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The Actual News

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Technology News

Breaking news and analysis from the world of technology

Microsoft error sees confidential emails exposed to AI tool Copilot

Microsoft error sees confidential emails exposed to AI tool Copilot

Summary

Microsoft admitted that its AI assistant, Copilot, accidentally accessed some users' confidential emails. The issue involved the tool summarizing messages stored as drafts or sent items, even those marked as confidential. Microsoft has released an update to fix the problem and stated no unauthorized information access happened.

Key Facts

  • Microsoft Copilot is an AI tool used in programs like Outlook and Teams to help with tasks like summarizing messages.
  • The error allowed Copilot to access and summarize confidential emails by mistake.
  • Microsoft released an update to fix this issue worldwide.
  • The problem involved emails in users' drafts and sent folders, despite them being confidential.
  • Microsoft assured that no unauthorized individuals accessed sensitive information.
  • Experts warn of risks when rapidly deploying AI features.
  • The error was first reported by tech news outlet Bleeping Computer.
  • Some experts suggest that data leaks are likely as AI tools develop quickly.

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A Brief But Spectacular take on embracing curiosity and asking questions

A Brief But Spectacular take on embracing curiosity and asking questions

Summary

Journalist Nayeema Raza has launched a podcast called "Smart Girl Dumb Questions." The podcast focuses on curiosity and learning by asking questions.

Key Facts

  • The podcast is named "Smart Girl Dumb Questions."
  • Nayeema Raza is the journalist behind the podcast.
  • The podcast's main theme is the importance of curiosity.
  • It emphasizes that no question is too simple or "dumb."
  • The podcast encourages learning through asking questions.

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OpenAI’s Sam Altman: Global AI regulation ‘urgently’ needed

OpenAI’s Sam Altman: Global AI regulation ‘urgently’ needed

Summary

OpenAI's CEO, Sam Altman, believes urgent global rules are needed to oversee artificial intelligence (AI). He suggests this to ensure AI develops in a fair and safe way for everyone.

Key Facts

  • Sam Altman is the CEO of OpenAI.
  • He stated that the world needs urgent global regulation for AI.
  • Altman calls for an international organization to oversee AI development.
  • The aim is to make AI development fair and safe for all.
  • He spoke about the importance of democratizing AI, meaning making it accessible and fair for everyone.

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SpaceX rocket fireball linked to plume of polluting lithium

SpaceX rocket fireball linked to plume of polluting lithium

Summary

Scientists linked a SpaceX rocket failure in February 2025 to increased lithium pollution in Earth's atmosphere. They discovered this by tracking metal atoms released from the rocket's debris. This incident raises concerns about the impact of space debris on the environment, especially with plans to launch more satellites.

Key Facts

  • A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket failed in February 2025, creating debris over western Europe.
  • Scientists found a significant increase in lithium levels in the atmosphere linked to this rocket debris.
  • The rocket's debris was tracked using lasers that detected metal atoms in the atmosphere.
  • SpaceX CEO Elon Musk plans to launch one million satellites in the future.
  • Increased space debris can affect Earth's atmosphere and climate by disrupting aerosols.
  • Over 30,000 pieces of space debris are estimated to be floating in space.
  • The environmental impact of space debris on the ozone layer and climate is still unclear.
  • SpaceX has not responded to requests for comment regarding the pollution findings.

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What Does AI Mean for the Future of Marketing? Join Our Webinar Discussion

What Does AI Mean for the Future of Marketing? Join Our Webinar Discussion

Summary

The article discusses an upcoming webinar hosted by Newsweek on how artificial intelligence (AI) is changing marketing, particularly in creative areas such as campaign development and imagery generation. Experts Suraj Srinivasan and David Sable will explore how AI affects creativity in marketing and whether AI can achieve originality. The conversation will also cover the operational benefits AI brings to marketing, like speeding up market research with synthetic personas.

Key Facts

  • Newsweek is hosting a free webinar on AI's impact on marketing on March 10 at 1:30 p.m. ET.
  • The webinar is part of "The AI Agenda" series and features experts Suraj Srinivasan and David Sable.
  • The discussion will focus on AI's role in creativity within marketing.
  • Suraj Srinivasan highlights the challenge of defining true creativity in the era of AI.
  • David Sable questions if AI-trained on past artworks could ever create a masterpiece like those of da Vinci.
  • AI is used in marketing to make processes more efficient, like automating tasks and speeding up timelines.
  • Synthetic personas, created by AI, simulate audience responses and are cost-effective compared to traditional methods.
  • The experts will discuss the balance between AI's operational benefits and its effect on creative work in marketing.

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Scientists Studied 500 Cats—What They Learnt Could Help Treat Cancer

Scientists Studied 500 Cats—What They Learnt Could Help Treat Cancer

Summary

Scientists have found that the genetic changes in cat cancer are similar to those in human cancers. This study may help develop treatments for both cats and humans with cancer. The research looked at nearly 500 cats and compared the genetic data to what's seen in humans.

Key Facts

  • Researchers studied 500 cats to find similarities in cancer genetics between cats and humans.
  • The study involved experts from the Wellcome Sanger Institute, Ontario Veterinary College, and the University of Bern.
  • Scientists discovered genetic changes in cat cancers that resemble those in human cancers.
  • They identified seven key genes that mutate to cause cancer; the FBXW7 gene was the most common.
  • Changes in the FBXW7 gene are linked to more severe cases of cancer in both cats and humans.
  • Certain chemotherapy drugs worked better on cat tumors with mutations in the FBXW7 gene.
  • The study is the first to profile cat cancer tumors on a large scale.
  • The "One Medicine" approach encourages sharing research data between human and veterinary medicine to find better treatments for both.

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'Mewgenics' Paws At Cruelty With 'Binding of Isaac' Creator's Signature Dark Humor

'Mewgenics' Paws At Cruelty With 'Binding of Isaac' Creator's Signature Dark Humor

Summary

The article discusses a video game called "Mewgenics," created by Edmund McMillen and Tyler Glaiel. The game uses dark humor and a simulation style to explore themes of animal cruelty and care, particularly focusing on cats. It features a strategic gameplay where players breed and manage cats in challenging environments.

Key Facts

  • "Mewgenics" is a video game developed by Edmund McMillen and Tyler Glaiel.
  • The game was first previewed at PAX in 2013.
  • It uses dark humor to address serious themes like animal cruelty.
  • Players manage a group of cats, dealing with issues like inbreeding and survival.
  • The game’s setting is a harsh environment, filled with junkyards and alleys.
  • Players face moral choices that affect the health and survival of the cats.
  • The game's mechanics include understanding genetic traits and the risks of breeding.

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Pentagon-Anthropic battle pushes other AI labs into major dilemma

Pentagon-Anthropic battle pushes other AI labs into major dilemma

Summary

The Pentagon and AI company Anthropic are in a dispute over military use of AI models. The Pentagon wants full access without restrictions, but Anthropic is concerned about its model being used for surveillance and weapons. Other AI companies are also talking with the Pentagon about similar agreements.

Key Facts

  • The Pentagon wants to quickly integrate AI into military activities to stay ahead of countries like China.
  • Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is pushing AI companies for unrestricted access to their models.
  • Anthropic's AI model, Claude, is the only one currently used in classified military systems.
  • The Pentagon may end its contract with Anthropic because of disagreements over model use.
  • Anthropic is worried about its model being used for domestic surveillance or autonomous weapons.
  • Other AI companies, including OpenAI, Google, and xAI, are negotiating with the Pentagon.
  • These companies have agreed to relax usual safeguards for use in unclassified military systems.
  • The Pentagon wants "all lawful use" of AI models in both classified and unclassified areas.

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China's AI rise rattles Hollywood

China's AI rise rattles Hollywood

Summary

China's developments in artificial intelligence (AI) are challenging the U.S. film industry. A new AI tool from ByteDance created realistic videos that raised copyright concerns from Hollywood studios.

Key Facts

  • China's AI models are becoming competitive by being cheaper and faster than U.S. counterparts.
  • ByteDance released Seedance 2.0, an AI video model, which created a realistic video of actors Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt.
  • Major Hollywood studios, including Netflix and Disney, sent legal warnings to ByteDance over copyright issues.
  • ByteDance claims it respects copyright laws and plans to add safety measures to Seedance.
  • Hollywood is using copyright laws to try to limit Seedance's distribution and capabilities.
  • Chinese open-source AI models quickly grew to be a significant portion of global AI use by the end of 2025.
  • The rapid development of Chinese AI tools raises concerns over who controls standards for intellectual property protections.

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AI Impact: Can You Be Right About AI—and Still Lose?

AI Impact: Can You Be Right About AI—and Still Lose?

Summary

The article discusses how predicting the success of new technology, like artificial intelligence (AI), can be challenging. It compares the current AI landscape to past predictions about e-commerce, highlighting the difficulty in identifying winners early on.

Key Facts

  • In 1994, e-commerce was just starting and many early companies struggled or failed.
  • Amazon, a major success in e-commerce, began as a small startup in 1994.
  • Walmart adapted to e-commerce and saw significant stock value growth since 1994.
  • The current AI market is rapidly developing and could disrupt existing software companies.
  • Making profits from new technologies often requires selecting the right companies, which is difficult when those companies are just emerging.
  • There are upcoming webinars discussing AI's impact on governance, risk, and creativity in marketing.

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Visualising AI spending: How does it compare with history’s mega projects?

Visualising AI spending: How does it compare with history’s mega projects?

Summary

World leaders and tech executives are meeting in New Delhi for a summit about artificial intelligence (AI). AI has attracted significant financial investment, with global spending expected to reach $2.5 trillion in 2026. The United States leads in AI spending, accounting for a large part of global investments.

Key Facts

  • The India-AI Impact Summit 2026 is happening in New Delhi.
  • AI is expected to see global spending of $2.5 trillion in 2026, up 44% from 2025.
  • Over the past decade, AI investment has reached $1.6 trillion globally.
  • The U.S. leads in AI spending, making up 62% of private AI funding since 2013.
  • AI investments have grown 13 times larger compared to a decade ago.
  • Investments in AI have surpassed historical projects like the Apollo Program and the Manhattan Project.
  • AI funding involves private markets, venture capital, and global investors, not just governments.
  • AI-related spending includes costs for data centers, model development, services, and security.

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Woman Tries To Watch Valentine’s Day Movie, Not Ready for ‘Crash-Out’ After

Woman Tries To Watch Valentine’s Day Movie, Not Ready for ‘Crash-Out’ After

Summary

A TikTok user tried to watch the movie "Twilight" on Valentine's Day but faced multiple streaming and tech challenges. She couldn't find the movie on her streaming services, bought new devices, and still couldn't watch it. This reflects wider frustration with the complexity and cost of streaming services.

Key Facts

  • A TikTok user named Anna wanted to watch "Twilight" on Valentine's Day.
  • The movie was not available on the streaming services she had.
  • She learned it was available on HBO Max, which she didn't have access to.
  • Attempts to play physical movie discs failed due to tech issues with Blu-ray and audio.
  • She bought a new Blu-ray player and TV but still encountered problems.
  • Comments on TikTok highlighted the cost of buying new devices versus a streaming subscription.
  • A survey showed 62% of people think there are too many streaming options.
  • 32% of people can't keep track of where to watch their favorite content.

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'Xenoblade Chronicles X' Just Got a Surprise Upgrade on Switch 2

'Xenoblade Chronicles X' Just Got a Surprise Upgrade on Switch 2

Summary

Nintendo announced an upgrade for the game "Xenoblade Chronicles X" for the new Switch 2 console. The upgrade improves image quality and speed and is available for purchase online. A physical version will be released in retail stores in April 2026.

Key Facts

  • Nintendo released an upgrade for "Xenoblade Chronicles X" called the Switch 2 Edition.
  • The upgrade improves the game's image resolution to 4K and increases the frame rate to 60 frames per second.
  • The digital upgrade costs $4.99, and the complete game with the upgrade costs $64.99.
  • The game is part of the Xenoblade Chronicles series and was initially released on the Wii U.
  • The original game did not sell well due to the Wii U's low sales, but a remastered version was released on the Nintendo Switch in 2025.
  • A physical edition of the upgraded game will be available in stores on April 16, 2026.
  • Some players expected this upgrade earlier since it was not one of the first games to be updated for the Switch 2.

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5 Best Tech Gifts They'll Actually Use, From AI Tools To Smart Gear

5 Best Tech Gifts They'll Actually Use, From AI Tools To Smart Gear

Summary

The article discusses popular tech gifts that are both practical and enjoyable. It highlights various gadgets that make life easier or provide entertainment, such as AI tools and smart devices.

Key Facts

  • A TikTok video featured a device for automatically opening and closing curtains using an app or smart assistants like Alexa and Google.
  • Tech gifts are in high demand for their functionality and ability to improve daily life.
  • A Pew Research Center report shows that 79% of Americans frequently use AI in their daily lives.
  • Examples of tech gifts include AI voice recorders and retro-style alarm clocks that resemble old Macintosh computers.
  • Headphones and air dusters are highlighted for their nostalgic design and utility in maintaining electronic devices.
  • An eye massager is mentioned for relieving eye strain from prolonged screen use.

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Video: OpenAI and Anthropic CEOs refuse to hold hands at India AI summit

Video: OpenAI and Anthropic CEOs refuse to hold hands at India AI summit

Summary

At an AI summit in India, the leaders of two AI companies, OpenAI and Anthropic, did not hold hands for a group photo. This highlights the ongoing rivalry between the two companies' CEOs, Sam Altman and Dario Amodei.

Key Facts

  • The event took place at an AI summit in India.
  • The leaders in question are Sam Altman from OpenAI and Dario Amodei from Anthropic.
  • The incident happened during a group photo session.
  • OpenAI and Anthropic are two major companies in the AI industry.
  • The rivalry between the companies' CEOs worsened earlier this year.
  • The tension increased when Anthropic ran attack ads against OpenAI during the Super Bowl.

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Woman Puzzled by Gift—Until She Realizes What it Does: ‘That Rocked’

Woman Puzzled by Gift—Until She Realizes What it Does: ‘That Rocked’

Summary

A TikTok user named Nicole White shared a video of herself using a tool called an eierschalensollbruchstellenverursacher, or egg cracker tool, which cracks the top off a hard-boiled egg cleanly. The tool gained significant attention online, with over 15 million views on the video. Viewers commented on the ease of using the device and its effectiveness.

Key Facts

  • Nicole White received an egg cracker tool as a Christmas gift from her aunt.
  • The tool's German name is "eierschalensollbruchstellenverursacher," also known as an Eierköpfer.
  • White's TikTok video showing the tool in action got over 15.1 million views in nine days.
  • The device cleanly knocks the top off a hard-boiled egg.
  • TikTok viewers praised the tool's effectiveness and ease of use, joking about its precision.
  • The specific model used in the video seemed to perform exceptionally well compared to other similar devices.
  • The tool, referred to as an "egg cracker tool," was out of stock online at the time of the report.

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Dog Owner Orders DNA Test—Not Prepared for What the Results Reveal

Dog Owner Orders DNA Test—Not Prepared for What the Results Reveal

Summary

A dog owner was surprised to find out that his pet, Cappy, is mostly American Pit Bull Terrier after a DNA test. The test results showed Cappy as 55.3% American Pit Bull Terrier, leading to disbelief due to Cappy's appearance. This highlights how dog DNA tests can reveal surprising ancestry that isn't obvious just by looking at the animal.

Key Facts

  • The dog, Cappy, is 55.3% American Pit Bull Terrier, 39.1% "Supermutt," and 5.6% Rottweiler.
  • Many people were surprised because Cappy's appearance didn't match typical pit bull traits.
  • DNA tests for dogs can uncover surprising family backgrounds that may not be visible.
  • Embark, a company providing these tests, notes that visual traits can be misleading.
  • "Supermutt" indicates ancestry from multiple breeds with small DNA segments.
  • The global pet DNA testing market was valued at $404 million in 2024 and is expected to grow.
  • North America is the largest market for pet DNA testing.

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Bill Gates pulls out of India's AI summit amid Epstein files controversy

Bill Gates pulls out of India's AI summit amid Epstein files controversy

Summary

Bill Gates decided not to deliver his keynote speech at India's AI Impact Summit amid renewed attention on his past connections with Jeffrey Epstein. The Gates Foundation mentioned that the focus should stay on the summit's priorities. Gates has denied any wrongdoing in relation to the Epstein controversy.

Key Facts

  • Bill Gates pulled out of speaking at the India AI Impact Summit in Delhi.
  • The Gates Foundation cited a need to focus on summit priorities as the reason.
  • Recent files released by the US Department of Justice named Gates in relation to Jeffrey Epstein.
  • Gates's spokesperson stated that the claims are false and Gates regretted meeting Epstein.
  • Ankur Vora from the Gates Foundation will speak at the summit instead of Gates.
  • The event features prominent speakers like OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
  • The summit aims to position India as a major global player in AI.
  • The event has delegates from over 100 countries and includes discussions on AI governance and investment.

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iPhone Users See Increase in Risky Phishing Scams—but There’s a Solution

iPhone Users See Increase in Risky Phishing Scams—but There’s a Solution

Summary

Apple users are facing spam issues with their Calendar app, where fake calendar invites with spam links clutter their calendars. These spam invites come from accidental clicks and can be removed by unsubscribing from unknown calendar events and adjusting settings.

Key Facts

  • iPhone users are receiving fake calendar invites that contain spam links.
  • These invites are not malware but can be annoying.
  • The spam results from accidental clicks on bad links, which prompt unwanted calendar subscriptions.
  • To remove these, users can check Settings > Calendar > Subscribed Calendars and delete unknown items.
  • Another way to manage this is to block the sender's email address after copying it from the calendar invite.
  • Users are advised to keep their iOS updated and be cautious with emails and links.
  • Many users have shared similar experiences on Apple's discussion forums and Reddit.

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'The Night Agent' Creator Reveals Season 4 Status Amid Renewal Speculations

'The Night Agent' Creator Reveals Season 4 Status Amid Renewal Speculations

Summary

The creator of "The Night Agent," Shawn Ryan, is preparing for a potential fourth season by working on scripts even though Netflix hasn't officially approved it yet. The streaming service plans to observe the performance of Season 3, which premiered on February 19, before deciding about a Season 4.

Key Facts

  • Shawn Ryan is the creator of "The Night Agent."
  • The writers' room for Season 4 has begun developing scripts.
  • Netflix has not officially approved Season 4 yet.
  • Season 3 premiered on February 19.
  • Season 2 recorded 53.2 million watches in its first 159 days.
  • Netflix is waiting to see how Season 3 performs before deciding on a new season.
  • The next season may take around a year to release if approved.
  • No official release date for Season 4 has been announced yet.

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