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Technology News

Breaking news and analysis from the world of technology

Twitch to politics – Hasan Piker on Gaza and the US right-wing

Twitch to politics – Hasan Piker on Gaza and the US right-wing

August 19, 2025
Hasan Piker is a well-known political commentator on Twitch, a platform where people stream video content. He uses his platform to discuss politics and has a large audience. Recently, he has been vocal about issues in Gaza and shares views that often oppose right-wing politics in the U.S.

Key Facts:

  • Hasan Piker is a popular political streamer on Twitch.
  • He has nearly 3 million followers.
  • Piker uses humor and culture to discuss politics.
  • He targets young men who may be influenced by the alt-right, a U.S. political movement.
  • He is a strong voice for Palestine, particularly regarding Gaza.
  • Piker's views often challenge right-wing perspectives in the United States.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
Tech Life

Tech Life

August 19, 2025
The Edinburgh Festivals featured a show that combines technology and performance art. This event highlighted how tech can enhance artistic experiences.

Key Facts:

  • The event took place at the Edinburgh Festivals.
  • It focused on combining technology and performance art.
  • The result of this combination was described as spectacular.
  • The show took place on August 19, 2025.
  • The program is available for over a year on BBC Sounds.

Source Information

BBC Tech
Borders social housing pilots new energy system

Borders social housing pilots new energy system

August 19, 2025
A new energy storage system has been installed in eleven social housing homes in the Borders, Scotland. The system uses solar panels and batteries with artificial intelligence to help lower energy bills by up to 85%. The pilot project could expand if successful, aiming to help reduce electricity costs and carbon emissions.

Key Facts:

  • Eleven homes in the Borders, Scotland, have new energy storage systems installed.
  • The systems are part of a trial by the Scottish Borders Housing Association.
  • The energy system uses solar panels and long-lasting batteries for energy storage.
  • Artificial intelligence helps trigger the best electricity rates to keep bills low.
  • Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes visited one of the homes and noted reduced costs.
  • If successful, the project could expand to other areas in Scotland in the future.
  • Knight PowerHub, the energy firm involved, hopes for mass production in southern Scotland.
  • The project also aims to reduce both fuel poverty and carbon emissions.

Source Information

BBC Business
In 2025, musicians keep making music for their inner child

In 2025, musicians keep making music for their inner child

August 19, 2025
Musicians in 2025, like the duo Disiniblud, are creating music that connects with their childhood selves. They aim to make playful and imaginative music, blending unique sounds to capture the essence of being a child.

Key Facts:

  • Disiniblud is a music duo featuring Rachika Nayar and Nina Keith.
  • Their album cover features a dragon head similar to one from the 1984 movie, "The NeverEnding Story."
  • The album blends various sounds like synths and piano to create a magical effect.
  • Songs often mix playful elements with intense layers of electronic sounds.
  • The album expresses reconnecting with childhood while being aware of past pain.
  • The duo are both trans women, which adds personal depth to their music.
  • Similar artists like Horsegirl and Ninajirachi also explore themes of childhood and creativity.

Source Information

NPR News
UK drops mandate for Apple ‘back door’, US spy chief says

UK drops mandate for Apple ‘back door’, US spy chief says

August 19, 2025
The UK has decided not to require Apple to create a "back door" for accessing encrypted data of American users. This change follows discussions between the UK and US about ensuring privacy and protecting civil liberties. The decision appears to have ended a privacy dispute between the two countries.

Key Facts:

  • The UK dropped its demand for Apple to provide access to American users' encrypted data.
  • This decision ends a privacy disagreement between the US and UK.
  • US Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, announced the UK’s decision.
  • The UK government stated it has security arrangements with the US that protect privacy.
  • Apple did not comment on the UK's new decision.
  • Earlier, Apple's decision to stop offering advanced data protection in the UK was linked to a controversial UK order.
  • The UK’s Investigatory Powers Act allows authorities to request tech companies to remove encryption.
  • End-to-end encryption scrambles data so only the sender and receiver can read it, securing privacy from third parties.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
US says UK has withdrawn demand to access Apple users' encrypted data

US says UK has withdrawn demand to access Apple users' encrypted data

August 19, 2025
The UK has withdrawn its request to access Apple users' encrypted data. The request would have required Apple to create a "back door" to its encrypted data, which Apple opposed. Apple previously removed its toughest security option from the UK market and began legal action against the request.

Key Facts:

  • The UK originally asked Apple for access to encrypted data of its users globally.
  • Apple has a security feature called Advanced Data Protection (ADP) that prevents anyone but the user from accessing their data.
  • Apple cannot view data protected by ADP because it would require breaking its own encryption.
  • Apple removed the ADP feature from the UK market in response to the request.
  • Apple is taking legal action against the UK government regarding the request.
  • The UK has withdrawn its request for access to the encrypted data.
  • The issue is connected to a law called the Investigatory Powers Act.
  • A legal agreement between the US and UK allows data sharing for law enforcement.

Source Information

BBC Tech
Research suggests doctors might quickly become dependent on AI

Research suggests doctors might quickly become dependent on AI

August 19, 2025
A study shows that some doctors might rely too much on artificial intelligence (AI) after using it to help spot health issues during medical tests. The study observed doctors in Poland who performed colonoscopies, finding that their ability to identify problems worsened after using AI tools. The research suggests that dependency on AI could decrease doctors' skills over time.

Key Facts:

  • A study on gastroenterologists in Poland looked at the use of AI in colonoscopies.
  • Doctors were about 20% less effective at spotting polyps when not using AI.
  • The findings were published in the journal Lancet Gastroenterology and Hepatology.
  • The study suggested that doctors might quickly become dependent on AI.
  • Johan Hulleman, a researcher, questioned the study, noting the short time frame of three months.
  • AI is increasingly used in various routine medical scans, such as for eyes, breast, and colon diseases.
  • Some clinics in Poland tested AI systems that analyze video footage from colonoscopies.
  • AI systems highlighted areas of interest for doctors, potentially impacting their natural detection skills.

Source Information

NPR Technology

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Faces of Welsh convicts sent to Australia recreated by AI

Faces of Welsh convicts sent to Australia recreated by AI

August 19, 2025
Researchers are using artificial intelligence (AI) to recreate the faces of Welsh convicts sent to Australia in the 19th century. They used historical records, prisoner documents, and photos of modern descendants to estimate what the convicts might have looked like. More than 60 Welsh criminals were traced, many of whom were deported for minor offenses like theft.

Key Facts:

  • AI technology was used to create images of Welsh convicts who were sent to Australia in the 1800s.
  • Researchers used old prisoner records, sketches, and photos of descendants to design these images.
  • At least 1,000 Welsh individuals were among the estimated 162,000 convicts sent to Australia.
  • Some crimes leading to deportation were minor, such as stealing a handkerchief or trampling crops.
  • Reasons for deportation included overcrowded UK and Irish prisons and the need for labor in Australia.
  • About 20% of Australians, and 70% in Tasmania, are thought to be descendants of convicts.
  • AI-generated images contribute to a growing interest in convict heritage in Australia.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
How algorithms are changing the way we speak

How algorithms are changing the way we speak

August 19, 2025
Algorithms on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram are changing how people speak by popularizing new words and phrases. These platforms use engagement metrics and viral content to influence language quickly.

Key Facts:

  • Social media is creating new words and ways of speaking.
  • Platforms like TikTok and Instagram are influencing language trends.
  • Engagement metrics on these platforms determine what becomes popular.
  • Viral memes are a big part of how language changes online.
  • Adam Aleksic wrote a book called "Algospeak" about this topic.
  • The changes in language are happening very fast due to technology.

Source Information

NPR Home
How to destroy harmful 'forever chemicals'

How to destroy harmful 'forever chemicals'

August 18, 2025
The article discusses new technologies that can destroy PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals." These chemicals are widely used in products like non-stick pans and waterproof clothing but do not break down easily and can cause health problems. Companies in the US and other countries are developing methods like electrochemical oxidation and supercritical water oxidation to tackle PFAS waste more effectively.

Key Facts:

  • PFAS are strong, man-made chemicals used for their water and grease resistance.
  • They are often found in products like waterproof clothing and non-stick pans.
  • PFAS do not break down easily in the environment and have been linked to health issues.
  • Current disposal methods are costly and may release toxic emissions.
  • New technologies, such as electrochemical oxidation and supercritical water oxidation, aim to destroy PFAS by breaking their chemical bonds.
  • There is a large market for these technologies, especially in the US.
  • Businesses and government entities, including the US military, are testing these new methods.
  • Legal and regulatory pressures are pushing for more effective PFAS destruction solutions.

Source Information

BBC Tech
"Skibidi": How to use the newest words added to the Cambridge Dictionary

"Skibidi": How to use the newest words added to the Cambridge Dictionary

August 18, 2025
The Cambridge Dictionary has added new words like "skibidi," "delulu," and "tradwife," which have become popular through social media. These additions highlight the influence of internet culture on the English language. The dictionary uses data to determine the staying power of words before adding them.

Key Facts:

  • The words "skibidi," "delulu," and "tradwife" have been added to the Cambridge Dictionary due to their internet popularity.
  • Cambridge Dictionary evaluates how often and where new words are used before adding them.
  • "Skibidi" can mean "cool" or "bad," or it can have no specific meaning.
  • "Delulu" is a humorous take on the word "delusional," often referring to believing things that aren't real.
  • "Tradwife" refers to a woman adhering to traditional gender roles, often shared on social media.
  • The word "broligarchy," combining "bro" and "oligarchy," refers to wealthy men in tech with political influence.
  • Internet slang increasingly influences dictionaries and language trends.

Source Information

Axios
Meta investigated over AI having 'sensual' chats with children

Meta investigated over AI having 'sensual' chats with children

August 18, 2025
A U.S. senator is investigating Meta after claims surfaced that its AI chatbots engaged in inappropriate conversations with children. The internal Meta document, leaked to Reuters, reportedly showed guidelines allowing AI to have "sensual" chats, which the company states go against its policies.

Key Facts:

  • A leaked document suggests Meta's AI had "sensual" chats with children.
  • U.S. Senator Josh Hawley is leading the investigation into Meta.
  • Meta claims these document examples were incorrect and removed.
  • Meta's policies ban content that sexualizes children or involves inappropriate role play.
  • The document also said chatbots might give false medical info or have controversial interactions.
  • Senator Hawley wants clarification on the document and the related products.
  • Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram are platforms owned by Meta.

Source Information

BBC Tech
Humanoid robots race, tumble at China’s first ‘robot Olympics’

Humanoid robots race, tumble at China’s first ‘robot Olympics’

August 18, 2025
The first World Humanoid Robot Games took place in Beijing, featuring over 500 robot participants from 16 countries. The robots competed in various events like basketball and medicine sorting, showcasing the advances in robotics technology.

Key Facts:

  • The event was called the World Humanoid Robot Games and happened in Beijing.
  • More than 500 robots took part in different events, such as hurdles, kung fu, and practical tasks.
  • 280 robotics teams from 16 countries competed in these games.
  • The games were held at the National Speed Skating Oval, originally built for the 2022 Winter Olympics.
  • Events included sports and real-life tasks, like cleaning and medicine categorization.
  • China's government supports robotics, aiming to be a leader in this technology.
  • China plans to invest heavily in technology start-ups, including those in robotics and AI.
  • The games focused on robots that look like humans.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
AI is already replacing offshore jobs – with U.S. workers a long-term target

AI is already replacing offshore jobs – with U.S. workers a long-term target

August 18, 2025
According to a report from MIT, artificial intelligence (AI) is mostly replacing offshore jobs right now, not U.S. jobs. While AI might replace more jobs in the future, companies are currently using it to save money by reducing outsourced work rather than cutting internal staff.

Key Facts:

  • AI is currently replacing outsourced jobs more than U.S. jobs.
  • MIT's report states that 3% of jobs might be replaced in the short term, but up to 27% long term.
  • Advanced industries like tech and media expect AI to reduce hiring in the next two years.
  • Many companies are using AI to cancel outsourced labor contracts, saving money.
  • Back-office automations with AI save companies a lot on expenses.
  • 50% of AI budgets are going to sales and marketing tools.
  • Most companies are not yet seeing returns from investments in generative AI.
  • AI could help increase productivity and cut costs without large-scale job losses.

Source Information

Axios
Encryption could be coming to ChatGPT, Sam Altman says

Encryption could be coming to ChatGPT, Sam Altman says

August 18, 2025
Sam Altman, from OpenAI, says the company might add encryption to ChatGPT, focusing first on temporary chats to protect user privacy. This move comes as more people share sensitive data with ChatGPT, and OpenAI wants to protect these conversations. OpenAI hasn't set a timeline for this change, and there are challenges because OpenAI needs access to some data for its services.

Key Facts:

  • OpenAI is considering adding encryption to ChatGPT, starting with temporary chats.
  • People share sensitive information with ChatGPT, but these conversations are not legally confidential like those with doctors or lawyers.
  • Temporary chats might get encryption first, as they are not saved in history but can be kept for 30 days for safety.
  • Encrypted messaging typically prevents companies from accessing conversation content, which is challenging with chatbots since providers are often part of the conversation.
  • Full encryption for all ChatGPT services is complicated because OpenAI needs access to data for features like long-term memory.
  • OpenAI has seen few requests from law enforcement for customer data but anticipates more in the future.
  • Altman believes AI conversations, especially involving sensitive topics, should have similar legal protections as those with professionals.
  • Lawmakers have shown some interest in privacy protections for users of AI services.

Source Information

Axios
Three innovations pushing the medical field forward

Three innovations pushing the medical field forward

August 18, 2025
The article discusses three new medical innovations: a cancer vaccine, a blood test for Alzheimer's, and an exoskeleton. These technologies show progress in medical technology, which is important for economic growth.

Key Facts:

  • A new cancer vaccine is one of the medical innovations.
  • There is a blood test developed for detecting Alzheimer's disease.
  • An exoskeleton is being developed for medical purposes.
  • Innovations in medical technology are tied to economic growth.
  • The article was published by NPR's Planet Money program.

Source Information

NPR Home
'Skibidi' and 'tradwife' among words added to Cambridge Dictionary

'Skibidi' and 'tradwife' among words added to Cambridge Dictionary

August 17, 2025
Skibidi, tradwife, and several other slang terms popular on social media have been added to the Cambridge Dictionary. More than 6,000 new words, including those related to remote working and the tech industry, have been included. This update reflects how internet culture is changing the English language.

Key Facts:

  • Skibidi is a new word from a viral YouTube series, meaning different things like "cool" or nothing significant at all.
  • Tradwife is short for "traditional wife," describing a married woman who follows traditional roles and shares this online.
  • Over 6,000 new words, including terms related to remote work, are now in the Cambridge Dictionary.
  • The phrase "mouse jiggler," a tool to simulate work activity on a computer, has been added.
  • Delulu, a play on the word "delusional," means believing false things by choice.
  • Broligarchy combines "bro" and "oligarchy" to describe a group of powerful, rich men in technology.
  • Kim Kardashian referenced the word skibidi on social media with a necklace related to the YouTube series.
  • Colin McIntosh, a manager at the dictionary, notes that internet culture is changing how English is used.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
The environmental consequences of big tech’s push to ease regulations for AI development

The environmental consequences of big tech’s push to ease regulations for AI development

August 17, 2025
Big tech companies want to build more data centers to support artificial intelligence (AI) growth. They are asking the U.S. government to reduce environmental protections that slow down construction. The Trump administration seems supportive of this idea.

Key Facts:

  • AI development is increasing the need for data centers.
  • Data centers are large facilities that store and process data.
  • Environmental rules, some decades old, slow the building of these centers.
  • Big tech companies want the U.S. government to make these rules less strict.
  • Wired Magazine reported that big tech is lobbying the White House for these changes.
  • The Trump administration seems willing to consider relaxing environmental protections.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

AI is driving a data center boom in rural America. Locals are divided on the benefits

August 17, 2025
Artificial intelligence (AI) is leading to the construction of many data centers in rural areas of the United States, like central Washington. Some people in these areas are concerned because the data centers might not provide enough jobs and could use a lot of local resources.

Key Facts:

  • AI is causing an increase in building data centers in rural America.
  • These data centers are popping up in places like central Washington.
  • Some local residents are skeptical about the benefits of these data centers.
  • Critics are concerned that the centers do not create many jobs.
  • There are worries about the data centers using a lot of local resources.

Source Information

NPR Technology
AI-generated models shake up the fashion industry and raise concerns

AI-generated models shake up the fashion industry and raise concerns

August 16, 2025
The fashion industry is experiencing changes due to AI-generated models. These virtual models are creating discussions about their impact on fashion and related concerns.

Key Facts:

  • AI-generated models are being used in the fashion industry.
  • These models are virtual, meaning they are created by computers, not real people.
  • The use of AI models is causing changes in how fashion campaigns are run.
  • There are discussions about the potential impact of AI models on real-world jobs in fashion.
  • Concerns include ethical issues and how AI models might replace human models.
  • The article does not focus on the specific technical details of how these AI models are created.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour