Technology News

Who qualifies for $68 million settlement over Google Assistant?

June 09, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

A $68 million settlement was reached in a lawsuit involving Google Assistant. People who meet certain conditions may qualify to receive money from this settlement.

Key Facts

The settlement amount is $68 million.
It relates to Google's voice-activated service called Google Assistant.
People who used or were affected by Google Assistant may be eligible.
Notices about the settlement have been sent via email.
The settlement resolves claims against Google regarding Google Assistant.

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The Hill

Commonwealth Fusion makes the physics case for its 400 MW reactor

June 09, 2026 • Ars Technica

Summary

Commonwealth Fusion is developing a new fusion reactor called ARC that aims to produce 400 megawatts (MW) of usable electricity by using advanced superconducting magnets. Their SPARC reactor, a smaller version of ARC, is more than 70% complete and expected to operate next year, which is much sooner than other projects like ITER that are still years away. The company recently published detailed scientific papers explaining their reactor design and how they plan to use fusion to generate power efficiently.

Key Facts

Commonwealth Fusion is building the SPARC tokamak, expected to operate by next year.
ARC is a larger fusion power plant planned to produce about 1.13 gigawatts (GW) of fusion power and 400 MW of electricity sent to the power grid.
ARC uses fusion of deuterium and tritium, isotopes of hydrogen, to generate helium, neutrons, and radiation.
The reactor uses molten salt with lithium ions to absorb neutrons and generate tritium fuel continuously.
ARC’s power output relies on cycles of 15 minutes of fusion followed by 1-minute resets, using thermal inertia to maintain heat.
High-temperature superconductors will enable stronger magnetic fields for a smaller, faster-built reactor.
The company has published five peer-reviewed papers outlining the science and design of ARC.
ARC aims to deliver fusion energy sooner than large international projects like ITER, which expects to operate in the 2030s.

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Ars Technica

Tech Life

June 09, 2026 • BBC Tech

Summary

The article talks about the risks of lithium batteries, which power many gadgets, catching fire on airplanes. It also covers an AI competition in San Francisco and a new program that helps workers protect endangered animals in Africa using modern technology.

Key Facts

Lithium batteries in gadgets can sometimes catch fire on planes.
There is a new campaign to encourage safer packing of devices with lithium batteries.
An international AI competition took place in San Francisco, showcasing new uses of artificial intelligence.
A program is teaching conservation workers in Africa how to use advanced technology to protect endangered wildlife.
The episode is part of a series called Tech Life and hosted by Chris Vallance.
The focus is on how technology affects everyday life and safety.

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BBC Tech

Donwill on The Almanac of Rap, Hip-Hop Memory and the Lost Art of Context

June 09, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Donwill, a rapper from Tanya Morgan, hosts The Almanac of Rap, a podcast that explores hip-hop history with deep detail and context. The podcast aims to preserve stories and background often lost in today’s quick internet news culture, using audio to engage listeners in a rich, immersive way.

Key Facts

Donwill is a rapper and creator of The Almanac of Rap podcast.
The podcast has won two Webby Awards for its quality and content.
It treats hip-hop history as a complex and living topic worth revisiting deeply.
Donwill values old internet culture where readers explored beyond headlines to find full stories.
He believes today’s internet often stops at surface-level news, losing important context.
The podcast uses audio because it fits easily into everyday life like walking or driving.
Donwill focuses on small details around hip-hop events, such as the atmosphere and personal moments.
He wants to preserve hip-hop stories as a cultural responsibility, especially as archives and music journalism face challenges.

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Newsweek

Anthropic says these topics are too dangerous to let its Fable 5 model talk about

June 09, 2026 • Ars Technica

Summary

Anthropic released Claude Fable 5, a new AI model with stronger safety controls that block it from discussing sensitive topics like cybersecurity, biology, and chemistry. The model performs better than earlier versions but redirects risky queries to a previous model and warns users to prevent misuse.

Key Facts

Claude Fable 5 is Anthropic’s first "Mythos-class" AI model, improving on previous Claude Opus models.
It restricts answering questions on cybersecurity, biology, chemistry, and other sensitive areas to prevent harm.
Fable 5 redirects some restricted queries to the older Claude Opus 4.8 model and notifies users when this happens.
Anthropic made the safeguards stricter, which may sometimes block safe questions but helps reduce misuse risks.
Over 1,000 hours of testing showed no universal jailbreaks to bypass Fable 5’s safeguards.
The model shows a large improvement in cybersecurity tasks, scoring 78% on a vulnerability benchmark, up from 40% in older models.
Anthropic is particularly concerned about cyberattacks automated by AI and risks from biological research queries.
Access to the more powerful Mythos 5 model is still limited to trusted cybersecurity experts through a special program.

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Ars Technica

Can a $159 Bluetooth sleep mask actually help you snooze better? I tested to find out

June 09, 2026 • Guardian Tech

Summary

This article reviews Bluetooth sleep masks that combine light blocking with audio streaming to help users sleep better. The author tested top-rated masks, highlighting the Manta SOUND Sleep Mask as the best option for comfort, adjustability, and battery life.

Key Facts

Bluetooth sleep masks block light and play sound through built-in speakers.
The Manta SOUND Sleep Mask costs $159 and has adjustable parts for a good fit.
It turns off automatically after 30 minutes of no sound to save battery.
The mask is lightweight (3.8 oz) and comfortable for back, side, and stomach sleepers.
The Manta mask is machine-washable once the electronics are removed.
The Snoozeband Silk Sleep Mask is a $129 flat mask with a sleep timer and built-in sounds.
Snoozeband offers 10 built-in sleep sounds so users do not need their phones.
Some users find flat masks less comfortable, but Snoozeband’s adjustable strap helps with fit.

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Guardian Tech

Google announces Gemini 3.5 Live Translate for instant voice-to-voice translation

June 09, 2026 • Ars Technica

Summary

Google has launched Gemini 3.5 Live Translate, a new AI tool that provides instant voice-to-voice translation in over 70 languages. This technology works in real time, sounds more natural, and will be available in Google Translate apps, Google Meet, and through developer tools.

Key Facts

Gemini 3.5 Live Translate is an AI speech-to-speech model that translates conversations quickly and accurately.
It supports more than 70 languages and adjusts for natural speech patterns like tone and pitch.
The feature can work with any earbuds or even without earbuds by using a "listening mode" on Android phones.
Google Meet will offer this live translation to selected enterprise customers starting this month, with a wider release planned later.
Developers can access the translation tools through the Gemini Live API or AI Studio to build new applications.
The system filters out background noise to improve translation quality during busy situations.
All AI-generated audio includes SynthID watermarks to label it as computer-produced speech and prevent removal of this label.
This release builds on earlier live translation efforts by Google and aims to make real-time multilingual communication easier and more accessible.

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Ars Technica

WATCH: NASA announces Artemis III test flight astronauts

June 09, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

NASA announced the crew for its Artemis III mission, which is part of the plan to send astronauts back to the moon. Some astronauts will orbit Earth practicing spacecraft docking, while others will prepare for the lunar landing.

Key Facts

NASA revealed the Artemis III mission crew on Tuesday.
Artemis III is a mission aimed at eventually landing astronauts on the moon.
Artemis II recently completed a record-breaking trip around the moon.
Four astronauts—Randy Bresnik, Frank Rubio, Andre Douglas, and Luca Parmitano—will orbit Earth during Artemis III.
These astronauts will practice docking the Orion capsule with two lunar landers.
The Artemis III mission is part of NASA’s larger goal to explore the moon again.
Luca Parmitano is part of the European Space Agency, not NASA.

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PBS NewsHour

NASA Names Artemis III Astronauts: What Crew Will Be Paid for Risky Mission

June 09, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

NASA announced the four astronauts who will join the Artemis III mission, planned for no earlier than 2027. The crew will test systems needed for future moon landings but will not land on the moon during this mission.

Key Facts

Artemis III is part of NASA’s effort to send humans to the moon again after more than 50 years.
The mission will focus on testing technology and operations to support future moon landings.
The crew includes three NASA astronauts and one European Space Agency astronaut.
NASA astronaut Randy Bresnik will command the mission; he has flown to space twice before.
ESA astronaut Luca Parmitano will serve as pilot; he is the first Italian to lead the International Space Station.
NASA astronaut Andre Douglas, making his first spaceflight, is a mechanical engineer with Coast Guard experience.
NASA astronaut Frank Rubio will make his second spaceflight; he previously spent 371 days on the ISS, the longest by a U.S. astronaut.
Backup astronaut Bob Hines will train with the crew and is ready to replace any primary member if needed.

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Newsweek

NASA assigns crew for Artemis III, sets aggressive timeline for flying it

June 09, 2026 • Ars Technica

Summary

NASA announced the crew for its Artemis III mission, planned to launch no earlier than summer 2027. This mission will test docking and life support systems in orbit using two different lunar landers and prepare for a future crewed Moon landing.

Key Facts

Artemis III is a low-Earth orbit mission designed to test lunar landing systems.
The crew consists of four astronauts: Randy Bresnik (commander), Luca Parmitano (pilot), Andre Douglas (mission specialist), and Frank Rubio (mission specialist).
The mission timeline aims to launch around summer 2027.
Artemis III will involve three separate launches: Blue Origin’s lander test vehicle, Orion spacecraft atop NASA’s Space Launch System rocket, and SpaceX’s Starship.
The crew will dock with both the Blue Moon lander and Starship but will only enter Blue Moon for life support testing.
After testing, the crew will return to Earth with a splashdown in the Pacific Ocean.
Artemis III serves as a bridge to Artemis IV, which aims for a crewed lunar landing.
Blue Origin’s recent rocket explosion caused damage to its launch facilities, which may impact future lander launches.

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Ars Technica

Early details on new Artemis III mission

June 09, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

NASA has revealed the names of the four astronauts selected for the Artemis III mission to the moon. An expert, Derrick Pitts, explained some of the known details about this space mission during a CBS News interview.

Key Facts

NASA is planning the Artemis III mission to the moon.
Four astronauts have been chosen to participate in this mission.
Derrick Pitts is the chief astronomer at the Franklin Institute.
Derrick Pitts spoke about the Artemis III mission on CBS News.
The Artemis III mission is part of NASA's effort to explore the moon again.
The interview was available on CBS News and their app.

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CBS News

Version of AI tool too powerful for public released to public

June 09, 2026 • BBC Tech

Summary

Anthropic has released a new version of its AI tool called Claude Fable 5 to the public. The company says this tool is more powerful than any they have shared before and includes safety features to reduce risks.

Key Facts

Claude Fable 5 is based on Anthropic’s earlier AI model called Claude Mythos.
Claude Mythos was first shared privately in April for testing by about 150 trusted groups.
Some experts worried Mythos could cause financial and security problems because of its power.
Anthropic said Claude Fable 5 has safeguards and user limits to help control risks.
The company plans to give more groups access to Claude Mythos 5, which has fewer restrictions for certain trusted users.
Claude models can follow human commands over longer periods without interruption.
Anthropic may go public soon, with a private valuation near $1 trillion.
One Anthropic co-founder said the rapid growth of AI means the public needs a way to slow down development if needed.

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BBC Tech BBC Business BBC Top Stories BBC World BBC US

FDA approves first new sunscreen ingredient in more than 20 years

June 09, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The FDA has approved bemotrizinol as a new active ingredient for sunscreens, marking the first approval of a sunscreen ingredient in over 20 years. Bemotrizinol helps protect skin from both UVA and UVB rays and is absorbed only in small amounts into the body.

Key Facts

Bemotrizinol is a sunscreen ingredient newly approved by the FDA.
This is the first new sunscreen ingredient approved since the late 1990s.
It protects against UVA rays (which cause aging) and UVB rays (which cause sunburn).
Bemotrizinol has low absorption through the skin, meaning it stays mostly on the skin's surface.
The FDA considers this ingredient safe for use in sunscreens.
Adding new sunscreen ingredients can improve protection and possibly sunscreen effectiveness.

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The Hill

Anthropic and OpenAI spark new race for frontier AI access

June 09, 2026 • Axios

Summary

Anthropic and OpenAI are using a system called selective access to control who can use their most advanced AI models with cyber capabilities. These companies decide which cybersecurity experts and organizations can use these powerful tools to improve defenses while limiting risky uses.

Key Facts

Anthropic released a version of its Mythos AI model called Fable 5 to the public, with built-in protections blocking some risky requests.
Users asking about sensitive topics get routed to a more restricted model named Claude Opus 4.8.
Anthropic has a restricted preview program for its Mythos 5 model and plans a trusted-access program to control model use but has not set a launch date.
Over 150 companies and governments now have access to Anthropic’s Mythos Preview after recent expansion.
OpenAI uses a similar system where trusted cybersecurity researchers get access to a less restricted version of GPT-5.5 to help find bugs and study malware.
Both companies are balancing giving advanced AI tools to trusted users while preventing misuse.
Organizations and security experts are competing to get access to these AI models for cybersecurity purposes.
These selective access programs help companies monetize models safely as they consider going public or expanding their markets.

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Axios

Paris Hilton sounds the alarm on AI-generated exploitation in new TikTok series: ‘It could happen to literally anyone’

June 09, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Paris Hilton has launched a new docuseries on TikTok called "Searching for Mr. Deepfakes" to warn people about harmful AI-created fake images. The series focuses on how these fake pictures can cause serious problems for anyone.

Key Facts

The docuseries is named "Searching for Mr. Deepfakes."
It is available exclusively on Paris Hilton’s TikTok channel.
The series uses short videos designed for a younger audience.
It highlights the dangers of AI-generated explicit images.
Paris Hilton warns that these fake images can damage a person’s life.
The show aims to increase awareness of a dangerous internet issue.
AI deepfakes are computer-made videos or pictures that look real but are fake.
The series is focused on true crime and online exploitation.

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The Hill

NASA reveals Artemis III crew

June 09, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

NASA has announced the astronauts who will be on the Artemis III mission. These crew members will test new equipment for future moon trips while orbiting Earth.

Key Facts

The mission is called Artemis III.
It will send astronauts into orbit around the Earth.
The crew will test equipment designed for moon exploration.
This mission is part of NASA’s plan to return humans to the Moon.
Testing in Earth orbit helps ensure the gear works well before lunar landing.

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The Hill

WATCH: Artemis III astronauts revealed for 'complex' NASA mission

June 09, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

NASA has announced the astronauts selected for the Artemis III mission, which will launch in 2027. The mission will use the Orion spacecraft and the Space Launch System rocket, and NASA describes it as complex.

Key Facts

Artemis III is set to launch in 2027.
The crew will travel on the Orion spacecraft.
The launch system used will be NASA's Space Launch System rocket.
NASA calls this mission "complex," indicating challenging tasks.
Artemis III is part of NASA's ongoing Artemis program to explore the Moon.
The mission details highlight NASA's goals for human space exploration beyond Earth orbit.

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ABC News

Farage says Reform has contacted X 'at highest level' over fake AI ads

June 09, 2026 • BBC Tech

Summary

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has asked the social media platform X to remove fake AI-generated ads showing him and Bank of England governor Andrew Bailey fighting. These fake ads have been displayed to users in the UK and sometimes link to scam websites promoting fake investment schemes.

Key Facts

Fake AI ads show Nigel Farage and Andrew Bailey arguing or fighting on a set like BBC Question Time.
Reform UK contacted X's top management to ask for quick removal of the fake ads.
The Bank of England warns these ads are scams designed to trick the public, especially vulnerable people.
Some ads appear as videos with fake play buttons but are not real videos.
The fake ads often link to websites promoting fake AI cryptocurrency trading apps or scams.
The Bank of England says it does not endorse any financial products or investments shown in the ads.
Users are urged to report these fake ads to the platform and to Action Fraud, the UK’s fraud reporting service.
Many fake ads appeared from accounts with X’s Premium verified badge, which Elon Musk has changed as part of addressing bot problems.

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BBC Tech BBC Top Stories

One day after discovery, Meta pulls facial recognition code from its smart glasses

June 09, 2026 • Ars Technica

Summary

Meta had included a face-recognition system called NameTag in an app for its smart glasses without activating it publicly. After a news report revealed this, Meta removed the related code from the app but did not fully explain why it was added or then taken out.

Key Facts

Meta embedded an unreleased face-recognition system called NameTag in its Meta AI app for smart glasses.
The app with the code had been installed on over 50 million phones.
NameTag could convert faces into unique biometric signatures stored on the user’s device.
The system also saved images of faces it couldn't recognize for future analysis.
Meta claimed the face-recognition feature was still being tested and no decision was made to launch it.
After media reports, Meta removed almost all of the NameTag code from its app.
Meta did not answer questions about the purpose of the system or privacy concerns.
Some small parts of the NameTag system remain in the app but are inactive.

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Ars Technica

Artemis III astronauts revealed for 'complex' NASA mission

June 09, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

NASA announced the astronauts chosen for the Artemis III mission, planned for 2027. The mission will send three American astronauts and one Italian astronaut on a complex trip around the moon using the Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System rocket.

Key Facts

Artemis III is the next NASA mission following Artemis II’s successful lunar flyby.
The mission is set to launch in 2027.
The crew consists of Commander Randy Bresnik, pilot Luca Parmitano (an Italian astronaut from the European Space Agency), and mission specialists Frank Rubio and Andre Douglas.
Bob Hines has been named as a backup crew member and will train alongside the main astronauts.
The mission will use the Orion spacecraft launched by the Space Launch System rocket.
NASA describes the mission as "complex," indicating challenging tasks or operations.
Luca Parmitano represents the European Astronaut Corps, showing international cooperation in the mission.

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ABC News

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