A new animated series called "Splinter Cell: Deathwatch" based on a video game by Tom Clancy is releasing on Netflix. It will be available to stream starting October 14, 2025, with all eight episodes released at the same time. Viewers will need a Netflix subscription to watch the series.
Key Facts
"Splinter Cell: Deathwatch" is an animated series based on a video game by Tom Clancy.
The series features the voice of actor Liev Schreiber as the main character, Sam Fisher.
All eight episodes will be available on Netflix on October 14, 2025.
The episodes will be released simultaneously at Midnight Pacific Time (PT) or 3 AM Eastern Time (ET).
A Netflix subscription is required to watch the series, with prices starting at $7.99 per month for a plan with ads.
The series is produced by Ubisoft, along with filmmaker Derek Kolstad and studios like Sun Creature and Fost.
Episode titles include "Up from the Grave" and "Dinner First, Talk Later."
The head of product for the social media company X, Nikita Bier, is under scrutiny for a past comment about common "bot bios" being Christian-themed. This issue resurfaced after X purged 1.7 million bot accounts. The comment has sparked online debate about X's approach to handling automated accounts and potential biases.
Key Facts
Nikita Bier is the head of product at X, a social media company.
Bier's comment from August mentioned that many bot accounts have profiles that include Christian themes.
Last week, X removed 1.7 million bot accounts to reduce spam.
The removal of these accounts led to discussions about potential political bias in X's efforts.
Bier has a background in creating popular apps like Gas and TBH, which were acquired by Discord and Facebook.
He aims to improve X's messaging and content features using AI technology.
The controversy highlights challenges in balancing moderation with neutral viewpoints on digital platforms.
Consumer Reports tested 23 protein supplements and found that more than two-thirds contained unsafe levels of lead. There are no mandatory federal standards for heavy metal contamination in protein powders, raising concerns about consumer safety. Some plant-based protein powders showed the highest lead levels, with Naked Nutrition's Vegan Mass Gainer and Huel's Black Edition having the most lead.
Key Facts
Consumer Reports tested 23 protein supplements, including popular brands.
Over two-thirds of the products had unsafe lead levels.
Plant-based powders generally had more lead than dairy-based ones.
Naked Nutrition's Vegan Mass Gainer had the most lead at 7.7 micrograms per serving.
Huel's Black Edition powder had 6.3 micrograms of lead per serving.
Two products had high levels of cadmium, and three contained inorganic arsenic.
There are no federal limits on heavy metals in protein supplements in the U.S.
Lead accumulates in the body, posing long-term health risks.
Scientists in the Philippines are working on a potential vaccine to prevent stomach ulcers and some types of stomach cancer. They are using a modern technique that combines computer science with immunology to identify the best parts of a bacterium, Helicobacter pylori, to target for a vaccine. This could be an alternative way to prevent these conditions as antibiotics face challenges, like resistance and high costs.
Key Facts
Researchers aim to create a vaccine to prevent stomach ulcers and certain stomach cancers.
The vaccine targets the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, which affects about half of the world's population.
The team used "immunoinformatics," a method combining computer science and immunology, to study the bacterium's genes.
The research identified proteins in the bacterium that help it live in the stomach and avoid the immune system.
The vaccine looks to activate immune cells without causing allergic reactions.
Current findings are from computer simulations; laboratory tests are needed next.
In the U.S., 5-10% of people will develop peptic ulcers in their lifetime.
Antibiotics for these conditions have limitations due to resistance and high costs.
Scientists in the U.K. have developed a new method to see how anxiety appears in the brain using a brain-scanning technique. This research helps to understand and treat anxiety by observing how the brain responds to difficult situations. The study involved young adults and used EEG technology to measure brain activity during these situations.
Key Facts
The University of Portsmouth developed a brain-scanning method to visualize anxiety.
The study focused on "avoid-avoid conflict," where choices are between two bad options.
Researchers used EEG, a technology that tracks electrical activity in the brain.
The study involved 40 young adults using a video-game-like task to create anxiety.
EEG results showed specific patterns in brain activity during high-conflict situations.
The right side of the brain’s frontal area became more active in stressful scenarios.
Researchers believe these brain patterns may be key to understanding anxiety.
Findings could lead to new non-drug treatments like brain-based training.
Meta, the company that owns Facebook, took down a Facebook page that tracked immigration agents in Chicago. This removal happened after the U.S. Department of Justice requested it, and Meta stated the page violated their rules against coordinated harm.
Key Facts
Meta, which runs Facebook, removed a page about immigration agents.
The page tracked immigration agents' presence in Chicago.
The U.S. Department of Justice asked Meta to remove this page.
Attorney General Pam Bondi mentioned the removal on social media platform X.
Meta stated the page broke their rules about coordinated harm.
The UK data protection authority fined the outsourcing company Capita £14 million after a cyber-attack exposed the personal information of 6.6 million people. Capita has since taken steps to strengthen its cyber-security measures. The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) reduced the original fine because the company improved its security and worked with regulators.
Key Facts
Capita was fined £14 million by the UK's Information Commissioner's Office (ICO).
A cyber-attack led to the theft of data belonging to 6.6 million people.
The original fine was £45 million but was reduced after Capita improved its security.
The stolen data included home addresses, passport images, financial details, and some criminal records.
Capita provides services to the public and private sectors and reported a £2.4 billion revenue last year.
The cyber-attack affected 325 out of the 600 pension schemes managed by Capita.
The ICO stated the breach could have been avoided with better security measures.
There has been an increase in significant cyber-attacks, with firms advised to have paper-based contingency plans.
United Airlines has started a new process called International Remote Baggage Screening (IRBS), which allows passengers on certain international connecting flights to avoid rechecking their bags. This process is currently available for flights from Sydney, Australia, to San Francisco and is part of a U.S. Customs and Border Protection initiative.
Key Facts
United Airlines launched the IRBS process on September 23, 2023.
Passengers on selected international routes will not need to recheck bags during layovers.
The process currently applies to flights from Sydney, Australia, to San Francisco, USA.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is involved, using remote X-ray imaging.
Only bags referred for further inspection must be rechecked by passengers.
The program aims to save time and reduce inconvenience for travelers.
The IRBS does not change existing TSA checked baggage security processes.
The program is expected to expand to more routes in the future.
Instagram plans to apply PG-13 content guidelines to all teen accounts to enhance online safety for young users. This change aims to reduce exposure to inappropriate content and is part of a broader effort to protect minors on social media. The update has started in some countries and will expand globally by the end of the year.
Key Facts
Instagram will use PG-13 content guidelines for all teen accounts.
The update started on October 14 in the U.S., UK, Australia, and Canada, with global implementation planned by the end of the year.
Teens under 18 will automatically be placed in a new “13+” content setting.
Age prediction technology will help prevent teens from bypassing age restrictions.
A stricter “Limited Content” setting will be available for families.
Accounts posting inappropriate material will not be searchable or suggested to teens.
Similar updates will be applied to WhatsApp, Messenger, and Facebook soon.
These changes are informed by feedback from parental content ratings.
Apple has changed the name of its streaming service from "Apple TV+" to "Apple TV." This change has caused some confusion because Apple also has a device and an app with the same name. The update is part of Apple's efforts to stand out in the crowded streaming market.
Key Facts
Apple changed the name of its streaming service from "Apple TV+" to "Apple TV."
The change aims to help Apple compete in the crowded streaming market.
There are concerns about confusion since Apple also uses the name "Apple TV" for a device and an app.
The rebranding was announced during a press release about a new movie release.
Apple did not provide a specific date for when the rebranding will be fully implemented.
Apple TV+ originally launched in November 2019.
Online reactions suggest confusion and mixed feelings about the new name.
The new name has not yet updated across all platforms.
A group of tech companies called MANGO — Microsoft, Anthropic, Nvidia, Google DeepMind, and OpenAI — is now leading the push in artificial intelligence (AI) innovation. MANGO has taken over from FAANG, the previous group of top tech companies, as the most important players in the tech scene.
Key Facts
MANGO stands for Microsoft, Anthropic, Nvidia, Google DeepMind, and OpenAI.
These companies are recognized for their leadership in generative AI technology.
MANGO represents a shift from the previous focus on companies known as FAANG (Facebook, Amazon, Apple, Netflix, and Google).
The new group highlights the top tech companies driving AI advancements and innovations.
MANGO is becoming a popular term in blogs and social media to describe current tech leaders.
The 15 largest tech companies have significantly reduced hiring new graduates since 2019.
MANGO companies are in a tough competition for top AI experts, offering high salaries to attract the best talent.
Surveillance pricing is a practice where companies use personal data to set individual prices. This method can lead to different people paying different amounts for the same product or service. Concerns have arisen as companies like Delta Air Lines explore using artificial intelligence to implement such pricing strategies.
Key Facts
Surveillance pricing involves monitoring data to charge different prices to different customers based on personal information.
Delta Air Lines uses artificial intelligence to set about 3% of its domestic fare prices and plans to increase this percentage.
U.S. Senators have expressed concerns that Delta's pricing could be based on customers' data and asked for more information.
Delta has stated it does not use AI for discriminatory pricing practices.
The FTC found that companies collect data through registrations, email sign-ups, and online interactions to set individual prices.
Surveillance pricing allows for parsing potential customers into subcategories to optimize prices.
Studies suggest ride-hailing companies might use similar pricing tactics, potentially charging more based on factors like phone battery life.
The article discusses how artificial intelligence (AI) could change boating but may not replace human captains. Technology helps boat captains with navigation and preparing for the unexpected, but CEO Steve Menneto believes human involvement is still essential for an authentic boating experience.
Key Facts
AI is being used in the boating industry, but captains still prefer human control because of unpredictable conditions on the water.
Boats are becoming more advanced with technology, but someone still needs to manually steer them.
Navigating water is different from land because water moves and is affected by weather and tides.
Technology can help predict waves and storm locations, improving safety and navigation.
Steve Menneto, CEO of Malibu Boats Inc., emphasizes the need for human experience in boating for enjoyment and achievement.
Current limitations in AI and connectivity affect how much technology can replace human roles on boats.
Apps provide helpful services like checking boat readiness and securing dock space.
Older technology like VHF radio is still used for communication at sea, though advancements like Starlink offer better connectivity.
The term "broadcasting" originally comes from agriculture, where it described spreading seeds over a large field. It later took on a new meaning in the 1920s when it became associated with radio, marking the start of broadcasting in media. Today, broadcasting has become a key part of sharing news and entertainment.
Key Facts
The word "broadcasting" first referred to a method of planting seeds broadly across fields.
This agricultural term dates back to at least the early 1700s.
Broadcasting in media began with radio in the early 1920s.
The first major radio broadcast was in 1920 from station KDKA in Pittsburgh, which covered the U.S. presidential election results.
Broadcasting now commonly refers to sharing radio and television content with the public.
President Trump has criticized public broadcasters and influenced funding decisions regarding NPR and PBS.
The PlayStation Network is facing issues across the United States, affecting users' ability to launch games and use network features. PlayStation is aware of the problem and working to fix it as quickly as possible.
Key Facts
The PlayStation Network is down in many parts of the United States.
Users are reporting difficulties with gaming and social services.
Issues are affecting platforms like PS Vita, PS3, PS4, and PS5.
Affected services include launching games and apps.
PlayStation has acknowledged the problem and is working on a solution.
DownDetector is tracking where users are experiencing problems.
The article discusses challenges with AI image generation, particularly when representing people with disabilities. Jessica Smith, an Australian Paralympic swimmer, successfully prompted an AI to generate an accurate image of her without one arm, highlighting progress in AI's inclusivity. However, issues with bias remain, as shown by Naomi Bowman's experience with AI altering her facial features despite specific instructions.
Key Facts
Jess Smith, a former Australian Paralympian, tried using AI to generate an image of herself lacking a left arm below the elbow.
Initially, the AI struggled to create an accurate image, often depicting her with two arms or a prosthetic.
Jess later found the AI could generate an accurate image of her, indicating improvements in the AI's inclusivity.
OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, stated they recently made improvements to their image generation model.
Naomi Bowman, who is partially sighted, experienced bias when the AI altered her face despite her instructions.
Concerns over AI bias arise because it reflects societal inequalities, highlighting the need for diverse input at the data creation stage.
AI's environmental impact is under scrutiny due to the high energy consumption of data centers powering such technologies.
Experts emphasize the importance of diversity in the teams that build and train AI systems to ensure fair representation of all societal groups.
OpenAI's ChatGPT will soon allow erotica for verified adult users, according to CEO Sam Altman. The change aims to make the chatbot more appealing, while maintaining safety measures for mental health. This move has sparked discussions about regulation and ensuring children's safety online.
Key Facts
OpenAI plans to allow adult content, such as erotica, on ChatGPT for users who verify they are adults.
CEO Sam Altman announced the change, saying it is part of treating adult users like responsible adults.
OpenAI aims to balance engaging content with mental health safety by relaxing restrictions with new tools.
A previous lawsuit involved OpenAI in a wrongful death case, questioning the effectiveness of parental controls.
Critics argue that better regulation is needed to protect minors from accessing adult content on AI platforms.
Surveys indicate that interactions with AI are becoming more personal, with some students reporting AI romantic relationships.
California Governor Gavin Newsom recently vetoed a bill that would limit AI chatbot use for children.
The episode discusses the future of drones equipped with Tasers from the company Axon Enterprise. It also covers an underwater glider that gathers ocean data and explores advancements in quantum computing.
Key Facts
Axon Enterprise is the company that makes Tasers.
Axon is planning to use drones armed with Tasers in the future.
An underwater glider is traveling around the world to collect ocean data.
Quantum computing advancements may happen sooner than previously thought.
The podcast episode includes an interview with Axon's founder and CEO.
The episode is part of a tech-focused program called "Tech Life."
OpenAI plans to allow its chatbot, ChatGPT, to include more diverse content, such as adult content for verified users, after updating it to handle mental health issues better. CEO Sam Altman announced that these changes aim to relax previous restrictions while ensuring safety. This decision comes amid growing calls from lawmakers for stricter regulations on AI companions.
Key Facts
ChatGPT will soon permit adult content, like erotica, for verified users.
OpenAI has completed updates to help ChatGPT manage mental health issues more effectively.
CEO Sam Altman mentioned these changes are part of treating adult users like adults.
The relaxation of restrictions is expected around December.
U.S. lawmakers are considering tighter rules on AI companions.
Senator Josh Hawley is drafting a bill to prevent AI companions for minors.
Historically, adult content has influenced new technology trends.
OpenAI aims to make ChatGPT more customizable, allowing users to adjust its tone and personality.
Ascertain, an AI health care company, appointed Molly O'Neill as its new chief commercial officer. O'Neill's role will focus on expanding the company's client network after successful trials with Northwell Health.
Key Facts
Ascertain hired Molly O'Neill as chief commercial officer.
O'Neill was previously with Aegis Ventures and Duke Health.
Her task is to grow Ascertain’s client base after trials at Northwell Health.
Ascertain is a spin-off from Northwell Health and Aegis Ventures.
The company raised $10 million in a Series A funding round in May.
Mark Michalski from Deerfield Management is CEO of Ascertain.
Ascertain's solutions reduced clicks by 80% and authorization time by 67%.
O'Neill is on the boards of Mauna Kea Technologies, Curative Strategy Group, and myLaurel.
