SpaceX is set to conduct its 10th test launch of the Starship rocket from Texas. This test aims to check the rocket's booster and upper stage performance over the Gulf of Mexico. The Starship program is key for future NASA moon missions and Elon Musk's Mars plans.
Key Facts
SpaceX plans to launch the Starship rocket from its site in Texas during a one-hour window starting at 7:30 pm ET.
The launch will involve a live webcast starting about 30 minutes before the scheduled takeoff.
The test will include the rocket's booster performing a series of burns and hovering over the Gulf of Mexico before splashing down.
The upper section of the rocket will go on a short suborbital flight, attempting to release simulated satellites.
Previous test flights of Starship this year have faced issues, including a loss of rocket control in May and an explosion during a preflight test in June.
NASA plans to use the Starship rocket for its moon mission, targeting 2027 for the first moon landing since 1972.
Elon Musk's goal is to use Starship for Mars colonization and Starlink satellite deployments.
Despite challenges with Starship, SpaceX continues routine missions, such as sending supplies to the International Space Station.
The Sunday Puzzle is a word game featured on NPR's Weekend Edition Sunday, where participants solve linguistic puzzles. The current puzzle involves creating familiar three-word phrases with the middle word "of," where the first and last words start with "S" and "L," respectively. Listeners can participate by submitting answers by a specified deadline for a chance to play on-air.
Key Facts
The Sunday Puzzle is a segment on NPR's Weekend Edition Sunday.
Each puzzle answer is a familiar three-word phrase with the pattern "S of L."
An example given is "Seat of Learning."
Listeners had a previous challenge involving a famous book rearranged to name a film director and a stage role.
The current challenge involves changing letters in famous athletes' names.
Participants must submit answers by Thursday, August 28th at 3 p.m. ET.
NPR's Scott Detrow talks to Cal Newport, a computer science professor, about the current limits of artificial intelligence (AI) and whether developments in the field have slowed down.
Key Facts
The discussion is between Scott Detrow from NPR and Cal Newport from Georgetown University.
Cal Newport is a professor and an author, focused on computer science.
They talked about the limitations of artificial intelligence, also known as AI.
The conversation included whether advancements in AI have slowed down.
The interview was published by NPR on August 23, 2025.
This was part of the NPR program "All Things Considered."
A dating safety app called Tea was hacked, leaking personal data of users, including their addresses. This app, designed to help women stay safe while dating, was misused by some to share and criticize intimate details about women. After the data breach, over 10 women took legal action against the app's company.
Key Facts
Tea is a US-based dating safety app that lets users run background checks on potential dates.
In late July, hackers leaked 70,000 images from the app, exposing user IDs and selfies.
The leak led to addresses of users being published online, violating their privacy.
Misogynistic groups exploited the leaked data to harass women online.
Google removed maps displaying user locations, citing harassment policy violations.
The app's company offered affected users services for identity theft protection.
Over 10 women have filed legal actions against the app's company following the breach.
Copycat apps for men appeared, featuring negative content about women without focusing on safety.
The article is a brief overview of the film "The Prestige," directed by Christopher Nolan. It describes the plot as a rivalry between two magicians, with one performing a teleportation trick that fascinates the other.
Key Facts
The film "The Prestige" is directed by Christopher Nolan.
It is a psychological thriller with a focus on magic and rivalry.
The main conflict involves two magicians competing against each other.
One magician performs a teleportation trick that captures the other's interest.
The film first premiered in the year 2006.
The article is part of a list of films available on a streaming service.
An AI-generated album was mistakenly released under singer Emily Portman's name without her knowledge. This incident highlights concerns about AI-generated music appearing on artists' official streaming pages and the challenges of removing them.
Key Facts
Singer Emily Portman found an album named "Orca" released under her name, but she had not created or released it.
The music in the album was generated using AI, mimicking her style closely.
The false album appeared on multiple major streaming platforms like Spotify and iTunes.
There is a growing issue of AI-generated music being falsely attributed to real artists on streaming services.
Emily Portman filed copyright complaints to have the fake albums removed from her pages.
Removing unauthorized music from platforms can take time, with Spotify taking three weeks to address her issue.
The incident raises questions about the impact of AI on music creativity and ownership rights.
While the mistaken album had low play counts, whoever uploaded it was set to receive any royalties.
Despite their unpopularity among anime fans, Hollywood and streaming services like Netflix continue to make live-action remakes of anime series. The recent announcement of a live-action adaptation of "Solo Leveling" was met with skepticism from fans who fear it won't capture what they love about the original anime. The challenge lies in adapting the unique storytelling and visual style of anime into live action, a task that has often resulted in unsuccessful films.
Key Facts
Netflix announced a live-action remake of the popular anime series "Solo Leveling."
"Solo Leveling" started as a Korean web novel in 2016 and became well-known globally after being turned into an anime.
Fans are concerned the live-action version won't deliver the same experience as the anime.
Live-action remakes of anime have historically been difficult to execute, with many past attempts failing to please audiences.
Hollywood has repeatedly tried to adapt animes into live-action since the 1990s, often with poor results.
The 2009 live-action "Dragonball Evolution" and the 2017 "Ghost in the Shell" film were both poorly received by fans and critics.
The difficulty in adaptation stems from translating anime's distinct style and storytelling into live-action formats.
Despite past failures, Hollywood continues to pursue live-action anime projects, seeing them as opportunities to reach new audiences.
The U.S. government will get a 10% ownership in chipmaker Intel. This agreement aims to boost the U.S.'s role in semiconductor technology and was announced by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce.
Key Facts
The U.S. government will own a 10% stake in Intel.
The Secretary of Commerce, Howard Lutnick, announced this agreement.
The U.S. aims to strengthen its position in semiconductor technology.
The news led to Intel's stock price increasing by more than 5% in after-hours trading.
President Donald Trump mentioned the deal during a speech in the Oval Office.
The deal was described as beneficial for both the U.S. and Intel.
Nvidia's CEO, Jensen Huang, stated that the company is discussing with the U.S. government about a new chip designed for use in China. This chip, called the B30A, is less powerful due to existing U.S. restrictions on high-performance semiconductors for reasons related to national security. Nvidia is working with both U.S. and Chinese authorities to ensure the chip doesn’t raise security concerns.
Key Facts
Nvidia is in talks with the Trump administration about a new AI-focused chip, the B30A, for China.
The B30A chip is based on Nvidia’s Blackwell technology and works at about half the speed of Nvidia's more advanced B300 chips.
U.S. restrictions currently prevent Nvidia from selling its most powerful chips to China due to national security concerns.
Nvidia’s H20 chips were recently approved for sale in China, with a 15% tax on these sales going to the U.S. government.
China has raised concerns about potential security risks with Nvidia’s chips, which Nvidia is addressing.
The U.S. and China have agreed to ease some trade restrictions, impacting chip design software and jet engines.
Unconfirmed reports suggest Chinese officials are upset over comments by U.S. officials about selling outdated chips to China.
Apple TV+ has increased its subscription prices worldwide, including in the UK and the US. The monthly subscription cost in the UK rose by £1 to £9.99, and in the US, it increased from $9.99 to $12.99. This marks the first price change for the service in almost two years.
Key Facts
Apple TV+ increased its monthly subscription price in the UK to £9.99.
The annual subscription price for Apple TV+ in the UK remains £89.
In the US, the monthly subscription price has risen to $12.99.
The price hike applies immediately to new users, while existing users have 30 days after their next renewal.
Apple TV+ has expanded its content library, offering premium, ad-free programming.
As of 2022, Apple TV+ had about 25 million paid subscribers according to Statista.
Other streaming services like Netflix and Disney+ have also raised their prices recently.
TikTok plans to lay off hundreds of content moderators in the UK as it shifts work to other European offices and invests more in artificial intelligence for content moderation. The company aims to improve its global operations by using AI, which currently removes 85% of posts breaking rules, but some critics express concern over replacing human moderators with AI. This change comes as the UK introduces stricter content checks through the new Online Safety Act.
Key Facts
TikTok will lay off hundreds of UK content moderators.
The work will be moved to other European offices.
TikTok is investing in artificial intelligence for content moderation.
A TikTok spokesperson said the reorganization aims to improve global operations.
A union spokesperson criticized the cuts, raising concerns about AI replacing humans.
Staff affected can apply for other roles within TikTok.
The UK has introduced stricter online content regulations under the new Online Safety Act.
The Act could impose fines of up to 10% of a business' global revenue for non-compliance.
The rise of AI bots is changing how we use the internet, with machines becoming more dominant in online interactions. Bots are starting to talk to each other and are taking over roles humans used to handle online, like price checking and making recommendations. This shift will lead to changes in how people and businesses interact online.
Key Facts
Bots will soon outnumber humans on the internet, changing how we use it.
AI bots can now chat with other bots, reducing the need for human interaction.
AI-driven systems can change prices quickly, based on personal data.
Delta Airlines is testing an AI tool for ticket pricing.
Some people already believe half of website visitors are bots.
The concept of "GEO" (generative engine optimization) might replace traditional SEO.
AI-written pages could become more common, as bots communicate with each other.
Companies may create separate online versions for humans and AI bots.
Recent computer science graduates are finding it hard to get their first jobs. The use of AI tools is reducing the number of entry-level tech jobs and making hiring processes more automated and challenging.
Key Facts
New computer science graduates are finding it difficult to find junior roles.
Many junior roles require two or more years of experience, which recent graduates don't have.
AI tools are automating simple coding tasks, reducing the number of entry-level job openings.
A report showed a 50% drop in tech job ads in recent years, especially affecting entry-level positions.
Developers use AI tools frequently but often do not trust their output completely.
Automated application processes can have multiple stages and are reviewed by AI rather than humans.
If graduates can't find jobs, there may be fewer senior developers in the future.
4chan, an online message board, says it will not pay fines from the UK's media regulator, Ofcom, related to the Online Safety Act. The site's lawyer argues that US law protects 4chan, a US-based company, from these foreign fines. Ofcom is investigating whether 4chan complies with UK online safety requirements, but 4chan's lawyer intends to challenge any enforcement in US courts.
Key Facts
4chan refuses to pay a £20,000 fine imposed by the UK's Ofcom.
Ofcom's investigation checks if 4chan follows the UK's Online Safety Act.
The lawyer for 4chan argues the company is shielded by US law.
4chan is a US-based company, and it claims protection under the First Amendment.
Ofcom has not commented further as the investigation is ongoing.
Some US officials oppose international regulations affecting American tech firms.
Ofcom aims to protect UK users from illegal content found online.
If US courts support 4chan, Ofcom may seek alternative enforcement methods.
The article discusses how social media affects people's lives by focusing on likes, followers, and creating perfect online images. It highlights the emotional impact of constantly trying to get attention online.
Key Facts
Social media can make people famous quickly by getting lots of likes and followers.
Many users focus on creating the best possible online image or "persona."
The constant need for online approval can cause emotional stress.
People are often performing or acting a certain way to gain attention on social media.
The article examines the consequences of everyone wanting to be watched online.
A newscaster goes on a date with an AI companion, demonstrating how artificial intelligence can help in making romantic connections. The report explores the role of AI in dating.
Key Facts
A newscaster participated in a date with an AI companion.
The AI is used to help people make romantic connections.
The story was reported on August 21, 2025.
Dating apps and social media advice are not always enough for successful romantic connections.
The report showcases how artificial intelligence is becoming part of personal relationships.
Experts warn against using AI chatbots for medical or mental health advice because they can give misleading or harmful information. Chatbots can’t understand personal medical histories, and they may provide incorrect answers, which can be dangerous.
Key Facts
AI chatbots are becoming popular for advice on health and mental wellness.
Experts warn that chatbots often give misleading or incorrect advice.
A man followed wrong advice from ChatGPT about his diet and was harmed.
A study showed that ChatGPT gave teens dangerous advice about drugs and suicide.
AI chatbots lack ability to offer personalized medical advice due to lack of knowledge of users' medical histories.
Chatbots work to keep users engaged rather than providing dependable advice.
Chatbots’ emotional responses often mimic user emotions, which can be problematic.
Experts highlight that chatbots were not designed to replace health care professionals.
Ukraine is becoming a hub for defense technology innovation. Companies like Fire Point are creating long-range drones and missiles to enhance Ukraine's military capabilities against Russia. The country aims to be more self-reliant in its defense efforts.
Key Facts
A Ukrainian-made drone traveled over 1,000 kilometers to hit a target in Russia.
Fire Point is producing "deep-strike drones" to hit key Russian targets.
Ukraine aims to match or surpass Russian military technology.
Fire Point's drones can travel up to 1,600 kilometers.
They are developing a cruise missile with a range of 3,000 kilometers.
Ukraine spends about $10 billion annually on weapons from domestic producers.
Fire Point was established due to the necessity after Russia's 2022 invasion.
The company now produces roughly 100 drones per day, costing $55,000 each.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is looking into why Tesla has been slow to report crashes involving its self-driving technology. Tesla is legally required to report such incidents within five days, but many reports were delayed by months. This investigation comes as Tesla aims to increase the number of driverless cars on U.S. roads.
Key Facts
The NHTSA is investigating Tesla for delayed reporting of crashes involving self-driving features.
Tesla should report such incidents within five days but has allegedly taken several months.
Tesla did not comment, but they claim the delays were due to data collection issues, which are now fixed.
The investigation is important as Tesla plans to expand its self-driving cars on U.S. roads.
Tesla recently began a self-driving taxi service in Austin, Texas.
There is another ongoing investigation into Tesla's self-driving tech in poor visibility conditions.
Conversations with Elon Musk's AI chatbot, Grok, have been found on Google search results without users realizing it. These searchable conversations involve various personal and sensitive topics, raising privacy concerns. Similar incidents have happened with other AI chatbots, highlighting issues around data privacy.
Key Facts
Grok is an AI chatbot created by Elon Musk.
Around 300,000 Grok chats were found on Google search results.
These chats were made searchable due to a "share" button feature.
The chats included personal and sensitive information like medical advice and password creation.
Experts describe these incidents as a "privacy disaster," expressing concern about data security.
Similar privacy issues have happened with other AI chatbots, such as OpenAI's ChatGPT and Meta AI.
Conversations can potentially reveal personal details despite anonymized user accounts.
