shows Earth with the Atlantic Ocean and Venus.
  • The Artemis II mission marks the first time humans have traveled beyond Earth's orbit since 1972.
  • The spacecraft completed a maneuver called a trans-lunar injection burn to head towards the Moon.
  • The crew aims to circle the Moon and return to Earth, with key dates on April 6 and April 10.
  • Photographs show Earth from the capsule with features like the night-day divide, known as the terminator.
  • The astronauts experienced challenges with photography but overcame these to capture clear images.
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BBC World BBC Top Stories BBC US
EARTHGANG's Johnny Venus Yearns for Love on 'I Want You Back'

EARTHGANG's Johnny Venus Yearns for Love on 'I Want You Back'

April 03, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

EARTHGANG's Johnny Venus released a new single, "I Want You Back," showcasing a personal and emotional side. The song represents a plea for a second chance in a relationship, featuring R&B and soul influences. The track is part of his exploration into his upcoming solo album.

Key Facts

  • Johnny Venus is part of the rap duo EARTHGANG.
  • He released a new single called "I Want You Back."
  • The song is about asking for a second chance in a relationship.
  • The track was produced by Dominique Sanders.
  • Baby Tate, another artist, wrote the song for Johnny Venus.
  • He is working on a solo album exploring R&B, soul, and funk sounds.
  • Venus describes the new sound as inspired by various music styles ingrained in his culture.
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Newsweek
AI Is Upending How Travel Companies Win Bookings

AI Is Upending How Travel Companies Win Bookings

April 03, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The article discusses how artificial intelligence (AI) is changing how travel companies handle bookings. As customers become more sensitive to prices, operators are using AI to make better pricing decisions. This shift helps companies adjust to varying demand trends among travelers.

Key Facts

  • AI is being used by travel companies to make pricing decisions more precise.
  • Small price changes can greatly influence a traveler's decision to book.
  • More travelers are becoming price-sensitive, with 42% saying they are more cautious about spending.
  • Rising fuel costs and other external factors are driving travel prices higher.
  • Demand for travel is strong, but travelers are cautious about spending more.
  • Budget travelers are cutting back, while luxury travelers are spending more.
  • AI helps travel firms understand real-time demand and what different customer segments are willing to pay.
  • When prices increase, travelers tend to adjust their plans rather than canceling their trips completely.
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Newsweek
WATCH LIVE: NASA shares update on Artemis II mission around the moon, 2 days after launch

WATCH LIVE: NASA shares update on Artemis II mission around the moon, 2 days after launch

April 03, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

NASA's Artemis II mission is on its way to the moon after its engine ignition occurred 25 hours after liftoff. The mission includes three American astronauts and one Canadian astronaut, marking the first human space travel beyond Earth's orbit since 1972.

Key Facts

  • The Artemis II mission is traveling to the moon.
  • The mission involves three Americans and one Canadian astronaut.
  • The spacecraft performed a maneuver called translunar ignition to head towards the moon.
  • This is the first time humans have left Earth's orbit since the Apollo 17 mission in 1972.
  • The spacecraft, called Orion, is traveling nearly 250,000 miles (400,000 kilometers) to reach the moon.
  • NASA will hold a news conference to provide more updates about the mission.
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PBS NewsHour
PHOTO: See Earth from Artemis II's POV

PHOTO: See Earth from Artemis II's POV

April 03, 2026 • Axios

Summary

NASA's Artemis II mission has shared one of its first photos, showing Earth along with auroras and zodiacal light. The mission is heading to the Moon and plans to observe a solar eclipse from space.

Key Facts

  • NASA released a photo taken from the Artemis II mission, showing Earth.
  • Mission commander Reid Wiseman took the photo.
  • The photo includes two auroras and zodiacal light, which is sunlight scattered by dust in space.
  • Artemis II is on its way to the Moon for a six-hour orbit planned for Monday.
  • The mission will also observe a solar eclipse, where the Sun is hidden by the Moon.
  • NASA aims to view different phenomena, like meteoroids hitting the Moon and dust above the Moon's surface.
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Axios
Italy's famed Uffizi admits cyber-attack but denies security breach

Italy's famed Uffizi admits cyber-attack but denies security breach

April 03, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

The Uffizi Galleries in Florence admitted that they experienced a cyber-attack but denied any breach of their security systems. They confirmed that no artworks were damaged or stolen, and no sensitive security data was compromised. The museum stated that the attack did not affect their internal security systems, and no passwords were stolen.

Key Facts

  • The Uffizi Galleries admitted to a cyber-attack but stated their security was not breached.
  • No damage or theft of artworks occurred, according to the Galleries.
  • Hackers reportedly accessed IT systems and made a ransom demand.
  • The Uffizi denied that access codes and security maps were compromised.
  • Some museum sections closed, but the Galleries explained it was due to renovations.
  • The attack did not affect the separate sites at Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens.
  • The museum accelerated security upgrades, replacing old cameras with digital ones.
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BBC World BBC Top Stories
Mom Tests Car’s Power Seat—What She Realizes Horrifies: ‘Broke My Heart’

Mom Tests Car’s Power Seat—What She Realizes Horrifies: ‘Broke My Heart’

April 03, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A woman tested the safety of her car's power seat and found it did not automatically stop when something was in the way. This issue became widely known after a two-year-old was tragically killed by a similar faulty seat in another vehicle, leading to a nationwide recall. Hyundai has since issued a software update to improve safety.

Key Facts

  • Whitney Sheahan tested her Ford Expedition's power seat with a doll in the way.
  • The power seat did not stop and crushed the doll completely.
  • This test was shared on TikTok and viewed over 40.4 million times.
  • The test was inspired by the death of a two-year-old in an Ohio car seat incident.
  • Hyundai recalled certain Palisade models and stopped selling them after the incident.
  • Hyundai is providing a software update to affected vehicles to improve safety.
  • Several similar complaints have been made to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
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