Account

The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

Technology News

Breaking news and analysis from the world of technology

Lab-grown food pipe offers new hope for young patients

Lab-grown food pipe offers new hope for young patients

Summary

Scientists in the UK have successfully grown and transplanted functioning food pipes, also known as esophagi, into mini pigs. This research could lead to future treatments for children born with missing parts of their esophagus, like two-year-old Casey Mcintyre, who currently relies on feeding tubes due to his condition.

Key Facts

  • UK scientists have lab-grown esophagi and transplanted them into mini pigs.
  • This breakthrough offers hope for children born with parts of their esophagus missing.
  • Casey Mcintyre, a two-year-old, was born with 11 cm of his esophagus missing.
  • Traditional treatments for Casey involved multiple surgeries, including moving his stomach.
  • The lab-grown esophagus was created using the animal's own cells, avoiding the need for anti-rejection drugs.
  • Göttingen minipigs were used because their anatomy is similar to that of human children.
  • Eight pigs received transplants; five survived six months and developed functional structures.
  • The treatment may be available for children within five years but is not suitable for adult conditions like cancer.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Three charged in the US with smuggling AI chips into China

Three charged in the US with smuggling AI chips into China

Summary

Three individuals linked to Super Micro Computer face charges in the U.S. for allegedly smuggling U.S. AI chips worth $2.5 billion into China, violating export laws. The U.S. Department of Justice accuses them of using a complex scheme involving fake documents and secret routes to send the chips illegally. Super Micro was informed about the charges but is not named as a defendant in the case.

Key Facts

  • Three individuals, including a cofounder of Super Micro Computer, are charged with smuggling AI technology to China.
  • The alleged scheme violated U.S. export laws and involved about $2.5 billion worth of technology.
  • The U.S. Justice Department claims the defendants used fake documents and staged equipment to avoid detection.
  • The technology was reportedly sent through Taiwan and other Southeast Asian countries before reaching China.
  • Export restrictions on advanced AI chips to China have been in place since 2022.
  • One of the accused, Liaw, has been arrested in California, while another remains a fugitive.
  • Super Micro's shares fell by 8% following the announcement of the charges.
  • Nvidia, a major AI chip supplier, emphasizes strict compliance with export laws and collaborates with customers and the government on such matters.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Is Discord Down? Thousands of Users Report Errors

Is Discord Down? Thousands of Users Report Errors

Summary

Discord, an online messaging platform, experienced disruptions late Thursday, affecting thousands of users in the U.S. Over 6,500 problems were reported, with issues like failing voice calls and login problems. Discord addressed the issue and implemented a fix by early Friday morning.

Key Facts

  • Discord users in the U.S. faced disruptions late Thursday.
  • Over 6,500 issues were reported on Downdetector after 11 p.m. ET.
  • Problems included difficulty creating new voice calls and login errors.
  • Discord confirmed they were working on resolving the issue.
  • A fix was implemented by 1.45 a.m. ET, and the issue was resolved by 1.56 a.m.
  • Users reported various issues, including network errors and incorrect login codes.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

False online posts fuel self-diagnosis, says study

False online posts fuel self-diagnosis, says study

Summary

A study found that false information on social media is leading young people to self-diagnose conditions like ADHD and autism. Researchers analyzed thousands of social media posts and called for better content quality and moderation.

Key Facts

  • The study showed misinformation on social media led to more young people self-diagnosing neurological conditions.
  • Researchers from the University of East Anglia and Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust conducted the study.
  • They found 52% of ADHD videos and 41% of autism videos on TikTok were inaccurate, according to Dr. Alice Carter from UEA.
  • Researchers examined 27 studies analyzing over 5,000 social media posts.
  • Misinformation was higher on TikTok than on other platforms.
  • YouTube Kids had the least misinformation due to stricter content moderation policies.
  • The study highlighted that misinformation could cause delayed diagnosis for those needing help.
  • TikTok disputed the study, stating it removes harmful misinformation and provides reliable information sources.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Nasa's Moon rocket Artemis rolls back to pad for possible April launch

Nasa's Moon rocket Artemis rolls back to pad for possible April launch

Summary

NASA's Artemis Moon rocket is returning to the launch pad for tests before a possible early April mission. Engineers fixed a helium system issue that stopped a previous launch attempt. The mission aims to send astronauts around the Moon, which hasn’t happened in over 50 years.

Key Facts

  • NASA's Artemis Moon rocket is being moved to the launch pad for the second time.
  • The Space Launch System (SLS) and Orion spacecraft are traveling four miles to Pad 39B at Kennedy Space Center.
  • A problem with the rocket's helium system halted a March launch attempt.
  • Engineers have now fixed the helium issue, which is important for pressurizing propellant tanks.
  • The rocket assembly weighs about 5,000 tonnes and takes up to 12 hours to travel to the launch pad.
  • Once at the pad, engineers will perform final tests and rehearse the countdown sequence.
  • The Artemis II mission will last ten days and involve a loop around the Moon.
  • The crew for Artemis II includes astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Colombia's budding tech scene needs a cash boost

Colombia's budding tech scene needs a cash boost

Summary

Colombia's tech scene is growing, led by companies like Rappi and Foodology. However, many start-ups are struggling to find funding as investment in Latin America has slowed.

Key Facts

  • Rappi, a Colombian delivery platform, is valued at over $5 billion, with more than 35 million active users.
  • Colombia has around 2,100 start-ups, making it one of the top start-up ecosystems in Latin America after Brazil.
  • Almost 80% of these start-ups are at an early stage of development.
  • Foodology, a virtual restaurant company, has raised over $60 million and expanded to Mexico and Peru.
  • Investment in Latin American start-ups surged between 2021 and 2022 but has since slowed.
  • Despite the slowdown, Colombia remains a significant hub for emerging tech businesses.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

How AI Can Help (or Hurt) Your Mental Health: 5 Prompts Experts Recommend

How AI Can Help (or Hurt) Your Mental Health: 5 Prompts Experts Recommend

Summary

The article discusses the increasing use of AI in mental health support. Experts explain both the benefits and risks of AI-powered therapy, noting that while it offers immediate access and confidentiality, it might also present trust and safety issues.

Key Facts

  • AI is increasingly used in therapy, offering new ways to support mental health.
  • Many U.S. adults have mental health conditions, but there are not enough therapists available.
  • AI provides immediate help, which can be valuable for those without access to therapists.
  • Some people feel more comfortable sharing personal issues with AI than with human therapists.
  • Researchers stress the importance of ensuring AI tools are safe and effective for treating mental health issues.
  • Critics warn about the potential dangers of relying solely on AI for mental health support.
  • A small study found that many participants found AI helpful for managing their symptoms, but it has limitations, especially for complex issues.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

'Hotel Room Service' trend? Woman's Version of 'Bed Stacking' Goes Viral

'Hotel Room Service' trend? Woman's Version of 'Bed Stacking' Goes Viral

Summary

A TikTok video by user amanda.theresa introduces a new trend called "hotel room service," a variation of "bedtime stacking" focused on self-care. This trend involves setting up a comfortable bedside arrangement to create a relaxing atmosphere similar to returning to a prepared hotel room.

Key Facts

  • Amanda.theresa's TikTok video about "hotel room service" gained over 89,000 views in two days.
  • The trend involves creating a bedside setup with items like drinks, snacks, a fan with a remote, and sleep aids.
  • The goal is to reduce evening inconvenience and mimic the comfort of a serviced hotel room.
  • This practice contrasts with "revenge bedtime procrastination," where people delay sleep for personal time.
  • Research suggests that structured pre-sleep routines can promote better sleep.
  • The trend resonates with viewers facing burnout, providing a sense of relaxation and care.
  • Amanda described the setup as offering the comforting surprise of having everything ready after a shower.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Online Travel Scams: What You Need To Know Before Booking in 2026

Online Travel Scams: What You Need To Know Before Booking in 2026

Summary

Online travel scams are becoming more sophisticated, using advanced technology like artificial intelligence (AI) to deceive consumers. Scammers create fake websites and listings to trick people into booking counterfeit travel services, resulting in significant financial losses. The article describes various scams and warns consumers about red flags to look out for when booking travel online.

Key Facts

  • The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) noticed a 25% increase in the financial impact of fraud despite stable fraud report numbers.
  • Scammers use AI to make fake websites and emails that look real, making scams harder to detect.
  • Fake travel sites imitate actual travel company websites by copying their design, logos, and text.
  • Scammers often use fake reviews and 24/7 support claims to gain trust.
  • Consumers are advised to check for "typosquat" URLs, which are web addresses with slight misspellings.
  • New sites that lack an online presence but have many paid ads can be suspicious.
  • Scammers may ask for payments through non-traditional methods like cryptocurrency, which is unusual for legitimate businesses.
  • AI is also used to create misleading images of properties, leading to disappointment when travelers arrive onsite.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Scoop: Anthropic meets with House Homeland Security behind closed doors

Scoop: Anthropic meets with House Homeland Security behind closed doors

Summary

Anthropic's Jack Clark met with the House Homeland Security Committee to discuss AI and national security. The meeting, held privately, focused on AI technology issues like model distillation and export controls, while a separate legal battle with the Pentagon was not a main topic.

Key Facts

  • Anthropic met with the House Homeland Security Committee in a private briefing.
  • The meeting included lawmakers from both political parties.
  • Discussions focused on AI topics such as model distillation and export controls.
  • Anthropic is involved in a legal case with the federal government over supply chain risk designation.
  • The company's dispute with the Pentagon was only briefly mentioned in the meeting.
  • Sources described the meeting as "friendly."
  • The committee plans to continue holding private discussions on AI and cybersecurity.
  • Jack Clark is a co-founder of Anthropic and recently took on a new role in the company.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

White House eyes Friday rollout for AI framework

White House eyes Friday rollout for AI framework

Summary

The White House plans to send a legislative framework for regulating artificial intelligence (AI) to Congress. This framework aims to provide federal guidelines on AI, touching on issues such as child safety and state law preemption. However, there are still disagreements in Congress about the details of the regulation.

Key Facts

  • The White House plans to release its AI framework to Congress on Friday.
  • The framework will include guidelines on child safety, communities, creators, and censorship.
  • There is a proposal to preempt state laws with a national framework.
  • Congress has disagreements, especially between the House and Senate, about AI regulation details.
  • AI companies prefer a national framework but find state laws like those in California and New York manageable.
  • The framework is expected to align with thoughts from House Energy and Commerce Chair Brett Guthrie.
  • Senate Commerce is also working to advance AI legislation in coordination with the White House.
  • Pressure is mounting for Congress to act before the midterm elections.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Pentagon: Anthropic's foreign workforce poses security risks

Pentagon: Anthropic's foreign workforce poses security risks

Summary

The Pentagon is concerned about Anthropic's use of foreign workers, including those from China, due to potential national security risks. Anthropic, a key player in the AI industry, is involved in a legal case with the Pentagon over these concerns. A hearing related to the case is scheduled for March 24.

Key Facts

  • The Pentagon is worried about Anthropic's employment of many foreign workers, especially from China.
  • Concerns stem from these workers potentially being influenced by China's National Intelligence Law.
  • Unlike other AI companies, Anthropic's security measures are questioned by the Pentagon.
  • Anthropic is seeking to overturn a designation as a supply chain risk by the Pentagon.
  • Foreign workers form a large portion of the AI talent pool in the U.S.
  • Chinese-origin researchers make up 38-40% of top AI talent in the U.S. as of 2023.
  • Anthropic has shown a commitment to security, disrupting a cyber espionage campaign and banning certain services to the PRC.
  • A legal hearing about the case is set for March 24.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Elevance CHO: VBC Focus Keeps Payers, Providers 'On The Same Side'

Elevance CHO: VBC Focus Keeps Payers, Providers 'On The Same Side'

Summary

The article discusses how healthcare leaders are using skeptics to test new AI technologies in hospitals. One strategy involves involving skeptical staff in decision-making to help assess and validate new tools, which can aid in smoother adoption by other staff members.

Key Facts

  • Hospital leaders are introducing new AI tools to improve hospital operations.
  • A webinar discussed using technology to help solve capacity problems in emergency departments.
  • Dr. Bruce Lo from Sentara Health suggests involving skeptics to test new tools.
  • Tim Elliott from Navvis recommends respected thought leaders to promote adoption.
  • New bipartisan legislation aims to reduce visa fees for healthcare workers in the U.S.
  • Allina Health plans to join Sutter Health by 2026, expanding their network.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Kate Edwards on Cultural Responsibility of Indiana Jones: The Great Circle

Kate Edwards on Cultural Responsibility of Indiana Jones: The Great Circle

Summary

The article discusses Kate Edwards' insights on the importance of cultural responsibility in developing the Indiana Jones: The Great Circle video game. Edwards emphasizes the need for accurate representation of real-world locations and cultures, suggesting that games set in recognizable places require careful research and empathy.

Key Facts

  • Kate Edwards led a panel at GDC 2026, focusing on cultural responsibility in game development.
  • Edwards has a 33-year career in the games industry, including over a decade at Microsoft.
  • She has worked on 317 video games, bringing her extensive experience to the Indiana Jones project.
  • Edwards discussed the concept of "allegorical distance," which measures how closely a game relates to real-world settings.
  • Indiana Jones games have low allegorical distance, demanding precise representation of real places and cultures.
  • Cultural research in gaming goes beyond appearance and involves understanding social norms and history.
  • Edwards aims to create the most culturally accurate Indiana Jones game by balancing real-world elements with creative storytelling.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Facebook offering TikTok and YouTube creators $3,000 to post content

Facebook offering TikTok and YouTube creators $3,000 to post content

Summary

Facebook is paying some influencers $3,000 a month to post videos on its platform as part of a new program. This program is aimed at creators with over a million followers on platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram. The initiative is currently available to creators in the US and Canada.

Key Facts

  • Facebook's program offers $3,000 a month to certain influencers for posting videos.
  • Creators must have over a million followers on TikTok, YouTube, or Instagram.
  • The program is called the Content Fast Track programme.
  • Facebook's owner, Meta, paid nearly $3 billion to creators in 2025 through various monetization efforts.
  • The initiative is currently available in the US and Canada.
  • Influencers must post 15 short videos, called reels, each month to qualify.
  • Smaller accounts, under a million followers, can earn up to $1,000 a month.
  • The payment period runs for a maximum of three months.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Crimson Desert: The all-you-can-eat video game divides critics

Crimson Desert: The all-you-can-eat video game divides critics

Summary

Crimson Desert is a new action-adventure video game from South Korean developer Pearl Abyss. The game features a large, open world with many activities, drawing mixed reviews for its ambitious scale and diverse gameplay. While praised for its graphics and variety, critics are divided on whether the elements come together successfully.

Key Facts

  • Crimson Desert is developed by Pearl Abyss and was originally intended as a prequel to Black Desert Online.
  • The game focuses on a single-player adventure set in the fantasy world of Pywel.
  • Players control the character Kliff, who is part of a warrior clan and acquires mystical powers.
  • The game world is expansive, reportedly twice the size of Skyrim.
  • Players can engage in various activities beyond the main storyline, such as fishing and taming animals.
  • The combat style is similar to games like Devil May Cry, with the ability to switch between characters as seen in Grand Theft Auto 5.
  • On Metacritic, the game has a score of 78 out of 100, indicating generally favorable reviews.
  • Critics praised the graphics and varied environments but had mixed opinions on the integration of game elements.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Psychologists Reveal Secret to Successful Dating Profiles

Psychologists Reveal Secret to Successful Dating Profiles

Summary

New research shows that dating profiles written like personal stories are more effective than simple lists. Storytelling in profiles helps create emotional connections, leading to more empathy and romantic interest from potential matches.

Key Facts

  • Psychologists from Israel's Reichman University conducted the study.
  • Profiles with a narrative style got more empathy and romantic interest.
  • Three separate studies tested narrative vs. non-narrative presentation.
  • Storytelling in profiles helps viewers imagine knowing the person.
  • Empathy played a key role in the success of narrative profiles.
  • Researchers emphasize using genuine stories, not exaggerations, to enhance profiles.
  • The findings are similar to marketing techniques that use narratives to engage consumers.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

US messageboard 4Chan mocks £520,000 fine for UK online safety breaches

US messageboard 4Chan mocks £520,000 fine for UK online safety breaches

Summary

The UK regulator Ofcom fined the U.S. message board 4Chan £520,000 for not following the Online Safety Act. 4Chan, which disagrees with the fines, argues that its actions are legal under U.S. law and has refused to pay. Ofcom has issued many fines to tech companies for similar breaches, but most of the money has not been collected.

Key Facts

  • Ofcom fined 4Chan £520,000 for breaking the UK Online Safety Act rules.
  • Of the total fine, £450,000 is for not implementing age checks to block children from seeing adult content.
  • 4Chan's lawyer mentioned that the platform's actions are legal and protected by U.S. law.
  • Ofcom stated that online platforms must follow safety standards similar to offline regulations like those for alcohol or gambling.
  • 4Chan has not paid any fines from Ofcom before.
  • Ofcom has issued nearly £3 million in fines worldwide for online safety law breaches, but much of it remains unpaid.
  • Other companies have either paid their fines or complied with regulations by adding age verification.
  • 4Chan is challenging Ofcom's enforcement by launching legal action in the U.S.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Man Gets Baffling Device From PR—Then He Realizes: ‘Brilliant’

Man Gets Baffling Device From PR—Then He Realizes: ‘Brilliant’

Summary

A man received a unique bowl from a public relations company, prompting him to ask Reddit users for help in identifying its purpose. Reddit users identified the bowl as a popcorn sifter, which allows unpopped kernels to fall through holes at the bottom. The bowl is linked to Seth Rogen's "The Studio" as part of a promotional package.

Key Facts

  • A man received an unusual bowl from a PR company and sought help on Reddit to identify it.
  • The bowl has a removable circle at the bottom, similar to a drain.
  • Reddit users recognized it as a popcorn sifter designed to separate unpopped kernels.
  • The bowl can also be used for draining water from washed fruits and moist salads.
  • The bowl is connected to a promotional package from Seth Rogen's "The Studio."
  • Other similar products, like a salad spinner or colander, can perform similar functions.
  • The man's request and the bowl's identification went viral on the Reddit platform.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

This Sleep Rule Could Be the Easiest Wellness Upgrade

This Sleep Rule Could Be the Easiest Wellness Upgrade

Summary

The article discusses the "7:1 rule" for sleep, which involves getting seven hours of sleep within the same one-hour window, at least five days a week, to improve health. Experts suggest that consistent sleep time is more important than the duration of sleep. The rule is said to help reduce risks like early death and improve overall well-being.

Key Facts

  • The "7:1 rule" means getting seven hours of sleep in the same one-hour window most nights.
  • A study found that this sleep pattern could reduce the risk of early death by 24%.
  • Seven consistent hours of sleep can extend life expectancy by up to four years.
  • Consistent sleep times help maintain the body's internal clock and improve sleep efficiency.
  • Irregular sleep timing is linked to poor health outcomes, like memory loss.
  • Dr. John La Puma and Dr. Saema Tahir are among the experts discussing the benefits.
  • Tips for better sleep include morning light exposure and consistent eating times.
  • Reducing screen use and dimming lights before bed are also advised for better sleep.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.