Starting January 1, people in the UK who want to fly drones weighing 100g or more outside must pass an online theory test to receive a Flyer ID. This change applies to many new drone users, as the previous requirement was only for drones weighing 250g or more.
Key Facts
From January 1, UK drone users must pass a theory test for a Flyer ID if their drone weighs 100g or more.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) introduced the rule to ensure drones are used safely.
Previously, only drones weighing 250g or more needed a Flyer ID.
The new rules affect up to half a million people in the UK.
Children under 13 need a parent or guardian present during the test.
Drones with cameras require users to register for an Operator ID.
Flying without a Flyer or Operator ID can lead to fines or prison.
The CAA's rules aim to protect privacy and ensure drones don't disrupt certain areas.
The article explains how modern winter jackets use old physics principles and new materials to keep people warm. It discusses how jackets manage heat using conduction, convection, and radiation, while also staying breathable to allow sweat to escape.
Key Facts
Winter jackets keep you warm by managing heat through conduction, convection, and radiation.
Conduction is the passing of heat from your warm body to the colder air around you.
Convection involves the movement of air, where cool air replaces the warmth around the body.
Radiation deals with heat transfer through electromagnetic waves, like how heat from the sun warms the Earth.
Modern materials like synthetic fibers and aerogels improve how well jackets trap heat.
New designs use thin layers and breathable membranes to keep jackets lightweight and comfortable.
Jackets also have outer shells that block wind and water to keep warmth in.
These innovations give designers better control over warmth, breathability, and comfort.
The article explains how creating an AI-generated image requires many steps involving energy, hardware, and software. It outlines how AI uses powerful computer chips called GPUs in data centers that consume significant electricity, and how this power is managed and optimized.
Key Facts
An AI-generated image is created using a process that involves computer chips called GPUs.
These GPUs are often provided by Nvidia, a leading company in the market.
Data centers housing these chips require a lot of electricity and cooling systems.
The electricity demand for AI-optimized data centers is expected to quadruple by 2030.
Companies like EmeraldAI and Schneider Electric work to improve energy efficiency in data centers.
Data centers are connected to power sources through the electric grid or increasingly directly linked to specific power sources.
Energy sources can include wind farms, nuclear power plants, or natural gas facilities.
AI-generated videos with racist and misleading content are spreading online, influencing political views. These videos are becoming easier to create and harder to spot, often being shared on social media for profit or misinformation. Companies are attempting to manage this issue with policies, but the problem persists.
Key Facts
AI-generated videos are used to spread racist and misleading content.
These videos can influence political discussions and public opinions.
Creating such videos is becoming easier with apps from companies like OpenAI and Google.
Some users share these videos for profit, exploiting social media engagement rewards.
These videos perpetuate harmful racial stereotypes and misinformation.
Companies have policies to reduce racist content, but detection and control are challenging.
Misleading videos can affect perceptions of social programs and political elections.
OpenAI and Google use watermarks and restrictions to limit misuse of their AI tools.
Researchers in Yellowstone National Park are using advanced AI technology to study wolf howls. The goal is to improve the monitoring and tracking of wolves in the park. This research is being reported by PBS Montana.
Key Facts
Scientists are working in Yellowstone National Park.
They are studying wolf howls.
They use advanced AI technology for this research.
AI stands for artificial intelligence, which involves creating smart computer programs.
The research aims to better monitor and track wolves.
In 2026, several major streaming services will change their subscription prices. Paramount+, Disney+, and Peacock have already announced their price increases, while others like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video have not confirmed changes yet. Spotify might also raise its prices, but details are unclear.
Key Facts
Netflix has not announced a price change for 2026 but acquired Warner Bros. Discovery and may change prices later.
Spotify might raise its subscription prices in early 2026, though details are unconfirmed.
Paramount+ will increase its U.S. subscription prices on January 15, 2026, with ad-supported plans going from $7.99 to $8.99 and ad-free plans from $12.99 to $13.99.
HBO Max has already increased its prices in October by $1 monthly.
Amazon Prime Video has no confirmed price increase for 2026, despite analyst speculation.
Disney+ raised its prices in October this year, increasing the ad-supported plan by $2 and the ad-free plan by $3.
Peacock raised its prices in July, with both the Premium and Premium Plus plans increasing by $3 monthly.
The article discusses the rise of AI influencers like Gigi, created by student Simone Mckenzie, who gain popularity on social media with minimal effort and cost. Traditional human influencers, like Kaaviya Sambasivam, face challenges competing with these AI creations. AI influencers can generate content quickly using AI tools, changing how influencers operate online.
Key Facts
Gigi is an AI influencer created by a student named Simone Mckenzie.
AI influencers can produce videos using simple prompts, making it easier and quicker to create content.
Simone's AI influencer Gigi gained millions of views in just two months.
Traditional human influencers invest time and money in content creation, unlike AI influencers.
AI influencers have the potential to change the influencer industry by making it more accessible.
The influencer industry is estimated to be worth over $250 billion.
AI influencers can disrupt the traditional ways human influencers gain and maintain followers.
The article discusses Tesla's self-driving software and concerns about safety, especially around texting while driving. Tesla CEO Elon Musk has suggested that their software may allow texting while driving, raising alarm among safety experts. Regulators are investigating Tesla's software due to several safety concerns.
Key Facts
Tesla is testing self-driving software that can handle lane changes and parking.
The software upgrade costs an extra $8,000.
Elon Musk indicated that Tesla's software may allow drivers to text, depending on traffic conditions.
Safety experts are worried about the risks of texting while driving.
Tesla's self-driving software requires driver supervision, despite its automated features.
US and UK laws generally ban texting while driving.
Tesla faces competition from companies like Waymo, which also develops autonomous driving technology.
US regulators are investigating Tesla's software for various safety issues.
Smartphone users are adopting a trend called "tech minimalism" by simplifying their devices. They disable nonessential features and reduce distractions to focus more on essential functions like maps and messaging. This trend helps reduce screen time and its potential negative impacts on mental health.
Key Facts
Many people are making their smartphones simpler by turning off extra features and social media.
The goal is to make phones like older models, focusing on necessary functions without losing key features.
The trend is popular with Gen Z, who want to avoid distractions from things like social media.
Dr. Jennifer Rolnick highlighted the negative effects of long screen time on the nervous system.
Apps like Dumb Phone and LessPhone help users create a simpler phone experience.
Apple's iOS features, like Assistive Access, also allow users to simplify their phone experience.
Techniques like setting custom focus modes and using app blockers can aid in minimizing distraction.
The article explains how people are choosing not to use AI in certain situations. It highlights that while AI is popular for many tasks, some people avoid it for creative work and tasks requiring precision. The article also shares opinions from different people about where and when they prefer not to use AI.
Key Facts
People are deliberately choosing not to use AI for some tasks.
There is no scientific proof that AI makes people lazy, but humans tend to use shortcuts.
Jon Lajoie, an artist, sees limitations as beneficial for creativity and avoids fully relying on AI.
Sarah Dooley highlights that professionals avoid using AI for skills they have mastered, like creative work.
Cara Masessa avoids using AI in personal conversations to keep them genuine.
Kelly Sonderlund and others avoid using AI for data analysis, preferring accuracy.
Some use AI for simple tasks like grammar checks but avoid it for precise calculations.
Hackers often target companies during the holiday season when fewer security staff are working. Many cyberattacks happen on weekends or holidays because attackers know defenses might be weaker. Security teams prepare in advance, but rising technology, like AI, helps keep watch when human staff are absent.
Key Facts
Hackers target companies during the holidays when staff are away.
52% of ransomware attacks happened on a weekend or holiday.
78% of organizations reduce their security staff over the holidays.
Security teams prepare early by completing security tasks before Thanksgiving.
Hackers often use holidays for phishing, ransomware, and data theft attacks.
High-profile cyberattacks, like the SolarWinds hack, have occurred during the holidays.
Companies like Sophos keep security teams online during holidays to prevent attacks.
AI technology assists in maintaining security when human staff are not available.
A study from Imperial College London and Kyushu Sangyo University found that playing games like Super Mario Bros. and Yoshi can help reduce feelings of burnout. The research suggests these games evoke childhood memories and joy, which boost happiness and lower the chance of burnout in students.
Key Facts
Researchers from the UK and Japan studied the effects of playing Super Mario Bros. and related games on burnout.
The study involved in-depth interviews with 41 university students and a survey of 336 students.
Participants said the games made them feel happier and reminded them of childhood.
Feeling more "childlike wonder" was linked to lower burnout risk and higher happiness levels.
The study suggested that the games' design, like cheerful music and visuals, helps combat stress and burnout.
Researchers note that video games alone don't solve the underlying causes of burnout.
Excessive gaming can have negative effects and should be balanced.
The TV series "Stargate SG-1" will be available for streaming on Netflix in the United States and select other countries starting February 15, 2026. The show, which is based on a 1994 movie about a device for traveling to other planets, will release all ten seasons at once. Additionally, a reboot of "Stargate" is being developed by Amazon MGM Studios.
Key Facts
"Stargate SG-1" will be available on Netflix from February 15, 2026.
The series was first released in 1997 as a sequel to a 1994 movie.
The show involves military teams traveling through a gateway to other planets.
Cast members of the series include Richard Dean Anderson and Michael Shanks.
A Netflix subscription is needed to watch, with prices starting at $7.99 per month.
"Stargate Atlantis" and "Stargate Universe" are not coming to Netflix.
A reboot of "Stargate" is being planned by Amazon MGM Studios.
In 2025, Santa Claus interacts with children both in person and through digital platforms. Santa performers, like Corky Kinter, use social media to connect with families and bring Santa's magic to more people. This modern approach to Santa includes virtual meet-ups and digital interactions.
Key Facts
Mall Santas still exist, but digital Santa experiences are growing.
HireSanta.com provides Santas for malls, resorts, and private events.
Corky Kinter, known as TikTok Santa, uses digital platforms to meet families.
Kinter started small by dressing as Santa for family and community events.
Many families now prefer digital Santa interactions as malls and traditional gathering spots have declined.
Kinter streams live as Santa on TikTok and connects with both kids and adults.
He aims to train more Santas to interact with the digital generation.
Kinter emphasizes the emotional connection and support Santa can provide online.
Netflix's movie "The Great Flood" is a popular Korean science-fiction film that explores themes like motherhood, memory, and artificial intelligence (AI). The film has a complex storyline involving simulations and AI, and it has received mixed reviews from audiences and critics.
Key Facts
"The Great Flood" is a Korean science-fiction disaster film that is trending globally on Netflix.
The film was released on December 19, 2025, after a festival run.
It features actors Kim Da-mi and Park Hae-soo and is directed by Kim Byung-woo.
The movie includes themes like motherhood, memory, and advanced technology such as AI.
The story unfolds around An-na, a mother searching for her son as they face rising floodwaters.
The movie reveals that events occur in simulations, not one reality, to test AI's understanding of emotions.
Despite its popularity, the film has a low score of 47 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.
Viewers and critics have mixed opinions, particularly about its ending and philosophical themes.
Metacritic released its list of the top-rated video games of 2025. The list highlights games known for their innovation, storytelling, and visuals across different platforms. The Legend of Zelda games and Hades II are among the top-ranked entries.
Key Facts
"The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom" for Nintendo Switch 2 tops the list with a Metascore of 95.
A remastered version of "The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild" also achieved a Metascore of 95.
"Hades II" by Supergiant Games received a score of 95, expanding on its mythological universe.
"Clair Obscur: Expedition 33" earned a Metascore of 92 and is noted for its emotional depth.
"Blue Prince" was praised for its dynamic narrative structure, receiving a Metascore of 92.
"Donkey Kong Bananza" revitalized the classic franchise, scoring 91.
"Hollow Knight: Silksong" and its detailed indie game design earned a score of 90.
The Talos Principle: Reawakened explores complex themes in gaming, scoring 89.
A movie based on the TV series "Peaky Blinders" will be released on Netflix on March 20, 2026. The film is titled "Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man" and features a returning cast along with new additions. It was directed by Tom Harper and written by Steven Knight.
Key Facts
The "Peaky Blinders" movie will be available on Netflix on March 20, 2026.
Cillian Murphy stars in the lead role as Tommy Shelby.
The movie continues the story of the "Peaky Blinders" TV series, which aired from 2013 to 2022.
Tom Harper directed the film, and Steven Knight wrote it.
New cast members include Barry Keoghan, Rebecca Ferguson, Tim Roth, and Jay Lycurgo.
Production of the film started in September 2024 and finished by the end of that year.
A trailer for Christopher Nolan's new film, The Odyssey, was released and quickly sparked debate online about the costumes featured in the film. Many social media users have criticized the historical accuracy of the costumes, while others have noted that The Odyssey is a fictional story and the film is not meant to be a documentary.
Key Facts
Christopher Nolan released the first trailer for his film, The Odyssey.
The Odyssey is based on an ancient Greek poem by Homer.
The film stars Matt Damon as Odysseus and includes a well-known cast.
Ellen Mirojinick is in charge of the costumes for the film.
The trailer was viewed over three million times in its first day online.
Many online users criticized the film's costumes for not being historically accurate.
Some commenters reminded others that The Odyssey is a fictional story.
Nolan previously won an Oscar for his 2023 film, Oppenheimer.
A potential second season for the TV series "It: Welcome to Derry," a prequel to Stephen King's horror novel "It," has not yet been confirmed. The show creators, Andy and Barbara Muschietti, have plans for two more seasons that would explore different time periods, but HBO's renewal is still pending.
Key Facts
"It: Welcome to Derry" is a prequel series based on Stephen King’s novel "It."
The first season is set in the 1960s and follows a group of young people uncovering the mystery of an evil force.
There is no official confirmation from HBO about a second season.
The creators have a three-season plan, with the second season set in 1935 and the third in 1908.
The series explores the backstory of Pennywise the Clown, the central horror figure.
Bill Skarsgård played Pennywise in the first season, but no cast is confirmed for a potential second season.
The creator of the Apple TV+ series "Pluribus," Vince Gilligan, has confirmed that a second season is planned, although production will not start until spring 2026. The show was renewed for two seasons before its first premiere, suggesting strong faith in Gilligan's ideas. Season 2 may release between late 2027 and 2028, featuring a storyline centered on a world affected by an alien parasite.
Key Facts
Vince Gilligan, creator of "Pluribus," confirmed a second season is planned.
Production for Season 2 is expected to start in spring 2026.
The second season might be released in late 2027 or 2028.
Each episode reportedly costs over $15 million to make.
The show was renewed for two seasons before its first season premiered in November 2025.
"Pluribus" follows Carol Sturka, played by Rhea Seehorn, in a world overtaken by an alien parasite.
The first season of "Pluribus," consisting of nine episodes, will end on December 24, 2025.
