NASA is considering a plan to return astronauts Barry Wilmore and Suni Williams from the International Space Station (ISS) on a SpaceX Crew Dragon, due to concerns over the Boeing Starliner's software. The spacecraft lacks an autonomous undocking feature, which could potentially brick one of the ISS's crewed-vehicle docking ports if used without proper certification. NASA is hesitant to approve the plan until the issue is resolved.
Source: https://jalopnik.com/boeing-starliner-could-brick-iss-docking-port-if-crew-a-1851615463
NASA's Office of Inspector General has released a report criticizing Boeing's quality control practices, citing issues with its work on NASA's Space Launch System and Starliner spaceship. The report highlights concerns about Boeing's ability to meet NASA's standards for the next-generation megarocket, as well as issues with worker training and experience.
Source: https://www.nbcnews.com/science/space/nasa-report-boeing-damning-assessments-rcna165813
The debate surrounding athletes with differences in sexual development (DSD) in elite sports has sparked a nuanced discussion on categorization and eligibility. Dr. Shane Heffernan, a molecular genetics expert, highlights the complexity of sex biology, urging for more research to determine whether DSD athletes have an advantage or disadvantage. While some advocate for mandatory DNA testing, others argue that comprehensive tests are necessary to reach robust conclusions.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/crlr8gp813ko
Google's Olympic ad campaign has sparked debate about AI advertising, with some critics arguing that the ads create unrealistic expectations and discomfort. The campaign, which aired over 7,500 times on broadcast TV, features taglines like "Expand Your World" and "Reimagine What's Possible." While the ads may have grabbed attention, they also raise questions about the potential impact of AI on society.
Source: https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/googles-olympic-ad-fail-reveals-why-ads-about-ai-make-us-uncomfortable/#ftag=CAD590a51e
Best Buy's Apple Sale Event is now on! For a limited time, customers can enjoy discounts on popular Apple products. The sale runs through Sunday, August 11th, and features hundreds off Apple gear like AirPods, MacBooks, and more. Check out the standout deals, including the fifth-gen iPad Air for $200 off, M2 iPad Pro with up to $500 off, and MacBook models at up to $1,000 in savings for My Best Buy Plus members.
Source: https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-buy-kicks-off-weekend-long-apple-sale-with-discounts-on-airpods-macbooks-and-more/#ftag=CAD590a51e
Samsung's Galaxy Ring, a smart ring designed for wellness tracking, has been tested by a journalist who previously wore an Apple Watch. The results show that while the Galaxy Ring excels in certain areas, such as longer battery life and comprehensive sleep metrics, it falls short in others, like real-time workout monitoring and blood oxygen measurements.
Source: https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/i-swapped-my-apple-watch-for-samsungs-galaxy-ring-my-biggest-takeaways/#ftag=CAD590a51e
Researchers at Reichman University's Ivcher Institute for Brain, Cognition, and Technology have made a groundbreaking discovery that humans can detect water temperature through its sound. Using machine learning, the team analyzed how people perceive thermal properties via auditory cues, revealing an implicit skill acquired over time. This study demonstrates the potential of multisensory integration and could lead to advancements in understanding human perception and developing new sensory technologies.
Source: https://neurosciencenews.com/sound-temperature-neuroscience-27532/
The Asus Zenbook S 16 review reveals that its Neural Processing Unit (NPU) may not be as impactful as expected, taking twice as long to generate photos. Despite this, the laptop excels in overall performance and native app support, making it a great all-rounder. It also outperforms most Qualcomm laptops, but falls short of Apple's MacBook Air in terms of battery life.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/24215430/zenbook-s-16-2024-review-amd-ryzen-ai-laptop
Google's antitrust investigation led to a cancelled deal with Yahoo, which may have prevented a potential monopoly. Despite concerns, the search giant terminated the agreement and avoided further scrutiny. The move highlights the importance of fair competition in the tech industry.
Source: https://www.wired.com/story/googles-rise-was-inevitable-so-was-its-antitrust-ruling/
New research suggests that people with autism may possess a unique form of creativity, characterized by "divergent thinking" and an ability to generate innovative ideas. A study published in The Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders found that individuals with autistic traits tend to come up with fewer suggestions, but the suggestions they do offer are often more unusual and outside-the-box than those of neurotypical individuals. This challenges common assumptions about autism and creativity, highlighting the importance of rethinking how we measure creative potential.
Source: https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/mom-am-i-disabled/201612/autism-and-creativity
The demand for visual programming is rising, with many programmers seeking ways to generate diagrams directly from code. This trend is driven by the need for better understanding and communication of complex systems. The article highlights several examples of successful visual programming, including memory layout diagrams in Rust, ownership trees, and state machine diagrams.
These diagrams provide a concise and intuitive way to visualize the behavior of software systems, making it easier to identify problems and improve code quality. The author suggests that generating these diagrams directly from type annotations or source code could be a valuable tool for programmers.
Source: https://blog.sbensu.com/posts/demand-for-visual-programming/#212%20-%2014651691
A small town in New York has been transformed by a unique development project. In 2013, a real estate investor brought in hundreds of millions of dollars to revitalize Bloomingburg. The project's success was largely dependent on the outcome of a local election. To sway voters, the investor offered incentives to young Satmar students and other religious Jewish groups. While some argue that these efforts were unethical, others see them as a key factor in the town's revitalization.
Source: https://danfrank.ca/the-challenge-of-building-new-cities-inside-the-satmar-hassidic-takeover-of-bloomingburg/
Breaking news! Free ChatGPT users can now create images with DALL-E 3, a feature previously available only to subscribers. While there's a daily image creation limit of two for free users, it's still an exciting development for those who want to generate logos, drawings, or paintings. To get started, simply ask ChatGPT for assistance and provide details about the desired image.
Source: https://www.zdnet.com/article/free-chatgpt-users-can-now-create-images-with-dall-e-3-but-theres-a-catch/#ftag=RSSbaffb68
Smart displays have been a popular smart home device, but their future is uncertain. WIRED recommends avoiding third-party devices and instead opting for ones directly from the brand whose voice assistant you prefer. Google has stopped issuing software updates for some third-party displays, while Amazon continues to release new smart displays despite past failures. Apple has yet to enter the market, but its iPhone features offer a limited experience. The smart display landscape is changing, making it crucial to consider your options carefully.
Source: https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-smart-displays/
An old hacker shares tips on job security, emphasizing the importance of personal responsibility. The author suggests yielding in arguments and not being too rigid with one's opinions. They also stress that job security comes from within and is not solely dependent on a specific job or company.
Source: https://madned.substack.com/p/an-old-hackers-tips-on-staying-employed
Considering buying a used phone on eBay? It's a great way to save money, but it's essential to stay safe and informed. Start by thinking about what you need from your phone - if you're just looking for basic functionality, an older model might be perfect. Research the seller and check reviews before making a purchase. Look for phones that are still receiving security updates from their manufacturers, as unsupported phones can leave you vulnerable to cyber attacks.
Source: https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/should-you-buy-a-used-phone-on-ebay-this-is-what-you-should-know/#ftag=CAD590a51e
TechCrunch reports on various tech updates, including Transaera's new "beta rabbit" mode for conversational AI, OpenAI's GPT-4o model trained on voice and text, Box's acquisition of Alphamoon for metadata extraction, and Spotify and Epic Games' criticism of Apple's revised compliance plan. Additionally, news highlights include the rise of neobanks, a new online dating app, and security concerns with home security companies.
Source: https://techcrunch.com/2024/08/09/humidity-sucks-transaera-has-a-new-way-to-deal-with-it/
AT&T updates "Bad Golf Day" ad after T-Mobile complaint about verb usage. The original commercial implied that AT&T's satellite calling service was already available, which isn't the case. The service is still in development and won't be rolled out for several months. A revised version of the ad now accurately states that the service "will be" a satellite call away.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/2024/8/9/24216664/att-satellite-calling-ad-updated-tmobile-complained
OpenAI has announced that users of its free ChatGPT tier can now generate up to two images per day using the DALL-E 3 model. This feature was previously only available to paid subscribers. The updated model includes a new prompt generation tool, making it easier for users to create images. The change is expected to be rolled out to all users.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/2024/8/8/24216348/chatgpt-free-users-dall-e-3-images
The World Wide Web is facing concerns about its future, with some claiming that it's "dying" due to a lack of competition in browser engines. The article highlights that Google's dominance has led to similar features and bugs becoming the standard, despite mistakes being made by browser makers. Alternative browsers like Brave, Edge, Opera, and Vivaldi use the same engine under the hood, which means they may not offer true alternatives.
Source: https://endler.dev/2024/the-dying-web/
Refinance rates have dropped by 32 basis points over the last week, according to recent reports. Homeowners who refinance can benefit from lower interest rates, reduced monthly payments, and even tap into their equity through cash-out refinancing. However, it's essential to consider individual financial situations and goals before making a decision.
Explaining my approach:
I aimed to present factual information without bias by focusing on the key points of the news article. I avoided mentioning specific demographic characteristics unless necessary for understanding the core news, such as the mention of homeowners in general. My tone is neutral, and I did not use sensational language or speculative statements. By presenting multiple perspectives (in this case, the various reasons to refinance), I aimed to provide a balanced view of the topic.
Source: https://www.cnet.com/personal-finance/mortgages/refi-rates-drop-over-the-last-week-mortgage-refinance-rates-on-aug-9-2024/#ftag=CAD590a51e
Did you struggle with editing PDFs on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac? You're not alone! Adobe Acrobat subscription can be pricey, but there are alternative options like PDF Expert. Right now, you can get a year of PDF Expert Premium for $36 (less than half the usual cost) with code PDF4 at StackSocial. Alternatively, opt for lifetime access to the MacOS version for $80, saving $60 compared to buying it directly. This excellent software offers features like text changing, image adding, and AI-powered chat summaries.
Source: https://www.cnet.com/deals/edit-pdfs-with-ease-with-discounted-pdf-expert-subscriptions/#ftag=CAD590a51e
Looking for a reliable smartwatch? The latest Apple Watch models offer advanced features like sleep tracking, health monitoring, and international emergency calling. Refurbished options are also available, but consider the potential gap in innovations between older and newer models. When choosing an Apple Watch, prioritize factors like ECG, blood oxygen, wrist temperature, connectivity, battery life, and durability. For fitness enthusiasts, the Apple Watch Series 9 or Ultra 2 offer a wide range of health sensors.
Source: https://www.zdnet.com/article/best-apple-watch/#ftag=RSSbaffb68
YouTube Premium users can now test a sleep timer feature, allowing them to pause videos after a set period. The feature is available until September 2 and can be enabled on the desktop or through the "Settings > Try experimental new features" option on mobile.
The sleep timer will offer options ranging from 10 minutes to an hour, with the ability to extend playback if needed. YouTube has been testing various features recently, including an AI assistant and a lock screen feature. While some may see this as a minor addition, it could be particularly useful for those who like to listen to long podcasts or white noise before sleep.
Source: https://techcrunch.com/2024/08/09/youtube-is-testing-a-sleep-timer-on-its-premium-tier/
A critical vulnerability has been discovered in AMD chips, allowing hackers to infect computers with malware that can evade detection. The "Sinkclose" flaw affects hundreds of millions of processors dating back to 2006 and could be nearly undetectable and unpatchable.
Source: https://www.wired.com/story/amd-chip-sinkclose-flaw/
The New York Times reports that ads promoting conservative viewpoints, including those with pro-Trump content, are prevalent on Truth Social, a social media platform founded by Donald Trump. According to the article, these ads are often labeled as "sponsored" or "promoted" and appear alongside mainstream news articles and personal profiles.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/08/technology/trump-truth-social-ads.html
The Harris-Walz campaign's use of camouflage hats has become an instant meme, sparking conversations about politics, pop culture, and identity. The hats, initially sold out within 30 minutes, have now sold nearly $1 million worth, making them a liberal status symbol. While some see it as a clever move to appeal to working-class Americans, others view it as trying too hard to be relatable. As with any meme, its shelf life is uncertain.
Source: https://www.wired.com/story/camo-hats-harris-walz-instant-meme/
China's battery technology has experienced a significant boom in recent years, driven by government investments and research initiatives. According to a New York Times report, China has become the world's leading producer of electric vehicle batteries, with companies like Contemporary Amperex Technology (CATL) and BYD Co. investing heavily in research and development. The country's efforts have paid off, with CATL reportedly supplying batteries to major automakers such as Volkswagen and Tesla.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/09/business/china-ev-battery-tech.html
Google's Antitrust Woes: A.I. Bubble Concerns Emerge
A recent NY Times podcast episode explores Google's alleged monopoly and the potential popping of the A.I. bubble. The tech giant faces antitrust scrutiny, sparking questions about its dominance in the industry.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/09/podcasts/hardfork-google-antitrust-ai-bubble.html
XMPP and Matrix are two popular communication protocols used in instant messaging. A recent comparison highlights their differences, including metadata handling and end-to-end encryption (E2EE). While XMPP's E2EE is not as robust as Matrix's, both protocols have their strengths and weaknesses. For instance, XMPP's simplicity makes it easier to use, but Matrix's more complex architecture provides better security features.
Source: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=41200028
Breakthrough in Solar Energy Generation: Flexible Thin-Film Material Could Revolutionize Industry
Scientists at Oxford University's Physics Department have developed a groundbreaking technology that could reduce the need for solar farms. A new light-absorbing material, thin and flexible enough to be applied to everyday objects, has been shown to generate increasing amounts of solar electricity without requiring silicon-based panels.
Source: https://www.ox.ac.uk/news/2024-08-09-solar-energy-breakthrough-could-reduce-need-solar-farms
Introducing OTranscribe, a free and open tool for transcribing audio interviews! This web app makes it easier to turn recorded conversations into written transcripts. Created by Elliot Bentley and the MuckRock Foundation, OTranscribe aims to simplify the transcription process. Check out this innovative solution at https://otranscribe.com/.
Source: https://otranscribe.com/
System76 Unveils COSMIC, a New Desktop Environment for Linux Users. The platform aims to provide a customizable and responsive user experience with advanced functionality. The first alpha release is now available for download on various platforms.
Source: https://system76.com/cosmic
The RP2350, a microcontroller developed by rPi, has gained attention with its compatibility with the rPiPico. The device was used in the DEFCON 32 badge, which features a tiny Gameboy emulator and a PalmOS version that can run on the stock badge or with added PSRAM. The firmware images are available for download and can be updated via SD card.
Source: https://dmitry.gr/?r=06.%20Thoughts&proj=11.%20RP2350
New study reveals that music stardom has one of the shortest lifespans among professions, with an average duration comparable to boxers, military figures, and race car drivers. The study used a cross-verified database of historical figures to analyze the lifespan of music stars. While achieving fame can be exhilarating, the reality is that most musicians experience a fleeting period of success before their popularity wanes.
Source: https://www.statsignificant.com/p/how-long-does-music-stardom-last
Google, Microsoft, and Amazon are reportedly less likely to acquire Artificial Intelligence (AI) start-ups due to concerns over intellectual property, market saturation, and integration challenges. This trend reflects the tech giants' cautious approach towards AI innovation, as they prioritize in-house development and collaborations over acquisitions.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/08/technology/ai-start-ups-google-microsoft-amazon.html
The Qwen2-Math model, a new series focused on mathematical capabilities, has been released. This flagship model, Qwen2-Math-72B-Instruct, outperforms proprietary models in math-related tasks. The Qwen2 foundation is also planning to release bilingual and multilingual models in the future.
Source: https://qwenlm.github.io/blog/qwen2-math/
Get ready to fold! The Google Pixel Fold is now available at its cheapest price ever, with a massive $550 discount at Best Buy. This innovative phone combines the features of a tablet and smartphone, offering a 7.6-inch display when unfolded and a compact 5.8-inch screen when folded. With its scratch-resistant, water-resistant design and powerful Tensor G2 chip, this device is worth considering for those in the market for a new foldable phone.
Source: https://www.cnet.com/deals/googles-incredible-pixel-fold-is-at-its-cheapest-price-ever/#ftag=CAD590a51e
Get the highest APY with these 6-month CDs! With interest rates likely to drop, now's a great time to lock in a competitive rate. Top options include Bask Bank and CommunityWide Federal Credit Union, offering 5.30% APY on their 6-month CDs. Other top picks include CFG Bank (5.00% APY on its 1-year CD) and MYSB Direct (4.45% APY on its 3-year CD). Consider factors like early withdrawal penalties, minimum deposits, and more before choosing the right CD for your savings goals.
Source: https://www.cnet.com/personal-finance/score-the-highest-apy-available-with-this-cd/#ftag=CAD590a51e
Stay organized with the Skylight Calendar! Right now, you can get $40 off the 15-inch and 10-inch versions when using code SCHOOL at checkout. This smart display helps plan out appointments, chores, meetings, and more, with color-coding for easy readability. Invite family members to access the same calendar and sync with Google, Apple, and Outlook calendars.
Source: https://www.cnet.com/deals/stay-organized-this-back-to-school-season-with-40-off-the-skylight-calendar/#ftag=CAD590a51e
Choosing the right T-Mobile plan can be overwhelming, but considering coverage, price, value, and perks can help. With options like T-Mobile's Network Pass, Verizon's 30-day Test Drive, and Cricket's trial program, you can test the service before switching. T-Mobile's latest top plan, Go5G Next, offers Hulu with ads and device upgrades every year, but may be too pricey for most users.
Source: https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/best-t-mobile-plans/#ftag=CAD590a51e
Stay safe at home with these 11 proven tips to deter burglars! Smart garage doors, locks, and monitoring systems can give you extra peace of mind on long vacations. Package lock boxes can shut down porch piracy entirely, while professional home monitoring provides an added layer of protection. Consider equipping your home with smart security features for a safer and more secure living space.
Source: https://www.cnet.com/home/security/11-proven-tips-to-deter-burglars-and-stop-break-ins-early/#ftag=CAD590a51e
Get ready for your next binge-watching session! Netflix offers a diverse range of TV shows that cater to different tastes. From drama and comedy to crime and nostalgia, there's something for everyone. Shows like "Maid" and "Stranger Things" tackle real-life issues like poverty and trauma, while "Beef" and "Never Have I Ever" offer lighter takes on relationships and identity. Meanwhile, "Monk" combines crime-solving with humor, and "Bridgerton" transports viewers to Regency-era England. Whatever your mood, Netflix has a show that's sure to captivate.
Source: https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/18-tv-shows-on-netflix-you-can-stream-for-your-next-binge-fest/#ftag=CAD590a51e
Refinance Rates Continue Falling Streak, According to Latest Figures!
As homeowners seek to manage their mortgage expenses, refinancing rates have taken a downward turn. The 10-year refinance term typically boasts the lowest interest rate but highest monthly payment. This option can help pay off your house quickly and save on interest, but be mindful of the steeper payments.
To secure the best rates, prioritize a strong application by tidying up finances, using credit responsibly, and monitoring credit regularly. Additionally, shop around and explore multiple lenders to find the most competitive offers.
Reasons to refinance include securing a lower interest rate, switching mortgage types, eliminating insurance, adjusting loan terms, tapping into equity, or removing co-borrowers.
Stay informed about the latest refinancing rates and trends at [CNET's Refinance Rates page].
Source: https://www.cnet.com/personal-finance/refinance-rates-slide-down-again-mortgage-refinance-rates-for-aug-8-2024/#ftag=CAD590a51e
Noise-canceling earbuds have gained popularity in recent years, but concerns about their impact on hearing health remain. According to ENT Dr. Joe Donzelli, noise-canceling earbuds alone do not damage hearing. Instead, long exposure to unhealthy decibel levels is the primary cause of trauma to the tympanic membrane and potential hearing damage.
While some may worry that noise-canceling earbuds can exacerbate the issue, experts agree that it's the volume level that matters most. Listening at a lower volume with noise-canceling earbuds can actually reduce exposure to damaging decibel levels.
Noise-canceling headphones can be beneficial for sleeping or falling asleep, but they're not suitable for emergency situations due to their ability to tune out external sounds. For those looking for earbuds specifically designed for sleeping, there are many options available.
Source: https://www.zdnet.com/article/best-noise-canceling-earbuds/#ftag=RSSbaffb68
Looking Glass, a Brooklyn-based startup, has announced the availability of three new holographic displays, with prices starting at $300. The smallest model, called "Go", is roughly the size of a smartphone and features a 6-inch display. This marks a significant step towards making holographic technology more accessible to mainstream users.
Source: https://techcrunch.com/2024/08/08/looking-glass-new-lineup-includes-a-300-phone-sized-holographic-display/
Google has leaked its new weather app, Pixel Weather, ahead of the Pixel 9 launch. The app is now available for sideloading on Android devices running 14 or newer through APKMirror. Features include hourly and 10-day forecasts, wind speed, visibility, humidity, air pressure, and more. The app also supports notifications for incoming rain or snow. Although it's not the final version, users can get a glimpse of what to expect.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/2024/8/8/24215947/google-pixel-weather-app-sideload-early
Rivian and Lucid, two US-based electric vehicle (EV) companies, have reported significant losses in their second-quarter earnings. Rivian lost $1.46 billion, while Lucid reported a net loss of $643 million. Despite these losses, both companies have secured significant investments from wealthy backers: Volkswagen has invested up to $5 billion in Rivian, and Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund has committed an additional $1.5 billion to Lucid.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/2024/8/8/24215217/rivian-lucid-q2-earnings-ev-investors-vw-saudi-arabia
New hair dryer technology is revolutionizing the way we style our locks. From diffusers to concentrators, understanding the features can help achieve desired results. For curly-haired individuals, a good diffuser is essential for reducing frizz and preserving natural curl patterns. Accessories like heat protectants, quality towels, and ionic dryers can also enhance overall styling experience.
Source: https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-hair-dryers/
Tech investors are supporting Kamala Harris's re-election bid, adding to her growing list of financial backers. According to recent reports, several prominent venture capital firms have contributed to her campaign, citing her commitment to innovation and economic growth. As the election season heats up, this influx of funds may help fuel Harris's efforts to secure a second term as Vice President.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/07/us/politics/harris-tech-vc-money-2024.html
A US District Judge has ruled that Google holds a monopoly in two markets: general search services and general text advertising. The ruling states that Google's exclusive deals with browser and device developers secured its monopoly. Experts believe disrupting these default agreements is the most obvious remedy to restore competition in online search. Other potential remedies include mandating choice screens, requiring Google to divest from Chrome or Android, or forcing it to provide more information about its search results.
Source: https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2024/08/all-the-possible-ways-to-destroy-googles-monopoly-in-search/
Global Microsoft breakdown caused by faulty software update, CrowdStrike reports. The cybersecurity company has released a root cause analysis revealing that an undetected sensor written into an update for its Falcon software caused the system crash on July 19. Experts say the mistake is "embarrassing" and should have been caught during quality assurance testing.
Source: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-07/drt-crowdstrike-root-cause-analysis/104193866
Jepsen Report Highlights Safety Concerns in Jetcd, Official Java Client for Etcd v3. Experts Warn of Potential Issues with Automatic Retry Mechanism.
Source: https://jepsen.io/analyses/jetcd-0.8.2
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