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Technology News

Breaking news and analysis from the world of technology

Geologists Drilled Into an Active Volcano—Here's What Happened

Geologists Drilled Into an Active Volcano—Here's What Happened

Summary

Scientists discovered how magma behaves under volcanoes, which could help improve monitoring and extraction of green energy. They conducted a study in Iceland where drilling accidentally reached magma, and they found that the magma lost gas quickly during this process.

Key Facts

  • Researchers focused on magma behavior beneath an active volcano.
  • The study was led by Janine Birnbaum from Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München and published in Nature.
  • Magma can stay trapped in the Earth's crust for long periods, cooling and changing over time.
  • A drilling project in Iceland unexpectedly hit a magma body just over two kilometers deep.
  • When drilled, the magma quickly lost gas before cooling into glass fragments.
  • Scientists used a numerical model to understand how gas escaped during drilling.
  • Findings may help in safer geothermal drilling and improve volcano monitoring.
  • The research could also aid in extracting green energy from volcanic areas.
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Zara Larsson Was a Niche Euro Pop Star for 10 Years—Then Came One Meme

Zara Larsson Was a Niche Euro Pop Star for 10 Years—Then Came One Meme

Summary

Zara Larsson, a Swedish singer, achieved her first top-10 hit in the U.S. after a viral meme featuring AI-generated dolphins connected her with a broader audience. Over 18 years, Larsson built a steady career in Europe but struggled to gain similar success in the U.S. until this internet moment. Her response to the viral trend included incorporating dolphin imagery into her performances, which resonated with fans and helped revitalize her career.

Key Facts

  • Zara Larsson achieved her first U.S. top-10 hit after a meme went viral.
  • A viral TikTok trend featuring AI-generated dolphins contributed to her success.
  • Before this, Larsson had a steady career in Europe but limited U.S. recognition.
  • She incorporated dolphin visuals into her live performances.
  • Larsson's approach involved engaging with the meme without overdoing it.
  • The internet trend helped reshape her public image and career strategy.
  • Her new visual style included a tropical and vibrant aesthetic.
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PS5 price hiked by £90 due to global 'pressures'

PS5 price hiked by £90 due to global 'pressures'

Summary

Sony is raising the prices of its PlayStation 5 consoles in several major markets, including a £90 increase in the UK and a $100 hike in the US. The company cites global economic pressures and rising costs for key components like memory and storage as reasons for this price rise.

Key Facts

  • Sony announced a price increase for the PlayStation 5 in the UK and the US.
  • The price rise is due to "continued pressures in the global economic landscape."
  • In the UK, the PS5 will now cost £569.99, a 19% increase.
  • The PS5 Digital Edition will cost £519.99, up by 21%.
  • The PS5 Pro will be priced at £789.99, which is a 13% increase.
  • The PlayStation Portal handheld device's price will rise by £20 to £219.99.
  • Increased demand for memory and storage components contributes to higher costs.
  • There is speculation that Microsoft and Nintendo might also raise their console prices.
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Savannah Cat Caught Taking ‘Sibling Rivalry Too Far’—Viewers in Hysterics

Savannah Cat Caught Taking ‘Sibling Rivalry Too Far’—Viewers in Hysterics

Summary

A viral social media video shows a Savannah cat behaving humorously with its "sibling," capturing widespread attention online. The Savannah cat, a unique breed created by mixing a domestic cat with a wild African serval, requires special care and can be challenging to own.

Key Facts

  • A TikTok video of a Savannah cat has received over 786,000 views and 111,000 likes.
  • The video shows a Savannah cat sitting on a bag, revealing another cat underneath.
  • Savannah cats are a hybrid breed from domestic cats and wild African servals.
  • These cats are taller and appear heavier than many other cats and need special care.
  • They are legal in some states, like Texas, but banned in others, such as Georgia.
  • Savannah cats are intelligent, high-energy, and need lots of interaction and space.
  • They can bond well with owners but are not ideal for most family homes.
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J.K. Rowling Weighs in on Controversial 'Harry Potter' Series Trailer

J.K. Rowling Weighs in on Controversial 'Harry Potter' Series Trailer

Summary

HBO released a trailer for a new "Harry Potter" series based on the first book, "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone," which will stream on HBO Max on Christmas Day. Some fans reacted nostalgically, while others noted its resemblance to the TV show "Succession." J.K. Rowling, author of the original books, expressed enthusiasm for the series.

Key Facts

  • HBO released a two-minute trailer for the "Harry Potter" series.
  • The series will stream on HBO Max starting Christmas Day.
  • The showrunner for the series is Francesca Gardiner, a producer for "Succession."
  • J.K. Rowling expressed happiness with the series, calling it "incredible."
  • Daniel Radcliffe, who played Harry Potter in the films, commented on the new actors taking over the roles.
  • Dominic McLaughlin, Alastair Stout, and Arabella Stanton will play Harry, Ron, and Hermione, respectively.
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Gen Z's New Favorite Social-Media App Shows a Shift in Online Culture

Gen Z's New Favorite Social-Media App Shows a Shift in Online Culture

Summary

A new social media app called Shelf is gaining attention among Generation Z users. Unlike traditional platforms focused on selfies and constant posting, Shelf emphasizes sharing content related to books, music, and movies. The app has been popularized on TikTok and allows users to connect with external services like Spotify and Netflix to update their profiles automatically.

Key Facts

  • Shelf is a social media app designed to share cultural habits like reading, watching, and listening preferences.
  • The app aims to offer an alternative to traditional social media, focusing on media consumption instead of personal images.
  • Shelf integrates with services like Spotify, Netflix, Apple Music, Goodreads, and YouTube for automatic updates.
  • Users can manually add content through links and create a personalized "shelf."
  • The app's design combines elements of existing platforms like Spotify and Pinterest.
  • Pinterest co-founder Evan Sharp joined Koodos Labs’ board, the company behind Shelf, in March 2025.
  • Shelf experienced a surge in popularity on TikTok, with viral videos promoting the app.
  • The app's rise is linked to Gen Z's interest in more meaningful and mindful media consumption.
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New on Paramount+: Full List of Shows, Movies in April 2026

New on Paramount+: Full List of Shows, Movies in April 2026

Summary

Paramount+ is adding a large selection of shows and movies to its streaming service in April 2026. Highlights include a new Cheech and Chong documentary and a true crime series about alleged murders in Iowa. The platform will also feature many popular comedies and action films.

Key Facts

  • Paramount+ will feature a documentary titled "Cheech & Chong's Last Movie," following the comedy duo on a road trip.
  • "My Killer Father: The Green Hollow Murders" is a new true crime series claiming a man in Iowa killed many people.
  • The platform will offer comedies like "Wayne's World" and films from the "Jackass" series starting April 1.
  • A wide range of classic and popular films will be available, including "Catch Me If You Can" and "Saving Private Ryan."
  • Many TV series across different genres will be part of the April lineup, including "All The Queen’s Men" and "Love & Hip Hop."
  • Movies added include "Airplane!", "Terminator 2: Judgment Day", and "The Truman Show."
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iPhone User Annoyed by Update Process—Then Gets ‘Lifesaver’ Tip

iPhone User Annoyed by Update Process—Then Gets ‘Lifesaver’ Tip

Summary

An iPhone user was frustrated with the process of updating apps in the latest iOS 26.4. They shared their concern on Reddit and found a solution through a simple tip from another user about long-pressing the app icon to access updates directly.

Key Facts

  • An iPhone user was unhappy with the app update steps in iOS 26.4.
  • The issue was discussed on Reddit's r/iOS forum.
  • A user suggested long-pressing the app icon to check for updates.
  • The iOS 26.4 update focuses on small improvements and security patches.
  • iOS 26.4 encourages automatic updates for better security.
  • The long-press method has been an option since the introduction of 3D Touch in earlier iPhone models.
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The PS5 is Getting Another Big Price Hike

The PS5 is Getting Another Big Price Hike

Summary

Sony announced that it will increase the prices of its PlayStation 5 models and PlayStation Portal starting April 2026. The price hikes are due to global economic pressures, with the PS5 becoming $100 more expensive and the PS5 Pro going up by $150 in the U.S.

Key Facts

  • Sony will raise prices for the PlayStation 5, PlayStation 5 Pro, and PlayStation Portal starting April 2, 2026.
  • In the U.S., the PS5 and its digital edition will increase by $100, the PS5 Pro by $150, and the PS Portal by $50.
  • The new prices will be: PS5 Digital Edition at $599.99, PS5 at $649.99, PS5 Pro at $899.99, and PS Portal at $249.99.
  • Sony cited continued global economic pressures as the reason for the price increase.
  • There was a $50 price increase for all PS5 models in the U.S. in September last year.
  • Since its launch in 2020, the PS5 is now $150 more expensive.
  • The price of the PS5 Pro is now $200 more than its launch price in November 2024.
  • Rising memory and storage costs due to the AI boom are likely factors in the price changes.
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Apple User Alarmed As Health App Directs Them to NSFW Site

Apple User Alarmed As Health App Directs Them to NSFW Site

Summary

An Apple Health app user reported being redirected to a gambling website when trying to access mental health support. The error likely occurred because the original mental health site was hacked or its domain bought by someone else. Apple has not yet corrected the link in the app.

Key Facts

  • An Apple Health app user sought mental health resources but was sent to a gambling site instead.
  • The user shared their experience on Reddit, including a GIF showing the error.
  • Others suggested the domain for the mental health site was either bought or hacked.
  • Apple Health app directs users to local mental health services based on their location.
  • The app provides informational support but advises consulting a healthcare professional for diagnoses.
  • The issue remains unresolved as Apple has not updated or removed the faulty link.
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Lloyds bank reveals IT glitch affected almost half a million customers

Lloyds bank reveals IT glitch affected almost half a million customers

Summary

An IT issue at Lloyds Banking Group affected nearly 448,000 customers. The glitch allowed users to see other people's financial information or had personal data exposed. The bank has started compensating affected customers.

Key Facts

  • The IT glitch occurred on March 12.
  • Nearly 448,000 customers of Lloyds, Halifax, and Bank of Scotland were affected.
  • Some customers saw private details like account information and national insurance numbers.
  • The bank has paid £139,000 to 3,625 customers as a goodwill gesture.
  • The problem stemmed from a software defect introduced during an overnight update.
  • Lloyds Banking Group has pledged full cooperation with regulatory bodies.
  • The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) are investigating the issue.
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Woman Passes Doorbell Cam—What She Sees Makes Her Want to ‘Flip Some Tables’

Woman Passes Doorbell Cam—What She Sees Makes Her Want to ‘Flip Some Tables’

Summary

A woman shared a Reddit post about a Ring doorbell camera that mistakenly labeled her, a Black individual, as "a dark animal." The incident has spurred discussions about AI inaccuracies and bias, especially in home surveillance products like those sold by Ring, an Amazon-owned company. Concerns about privacy and AI's potential for misidentification continue to grow as these technologies become more widely used.

Key Facts

  • A Ring doorbell camera misidentified a Black woman as "a dark animal" according to a Reddit post.
  • The post attracted nearly 1,000 responses in three days from people sharing similar experiences.
  • Ring is owned by Amazon and has recently increased its use of AI technology.
  • Critics have raised concerns about AI surveillance tools potentially misidentifying people.
  • Ring has faced scrutiny over its AI tools, which some see as aiming beyond their stated uses.
  • The company acknowledges that factors like lighting and camera angle can cause recognition errors.
  • Ring’s tools have a beta feature called "Familiar Faces" designed to recognize frequent visitors.
  • Privacy advocates question the bias and accuracy of AI in surveillance technology.
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White House AI rollout exposes widening rift

White House AI rollout exposes widening rift

Summary

The White House revealed a national plan for AI laws, but disagreements in Congress have slowed progress. There are different views on how AI impacts people, especially young people, leading to debates on how to move forward. There are also differing opinions on issues like copyright and data center construction.

Key Facts

  • The White House released a national framework for AI laws to guide Congress.
  • There's no clear plan yet on how Congress will pass these AI-related laws.
  • Some members of Congress have different views on AI's impact on people, especially children.
  • A recent court ruling against Meta and YouTube caused more debate over online safety for kids.
  • There's division among Republicans on whether to hold platforms accountable for AI-related harms.
  • There's disagreement on protecting creators’ rights while AI uses copyrighted material.
  • Congress is also discussing how to handle local issues from data centers affecting energy and land use.
  • Democrats are working on a unified approach to AI policy, hoping to set a clear legislative agenda.
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Hinge CEO Jackie Jantos On Dating and AI Replacing Human Connection

Hinge CEO Jackie Jantos On Dating and AI Replacing Human Connection

Summary

The CEO of Hinge, Jackie Jantos, discussed how people, especially young ones, are often turning to AI tools like ChatGPT for social interaction instead of reaching out to friends. She argues that this reliance on technology can negatively affect the development of real-life social skills and intimacy.

Key Facts

  • Jackie Jantos is the CEO of Hinge, a dating app.
  • Jantos shared that young people sometimes use AI, such as ChatGPT, for conversations they don't want to have with friends.
  • She believes that turning to AI can prevent people from building close relationships with others.
  • According to Jantos, the use of technology is affecting how young people connect with each other.
  • Gen Z spends about 1,000 fewer hours per year in person with others compared to previous generations.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated issues of social disconnection, particularly for Gen Z.
  • Technology offers what Jantos describes as low-level intimacy, which lacks the messiness of real-life relationships.
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Judge rejects Pentagon's attempt to 'cripple' Anthropic

Judge rejects Pentagon's attempt to 'cripple' Anthropic

Summary

A judge has blocked an attempt by President Trump and the Pentagon to stop using Anthropic's AI tools. The judge found that the government's actions could harm the company and restrict free speech, allowing Anthropic's technology to be used until the lawsuit is resolved.

Key Facts

  • A judge in California sided with Anthropic, an AI company, in a lawsuit against the Pentagon.
  • The government tried to stop using Anthropic's tools immediately, but the judge blocked this order.
  • Anthropic's AI tools will continue to be used by the government and contractors until the lawsuit is settled.
  • The conflict started after President Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth labeled Anthropic a "supply chain risk."
  • Anthropic argued that its business and free speech rights were harmed by this designation.
  • The Pentagon expressed concerns over Anthropic's refusal to accept new contract terms.
  • Judge Rita Lin noted government statements about Anthropic seemed politically motivated, not security-related.
  • Anthropic is negotiating a $200 million contract which includes discussions on how its tools are used.
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‘Accountability has arrived’: dual US court losses show shifting tide against Meta and co

‘Accountability has arrived’: dual US court losses show shifting tide against Meta and co

Summary

Two juries in the US recently found Meta liable for harm caused to young people by its social media products. One jury ordered Meta to pay $375 million for harms including child sexual exploitation, and another ordered Meta and YouTube to pay $6 million for designing addictive products targeting youth.

Key Facts

  • A New Mexico jury ordered Meta to pay $375 million over claims its products led to child sexual exploitation and other harms.
  • A California jury ordered Meta and YouTube to pay $6 million for deliberately designing addictive social media products to hook young users.
  • These are the first court cases to find Meta responsible for harm to young people caused by its products.
  • Over 2,000 plaintiffs, including families, schools, and state officials, have brought lawsuits against Meta, YouTube, TikTok, and Snap.
  • The California jury found Meta and YouTube acted with malice, oppression, and fraud by a 10-2 vote.
  • Meta and YouTube disagree with the verdicts and plan to appeal them.
  • Advocates are using lawsuits, public campaigns, and calls for government rules to push social media companies to protect children better.
  • Juries in these cases can only award money and cannot force social media companies to change their products.
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PatientGPT Debuts at Hartford. Will it 'Force' Better Care?

PatientGPT Debuts at Hartford. Will it 'Force' Better Care?

Summary

The article discusses how people are using AI chatbots for health information and advice, based on data from a recent poll. It highlights the introduction of a new AI tool called "PatientGPT" by Hartford HealthCare and KHealth to improve patient care. Concerns about privacy and the reliance on AI for healthcare due to system shortcomings are also discussed.

Key Facts

  • 32% of adults use AI for health-related information and advice.
  • 65% of AI users want quick and immediate guidance.
  • 41% use AI to explore health information before going to a doctor.
  • 36% feel more comfortable researching health questions privately with AI.
  • 20% use AI due to the high cost of healthcare.
  • 77% of users worry about privacy, but 41% have shared personal medical data with AI chatbots.
  • New tool "PatientGPT" from Hartford HealthCare and KHealth integrates AI with medical systems to answer patient questions and can connect to doctors 24/7.
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Judge temporarily blocks Pentagon's ban on Anthropic

Judge temporarily blocks Pentagon's ban on Anthropic

Summary

A federal judge has temporarily halted the U.S. government's designation of Anthropic as a supply chain risk. Anthropic claims this decision will help them avoid harm to their reputation and business relationships.

Key Facts

  • A judge paused the Pentagon's ban on Anthropic, a tech company.
  • The decision comes from a U.S. District Judge named Rita Lin.
  • Anthropic is involved in a legal case in two courts, with one being in D.C.
  • Anthropic argues the Pentagon's actions violate the First Amendment and procurement laws.
  • The Pentagon claims there's no real harm from Defense Secretary and President Trump's statements about Anthropic.
  • Anthropic believes the initial decision will help protect their business reputation and partner relationships.
  • The company also aims to work with the government to ensure AI technology is safe and reliable.
  • The court's skepticism involves whether the government's actions align with national security needs.
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Scoop: Altman told staff he tried to "save" Anthropic in Pentagon clash

Scoop: Altman told staff he tried to "save" Anthropic in Pentagon clash

Summary

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman attempted to assist his competitor Anthropic during its failing negotiations with the Pentagon, according to internal messages. Despite this, OpenAI secured a contract with the Pentagon that Anthropic had lost. Altman told his employees he acted in good faith, while Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei criticized Altman's actions.

Key Facts

  • Sam Altman is the CEO of OpenAI.
  • Anthropic was in negotiations with the Pentagon, but the talks faltered.
  • Altman shared internal messages saying he was trying to help Anthropic.
  • OpenAI secured a Pentagon contract that Anthropic lost.
  • Altman said he wanted the government to extend the same contract terms to other AI companies.
  • Anthropic's CEO, Dario Amodei, criticized Altman and called his peacemaker claims false.
  • The Pentagon contract with OpenAI included conditions about intelligence agencies.
  • OpenAI's contract terms could not be applied to Anthropic due to existing commitments.
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How Often Should You Shower?

How Often Should You Shower?

Summary

The article discusses how often people should shower and explains that it varies based on individual activity levels, sweat production, and skin reactions. It highlights that body odor is affected by multiple factors, including bacteria, hormones, diet, and stress, rather than just personal hygiene.

Key Facts

  • The frequency of showers depends on how active a person is and how much they sweat.
  • Daily showers are common for those exercising or living in hot climates.
  • Skipping showers occasionally is fine if you haven't been active or sweating.
  • Over-washing can remove natural oils that protect the skin.
  • Body odor arises from bacteria breaking down sweat, affected by genetics, hormones, diet, and stress.
  • Sweat itself is mostly water and salt, which initially has no odor.
  • Odor is more influenced by bacteria and sweat composition than the amount of sweat.
  • Heat and humidity can make sweat odor linger longer due to slower evaporation.
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