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Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

Technology News

Breaking news and analysis from the world of technology

Selena Gomez Shares Photos on Her 'Secret' Instagram

Selena Gomez Shares Photos on Her 'Secret' Instagram

Summary

Selena Gomez launched a "Close Friends" feature on Instagram, which allows her to share exclusive content with a select group of her followers. This feature is meant to create a sense of exclusivity by limiting access to special posts. Gomez shared videos and photos, including moments with friends, her husband Benny Blanco, and singer Taylor Swift.

Key Facts

  • Selena Gomez started using Instagram's "Close Friends" feature to share special content.
  • "Close Friends" allows users to decide who sees certain posts.
  • Gomez has about 415 million followers on Instagram, but not all can access her exclusive posts.
  • She shared a video using makeup from her brand, Rare Beauty.
  • Gomez also posted photos with friends, including Taylor Swift, and from her wedding.
  • Gomez mentioned that Taylor Swift's song "Dorothea" is about her.
  • Gomez and her husband Benny Blanco got married last year, and she promoted his podcast.
  • Billie Eilish previously used the "Close Friends" feature as a marketing strategy for her album.

Source Verification

Regulator contacts Meta over workers watching intimate AI glasses videos

Regulator contacts Meta over workers watching intimate AI glasses videos

Summary

The UK's data watchdog is asking Meta for information about claims that workers viewed private videos from Meta's AI glasses. Some videos included sensitive content, and Meta said these were reviewed by workers to improve their technology. The workers review content to teach the AI system but say there are privacy issues with what they see.

Key Facts

  • The UK's Information Commissioner's Office is contacting Meta about reports of workers viewing sensitive content from AI glasses.
  • Meta uses subcontracted workers to review videos captured by its AI smart glasses to enhance user experience.
  • Some sensitive videos, like those of people in private moments, were reportedly seen by workers in a Kenya-based outsourcing company.
  • Meta claims it has privacy measures, such as blurring faces, but reports indicate these do not always work.
  • Users must manually activate recording on the smart glasses, but they may be unaware their content can be reviewed by people.
  • The outsourcing company in Nairobi, Sama, employs workers who help teach Meta's AI by labeling content.
  • Sama workers check AI responses for accuracy and have strict privacy rules at their workplace.
  • Meta launched a range of AI-powered glasses in partnership with brands Ray-Ban and Oakley in September 2025.

Source Verification

What To Know About Hair Loss on Weight Loss Medications Like Ozempic and Wegovy

What To Know About Hair Loss on Weight Loss Medications Like Ozempic and Wegovy

Summary

People taking certain weight loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy often experience temporary hair loss. This hair loss is mainly due to rapid weight loss, not the medications themselves, and usually resolves within a few months.

Key Facts

  • Hair loss while using medications like Ozempic and Wegovy is usually temporary.
  • This type of hair loss is called telogen effluvium and is due to physical stress, like rapid weight loss.
  • Normally, 85-90% of hair is growing, and 10-15% is resting.
  • Stress causes more hair to rest, leading to shedding a few months later.
  • Rapid weight loss can trigger telogen effluvium, but the condition is reversible.
  • Low protein, iron, biotin, zinc, and fatty acids during weight loss can worsen hair thinning.
  • Hair loss commonly starts 2-6 months after beginning treatment or rapid weight change.
  • Shedding usually lasts 3-6 months and resolves as weight stabilizes, even if medication use continues.

Source Verification

Remote work, offices shut: Tech giants scramble to respond as Middle East tensions escalate

Remote work, offices shut: Tech giants scramble to respond as Middle East tensions escalate

Summary

Tech companies like Amazon, Google, Snap, and Nvidia are taking steps to protect their employees and facilities in the Middle East due to rising tensions between the US, Israel, and Iran. These companies have started emergency plans, including remote work and temporary office closures. Nvidia reports no supply issues currently, but firms are cautious about future investments as the situation develops.

Key Facts

  • Tech companies are implementing emergency measures in the Middle East due to tensions involving the US, Israel, and Iran.
  • Amazon, Google, Snap, and Nvidia are among the companies impacted.
  • Amazon Web Services (AWS) reported drone damage to facilities in the UAE and Bahrain.
  • Nvidia has not experienced supply chain issues despite the conflicts.
  • Amazon and Google have activated safety protocols for their employees.
  • Companies are pausing new investments in the area until the situation becomes clearer.
  • Safety of employees is the main focus for these firms during the current conflicts.

Source Verification

EA’s Horror As People Create Jeffrey Epstein With Kids in 'The Sims 4'

EA’s Horror As People Create Jeffrey Epstein With Kids in 'The Sims 4'

Summary

EA removed a player-generated creation from The Sims 4 that depicted Jeffrey Epstein and children. The removal followed player complaints about the content, which EA confirmed violated its guidelines. The incident has raised questions about content moderation on the game's online platform, The Sims 4 Gallery.

Key Facts

  • EA took down a user-uploaded creation in The Sims 4 that depicted Jeffrey Epstein with child characters.
  • Players reported the content as inappropriate, leading to its removal.
  • The incident has drawn attention to the effectiveness of content moderation on The Sims 4 Gallery, where players share custom creations.
  • The Sims 4 is rated Teen (age 13+) by the ESRB and PEGI 12 in Europe.
  • The content was first highlighted in a Reddit post, where users expressed their concerns.
  • Some Epstein-themed uploads still exist in the Gallery despite the removal of the initial upload.
  • EA has policies in place to remove content that violates their User Agreement and Positive Play Charter.

Source Verification

Video game Highguard axed weeks after release

Video game Highguard axed weeks after release

Summary

The video game Highguard, created by industry veterans, will permanently shut down just weeks after its January launch. Developers cited an inability to maintain a sustainable player base as the reason for closing the game on March 12.

Key Facts

  • Highguard is a multiplayer shooter video game developed by Wildlight Entertainment.
  • The game was released on January 26 but struggled to keep players engaged.
  • Developers previously worked on popular games like Call of Duty and Apex Legends.
  • Despite available on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox, the game did not perform well in terms of player numbers.
  • The game was announced in December at The Game Awards, a major gaming event.
  • By February, the game had only 3,600 concurrent users on PC.
  • Staff layoffs occurred two weeks after the game's launch.
  • Developers announced the shutdown due to not reaching a sustainable number of players.

Source Verification

A $495 Urn That Plays Music to Your Ashes Appears To Sell Out in 7 Days

A $495 Urn That Plays Music to Your Ashes Appears To Sell Out in 7 Days

Summary

Spotify and Liquid Death worked together to create a $495 urn that includes a Bluetooth speaker so people can listen to music even after they die. The urn, named the Eternal Playlist Urn, quickly sold out after being introduced in February, but people can sign up for updates if it becomes available again.

Key Facts

  • Spotify and Liquid Death made a special urn with a built-in Bluetooth speaker.
  • The urn is called the Eternal Playlist Urn and costs $495.
  • The urn connects to devices to play music through the speaker.
  • Spotify and Liquid Death also offer a tool to help users create an "eternal playlist."
  • The product was revealed on February 24 and sold out shortly after.
  • People can sign up on the Liquid Death website to be notified if more urns are made.
  • The urn has drawn a lot of attention and reactions on social media.

Source Verification

Anthropic ban may threaten the military's AI advantage over China

Anthropic ban may threaten the military's AI advantage over China

Summary

Anthropic's artificial intelligence (AI) tools have been used in military operations in Venezuela and Iran. The U.S. Defense Department and Anthropic are in a dispute, which may impact the U.S. military's AI capabilities. This could affect the U.S.'s ability to compete with other countries, especially China, in AI technology.

Key Facts

  • Anthropic's AI tools have been used in military operations in Venezuela and Iran.
  • The Pentagon plans to cut ties with Anthropic due to a dispute over the use of AI tools.
  • This decision could impact the U.S. military's ability to maintain its edge in AI technology against other countries like China.
  • Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the decision to blacklist Anthropic is "final."
  • No formal notice has been sent to stop using Anthropic's AI tools as of the report.
  • The U.S. military has used AI for various functions, from intelligence gathering to drone operations.
  • Despite the potential shift, there is belief that alternative AI systems can be implemented to meet military needs.

Source Verification

China’s AI Breakthroughs Put US Tech Dominance at Risk: Book Excerpt

China’s AI Breakthroughs Put US Tech Dominance at Risk: Book Excerpt

Summary

The article discusses China's increasing advancements in artificial intelligence, particularly highlighting a startup called DeepSeek. DeepSeek's progress in 2025 has prompted concern in the U.S. tech industry, which previously believed it led in AI development. The emergence of DeepSeek and other Chinese tech companies is challenging this perception.

Key Facts

  • A new book by Rebecca A. Fannin suggests U.S. tech dominance in AI is being challenged by China.
  • DeepSeek, a Chinese AI startup, made significant progress in 2025, surprising many in Silicon Valley.
  • Key tech figures like Sam Altman and Satya Nadella have acknowledged the capabilities of DeepSeek's model.
  • Nvidia's CEO praised Chinese AI researchers for their world-class skills.
  • DeepSeek's success marks a shift from the belief that China lags behind major U.S. AI companies.
  • China's advancements include not just AI but also electric vehicles, robotics, and more.
  • Chinese AI startup Manus was acquired by Meta for $2 billion in 2025.
  • Two Chinese AI startups, Zhipu AI and MiniMax, went public in Hong Kong raising significant funds.

Source Verification

Can a robot recruiter really spot a good carer?

Can a robot recruiter really spot a good carer?

Summary

A homecare company, Cera, uses an AI-powered recruiter named Ami to speed up hiring in the care sector. The AI conducts initial phone interviews and has helped make the recruitment process faster and more efficient. There are mixed opinions about AI's ability to evaluate suitable care workers, with some experts saying only humans can judge qualities like empathy.

Key Facts

  • Cera uses an AI system called Ami for initial job interviews for caregiving roles.
  • Ami has screened over 14,600 candidates and helped hire 1,028 care workers.
  • The AI speeds up the hiring process in an industry that needs more workers due to growing demand.
  • Ami scores applicants based on a consistent script, aiming to reduce bias.
  • Some candidate feedback is positive, noting reduced anxiety compared to human interviews.
  • Cera claims the AI has doubled job offers without increasing recruitment costs.
  • Critics argue AI cannot assess traits like empathy, which are important for caregiving roles.
  • Human recruiters still perform final checks and conduct training before hires start work.

Source Verification

Four Free PS Plus Games Available in March Starting Now

Four Free PS Plus Games Available in March Starting Now

Summary

In March, PlayStation Plus subscribers can access four free games. These games include a sports simulation, an adventure game, a monster-hunting game, and an open-world exploration game. They are available to play immediately for subscribers.

Key Facts

  • PlayStation Plus is offering four free games for March.
  • The games include "PGA Tour 2K25," "Monster Hunter Rise," "Slime Rancher 2," and "The Elder Scrolls Online Collection: Gold Road."
  • "PGA Tour 2K25" features major golf tournaments like the PGA Championship and the US Open.
  • "Monster Hunter Rise" allows players to choose from 14 weapons to hunt monsters.
  • "Slime Rancher 2" is a single-player adventure where players manage a ranch.
  • "The Elder Scrolls Online" lets players explore the open world of Tamriel.
  • Subscribers can keep the games as long as they remain members of PlayStation Plus.

Source Verification

All Xbox Series X Enhanced Games

All Xbox Series X Enhanced Games

Summary

The Xbox Series X offers improved graphics and features for games, like 4K resolution and high frame rates. Xbox has listed many games as Xbox Series X Enhanced, highlighting improvements in visuals for a wide range of popular titles.

Key Facts

  • Xbox Series X enhances games with features like native 4K resolution and up to 120 frames per second.
  • It supports 8K HDR, which improves color and detail clarity in games.
  • A large list of games has been designated as "Xbox Series X Enhanced."
  • Some top Xbox Series X Enhanced games include "Cyberpunk 2077," "No Man's Sky," "Fortnite," and "Minecraft."
  • The detailed list of enhanced games, including their 4K and HDR capabilities, is available on the Xbox website.
  • Popular games from various genres have been enhanced, such as "The Witcher 3" and "STAR WARS Battlefront 2."
  • Enhanced games benefit from improved visual graphics and performance on Xbox Series X consoles.

Source Verification

iPhone User Notices Strange Keyboard Behavior—Discovers Widespread Issue

iPhone User Notices Strange Keyboard Behavior—Discovers Widespread Issue

Summary

An iPhone user noticed a problem with the iPhone keyboard after installing the iOS 26 update. When the user shared their experience online, they found that many others had the same issue. Users reported problems like unresponsive keys and increased typing errors.

Key Facts

  • The iPhone user shared their keyboard issue on Reddit, which got a lot of attention.
  • After updating to iOS 26, some users had trouble with keyboard responsiveness and accuracy.
  • Fast typing followed by trying to press an emoji doesn't register properly without a pause.
  • Typing space with the right thumb sometimes results in typing the letter 'n'.
  • Some users feel the keyboard is less accurate compared to previous iOS versions.
  • The Mac Observer called the new iOS keyboard "a mess."
  • The keyboard complaints came despite positive reviews of other new iPhone features.
  • Apple has been contacted for comments regarding this issue.

Source Verification

Exclusive: Researchers trick a bot that prescribes meds

Exclusive: Researchers trick a bot that prescribes meds

Summary

Security researchers discovered ways to exploit an AI-powered prescription refill bot in Utah, demonstrating it's vulnerable to manipulation. They were able to make the bot give incorrect medicine dosages and false health information, despite informing the company behind it about these issues.

Key Facts

  • Researchers used simple methods to trick the AI bot used for prescription refills in Utah.
  • They could manipulate the bot to spread false information about COVID-19 vaccines and recommend incorrect medication amounts.
  • The AI system mistakenly suggested methamphetamine as a treatment.
  • Mindgard, a security firm, revealed these vulnerabilities after testing the system.
  • Utah's pilot program allows AI to renew certain prescriptions without direct doctor approval.
  • The testing occurred on a public chatbot, but risks remain if the broader system isn't secure.
  • Doctronic's co-founder stated that prescriptions are reviewed by physicians and have strict rules.
  • Mindgard contacted Doctronic about the issues, but the vulnerabilities were not resolved after initial reports.

Source Verification

TikTok won't protect DMs with controversial privacy tech, saying it would put users at risk

TikTok won't protect DMs with controversial privacy tech, saying it would put users at risk

Summary

TikTok has decided not to use end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for direct messages, stating this feature could make users less safe. This decision differs from other platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp, which use E2EE to ensure privacy, but TikTok argues it prioritizes user safety, especially for young people.

Key Facts

  • TikTok will not implement end-to-end encryption for its direct messages.
  • End-to-end encryption allows only the sender and recipient to read messages.
  • Other platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp use this encryption for increased privacy.
  • TikTok claims end-to-end encryption could hinder law enforcement from stopping harmful content.
  • The company faces ongoing scrutiny due to its Chinese ownership and data security concerns.
  • TikTok's decision aims to protect young users from potential online risks.
  • TikTok assures that standard encryption is still applied to direct messages.
  • Only authorized TikTok staff can access messages under specific conditions, like law enforcement requests.

Source Verification

‘Paradise’ Season 2 Episode 5 Release Date, Time and How to Watch

‘Paradise’ Season 2 Episode 5 Release Date, Time and How to Watch

Summary

Episode 5 of "Paradise" Season 2, titled 'The Mailman,' will air on March 9, 2026, on Disney Plus and Hulu. The season has received positive reviews and continues to explore life in a post-apocalyptic bunker. The show is currently one of the most-searched television series of 2026.

Key Facts

  • Episode 5 airs on March 9, 2026, on Disney Plus and Hulu.
  • "Paradise" Season 2 premiered on February 23, 2026.
  • The season has eight episodes releasing weekly until March 30, 2026.
  • Season 2 is set three years after a doomsday event.
  • The show is popular, with 7 million views within the first nine days of streaming.
  • Season 2 has an 89% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, up from 86% for Season 1.
  • Sterling K. Brown leads the cast, featuring other actors such as Julianne Nicholson and Shailene Woodley.
  • The show's storyline expands beyond an underground bunker as characters face new challenges.

Source Verification

The Game Awards 2025 Darling 'Highguard' Shuts Down Permanently Next Week

The Game Awards 2025 Darling 'Highguard' Shuts Down Permanently Next Week

Summary

"Highguard," an online multiplayer game launched in January 2025, will permanently close on March 12. The game started with a high number of players but quickly lost popularity, leading to its shutdown by development studio Wildlight after investor Tencent withdrew financial support.

Key Facts

  • "Highguard" was introduced at the 2025 Game Awards.
  • The game was developed by Wildlight, a team of experienced game developers.
  • At launch, "Highguard" had 97,000 players but numbers quickly dropped.
  • Financial backer Tencent pulled funding shortly after the game's release.
  • Wildlight had to lay off many staff members as a result.
  • The game will be permanently shut down on March 12.
  • Despite the closure, a new game update was announced to be available for just a week.
  • Similar shutdowns have recently occurred in the gaming industry, highlighting challenges in the "games as a service" model.

Source Verification

Is Facebook Down? Users Met with Account Currently Unavailable Error

Is Facebook Down? Users Met with Account Currently Unavailable Error

Summary

Facebook users experienced outages on Tuesday, with many people in the U.S. and other regions unable to access the site. Reports about the site's unavailability were tracked by Downdetector, which showed a significant increase in user complaints. Facebook's parent company, Meta, had not provided an immediate response to the problem.

Key Facts

  • Many Facebook users reported access issues on Tuesday.
  • Downdetector, a site that tracks service outages, noted nearly 10,000 reports of problems.
  • Users experienced issues like the website not loading or receiving error messages.
  • Error phrases like "temporarily unavailable" and "currently unavailable" were noted.
  • These phrases became trending searches on Google Trends, indicating users looking up these problems.
  • Meta, Facebook's parent company, had not yet commented on the issue.

Source Verification

Game Studio Has Clear Response to Rumors of 'Fallout: New Vegas' Remaster

Game Studio Has Clear Response to Rumors of 'Fallout: New Vegas' Remaster

Summary

Rumors about a "Fallout: New Vegas" remaster increased after a social media post from Iron Galaxy Studios showed a familiar "Fallout" screen. However, the studio clarified that the post was unrelated to any new game development and was simply part of their regular meetings.

Key Facts

  • Fans have long wanted a remaster of the video game "Fallout: New Vegas."
  • Interest in a remaster grew after Season 2 of Amazon's "Fallout" TV series.
  • Bethesda, the game company, had earlier added to the speculation with a countdown clock on their website.
  • Iron Galaxy Studios shared a social media post with an iconic "Fallout" screen, leading to new rumors.
  • Iron Galaxy Studios has worked with Bethesda before on other "Fallout" projects.
  • The studio stated that the post was just a behind-the-scenes look at their company meeting, not evidence of a new game.
  • They clarified that they are not currently working on a "New Vegas" remaster.

Source Verification

Tech Life

Tech Life

Summary

The article discusses the future of quantum computing, including the potential need for ethical guidelines as these powerful computers become more common. It also mentions new data storage methods using glass and explores insights science fiction provides about space travel.

Key Facts

  • Quantum computers could lead to many new discoveries.
  • There is a debate about whether ethical guidelines are needed for quantum computing.
  • Glass can be used for data storage that lasts thousands of years.
  • Science fiction offers ideas about spacefaring and the future.
  • The episode was presented by Chris Vallance and produced by Tom Quinn.
  • The quantum computer described contains components for cooling, highlighted in a photo.

Source Verification