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Technology News

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China's New AI Toys Are Headed For American Shelves

China's New AI Toys Are Headed For American Shelves

Summary

AI-powered toys, primarily manufactured in China, are increasingly available in the United States. These toys use advanced technology to interact with children and are changing how kids play. Mattel has also partnered with OpenAI to create AI toys, signaling broader adoption in the toy industry.

Key Facts

  • AI toys are valued at $34.87 billion and are expected to reach $270 billion by 2035.
  • China accounts for about 40% of the AI toy market growth.
  • Over 1,500 AI toy companies are operating in China as of October 2025.
  • FoloToy is a customizable AI toy from China available in more than 10 countries, including the U.S.
  • BubblePal is a Ping-Pong-sized AI toy that has sold 200,000 units since its 2024 launch.
  • Mattel and OpenAI collaborated to create AI-enhanced play experiences.
  • A Pew Research Center poll found that many Americans are concerned about AI's impact.
  • Concerns exist that AI might worsen creativity and interpersonal relationships.
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Couple among first to use data centre to heat home say bills dropped to £40

Couple among first to use data centre to heat home say bills dropped to £40

Summary

A couple in Essex is using a data center in their garden shed to heat their home, significantly lowering their monthly energy bills from £375 to between £40 and £60. This system, called a HeatHub, captures heat generated by over 500 mini-computers processing data, which is then used to warm their home. The program is part of a broader project to create eco-friendly solutions for low-income households.

Key Facts

  • Terrence and Lesley Bridges are using a data center in their garden shed to heat their home.
  • Their energy bills have dropped from £375 a month to as low as £40.
  • The HeatHub contains over 500 small computers that generate heat as they process data.
  • The project, supported by UK Power Networks' SHIELD project, aims to help low-income households transition to eco-friendly energy solutions.
  • The Bridges' home also has solar panels and a battery, which contribute to energy savings.
  • The HeatHub system was developed by Thermify and is part of a pilot program.
  • Thermify plans to have clients pay them to process data, providing "clean, green heat" at little to no cost to households.
  • Eastlight Community Homes, the Bridges' landlord, hopes to extend the HeatHub installation to 50 more homes.
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Princeton University Informs Students of Data Breach

Princeton University Informs Students of Data Breach

Summary

Princeton University notified its community about a data breach that happened on November 10 and lasted less than 24 hours. The breach involved potential access to certain university-related data, and Princeton has launched an investigation while advising caution against phishing scams.

Key Facts

  • The data breach at Princeton occurred on November 10 and was detected in under 24 hours.
  • The breach may have involved data linked to fundraising and donations but not sensitive personal information like Social Security numbers or bank details.
  • An employee with usual database access became a target of phone phishing, which led to the breach.
  • The university has informed affected individuals to be wary of fake messages claiming to come from Princeton.
  • No ransom demands were made in relation to the breach.
  • Princeton is working with law enforcement on the investigation and expects it to take several weeks.
  • Phishing is a common scam involving fake communications to steal personal data.
  • No additional systems at the university were believed to be affected by this breach.
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ChatGPT slides into the group chat

ChatGPT slides into the group chat

Summary

OpenAI is testing a group chat feature for ChatGPT, allowing multiple users to interact in one conversation. This pilot program is available in several countries and aims to explore how group dynamics can enhance AI interaction. Users can add up to 20 people to a chat, and various features like image sharing and file upload are supported.

Key Facts

  • OpenAI is piloting group chat in ChatGPT in Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, and Taiwan.
  • Users can add up to 20 people in a ChatGPT chat using a sharing link or a people icon.
  • The group chat feature is available on both mobile and web apps for Free, Go, Plus, and Pro users.
  • The pilot includes features such as image and file uploads, search, image generation, and dictation.
  • OpenAI reports 800 million weekly users for ChatGPT.
  • Another company, Continua, also offers a group chat feature using a bot.
  • Conversations in group chats can help AI companies train future models but promise anonymity by removing user-identifying data.
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This new eye drop could help adults with age-related vision issues

This new eye drop could help adults with age-related vision issues

Summary

A new eye drop called VIZZ is now available in the United States to help people with age-related blurry vision, known as presbyopia. These eye drops provide a nonsurgical alternative for adults who struggle to focus on nearby objects, requiring a prescription and costing around $79 a month.

Key Facts

  • VIZZ eye drops are designed to alleviate presbyopia, a common vision problem in people aged 40 to 50.
  • The drops were approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in July.
  • VIZZ is made with aceclidine, offering the first FDA-approved treatment for presbyopia using this ingredient.
  • This solution works by making the eye muscles relax and contract, improving near vision within 30 minutes of use.
  • The effects can last up to 10 hours, reducing the need for reading glasses.
  • VIZZ costs about $79 per month for 25 doses, available through e-pharmacies.
  • Some side effects may include eye irritation, headaches, and dim vision.
  • The FDA keeps a close watch on eye drop safety due to previous issues with non-sterile products.
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How TSA Will Use Apple's New Digital ID

How TSA Will Use Apple's New Digital ID

Summary

Apple has introduced a new Digital ID feature that allows travelers in the U.S. to use their iPhones or Apple Watches to store and present identification at over 250 TSA checkpoints. This digital system aims to simplify airport security by reducing the need for physical IDs, although concerns about privacy and data security have been raised.

Key Facts

  • Apple's Digital ID works on iPhone 8 or newer models and Apple Watches using iOS 16.5 or later.
  • The feature is available in several U.S. states, including Arizona, California, and Ohio, and Puerto Rico.
  • It cannot replace a physical passport for international travel but can be used for domestic flights.
  • Users add their driver's license or state-issued ID to the Apple Wallet to create a digital version.
  • Privacy advocates worry about the potential misuse of data, although Apple says it uses encryption and local device storage to protect information.
  • TSA agents can verify the ID by users holding their device near a reader and confirming the information with Face ID or Touch ID.
  • A similar digital ID feature for Android users is available in some U.S. states through Google Wallet.
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Kim Kardashian's Failed Bar Exam Reveals 'Dangerous' Trend, Experts Warn

Kim Kardashian's Failed Bar Exam Reveals 'Dangerous' Trend, Experts Warn

Summary

Kim Kardashian's unsuccessful bar exam attempts have started discussions about the risks of using tools like ChatGPT for legal advice. The debate highlights concerns that AI can give wrong answers while sounding convincing, which can be misleading in fields like law. Experts stress that AI is helpful only if used by people who know the law well.

Key Facts

  • Kim Kardashian failed her bar exams after using ChatGPT to help with legal questions.
  • ChatGPT sometimes provides wrong answers, which contributed to Kardashian's exam failures.
  • Legal professionals and students are increasingly using AI tools for tasks like research and study.
  • AI can give convincing but incorrect information, which is risky in legal settings.
  • Experts warn that AI lacks judgment and experience, which are crucial for passing exams like the bar.
  • AI maker OpenAI acknowledges that tools like ChatGPT can sometimes confidently provide false answers, known as "hallucinations."
  • Experts advise consulting human lawyers for accurate legal guidance instead of relying solely on AI.
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Can technology fix fashion's sizing crisis?

Can technology fix fashion's sizing crisis?

Summary

The fashion industry faces challenges with inconsistent clothing sizes, leading to many online returns. Technology companies are developing tools like virtual fittings and AI to help shoppers find better-fitting clothes. Some companies are also using tech to adjust sizes before clothes even reach stores.

Key Facts

  • Clothing sizes vary widely between brands, causing confusion and returns.
  • Fashion retailers lose about £190 billion annually due to returns.
  • Tools like 3DLook and True Fit use smartphone scans to suggest clothes that might fit better.
  • Virtual fitting rooms allow shoppers to see how clothes might look using digital avatars.
  • Some AI tools help customers describe what they want and suggest options.
  • Fit Collective, a UK start-up, uses machine learning to improve sizing during production.
  • Fit Collective has raised £3 million to develop its technology.
  • Experts warn technology alone might not solve the problem due to unique body shapes and preferences.
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Tech Now

Tech Now

Summary

A program called "Tech Now" highlights various technological developments, including clothes sizing solutions using AI and advances in organ-on-chip technology for medical research. It also covers innovations in movie stunts, biocomputing, cloud seeding, and more.

Key Facts

  • An AI startup is working on solutions to solve inconsistent clothing sizes in the fashion industry.
  • Researchers are developing organ-on-chip technology, which could help in medical research.
  • High-tech innovations are transforming how car stunts are created in movies.
  • Scientists are attempting to make computers using brain cells, known as biocomputers.
  • Cloud seeding technology is being explored to modify weather patterns.
  • The program features advancements showcased at IFA Berlin, a major technology event.
  • New technology is being trialed to detect 'hidden' pancreatic cancer cases.
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Major YouTube TV Update Emerges Amid Lengthy ESPN Standoff

Major YouTube TV Update Emerges Amid Lengthy ESPN Standoff

Summary

YouTube TV and Disney are in a dispute over carriage rights, affecting YouTube TV customers who can't access Disney networks like ABC and ESPN. The disagreement has lasted over two weeks, but signs suggest a deal may be close. Disney and YouTube TV are trying to agree on terms that match deals Disney has with other companies.

Key Facts

  • YouTube TV has not broadcast Disney networks such as ABC and ESPN since October 30.
  • A disagreement over carriage rights between Disney and Google caused this issue.
  • Disney's CFO stated they are prepared to continue negotiations for as long as necessary.
  • Disney CEO mentioned the current offer on the table is comparable or better than other agreements.
  • Reports suggest that both sides are close to reaching a deal.
  • The lack of Disney channels has meant missing major events like college football and Monday Night Football.
  • Both Disney and Google aim to finalize an agreement that fairly represents Disney's value.
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David Kelley’s Brief But Spectacular take on creativity and design

David Kelley’s Brief But Spectacular take on creativity and design

Summary

David Kelley, a well-known figure in design, has promoted creativity for many years. He started the Stanford d.school to encourage innovative problem-solving across different fields. Kelley shares his thoughts on how everyone can be creative.

Key Facts

  • David Kelley is a leader in the field of design.
  • He founded the Stanford d.school to foster creativity.
  • The school emphasizes solving problems using ideas from various fields.
  • Kelley believes that all people have the ability to be creative.
  • He shares insights from his years of experience with design and creativity.
  • The focus is on innovation and design thinking.
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Anthropic warns of AI-driven hacking campaign linked to China

Anthropic warns of AI-driven hacking campaign linked to China

Summary

Researchers from Anthropic say they found an AI-driven hacking campaign linked to the Chinese government. The campaign used AI to automate and direct cyberattacks, targeting people in tech, finance, chemicals, and government sectors. Anthropic stopped the operation, which affected about 30 individuals, and warned of the growing threat of AI-powered cyberattacks.

Key Facts

  • Anthropic reported an AI-driven hacking operation linked to China.
  • The campaign used AI to automate and direct cyberattacks.
  • About 30 individuals in tech companies, financial institutions, chemical companies, and government agencies were targeted.
  • Anthropic shut down the operation and informed those affected.
  • The hacking campaign succeeded in only a few cases.
  • Researchers noted the rapid development of AI's capabilities in cyber operations.
  • AI systems can be weaponized by foreign adversaries and hacking groups.
  • Microsoft has also warned of AI being used for more efficient cyberattacks by foreign adversaries.
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Call of Duty is back, and it's got a battle on its hands

Call of Duty is back, and it's got a battle on its hands

Summary

The new Call of Duty game, Black Ops 7, faces competition from Battlefield 6 and criticism from fans concerned about losing its original appeal. Activision, the game's publisher, has addressed these concerns while highlighting the game's new features and talent, including actress Kiernan Shipka. The game's campaign explores themes of espionage and conspiracy set in 2035.

Key Facts

  • Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 is a new installment in the popular video game series.
  • The game competes with Battlefield 6, a successful title from Electronic Arts.
  • Fans have expressed concerns about Call of Duty losing touch with its original elements.
  • Activision introduced character skins based on 90s cartoon Beavis and Butthead, causing backlash.
  • The game's campaign includes a story set in 2035, involving global terrorism and big tech companies.
  • Actress Kiernan Shipka and actor Milo Ventimiglia star in Black Ops 7.
  • Microsoft's Game Pass subscription service, which includes Activision games, saw a 20% price increase.
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‘Red Dead Redemption’ Mobile via Netflix – Release Date, How to Play

‘Red Dead Redemption’ Mobile via Netflix – Release Date, How to Play

Summary

Netflix is bringing the video game Red Dead Redemption to mobile devices. The game, along with its companion expansion Undead Nightmare, will be available for Netflix subscribers starting December 2, 2025.

Key Facts

  • Red Dead Redemption will be available on mobile through Netflix starting December 2, 2025.
  • The game includes the expansion pack Undead Nightmare.
  • Subscribers can play the game by downloading it on compatible iOS and Android devices.
  • The game will be available at Midnight Pacific Time (PT) and 3 am Eastern Time (ET) on December 2.
  • A standard Netflix subscription with ads costs $7.99/month, and the ad-free version starts at $17.99/month.
  • Players who pre-register can be among the first to access the game when it releases.
  • The game story involves the character John Marston searching for his kidnapped family.
  • In Undead Nightmare, Marston deals with a zombie outbreak affecting his family.
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Zoom Moves Deeper Into HR With BrightHire Acquisition

Zoom Moves Deeper Into HR With BrightHire Acquisition

Summary

Zoom has acquired BrightHire, a company that helps with the hiring process. This move aims to integrate BrightHire's features into Zoom's platform, enhancing its digital work tools with more capabilities for job interviews and recruiting.

Key Facts

  • Zoom announced the acquisition of BrightHire, a hiring platform founded in 2019.
  • BrightHire's tools assist in various hiring tasks like scheduling interviews and creating job descriptions.
  • Zoom has invested in BrightHire since 2021.
  • The acquisition aims to use AI tools to improve hiring processes and efficiency.
  • Zoom launched the AI-powered collaboration suite called Zoom Workplace in 2024.
  • Zoom recently acquired Bonsai, a company providing software for small business management.
  • Zoom's strategy includes integrating AI and technology to expand its platform for workplace solutions.
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How Is AI Reshaping Business Strategy? Join Newsweek's Webinar

How Is AI Reshaping Business Strategy? Join Newsweek's Webinar

Summary

Newsweek is hosting a webinar titled “How AI Is Reshaping Business” on December 1. The discussion features Gopi Kallayil from Google and Harvard's Suraj Srinivasan, focusing on how AI affects business operations and governance. Both experts will share insights on how companies can adapt to AI's growing role in business strategies.

Key Facts

  • Newsweek's webinar is on December 1 at 1 p.m. ET, titled “How AI Is Reshaping Business.”
  • Speakers include Gopi Kallayil from Google and Suraj Srinivasan from Harvard.
  • Gopi Kallayil is Google’s chief business strategist for AI, advising companies on using AI.
  • Suraj Srinivasan researches AI's impact on business governance and performance.
  • AI is increasingly important for business operations and customer experience.
  • The webinar will discuss AI's effect on corporate decision-making and processes.
  • Companies are encouraged to update their skills and processes to leverage AI fully.
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Video App That Allows Dead To Live on Compared To Dystopian Show

Video App That Allows Dead To Live on Compared To Dystopian Show

Summary

Calum Worthy, a Canadian actor, has introduced an artificial intelligence app called 2wai. This app allows users to interact with AI avatars of deceased loved ones. The app's release has sparked both interest and criticism, with some comparing it to a plot from the TV show Black Mirror.

Key Facts

  • Calum Worthy co-founded the app 2wai, which uses AI to create avatars of deceased individuals.
  • The app allows users to engage with AI versions of historical figures, life coaches, and even themselves.
  • The app is currently available in beta on the App Store and will have a subscription model in the future.
  • A promotional video for 2wai has been viewed over 22.6 million times.
  • The app’s concept has drawn parallels to the TV show Black Mirror, specifically an episode about using AI to interact with the deceased.
  • Some people have criticized the app, claiming it might distort memories or interfere with the grieving process.
  • The app uses recordings made when the individuals were alive to create their avatars.
  • Critics are concerned about the ethical implications of creating avatars of deceased persons without their explicit consent.
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Newspaper Issues Apology As Readers Can’t Believe What Made It Into Print

Newspaper Issues Apology As Readers Can’t Believe What Made It Into Print

Summary

A leading newspaper in Pakistan, Dawn, apologized for mistakenly printing an AI-generated prompt in an article. The incident sparked discussions online about the role of AI in newsrooms. This adds to the broader global conversation on the use of AI in journalism and its consequences.

Key Facts

  • Dawn, a major English-language newspaper in Pakistan, printed an AI prompt in an article, leading to a public apology.
  • The mistake appeared in a business story about auto sales published on November 12.
  • The text included an AI prompt offering alternative versions of the article intended for editing, not publication.
  • The incident gained attention on Reddit and social media, although claims about copying ChatGPT word for word weren't verified.
  • Similar AI-related errors have occurred in other news outlets, like the Chicago Sun-Times, which published a list of non-existent books.
  • A survey by Reuters Institute and University of Oxford shows varied comfort levels with AI-generated news among people in different countries.
  • Newsweek uses AI tools in journalism but requires human oversight at every stage to ensure ethical use.
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America's most-downloaded country artist? AI

America's most-downloaded country artist? AI

Summary

The most-downloaded country song in the U.S. is created entirely by AI. AI "artists" Breaking Rust and Cain Walker have top spots on the Billboard Country Digital Song Sales chart, raising concerns in the music industry about AI's rising influence.

Key Facts

  • AI created the most-downloaded country song in the U.S.
  • Breaking Rust, an AI blues-country "artist," has the No. 1 song "Walk My Walk."
  • Cain Walker, another AI "artist," has the No. 3 song "Don't Tread On Me."
  • Breaking Rust has 2.4 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
  • Cain Walker has over 842,000 monthly listeners on Spotify.
  • Billboard's country sales chart tracks paid downloads, not streaming or radio airplay.
  • At least six AI or AI-assisted artists have recently appeared on Billboard charts.
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DiVine: Everything We Know About Vine’s Reboot

DiVine: Everything We Know About Vine’s Reboot

Summary

The social media platform Vine is being relaunched under the name diVine by Jack Dorsey, former CEO of Twitter. The new version will focus on preventing AI-generated content, offering users six-second videos while promising a human-first space. DiVine aims to provide a trustworthy social media alternative with rigorous controls against AI content.

Key Facts

  • DiVine is the reboot of the original Vine platform and will include over 100,000 archived six-second clips.
  • Jack Dorsey, who co-founded Twitter, is backing the new platform, aiming to resist AI content.
  • The app will allow users to create profiles and upload new six-second videos with strict filters against AI-generated material.
  • The relaunch comes at a time when AI is increasingly present on social media platforms.
  • DiVine is built on a decentralized protocol, to avoid commercial pressures common in other social networks.
  • The platform is designed to provide transparency and trustworthiness by lifting verified human posts and filtering synthetic media.
  • The success of diVine will depend on consistent rules governing automated behavior on the platform.
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