President Donald Trump requested that Google and YouTube restore Univision on their platform before the 2026 Midterm Elections. Univision, a major Spanish-language network, was dropped from YouTube TV after contract talks failed. The move has prompted reactions from political figures and calls for reconsideration.
Key Facts
President Trump asked Google and YouTube to bring back Univision on their service.
YouTube TV removed Univision and TelevisaUnivision channels after contract renewal discussions fell through.
Univision is the largest Spanish-language broadcaster in the United States.
YouTube claimed that Univision content was a small part of its overall consumption on YouTube TV.
TelevisaUnivision criticized Google's decision, stating it took important news access away from Hispanic viewers.
Univision started a campaign named "Do the Right Thing Google" to address the issue.
The issue surfaced as YouTube settled a lawsuit brought by Trump related to his account suspension.
Political figures, including Senator Ted Cruz, have spoken against Google’s decision to put Spanish-language channels behind a paywall.
A video showing apartments in Vienna appearing to float without support sparked curiosity online. Experts explain that the illusion is created using a construction method called "cantilevering," which allows parts of a building to extend outward without visible supports. This method uses hidden structures to keep these elements stable and secure.
Key Facts
The viral video showed modern apartments in Vienna appearing as if they floated without support.
The illusion is achieved through a construction technique called "cantilevering."
A cantilever is a beam or slab anchored at one end, allowing it to extend outward.
Hidden supports, or "back spans," balance the weight and maintain stability.
Modern software helps architects and engineers design and analyze these structures safely.
Cantilevers can make dramatic visual design statements and maximize space.
Architects use cantilevers in various buildings to create visually interesting and practical designs.
Devices that remain plugged in, such as coffee makers, game consoles, and laptop chargers, use energy even when turned off. These "vampire devices" can make up 5 to 10% of home energy consumption in the U.S. Alexis Abramson from Columbia University explains this issue.
Key Facts
Devices plugged in but not in use still use energy.
Examples include coffee machines, video game consoles, and laptop chargers.
These devices can use up to 10% of a home's energy.
This issue is referred to as "vampire devices."
Alexis Abramson from the Climate School at Columbia University discussed this issue.
Reducing use of such devices can lower home energy bills.
Newsweek asked ChatGPT to make images of mixed-breed dogs using real DNA results from different dog owners. The article explores the surprising outcomes when people guessed their dogs' breeds based on appearances alone, compared to the actual DNA findings.
Key Facts
Newsweek used ChatGPT to create images of mixed-breed dogs.
They based these images on real DNA test results from five dog owners.
Mixed-breed dogs often have unexpected ancestry, making their DNA makeup complex.
The global dog DNA testing market is growing and is expected to reach $723 million by 2030.
One dog, Loki George, was expected to be a golden retriever but had 29% German shepherd and other breeds according to DNA results.
Jay, another dog owner, thought his dog was a West Highlander terrier, but DNA tests showed otherwise.
ChatGPT's generated images illustrate the differences between a dog's appearance and its true genetic makeup.
A man named Steven Suprise noticed an issue with his vision and, after not getting clear answers from doctors, used ChatGPT to understand his symptoms better. ChatGPT suggested it might be serious, prompting him to seek further medical evaluation, which led to a cancer diagnosis. Experts caution against using AI like ChatGPT for medical advice without consulting a professional.
Key Facts
Steven Suprise noticed a drooping eye and initially consulted doctors who found nothing alarming.
He used ChatGPT to help understand his symptoms, which led to a serious diagnosis.
Doctors diagnosed him with a rare cancer called adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC).
He received 30 rounds of radiation and five rounds of chemotherapy.
Experts warn against relying solely on AI tools like ChatGPT for medical advice.
Research shows that AI like GPT-4o can sometimes give unsafe medical advice.
Steven shares his experience on TikTok to raise awareness about the rare cancer.
He remains hopeful and stresses that while AI can help, it should not replace doctors.
The fashion industry is using artificial intelligence (AI) to anticipate upcoming trends by analyzing data from various sources. Companies are employing AI to make decisions on design choices and predict which styles will be popular. AI helps process large data sets, but human insight remains an important part of trend forecasting.
Key Facts
AI is being used by fashion companies to predict trends by analyzing data from runway shows and social media.
The company Heuritech predicted trends like dotted prints and flat-thong sandals, which were later seen at fashion weeks.
Over 40% of global consumers bought clothing and accessories via social media at least three times in 2024.
AI tools help make quicker design decisions, such as choosing between color options for clothing.
Human expertise is still necessary in combination with AI to accurately predict fashion trends.
AI is also applied in customer experiences, supply chain management, and virtual clothing try-ons.
Scientists in Switzerland are working on creating biocomputers using living cells. These biocomputers involve growing small clusters of neurons, called organoids, from human stem cells. The goal is to develop computers that use less energy and can learn in ways similar to artificial intelligence (AI).
Key Facts
Scientists are experimenting with creating computers from living cells, a field known as biocomputing.
A group of researchers in Switzerland is leading efforts to develop these "living" computers.
The process uses stem cells, transformed into neurons and then grown into clusters called organoids.
These organoids can be attached to electrodes to function like basic computers.
FinalSpark lab in Switzerland buys human stem cells from a clinic in Japan for this research.
The organoids are simple versions of human brains, capable of responding to electrical signals.
Scientists aim to evolve these biocomputers to learn and perform tasks using low energy.
A significant challenge remains in maintaining the organoids without blood vessels.
Apple and Google removed an app that alerted users about nearby Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents after a request from the U.S. Attorney General. The app, called ICEBlock, allowed users to share sightings of ICE activity to warn others and was removed due to safety concerns. The decision has sparked discussions about the influence of the government on technology companies.
Key Facts
Apple and Google removed an app called ICEBlock that alerted people to nearby ICE agents.
The request to remove the app came from Attorney General Pam Bondi.
Apple cited safety risks as the reason for the app's removal.
ICEBlock described itself as a warning system similar to a navigation app for tracking ICE agents.
The app started in April and was downloaded hundreds of thousands of times.
The Justice Department did not comment on its request to pull the app.
ICEBlock's developer, Joshua Aaron, plans to challenge the app's removal.
The situation has raised concerns about government influence over tech companies, known as jawboning.
Apple removed the ICEBlock app from its App Store due to pressure from the U.S. government. ICEBlock allowed users to anonymously report U.S. immigration officer activity and faced removal over concerns about safety risks and objectionable content.
Key Facts
Apple removed ICEBlock, an app tracking U.S. immigration officers, from its App Store.
The removal followed pressure from the U.S. administration under President Trump.
ICEBlock allowed users to report and track Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities.
Apple cited safety risks as a reason for removing the app.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that the Department of Justice contacted Apple about the app.
The app's creator, Joshua Aaron, criticized Apple's decision and called it disappointing.
The Electronic Frontier Foundation highlighted concerns about government overreach on free speech rights.
A father's online post highlighted that many teenagers, despite being familiar with technology like Chromebooks, lack basic computer skills. This has sparked a discussion about whether schools should focus more on teaching digital literacy. Some people argue that today's teens can focus more on creativity due to technology advancements.
Key Facts
A father's post about his daughter's limited computer skills gained significant attention online.
His daughter knows how to use Chromebooks but lacks knowledge in traditional computing tasks like managing local files or installing apps.
Some schools reduced or removed computer classes, assuming teens are already tech-savvy.
Experts warn that lacking basic tech skills could be a problem for teens in future workplaces and higher education.
Teens are often skilled in using social media and AI tools but struggle with basic tasks like attaching files or fixing Wi-Fi issues.
There is a debate on whether focusing on creativity instead of technical skills is beneficial for today's youth.
Many parents agree that traditional computing skills are no longer emphasized in schools.
Apple removed apps from its App Store that let users track U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers. Apple stated it did this because law enforcement alerted them to safety risks. The app creator, Joshua Aaron, disagrees, saying the app was meant to protect people from immigration raids.
Key Facts
Apple removed ICEBlock and similar apps because of reported safety risks.
The U.S. Attorney General demanded the removal, claiming the apps endangered ICE officers.
The app’s creator disagrees, saying the app didn't pose a threat.
ICEBlock showed the movements of immigration officers and was downloaded over a million times in the U.S.
An app user earlier used similar tracking apps in a Dallas incident, according to law enforcement.
ICEBlock was developed in response to increased immigration raids.
Joshua Aaron, the app creator, claims the app falls under free speech protections.
A fake ad made with OpenAI's Sora 2 video tool is spreading online. The video is styled like a 1990s toy commercial set on "Epstein Island" and has sparked a lot of discussions about the dangers of AI-generated content. The ad raises questions about Sora 2’s ability to filter out inappropriate materials.
Key Facts
The ad is a fake children's toy commercial set on "Epstein Island," using OpenAI's Sora 2 tool.
Sora 2 is a new video and audio creation platform by OpenAI.
The video features topics and imagery related to controversies around Jeffrey Epstein.
OpenAI's current filters for Sora 2 aim to block unsafe content but may not be fully effective.
The clip includes a character resembling former President Donald Trump, which may violate Sora 2's rules against depicting real-world public figures.
The ad has gained significant attention and backlash for trivializing serious issues like child exploitation.
The video was created by Mathieu Samson, who acknowledges the tool's risks and expects OpenAI to improve its content filters.
AI-generated videos are becoming more common, with platforms like TikTok and YouTube seeing increased usage.
The public's view of artificial intelligence (AI) is changing from positive to negative. There is growing skepticism and criticism of AI-generated media in various public spaces, including online and on the street. People are questioning the actual usefulness of AI, fearing it benefits only the wealthiest in the tech industry.
Key Facts
A video parody on OpenAI's app shows public concern over AI's role in society.
Public criticism of AI is growing, with graffiti on ads and negative online comments.
In 2025, 43% of U.S. adults believed AI might harm them more than help.
Companies like the startup Friend face backlash for AI-generated ads in public spaces.
Some AI-generated campaigns are criticized as unprofessional and heavily vandalized.
AI's impact on social media and digital spaces is seen as increasingly negative.
There is bipartisan skepticism about the role of AI technology today.
A new slang term, "67," is gaining popularity on social media, particularly TikTok. The term originated from a song and is linked to NBA player LaMelo Ball. It is used humorously among creators and has become a trend in schools.
Key Facts
The slang "67" is pronounced "six seven" and is popular on TikTok.
The trend started from a song "Doot Doot" by rapper Skrilla in December 2024.
The term became popular related to basketball player LaMelo Ball's playing style.
Many TikTok users and Reddit members use the term, often with a hand gesture.
It's common among school children who use it in class and among teachers.
It's described as a "brainrot word," meaning it's a silly, widely shared term on the internet.
The term is spreading and appears to have staying power.
Snapchat users who have stored more than 5GB of Memories, such as photos and videos, will soon have to pay for extra storage. Snapchat introduced this change to maintain long-term storage capabilities for users. Users have options to either purchase additional storage or download their data to keep it elsewhere.
Key Facts
Snapchat will start charging users who store more than 5GB of Memories.
Memories are photos and videos saved in Snapchat's cloud since the feature launched in 2016.
Users worldwide have saved over 1 trillion Memories since 2016.
Users exceeding the 5GB limit will have temporary storage for 12 months.
New storage plans offer 100GB, 250GB with Snapchat+, or 5TB with Snapchat Platinum.
Users can download their data by requesting a .zip file from Snapchat to store on personal devices.
Recent advancements in AI technology allow for more realistic creation of crowd images in videos. These AI-generated crowds can blur the lines between what's real and fake, raising concerns about misinformation and deception in media.
Key Facts
AI tools like OpenAI's Sora 2 are improving in creating realistic crowd scenes.
A recent video from a Will Smith concert showed AI-created crowd features, like odd fingers and faces.
AI-generated crowds in videos pose technical challenges due to the need for unique details in each person.
Almost 75% of images on social media in 2023 were created using AI.
AI makes it easier to manipulate crowd sizes in images, which can mislead public perception.
Misleading AI-generated images can lead to skepticism about real images as well.
In August 2024, false claims emerged about the use of AI to create crowd images in a political context.
People often trust what they see on small screens, making it easier to believe AI-created images are real.
Independent hospitality businesses like boutique hotels and bed-and-breakfasts are using artificial intelligence (AI) to improve their operations and remain competitive. AI helps these properties streamline tasks, improve guest experience, and manage pricing more efficiently.
Key Facts
Independent hospitality includes places like boutique hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, and vacation rentals.
Many of these businesses are now using AI for tasks like guest communication, pricing, and marketing.
About 70% of independent hospitality operators see AI as important for staying competitive.
Chatbots are widely used in these businesses to enhance guest communications.
AI tools today are more affordable and easier to use, making them accessible to smaller businesses.
Independent operators benefit from being flexible and quick to adapt compared to larger hotel chains.
Saratoga Arms, a boutique hotel, improved its pricing strategy with AI, saving time and improving efficiency.
OpenAI has launched a new app called Sora, which creates short videos using artificial intelligence. The app can generate realistic-looking videos, some include famous people or fictional characters. Users can control how their images are used and the app includes markings to show content is AI-made.
Key Facts
OpenAI released an AI video app named Sora.
The app can create short, realistic videos with AI.
Users input text prompts to generate videos.
Sora allows users to control how their face is used in videos.
Videos from Sora have watermarks and metadata to show they're AI-made.
The app has guidelines to prevent misuse, but some prohibited content can still be created.
Sora has features to report and moderate content violations.
Users can make videos with fictional and real people, including copyrighted characters.
Apple removed the ICEBlock app from its App Store after the Department of Justice expressed worries that the app could endanger law enforcement officers. The app allowed users to report and share information about Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities anonymously. The Department of Justice and Apple both stated the app posed safety risks to ICE agents.
Key Facts
Apple pulled the ICEBlock app from the App Store after concerns from the Department of Justice.
ICEBlock let users drop a location pin and report ICE activities anonymously.
Concerns were raised that the app could harm law enforcement officers.
The Department of Justice, led by Attorney General Pam Bondi, requested the app's removal.
Apple stated their App Store is meant to be a safe place for apps and removed ICEBlock based on received information.
There have been incidents of violence and protests targeting ICE facilities and personnel.
The Homeland Security Secretary linked the app to potential obstruction of justice issues.
Western countries are facing an ongoing competition to strengthen their cybersecurity against cyber threats from malicious groups and individuals. These threats target essential systems like energy networks and healthcare, using tactics like hacking and spreading misinformation. Efforts are being made to improve defenses and resilience against such attacks.
Key Facts
Western nations, including the U.S., are in a cyber "arms race" against threats to critical infrastructure.
Cyber threats can target systems like energy, healthcare, and communication networks.
Attacks can involve hacking, spreading misinformation, and disrupting economic networks.
Ransomware is a type of software used in attacks that demand payment to restore access.
Recent attacks have targeted European airports, affecting major services.
In the last five years, over 80% of attacks have come through supply chains.
The European Union introduced a Cyber Resilience Act to improve product security.
The U.K. announced a bill aiming to secure critical infrastructure and digital services.
