Technology News 20.10.2025

AI Homeless Man TikTok Prank Triggers Parental Panic and Police Warnings

October 20, 2025, 7:58 AM EDT. An AI-driven prank on TikTok called the AI Homeless Man Prank shows a digitally generated homeless man inside users' homes, triggering widespread parental panic and police responses. One video with over 2 million views features a distraught mother reacting to fake images; creator Nnamdi Anunobi shared a scene of a man in her bed. The trend has sparked real-world consequences: at least two Ohio juveniles were charged, Yonkers PD warned of serious outcomes, and a Salem PD PSA urged viewers to read state law. Authorities say such fabrications waste police resources and can dehumanize the homeless, risking repeat calls and harm to real emergencies. Over 600 posts appear under the hashtag #AIHomelessManPrank on TikTok.

Google readies major screen recording upgrades for Android tablets and PCs

October 20, 2025, 7:54 AM EDT. Android's built-in screen recording is getting a major upgrade as Google gears up for Android on PCs and large displays. Since debut in Android 11, it matured from recording the whole screen to capturing a single app (via Android 14 QPR2), with a status bar chip and easier stop control added in Android 15. Android 16 added external display support, signaling prep for a PC-like Desktop Mode. With AOSP underpinning these changes, Google aims to address past security concerns around third-party tools and deliver a more seamless, feature-rich workflow across tablets and desktop scenarios. The upcoming revamp should extend the built-in tool for larger screens, improving usability when casting or sharing content to external monitors.

Android Screen Recording Gets Major Upgrade with Desktop-Style Tools and Selfie Overlay

October 20, 2025, 7:52 AM EDT. Google is quietly overhauling Android's screen recording with a desktop-style workflow that could boost tablets, large phones, and Chrome OS. The update introduces a floating on-screen toolbar, a selfie-camera overlay for picture-in-picture captures, cleaner audio controls, and a built-in post-capture review screen. The old pop-up dialog is replaced by a non-intrusive toolbar that appears from a Quick Settings tile, designed for framing shots without covering content. New post-capture tools mirror the system's screenshot UI, including an in-page player, trim/edit options, and quick retake or share actions. Additional features include a selected area capture, configurable keyboard shortcuts, and support for recording external displays, signaling a more creator-friendly workflow across platforms.

Build a Rocket Boy: How ex-GTA boss's grand vision became a £200m flop

October 20, 2025, 7:50 AM EDT. BBC Newsbeat pieces reveal Build a Rocket Boy, the Edinburgh studio led by ex-Rockstar boss Leslie Benzies, dumped into a £202.6m loss while MindsEye flopped after a controversial launch. The company claimed conspiracies and 'saboteurs' targeted the MindsEye release, even as staff faced redundancy. By 2024 Barb had attracted over £233m in investment and grown to about 448 employees across Edinburgh, Budapest and Montpellier, yet no product had shipped. Former staff describe a sprint-driven push for new ideas that outpaced implementation, with focus drifting from Everywhere to MindsEye. The pivotal questions remain: was the ambition too big, did mismanagement outpace resources, and what's next for a studio that once drew international attention? MindsEye, Leslie Benzies, and Barb sit at the center of the debate.

Apple iOS 26.1 Beta Expands AI, Translation, RCS Upgrades, and Siri Improvements

October 20, 2025, 7:48 AM EDT. Apple's iOS 26.1 beta expands Apple Intelligence and Live Translation to more languages, with refinements across Music, Calendar, Photos, Clock, and Safari. Beyond the beta, Apple plans a broader iOS 26 cycle featuring Digital Passport in Wallet for US travelers and REAL ID compliance, plus RCS upgrades with end-to-end encryption, in-line replies, editing, and unsending to move toward parity with iMessage (carrier coordination required). A more personalized Siri is on the horizon, expected with iOS 26.4 in spring 2026, offering contextual understanding and deeper app integration. Code hints at a Weather via Satellite feature that could work offline, though not confirmed, alongside existing satellite services.

China Claims Solid-State EV Battery Breaks 1,000 km Barrier With 100 kg Pack

October 20, 2025, 7:46 AM EDT. Chinese researchers claim a solid-state battery breakthrough could let electric vehicles travel over 1,000 kilometers on a single charge with a 100 kg pack. Announced on CCTV and validated by Tsinghua University and institutes of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the advance targets the long-standing interface bottleneck between the solid electrolyte and the lithium metal anode. If scalable, this could slash battery weight by more than 70% and substantially boost range, reshaping the EV race over density, safety, and cost. The report highlights a three-pronged approach addressing the interface from multiple angles, including a method using iodine ions that migrate to the interface to create a self-healing bridge. Still, the path from lab to mass production remains a key challenge for commercial viability.

Rare Apple Watch Ultra 2/3 Black Titanium Milanese Loop deal hits $177 on 49mm band

October 20, 2025, 7:44 AM EDT. Rare deal lands on the official Apple Watch Black Titanium Milanese Loop for Ultra 2/3. The 49mm Milanese Loop in size small (fits 130-160mm wrists) is now $177.11 shipped on Amazon – the best price in over 6 months. This is a regularly $199 official Apple band that's rarely discounted. The belt features aerospace-grade titanium mesh with a secure parachute-style buckle, designed to elevate the look of the Black Ultra 2 or Ultra 3. Apple listings around the Ultra 3 launch appear to be the same band released with the Black Ultra 2 in 2024. It's a premium, rarely discounted accessory that can elevate the Ultra watch's appearance, though it remains a high-end purchase. FTC: affiliate links.

The £233M MindsEye Debacle: Inside Build a Rocket Boy's Broken Launch and Mass Layoffs

October 20, 2025, 7:42 AM EDT. An investigative BBC report details severe turmoil at Build a Rocket Boy, the studio founded by former GTA producer Leslie Benzies. After the launch of its debut game, MindsEye, the company reportedly laid off 200-250 staff. Months before release were marked by relentless crunch, unpaid overtime, and erratic leadership. Former developers say Benzies demanded micromanagement through "Leslie tickets," dictating urgent tasks regardless of priority. Allegations of on-call pressure and a post-launch accusation of "sabotage" by Benzies amplified staff fear, while some workers were dismissed or mocked for raising concerns. The BBC notes widespread burnout and technical issues as MindsEye released in June 2025, followed by patches and mass layoffs. The IWGB plans legal action, and despite £230M in investment, the studio's future remains unclear.

Manganese X Urges North American Battery Materials Supply Chain Amid China's Export Controls

October 20, 2025, 7:40 AM EDT. Manganese X Energy Corp. warns that China's export controls taking effect November 8, 2025 heighten risk to global EV and energy storage supply chains, underscoring the need for a North American battery materials supply chain. CEO Martin Kepman says restrictions on high-performance batteries, cathode materials (LFP, LMFP; NMC), and related technologies will accelerate regional self-sufficiency. The company points to its Battery Hill manganese project in Woodstock, New Brunswick as a critical step toward domestic production of HPMSM for next-generation chemistries like LMR, LMFP, and NMC. Manganese X frames this as advancing energy security, ethical sourcing, and economic resilience while reducing reliance on Chinese processing for the North American EV/BESS markets and defense applications.

What Nvidia Can Teach Doctors About Strategy and Survival

October 20, 2025, 7:38 AM EDT. Strategy determines destiny. Nvidia rose from a niche GPU maker to a $4T AI powerhouse by focusing on core bets and timing. It targeted GPUs for gaming, outsourced manufacturing, and waited for the AI revolution to arrive before dominating the market. By contrast, many physicians faced rising costs and lost independence as control shifted to hospitals, insurers, and private equity. The article argues for a unifying strategic vision and durable partnerships to amplify physicians' power. It outlines three lessons from Nvidia, beginning with Lesson 1: Action Without Strategic Thinking Is Aimless. The core message: align bold execution with a long-term plan, balance risk with strategy, and regain influence through purposeful collaboration.

Celebrity chef Mario Carbone backs AI-powered loyalty startup Magic in $10M seed round

October 20, 2025, 7:34 AM EDT. Celebrity chef Mario Carbone is backing Magic, an AI-powered CRM startup whose first product, Loyalist, targets the restaurant industry. Major Food Group is investing following a $10 million seed led by Lerer Hippeau, aiming to bring data-driven guest experiences to fine dining. Founder Maggie Tang, a Wharton grad, built Magic to modernize antiquated tech stacks in restaurants and turn customer data into personalized service and repeat visits. The platform tracks diners' orders, visit frequency, and preferences to tailor experiences and marketing. Tang emphasizes that AI helps create better personas and more precise outreach, extending loyalty beyond reservations to bring guests back. The deal signals growing investor interest in hospitality tech that blends high-touch service with scalable analytics.

When Everything Is Fake: What's the Point of Social Media in the AI Era

October 20, 2025, 7:32 AM EDT. AI-generated posts flood feeds-from a viral, fake 'girl and puppy' story to dazzling Sora 2 videos. The origin of the images is unclear, signaling a wider problem of AI-generated content seeding social feeds with no clear provenance. OpenAI's Sora 2 is generating realistic footage, some obviously fake, others harder to tell from reality. Critics warn it could corrode trust and undo social media's purpose of connection, while some proponents argue AI may reveal the value of a verifiably real online world. Labs chase realistic images and videos to spur creativity and inch toward AGI, but the balance between innovation and authenticity remains unsettled. The industry is optimizing for engagement, training models with user feedback, and confronting the challenge of telling fact from fabrication.

Cost and chaos test resiliency of U.S. auto industry as Ford, GM and Tesla prep Q3 results

October 20, 2025, 7:30 AM EDT. Auto executives say the industry has shown notable resilience despite a year of tariffs, inflation, and supply-chain disruptions, with sales and production holding up better than feared. Yet concerns persist about the consumer and suppliers as major automakers like Ford, General Motors and Tesla prepare to report third-quarter results. Ford CEO Jim Farley described early-year conditions as "a lot of cost and a lot of chaos," but analysts from Barclays and S&P Global have nudged outlooks toward neutral as demand headwinds linger and policy uncertainty remains. The outlook has improved overall, but the industry remains vulnerable to macro shifts that could affect auto demand and capital allocation.

China's Generative AI Users Leap to 515 Million in Six Months

October 20, 2025, 7:28 AM EDT. China's AI adoption surged in H1, with 515 million users and a 36.5% adoption rate, according to the CNNIC. The user base more than doubled in six months, aided by robust infrastructure and state-led support under the AI Plus initiative. Domestic models dominate popularity as OpenAI and Google DeepMind remain blocked on the mainland. Key players include Alibaba Cloud's Qwen and ByteDance's Doubao, alongside other domestic options like DeepSeek. Younger and educated users drive growth (74.6% are under 40; 37.5% hold a higher education degree). The report underscores China's leadership in AI use and ongoing diffusion of AI technologies across society and the economy.

Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra Returns at Walmart with $349 Price Cut (256GB for $749.99)

October 20, 2025, 7:26 AM EDT. Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra returns on sale at Walmart, with a $349 discount on the 256GB model, now $749.99 (list ~ $1,099). The deal is via a third-party listing, but Walmart handles shipping and offers refunds until January 31. This high-end tablet packs a 14.6-inch AMOLED display (2960×1848, 16:10, HDR) at 120Hz, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, 12GB RAM, and a 11,200 mAh battery. The S Pen is included, making it a strong work-and-play option without the flagship price. While the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra is also in circulation, this $349 off on the S9 Ultra is pitched as an unmissable deal for new units.

Blackview Xplore 2 rugged phone review: projector, rugged build and AI apps-not for everyone

October 20, 2025, 7:24 AM EDT. Review of the Blackview Xplore 2 Projector Smartphone: a rugged device built for field use with a 100-lumen built-in projector, long battery life, and AI-enhanced apps. The chassis is chunky and durable, waterproof, and resistant to drops. The projector offers 480p resolution at 100 lumens-fine for dark environments but not cinematic. It supports two capable cameras, including a 50MP front camera and a 20MP night-vision sensor, with solid photo and 4K video quality. Beyond projection, it includes AI-enhanced creative tools and productivity apps that unlock deeper features with a subscription. While the device excels in durability and field usability, its projector quality, bulk, and pricing mean it won't suit everyone.

Panasonic LUMIX Firmware Updates for S5 II, S5 II X, S9, GH7, and G9 II Add DJI RS4 Compatibility, Faster Startup, and New Focus Controls

October 20, 2025, 7:22 AM EDT. The latest LUMIX firmware updates bring faster boot times across the S5 II, S5 II X, GH7, and G9 II, and add full Bluetooth support for the DJI RS 4 Pro, RS 4, and RS 4 Mini for cable-free record and focus control. The update also lets users customize the focus-ring-reversing direction and mapping ISO, aperture, or white balance to the ring-on the S5 II, S5 II X, S9, and six S-Series primes. Enhancements extend to the LUMIX Flow 1.3 integration with LUT View Assist and autofocus-frame display on external monitors, plus future compatibility for more models. Altogether the revisions boost everyday usability for documentary and run-and-gun shooters, with tighter gear-flow across cameras, lenses, and apps.

AWS outage shows signs of recovery after global disruption

October 20, 2025, 7:16 AM EDT. On Monday, a major outage hit websites and services tied to AWS, with thousands reporting problems on Downdetector. The issue originated from a DNS problem at AWS's data centres in North Virginia, causing outages for banks, apps, airlines, and online games. AWS said within about two hours that it was seeing significant signs of recovery, and that most requests should now be succeeding, though a backlog persisted. The episode shows how central the cloud is: a single provider's hiccup can ripple across the internet, affecting consumers and businesses worldwide.

Best Apple Watch SE 2 deal: Save $80 at Walmart

October 20, 2025, 7:12 AM EDT. Score a sweet discount on the Apple Watch SE 2 at Walmart. As of Oct. 20, it's listed at $169, down from a $249 list price – a solid save $80 for a capable wearable. The deal highlights a starlight aluminum case with a lake green sport loop, pairing style with value ahead of the holiday season. Deals like this make the Apple Watch SE 2 a practical choice for fitness tracking, notifications, and quick replies without a premium price. Availability can change, so act quickly to lock in the sale price and check stock at your local Walmart.

AWS Outage Knocks Out Fortnite, Roblox, Nintendo and More Across US-East-1

October 20, 2025, 7:10 AM EDT. An AWS outage at its US-EAST-1 datacenter disrupted several popular online services in the early hours, knocking out games like Fortnite and Roblox, as well as Nintendo online services and the Epic Games Store. Other affected titles included Clash Royale and Palworld. While Steam, PlayStation Network, and Xbox Live largely remained online, the incident demonstrated how a cloud-wide disruption can ripple across gaming ecosystems. AWS later confirmed an "operational issue" and reported recovery underway across most affected services by 6 a.m. EDT. The outage also impacted non-gaming sites, hitting Amazon itself, Reddit, Snapchat, Duolingo, and even Ring doorbells, highlighting the broad reach of a single datacenter problem.

MindsEye Fallout: Former Barb Staff Allege Crunch, Mismanagement, and Lack of Direction

October 20, 2025, 7:08 AM EDT. The MindsEye launch has become a flashpoint for Build a Rocket Boy (Barb). Former GTA producer Leslie Benzies and Mark Gerhard steered Barb from Everywhere to MindsEye, backed by about £233 million and hundreds of staff. An open letter signed by 93 ex-employees accuses systemic mistreatment, mismanagement, and mis-handling of redundancies and complains of a directionless leadership style, including the infamous "Leslie tickets" and "Leslie bugs." Staff say a months-long crunch involved unpaid overtime and promises of time off in lieu, while feedback was often ignored. By launch, morale was low and reviews were poor, fueling questions about the project's vision and execution.

AWS outage disrupts airline websites, hitting Delta and United check-ins and reservations

October 20, 2025, 7:06 AM EDT. An Amazon Web Services outage disrupted airline websites Monday, causing check-in and reservation issues for Delta and United. AWS said it was seeing recovery around 5:30 a.m. ET as it works through a backlog of requests. Some customers could view reservations in apps while others couldn't check in or drop bags for hours. Airlines advised patience and to monitor status updates, while FlightAware data showed only minimal flight delays overall. The incident highlights how heavily cloud platforms like AWS power airline operations and the ripple effect when outages occur.

Rivian's RJ Scaringe bets big on a new electric SUV to challenge Tesla

October 20, 2025, 6:58 AM EDT. RJ Scaringe is betting Rivian's next electric SUV will redefine the company's trajectory and position Rivian as the next Tesla. The investor darling turned automaker aims to leverage a new model, scaling production, and expanding its charging and software ecosystem to capture mainstream EV adoption. With a focus on rugged utility, software-enabled services, and a strong supply-chain push, Rivian is hoping to convert early interest into mass-market demand. If execution matches ambition, the brand could accelerate EVs from niche to mainstream, pressuring legacy automakers while pushing the broader market toward a more electrified future.

AWS outage disrupts major websites overnight as recovery begins

October 20, 2025, 6:56 AM EDT. An overnight AWS outage disrupted hundreds of sites, including major services like Amazon, Venmo, Hulu, Snapchat, Ring, Roblox, Slack, Fortnite, and Microsoft 365. The problem reportedly began around 3 a.m. Eastern in the US-East-1 region, causing widespread service failures as sites relying on AWS queued requests. By about 6 a.m., AWS said initial mitigation was in place and some sites were returning online, with most requests expected to succeed and backlogs being cleared. The incident underscores how much of the internet depends on a small number of cloud providers, and cybersecurity experts warn outages can ripple across a broad range of online services.

Nio and CATL Form Wuhan JV Weineng Battery Mirattery to Expand Battery Leasing, Recycling and EV Charging

October 20, 2025, 6:54 AM EDT. Chinese EV maker Nio and battery leader CATL have formed a new joint venture in Wuhan named Weineng (Wuhan) Battery Technology Co., Ltd., also known as Mirattery. The entity, wholly owned by Wuhan Weineng Battery Asset Co., is backed by Nio, CATL, Guotai Junan and Hubei Science and Technology Investment with a registered capital of 100 million yuan. It will focus on battery leasing, recycling, secondary utilization of retired power batteries, and EV charging operations. This move expands Nio-CATL cooperation as CATL invests in Nio Power and collaborates with Mirattery on battery assets. The JV arrives amid renewed scrutiny of Nio's battery-asset structure following a GIC lawsuit. Mirattery has grown to over 27 GWh of capacity, serving more than 350,000 users, aiming to improve utilization and recycling across the EV supply chain.

MindsEye: Former Devs Accuse Leadership of Ignoring Feedback and 'Leslie Tickets'

October 20, 2025, 6:52 AM EDT. A BBC report details claims from MindsEye's former developers that leadership ignored feedback and laughed at concerns after a letter from the UK Game Works Union. Former lead analyst Ben Newborn says many points were ignored, while former associate producer Margherita Peloso says higher-ups laughed at her concerns. Before launch, a video showed CEO Leslie Benzies addressing changes-later dubbed 'Leslie tickets'-that allegedly included removing entire missions and stifling developer ownership. After layoffs, MindsEye has offered little on a post-launch roadmap or sequel plans. The piece notes ongoing questions about the game's future and links to our review of the launch version.

AWS Outage Hits Popular Apps Like Snapchat, Venmo and Fortnite

October 20, 2025, 6:50 AM EDT. An AWS outage disrupted cloud services globally, triggering higher error rates and latencies. The disruption affected popular apps and services across gaming, payments, and media, including Fortnite, Snapchat, Perplexity, Coinbase, Robinhood, Venmo, and Chime; Prime Video and Alexa also faced issues. Downdetector logged problems with Signal, and UK banks such as Lloyds and Bank of Scotland, plus telecoms Vodafone and BT, reported outages. The outage showed how AWS cloud dependence can ripple across the internet. Elon Musk said X continued to work. AWS provides on-demand computing power, storage, and other services worldwide.

MindsEye Developers Turbulence at Build a Rocket Boy: Burnout, Regressions, and a Troubled Launch

October 20, 2025, 6:48 AM EDT. Former audio programmer Isaac Hudd says mistakes and regressions mounted as one team fixed a bug only for another to reappear, eroding morale. He describes burnout and growing arguments as developers burned the candle at both ends. After a celebratory launch, a cascade of reviews and a mismatch between the released version and what the community deserved soured the mood. The studio remains committed to delivering MindsEye as they always envisioned, though the game may struggle to recover from the backlash. The piece notes outreach via 80 Level Talent and social channels for updates and breakdowns.

Google Readies Android Screen Recorder Upgrades: Toolbar, Selfie Camera Toggle, and Post-Capture Features

October 20, 2025, 6:42 AM EDT. Google is planning a major refresh of Android's built-in screen recorder, moving from a pop-up dialog to a cleaner toolbar with a selfie camera toggle. A new post-capture screen will offer a video player and quick actions to retake, edit, delete, or share. This follows years of gradual feature additions to the native tool, and aims to close the gap with third-party options. The changes also tease partial screen recording and a customizable keyboard shortcut as part of a broader push toward Android Desktop Mode for tablets. If timing holds, we could see these features roll out with Android 16 QPR3 (2026) or later in Android 17 (2027).

Enshittification Explained: Cory Doctorow on Why the Internet Got Worse and How to Fix It

October 20, 2025, 6:40 AM EDT. Technology writer Cory Doctorow's term enshittification describes how platforms deteriorate: benefits to users and business give way to gains for shareholders, yielding a worse experience for almost everyone. In his book Enshittification: Why Everything Suddenly Got Worse and What to Do About It, he argues the decline wasn't an accident but the result of policy choices and incentives set by major platforms. The interview touches on whether AI amplifies the trend, and even Donald Trump's unlikely role in a healthier online future. Doctorow emphasizes that the problem stems from past decisions and missing protections: lack of consumer privacy laws since 1988, insufficient regulation, and the need to recover a history of policy-making by named individuals.

Amazon Web Services outage hits global services as engineers investigate

October 20, 2025, 6:36 AM EDT. An Amazon Web Services outage is impacting services worldwide, affecting governments, universities and companies that rely on cloud hosting. In the eastern U.S. region, engineers are working to identify the root cause after multiple downstream issues were reported across popular apps and sites. Users on DownDetector tracked outages affecting social and entertainment platforms such as Snapchat, Roblox and Fortnite, along with finance apps like Robinhood and the McDonald's app. The disruption underscores how many organizations depend on cloud infrastructure to run critical operations. AWS noted ongoing investigations and pledged updates as it works to restore full service. Customers including media outlets like The Associated Press rely on AWS cloud computing for delivery and operations.

Cathie Wood says Elon Musk's $1 trillion pay deal will pass decisively despite proxy-firm opposition

October 20, 2025, 6:34 AM EDT. Cathie Wood argues that Elon Musk's $1 trillion pay deal for leadership will pass decisively despite proxy firms opposing it. The discussion centers on whether such extreme incentives align with long-term value creation and governance standards, especially as shareholders weigh incentives against potential risks. Supporters say the plan links compensation to ambitious milestones across Tesla, SpaceX, and other ventures, potentially accelerating growth and innovation. Critics warn it could set a high bar for accountability and exacerbate pay disparities. The story underscores broader tensions in tech-focused governance and investor sentiment, as outcomes hinge on voting dynamics, fiduciary duties, and the appetite for high-velocity, high-stake incentives in fast-moving companies.

AST's BlueBird FM1 Arrives in Chennai Ahead of ISRO Launch

October 20, 2025, 6:30 AM EDT. AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird FM1, a second-generation satellite, has arrived in Chennai after a four-day journey on a giant Antonov and will undergo final tests at the ISRO launch site before transfer to orbit. Unconfirmed reports hint at a possible November launch window, with ISRO's LVM3 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota to place the satellite into orbit. Separately, Deutsche Bank analysts outline aggressive revenue prospects for AST, forecasting 2025: $62M; 2026: $419M; 2027: $1.5B; 2028: $3.1B and $4.3B; 2029: $5.3B. If realized, the trajectory would mark a dramatic expansion for AST's space-based connectivity ambitions.

OpenAI Deals Put Nvidia, AMD, and Broadcom in Spotlight – Nvidia Emerges as Biggest Winner

October 20, 2025, 6:28 AM EDT. As AI spending climbs toward trillions, Nvidia, AMD, and Broadcom have struck notable OpenAI deals. Nvidia plans to invest up to $100 billion in OpenAI to power a 10-gigawatt deployment of its systems, with rollout starting in the second half of next year. AMD will deploy six gigawatts of its chips to OpenAI over several years, and has issued OpenAI a warrant for up to 160 million shares (about 10% of AMD) vesting on milestones. A separate OpenAI collaboration will involve Broadcom's chips and networking tech. All three companies have reported double-digit AI revenue growth as demand for compute accelerates toward Huang's forecast of trillions by 2030.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A Tops UK Charts with 51/49 Switch Split

October 20, 2025, 6:26 AM EDT. Pokémon Legends: Z-A debuts at No. 1 in the UK physical charts, with a razor-close platform split: Switch 2 Edition 51% and the OG Switch 49%. Boxed sales are roughly 40% lower than Pokémon Legends: Arceus, and while these figures exclude digital data, Nintendo's lack of digital figures could tilt the split toward the Switch eShop. Just Dance 2026 Edition arrives at No. 16, continuing Ubisoft's franchise cadence. Other notable entries include The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered at No. 10 and a mix of evergreen titles filling the top 40.

AWS outage disrupts dozens of sites and apps including Roblox, Snapchat and Ring

October 20, 2025, 6:24 AM EDT. A major AWS outage disrupted dozens of websites and apps worldwide, beginning on the US East Coast. Users reported higher error rates and latencies across the Amazon Web Services cloud, triggering a ripple effect across the internet. Affected platforms included Snapchat, Roblox, Signal, Duolingo, and other Amazon services such as the Ring doorbell business and the main retail site. In the UK, banks like Lloyds, Halifax, and Bank of Scotland faced outages, and HM Revenue and Customs sites were inaccessible. Ring users complained their doorbells stopped working. Downdetector recorded spikes globally; Cisco's ThousandEyes noted outages concentrated in the US-East-1 region. AWS said the issue originated on the US East Coast and spread from there.

GPT-5 hype, Erdős problems clash; Hong Kong stablecoins paused by regulators

October 20, 2025, 6:22 AM EDT. Fortune Tech covers the GPT-5 controversy sparked by OpenAI's claims of solving Erdős problems. Critics say the post misrepresented progress, with mathematician Thomas Bloom noting that GPT-5 found references rather than solving open questions, while Demis Hassabis called the claim embarrassing. The episode shows how breakthroughs in AI and LLMs are amplified before verification, turning a search-like capability into headlines and leaving the math community debating what counts as a true solution. In other tech news, Ant Group and JD.com paused Hong Kong's tentative stablecoin pilot after regulators warned privately run coins could clash with the central bank's digital yuan. The timing highlights tensions between innovation and oversight in AI and crypto.

What makes us human? How AI magnifies our best and worst traits on stage

October 20, 2025, 6:20 AM EDT. From ancient tragedy to modern AI, this piece asks how technology exposes our humanity and our flaws. The latest discourse on artificial intelligence sharpens old questions about consciousness, memory, and what counts as a self. In Lauren Gunderson's play at the Matrix Theatre, a grieving coder recreates her sister as an AI replica after disappearance, raising ethical and emotional stakes. Merril feeds a machine-learning natural-language model with intimate data-emails, messages, shopping history-to conjure a digital daughter. The drama weds theater to AI to test whether a digital echo can ever fill a missing life, or instead amplify grief, gullibility, and the fear of becoming something less than human. The question endures: does technology reveal or redefine our identity?

Windows 11 October update KB5066835 breaks WinRE USB input; recovery options become unusable

October 20, 2025, 6:18 AM EDT. Microsoft's Windows 11 October 2025 update (KB5066835) breaks USB keyboards and mice in the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE), rendering recovery options unusable. USB devices work in the main OS, but input is blocked in WinRE. The issue has been documented in the 25H2 Known Issues page, under USB mouse and keyboard not working in the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE). Microsoft has not yet offered a workaround, saying a fix is coming in the coming days. Users booting into WinRE after the update may be unable to navigate or select options, leaving them stranded. The episode underscores the importance of resilient backups and multi-method recovery plans when updates affect recovery tools.

In-System Testing for AI Data Centers: Proactive Monitoring and Lifespan Extension

October 20, 2025, 6:16 AM EDT. Testing inside the fab confirms function at time zero, but real-world AI data centers can behave differently under varied workloads and environmental stress. In AI data centers, higher utilization of multiple dies can raise failure rates as latent defects become real; elevated voltage, power, and temperature accelerate aging. Nilanjan Mukherjee, VP of Engineering for the Tessent Division at Siemens EDA, discusses when and where to design in-system tests, how to optimize monitoring data for individual dies or fleets, and how to use that data to proactively extend the life of systems.

Foxconn to Mass Produce NVIDIA's Vera Rubin NVL144 MGX AI Servers by H2 2026

October 20, 2025, 6:14 AM EDT. Tech giant NVIDIA is accelerating its next-gen AI server cycle with the Vera Rubin lineup, building on the ramp of GB300 Blackwell Ultra and ongoing GB200 shipments. According to Taiwan Economic Daily, Foxconn has begun developing the next-gen Vera Rubin NVL144 MGX servers, with mass production expected in the second half of 2026. The effort centers on onboard Vera Rubin chips and a redesigned rack stack to boost enterprise AI compute. Foxconn reportedly accounts for about 60% of NVIDIA's next-gen AI server capacity and is expanding US-focused facilities, underscoring a push toward domestic manufacturing. The Vera Rubin cadence aims to hit mainstream markets by next year and aligns with current OpenAI mega deployments.

AWS Outage Disrupts Major Websites as DynamoDB Issue Impacts US-East-1

October 20, 2025, 6:12 AM EDT. An AWS outage disrupted thousands of sites and services after an error in DynamoDB affected the US-EAST-1 region. AWS reported an "operational issue" at 12:11 a.m. PT, with elevated error rates and latency across 14 services. By 5:27 a.m. ET there were "significant signs of recovery," though a large backlog remained. The disruption hit cloud-based games like Roblox and Fortnite, social apps such as Snapchat, and Amazon's own storefront and Prime Video, plus Ring and other services. Coinbase reported unavailability as well, and media outlets including Disney and The New York Times were affected. AWS noted the problem stemmed from DynamoDB APIs and that automated support tools were offline, complicating incident reporting. The incident underscores AWS's central role in cloud computing and AI investments. Recovery continued with evolving conditions.

Starlink hits 10,000 satellites as SpaceX pushes toward mega-constellation

October 20, 2025, 6:08 AM EDT. SpaceX surpassed 10,000 Starlink satellites in orbit after a fresh Falcon 9 launch of 56 satellites, marking the 132nd SpaceX launch of 2025. Of the total, about 8,608 are currently operational, with satellites designed to last roughly five years before de-orbit. The milestone comes as SpaceX holds approval to launch up to 12,000 satellites, with plans potentially exceeding 30,000, aiming to deliver low-latency internet worldwide. Rival mega-constellations from Amazon Project Kuiper, Europe, and China are also in development, raising concerns about orbital overcrowding. Prototypes date back to February 2018, ahead of the 2021 commercial service. The article highlights ongoing capacity, lifecycle management, and policy questions as mega-constellations expand.

Generational Battery Health Certificates Accelerate Used EV Sales by 7.3 Days

October 20, 2025, 6:06 AM EDT. Generational's study benchmarks six months of industry data, showing that used EVs with a battery health certificate sold in 43.1 days vs 50.4 days for uncertified units – a 7.3-day advantage. The findings underscore growing demand for clear, reliable information on battery health, real-world range, and warranty status, empowering buyers to act faster. The company's state-of-health certificates aim to boost confidence across the pre-owned EV market, addressing concerns about component longevity. Generational's Impact Calculator helps retailers quantify added gross margin and reduced holding costs from battery health testing. With an easy mobile app and OBD-connected tests, dealers can certify vehicles quickly, unlocking value for both retailers and customers and accelerating a maturing used EV market.

AWS outage disrupts nationwide services, hits news, gaming, and commerce

October 20, 2025, 6:02 AM EDT. An outage at Amazon Web Services (AWS) is disrupting businesses nationwide, affecting news networks, video games, and ecommerce sites. AWS reported the issue shortly after 11 p.m. CDT, impacting 14 services at its Northern Virginia facility. NBC News reports social posts flag outages at companies including Snapchat, Amazon.com and Prime Video, Roblox, Fortnite, and the Ring doorbell service, among others. This is a developing story, and updates will be shared as more information becomes available.

Best Apple Deal: Save 34% on AirTag 4-Pack – $64.99 at Amazon

October 20, 2025, 5:58 AM EDT. Deal alert: The Apple AirTag four-pack is on sale at Amazon for $64.99, a 34% discount off the $99 list price. Although Prime Day has passed, this deal remains available as of Oct. 20, 2025, with the usual caveat that prices can change. The four-pack is a convenient way to track multiple items, and Mashable notes that products featured may earn an affiliate commission. Act fast if you want to lock in the savings before prices rebound.

IAEA Launches Research Project to Fortify AI Security in Nuclear Facilities

October 20, 2025, 5:50 AM EDT. The IAEA has launched a new research project to strengthen computer security for AI systems used in the nuclear sector. The initiative aims to bolster cybersecurity strategies to support adoption of AI-enabled technologies at nuclear facilities, including small modular reactors. While AI and ML are improving operational efficiency and security functions like threat detection, they also raise new security challenges such as data manipulation and compromised training data. The project emphasizes robust information security, secure data governance, and correct deployment of AI tools to minimize risks. By prioritizing encryption, access controls, and rigorous testing, the effort seeks to ensure trusted, resilient AI that enhances safety without compromising safety standards.

AWS US-East-1 outage disrupts major sites as DNS/DynamoDB issue surfaces

October 20, 2025, 5:46 AM EDT. An AWS outage in the US-EAST-1 region is causing widespread disruption to popular sites and apps, including Amazon, Roblox, Fortnite and Snapchat. AWS says it has an operational issue tied to increased error rates and latencies, with a likely root cause in DNS resolution for the DynamoDB API endpoint. The issue may also affect other AWS services in US-EAST-1, and users are advised to retry failed requests as engineers work on multiple recovery paths. The outage has spilled over to other services, from HM Revenue & Customs' site to Ring doorbells, and is being tracked by Cisco ThousandEyes and users on Downdetector. AWS reports rapid engagement to fix the problem, with updates expected as the investigation continues.

Pakistan launches first hyperspectral satellite HS-1 from China

October 20, 2025, 5:44 AM EDT. Pakistan has deployed its first-ever hyperspectral satellite, HS-1 (also known as H1), from China's Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre aboard CAS Space's Kinetica1 rocket. The launch, confirmed by SUPARCO, marks a milestone for Pakistan's space program and highlights the growing Pakistan-China space partnership. Hyperspectral data can detect subtle chemical and material changes on the Earth's surface, supporting precision agriculture, environmental monitoring, urban planning, and disaster management. The project is expected to bolster development along the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) by helping identify geohazard risks along infrastructure routes. SUPARCO chair Muhammad Yousuf Khan says the data could revolutionize agricultural productivity and climate resilience. Calibration may take about two months before full operation; Pakistan has already launched two other satellites this year, EO-1 and KS-1, which are reportedly fully operational.

AWS Outage Disrupts Major Apps (Snapchat, Venmo, Ring, Life360)

October 20, 2025, 5:42 AM EDT. An Amazon Web Services (AWS) outage early Monday disrupted internet infrastructure services, causing major apps like Snapchat, Venmo, Ring, and Life360 to experience outages. The issue began just before 3:00 am local time, according to DownDetector, and affected users across several platforms. Local 3 News will provide updates as AWS works to resolve the disruption.

AWS DynamoDB outage in US-EAST-1 triggers global service disruption for Fortnite, Snapchat

October 20, 2025, 5:40 AM EDT. An AWS status update confirms significant error rates affecting the DynamoDB endpoint in the US-EAST-1 region, with ripple effects across other AWS services in the same region. The outage may hinder users from creating or updating Support Cases as engineers race to mitigate the issue and determine the root cause. While the company works to restore normal service, affected apps and games- including popular services like Fortnite and Snapchat – could experience interruptions or degraded performance due to dependent infrastructure. AWS says more information will be provided as it becomes available.

Why Google's Pixel Strategy Complicates Android: Should Stock Android Get Pixel-Exclusive Features?

October 20, 2025, 5:38 AM EDT. Opinion: As Android competition grows, Google's role as the main Android developer incentivizes Pixel-exclusive features over stock Android. While hardware has improved, Google tends to roll out improvements first on Pixel, limiting features on other devices. Examples include Call Screen, Scam Detection, and advanced voice typing in Gboard, as well as the Battery Health indicator-yet these are often Pixel-only. The author argues many of these would boost Android security and accessibility if released system-wide, rather than as Pixel-exclusive features. The concern isn't hardware or Google itself, but that core updates and safety benefits hinge on Pixel devices. The call is for broader Android features across devices to keep the platform inclusive and safer for everyone.

Amazon AWS outage disrupts major apps, sites and services

October 20, 2025, 5:36 AM EDT. An AWS outage disrupted dozens of popular apps and sites including Snapchat, Roblox, Fortnite, Duolingo and Canva, with users facing errors from around 8am UK time. The incident underscores how Amazon Web Services underpins much of the modern internet, hosting infrastructure for countless services. AWS reported increased error rates across multiple services, and the ripple effects meant sites and apps unrelated to Amazon could go dark. Analysts note that while cyber attacks are a frequent speculation during outages, there is no evidence of deliberate hacking and no definitive root cause yet. AWS remains a dominant cloud provider, responsible for a large share of internet traffic and a steady source of profit for Amazon. The outage highlights how fragile online services can be when a single vendor falters.

Starship's 12th flight: timing, Block 3 upgrades, and Artemis III implications

October 20, 2025, 5:32 AM EDT. SpaceX has not announced a firm date for Starship's 12th flight, but late 2025 to early 2026 is widely anticipated as the company transitions to the Block 3 booster. The 12th flight would test upgrades that follow the 11th flight, including higher thrust, refined grid fins, and longer-range reusability intended for longer missions. Block 3 is viewed as the first operational Starship capable of deep-space missions and could underpin a variant of the Ship for NASA's Artemis III lunar landing. Artemis III plans a crewed lunar descent with the Ship rather than lunar orbiting, using Orion for transit. A successful 12th flight would boost cadence and confidence as SpaceX scales launches from Starbase in Texas and Cape Canaveral.

3D-Printed Low-Sidelobe Dual-Band Dual-Polarized Antenna Array for Ku-Band SATCOMs

October 20, 2025, 5:28 AM EDT. Researchers from Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications present an 8×8, 3D-printed, low-sidelobe dual-band dual-polarized slot antenna array for Ku-band SATCOMs based on gap waveguide (GWG) technology. The design stacks two GWGs to excite quasi-TE420 and quasi-TE242 modes through orthogonal slots, enabling dual-band, dual-polarization operation. An unequal T-junction power divider based on ridge gap waveguide (RGW) realizes a tapered feeding network that suppresses SLL. Waffle grids on the slot surface optimize the main beam and gain. Fabrication uses direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) in four layers with screws for assembly. Measured results show impedance bandwidth covering 14.0-14.5 GHz (transmit) and 12.25-12.75 GHz (receive), max gain 25.6 dBi, efficiency >72%, SLL < −17.4 dB (V-pol) and < −18.2 dB (H-pol).

Nvidia and TSMC begin mass production of Blackwell chips at Arizona plant

October 20, 2025, 5:22 AM EDT. Nvidia and TSMC began mass production of the Blackwell GPUs at a Arizona facility, marking a milestone in the US chip footprint. The line runs on TSMC's four-nanometer process, with later moves toward the upcoming two-nanometer node set for mass production later this year. The Blackwell architecture bundles a reworked Transformer Engine, plus a new Decompression Engine to accelerate AI workloads, with the top Blackwell Ultra delivering up to ~15 petaflops. Packaging is handled by Amkor and SPIL in Arizona, integrating chips with HBM memory. Nvidia also expands US manufacturing with DGX system assembly in Texas. For TSMC, the Arizona build is a springboard to two more plants this decade, including lines for the A16-class process.

Apple's M5 lineup lands: New MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, Vision Pro released as AirTags 2 and Apple TV 4K loom

October 20, 2025, 5:20 AM EDT. Apple has just rolled out its M5-powered machines-the 14-inch MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, and Vision Pro-shaking up its product lineup. But fans should expect more in the coming weeks: whispers point to an AirTags 2 with a faster chip, longer range, and improved privacy, plus a new Apple TV 4K. Analysts and insiders noted low store inventory preceding the reveal, fueling rumors that additional hardware could land soon. The AirTags 2 could retain the familiar design while upgrading tracking tech, and the Apple TV 4K might mirror the pace of the other M5 updates. In short: the M5 trio is here, but Apple's holiday roadmap reportedly still has a few surprises left.

AI is changing how startups hire – and what it means for the workforce

October 20, 2025, 5:18 AM EDT. AI is reshaping how startups hire and scale. As founders lean on AI tools to automate time-intensive tasks, startups hope to accelerate growth and unleash new efficiencies. John Dearie argues that startup-led innovation drives economic growth, job creation, and opportunity. A Mercury study found that more than 70% of early-stage founders are increasing spending on AI and automation. Founders say AI helps run core functions-sales, marketing, and operations-and extends a nimble team's bandwidth. But automation raises hiring tensions: some startups prefer AI over entry-level staff and interns, though leaders stress this isn't permanent and may free time for higher-skill roles. Critics worry about displacing low-wage roles, while others see AI as pushing workers toward entrepreneurship and broader opportunities for new graduates.

AI Tools Fight Paper Mill Fraud-Overwhelming Peer Review

October 20, 2025, 5:12 AM EDT. AI tools are being deployed to fight paper mill fraud that is overwhelming the peer review system. Publishers like Hindawi (Wiley) retracted thousands of articles written by mills, highlighting the scale of the problem. New platforms from industry players, including STM Integrity Hub, and vendors such as Clear Skies and Cactus Communications, use multi-layer checks-network analysis, author credentials, reference validation, and AI-generated content detection-to flag suspicious manuscripts before they reach reviewers. Tools such as Alchemist Review offer editors summaries, method critiques, and interactive chats. Some publishers allow limited AI use to improve review clarity; others ban generative AI due to confidentiality and accuracy concerns. Post-publication screening (e.g., Problematic Paper Screener) grows, but experts call for systemic reform-greater use of preprints and reduced reliance on traditional journals-to restore integrity.

Breaking: AWS Outage Hits Global Platforms, Snarling Snapchat, Robinhood, Perplexity and More

October 20, 2025, 5:10 AM EDT. An outage at Amazon Web Services (AWS) is impacting the US-EAST-1 region and triggering disruptions across several major platforms. Downdetector reports increased error rates and latency for multiple AWS services, with ripple effects on Snapchat, Robinhood, Perplexity, and other giants like Amazon.com, Prime Video and Alexa. Additional affected services include PayPal's Venmo, Roblox, Fortnite, Canva and Duolingo. AWS says it is actively engaged in mitigating the issue and investigating the root cause, and notes potential impact on Case Creation through the AWS Support Center or the Support API. The spike in reports began around 4:30pm AEST, with users in the eastern United States most affected, particularly checkout systems and the Snapchat mobile app. A resolution timeline has not yet been provided.

AI-Powered Histopathology Predicts Immunotherapy Benefit in pMMR mCRC at ESMO 2025 (AtezoTRIBE & AVETRIC)

October 20, 2025, 5:08 AM EDT. At ESMO 2025 in Berlin, researchers presented AI-powered histopathology analysis using the Lunit SCOPE IO platform to predict immunotherapy benefit in pMMR metastatic colorectal cancer. An AI-derived biomarker, trained on pre-treatment slides from AtezoTRIBE (FOLFOXIRI/bevacizumab ± atezolizumab) and AVETRIC (FOLFOXIRI/cetuximab/avelumab), quantified immune, stromal, and tumor cell features. In AtezoTRIBE, 113/161 patients were biomarker-high; this group showed significantly longer progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) with atezolizumab, while no advantage was seen in the control arm. The biomarker was validated externally in AVETRIC. The study suggests a non-invasive way to identify pMMR mCRC patients who may benefit from immune checkpoint inhibitors, highlighting the potential of AI-driven pathology to guide precision immunotherapy.

AWS outage disrupts popular apps and services across the internet

October 20, 2025, 5:06 AM EDT. An outage affecting Amazon Web Services (AWS) triggered widespread problems across popular apps and websites. The disruption began around midnight PT, with AWS's status page reporting 'increased error rates' and delays across multiple services, including DynamoDB and Amazon EC2. Downdetector shows a surge in complaints as services relying on AWS experienced outages, from Canva, Duolingo, and Ring to gaming platforms like Fortnite, Clash Royale, and Pokémon Go. Fortnite even advised users they were investigating login issues. The incident underscores AWS's central role in powering much of the modern internet, and engineers are actively working to mitigate the issue and identify the root cause. As updates come, users and developers await confirmation on service restoration and timelines.

UNC bets big on AI under interim chancellor Lee Roberts

October 20, 2025, 5:04 AM EDT. Lee Roberts, UNC's interim chancellor, travels to San Francisco to push AI as the university's north star, tying a business-like bet on technology to higher education. Once a finance executive turned government budget official, Roberts frames AI as a real-world skill-while faculty lines are drawn between those who embrace AI for authentic problem-solving and those who call it cheating. The piece notes a spectrum among UNC's 4,000 faculty, the university's grant-related headwinds, and a broader culture war over autonomy and innovation in classrooms. Against the backdrop of Belichick's rocky return to football and other campus tensions, Roberts insists the future hinges on preparing students for a world where AI is integrated into work and learning.

Snapchat and Duolingo among major apps down as AWS outage hits US-EAST-1

October 20, 2025, 5:02 AM EDT. An AWS outage affected major apps, including Snapchat and Duolingo, as the cloud giant's infrastructure in the US-EAST-1 region reported high error rates. AWS's status page indicated significant errors in requests to a key endpoint, impacting millions of devices that rely on the cloud for core services. The incident underscores how many popular apps run on Amazon Web Services data centers and depend on its reliability. As developers chase fixes, users may see outages, login issues, and degraded performance across services hosted in AWS, highlighting the vulnerability of many online platforms to regional cloud hiccups.

Honor's Shenzhen Factory: a Smartphone Every 28.5 Seconds with 85% Automation

October 20, 2025, 4:58 AM EDT. Honor's Intelligent Manufacturing Industrial Park in Shenzhen runs a smartphone line every 28.5 seconds, showcasing speed, precision, and automation. The facility reports about 85% of manufacturing is automated, with 150-meter lines turning a motherboard into a complete phone through more than 120,000 automated steps. Flagships like the Magic6 Pro and Magic V3 are built at top speed, including models touted as the world's thinnest foldable outside Huawei. Each device contains around 2,000 components, installed by robots with hair-thin precision. An automatic assembly machine places 89° curved displays to about 75-micron accuracy. Most phones finish in under a minute, while flagship models undergo three days of rigorous testing. Real-time quality control triggers alerts; Honor runs ~150 predictive tests on the line. About 60% of automation is in-house, 9,000 staff in R&D, and R&D spend reached 11.5% of revenue, per Honor.

Nearly 70% of Millennials Say Gen AI Helps Them Work Smarter, Not Harder

October 20, 2025, 4:52 AM EDT. A PYMNTS Intelligence report, Generation AI, shows Americans' comfort with generative AI depends on trust in the technology, the data behind it, and the institutions deploying it. In June, 57% of U.S. adults-about 149 million-use AI tools for tasks from grocery lists to work reports. Millennials and Gen Z lead adoption, while Boomers stay skeptical due to privacy and reliability concerns. Across generations, a tension persists: AI's usefulness clashes with fears of harm, data misuse, and hallucinations. Nearly two-thirds say AI helps with quick information, yet more than half don't fully trust it. At work, 52% of Millennials use AI, and almost 70% say it speeds access to information, editing, and task completion. Gen Z worries about job loss; Boomers remain uncertain but not hostile.

Apple Pay Turns 11 as Rivals Close the Wallet Gap

October 20, 2025, 4:50 AM EDT. Digital wallets are at a turning point. In-store usage has more than doubled year over year, and Apple Pay now moves an estimated $450 billion in annual sales. Yet cards still dominate checkout counters, and a new wave of challengers-Google Pay, PayPal, and Cash App-is redefining what "contactless" means. The report shows wallet adoption rising, with more than 30% of consumers using a wallet in-store weekly, but transaction share lags. Triggers for adoption include forgetting a physical card, convenience, speed, and perceived security. While Apple Pay leads in some areas, rivals are gaining ground, signaling a more competitive, multi-wallet future. Debit and credit cards remain the backbone, even as digital balance payments climb from 1% to 3.7%. Winning the tap isn't the same as replacing the wallet.

Scale AI Alum Raises $9M Seed for 1001 AI's AI Infrastructure in MENA

October 20, 2025, 4:48 AM EDT. 1001 AI, founded by Bilal Abu-Ghazaleh, raised a $9M seed round led by CIV, General Catalyst, and Lux Capital to build an AI infrastructure platform for critical industries in the MENA region. The company is developing an AI-native operating system for decision-making aimed at slashing inefficiencies in high-stakes sectors like aviation, logistics, and oil & gas. Abu-Ghazaleh notes more than $10B in inefficiencies in the Gulf markets such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, and expects early customers in airports and construction firms as the product launches later this year. The background: he worked at Scale AI and Hive AI, and sees the Gulf as a prime testing ground for AI adoption amid heavy government investment in local AI infrastructure.

Low-Cost Satellite Internet for Remote Areas: Starlink vs. Amazon Project Kuiper

October 20, 2025, 4:44 AM EDT. Several developing countries are exploring low-cost satellite internet to connect remote areas, with Starlink and Amazon Project Kuiper leading the charge. Starlink uses a LEO constellation to deliver faster speeds and lower latency, but requires proprietary equipment that can raise costs and is sensitive to extreme weather. Project Kuiper aims for widespread coverage to reach hard-to-reach rural communities, though public pricing remains unclear. Benefits include independence from telephone lines, a global network of satellites, ground stations, and user terminals that reduce delay. Amazon also emphasizes direct customer support to help technology integration. The broader mobile ecosystem, led by GSMA, shapes policies and events like MWC and M360 that propel connectivity solutions for billions of people.

Cambodia Resurrects Controversial National Internet Gateway Plan

October 20, 2025, 4:40 AM EDT. Cambodia is pushing ahead with key infrastructure for a national internet gateway (NIG) next year, a move critics describe as a step toward expanded censorship. The plan, revived with the involvement of state-owned Telecom Cambodia, would see the government analyze and manage social media broadcasts as part of broader controls over online content. Documents viewed by Nikkei Asia indicate officials expect to restart the project soon, a move long stalled but now viewed as central to monitoring digital traffic. Critics warn the project would empower authorities to tighten limits on free speech online, raising concerns among rights groups as the country plots deeper access controls within its telecommunications infrastructure.

AI Bubble or Boom? Navigating Valuations, GenAI Growth, and OpenAI's Push

October 20, 2025, 4:38 AM EDT. Is the market in an AI bubble or a boom? The article weighs the late-1990s dot-com analogy against today's growth, noting extreme P/E ratios in some giants while GenAI revenue expands. Giants like NVIDIA command high multiples due to profits; others such as AMD and even Tesla trade on expectations. Demand for AI data centers is accelerating, with McKinsey projecting trillions in investment through 2030. Adoption of GenAI/LLMs is rapid: OpenAI reported $4.3B in revenue for 1H 2024 and forecasts up to $200B by 2030, aiming for cash flow positive in 2029 at about $125B in revenue. OpenAI is locking in GPU capacity, building its own data centers and accelerator, and rolling out new products to expand TAM and stickiness. The outcome will hinge on who wins the AI value chain.

Massive outage hits major apps as AWS cloud issues disrupt services worldwide

October 20, 2025, 4:36 AM EDT. Many of the world's biggest apps and websites experienced outages as AWS faced service problems. Snapchat, Roblox, Fortnite, Duolingo and Canva were among the services affected, according to Downdetector. The issues began around 8am UK time and appear linked to Amazon Web Services' cloud infrastructure, including DynamoDB and EC2. AWS outages can ripple across the internet since hundreds of sites rely on its services. AWS is the leading cloud provider, contributing a large share of Amazon's profits. The incident shows how a single provider's problems can paralyze online services globally. Other affected services noted include Ring, Life360, Wordle, HMRC, Vodafone, PlayStation and Pokémon Go. Amazon's service-status updates pointed to ongoing issues in north Virginia.

Smartphone Repair Market Overview: Key Opportunities and Future Outlook

October 20, 2025, 4:34 AM EDT. The smartphone repair market is growing, valued at USD 24.8 billion in 2024 and forecast to reach USD 45.4 billion by 2033, with a CAGR of 7.2% from 2026 to 2033. Key drivers include the increasing dependence on smartphones for daily tasks, high replacement costs, and longer device lifespans, boosting repairs over replacements. Growing environmental awareness encourages sustainability through repair rather than disposal. Advancements in diagnostic tools and repair technology enable faster fixes. Urbanization and the rise of service-oriented retail expand access, while a steady supply of spare parts and skilled technicians shorten turnaround times. Insurance coverage, and right-to-repair policies, further support demand. Overall market growth spans both emerging and developed economies.

Amazon Web Services Outage Cripples Ring, Alexa, Snapchat, Fortnite and More

October 20, 2025, 4:32 AM EDT. An AWS outage has taken down many online services that rely on Amazon Web Services, causing widespread disruption across consumer apps and games. Down Detector tracked outages across Ring doorbells, Alexa, Snapchat, Roblox, Canva, Fortnite, and more as AWS's cloud infrastructure reportedly collapsed. Industry outlets quoted experts noting thousands of clients affected, including Asana, Crunchyroll, McDonald's, and Roblox. Several companies issued apologies on social media while AWS has not issued a public comment; even customer support pages appeared unavailable. Coinbase also reported access issues tied to the outage. AWS provides scalable, reliable cloud services, so the outage highlights how many digital services depend on a single provider.

AWS Outage Knocks Out Dozens of Apps as North Virginia Data Center Encounters Widespread Issues

October 20, 2025, 4:30 AM EDT. An AWS outage has sparked wide-spread internet disruptions, taking down popular apps and services that rely on Amazon's cloud. Reports began around 8 AM UK time, with Downdetector showing spikes across platforms from Snapchat to Roblox and Fortnite. Amazon has acknowledged increased error rates and delays, citing core services like DynamoDB and EC2 as affected. The incident centers on North Virginia data centers, a major backbone for the global internet. The outage has impacted social, gaming, productivity, and streaming apps, including Canva, Duolingo, Ring, Prime Video, and fintech services like Robinhood. Amazon is investigating and hasn't given a restoration timeline. Downdetector visuals illustrate a broad, cross-service disruption.

Rumor: Resident Evil 0 Remake in Development Codenamed 'Chamber'

October 20, 2025, 4:28 AM EDT. Rumors suggest Capcom's next big Resident Evil remake is Resident Evil 0 under the codename Chamber. MP1st sources claim the project has been in development for years, with new voice acting and motion capture. Actor Jon McLaren is listed as a lead in Project Chamber, potentially voicing Billy Coen, while Rebecca Chambers could be a focus in the updated narrative. Production is said to be overseen by motion-capture firm Beyond Capture Studios, which has previously worked with Capcom. According to the report, the remake would expand on the source material, though the core plot would remain intact.

How School Districts Are Crafting AI Policy in Real Time

October 20, 2025, 4:16 AM EDT. School districts nationwide are rolling out AI policy to guide how teachers, staff, and students use the technology, balancing benefits with concerns. The effort ranges from formal, board-approved rules to flexible frameworks that set guardrails for safe, responsible use. Experts say many districts still lack clear guidance, underscoring the challenge of policing a fast-evolving tool. Leaders emphasize that policies should address everyone in the education ecosystem, not just students, and align with the district's larger goals. A recent EdWeek survey shows nearly half of districts lack any policy, highlighting the ongoing need for resources, training, and practical guidance to demystify AI and keep classrooms focused on learning.

How School Districts Are Crafting AI Policy on the Fly

October 20, 2025, 4:14 AM EDT. School districts across the U.S. are rolling out AI policies to guide how teachers, staff, and students use the technology, addressing both benefits and drawbacks. Yet many systems have yet to tackle AI use in a systematic way, and even established policies may not provide meaningful guardrails in this fast-changing landscape. Education Week reports on lessons from district leaders, principals, and teachers about what's working, what isn't, and what frontline educators still need. Experts argue that policies should cover everyone who uses AI-teachers, instructional staff, administrators, and district personnel-and come with clear guidance on responsible, ethical use. Whether board-approved or framed as a flexible framework, the aim is to demystify AI, align use with district goals, and provide resources for safe, informed decision-making. The survey shows many districts lack any AI policy, underscoring the gap and urgency.

Smartphone RF Front End Chips and Modules Market Poised for Growth Fueled by 5G Expansion and IoT Adoption

October 20, 2025, 4:12 AM EDT. The Smartphone RF Front End Chips and Modules market surged from USD 5.12 billion in 2024 toward USD 9.87 billion by 2033, signaling a CAGR of 7.8% between 2026 and 2033. Growth is driven by 5G rollout, rising smartphone penetration, and expanding IoT-enabled devices that demand higher data rates and reliable links. Key drivers include miniaturization and energy-efficient designs, enabling slimmer devices without sacrificing performance. Ongoing technological evolution, more multi-band RF front-end modules, and consumer demand for faster, smoother streaming fuel investment in R&D and partnerships across foundries and ODMs. Regulatory shifts on spectrum usage and thermal/interference management challenges shape product development. Regions with rising digital infrastructure and higher smartphone adoption are expected to lead optimization of RF front-end solutions to meet next-generation networks.

Smartphone RF Front End Chips and Modules Market Poised for Growth with 5G and IoT Adoption

October 20, 2025, 4:10 AM EDT. Smartphone RF Front End Chips and Modules Market is set for robust expansion, with 2024 value of USD 5.12 billion and a projected reach of USD 9.87 billion by 2033, a CAGR of 7.8% (2026-2033). Growth is driven by demand for high-speed connectivity and advancing wireless standards like 5G, as smartphones remain central to digital lifestyles. Miniaturization and energy-efficient designs push investment in integrated RF front-end modules, while rising smartphone penetration in emerging economies and IoT-enabled devices amplify volumes. Increasing multimedia consumption, including video streaming, further boosts data transmission needs. Regulatory spectrum management, multi-band support, thermal management, and interference control shape development, alongside consumer demand for sleeker devices. Key enablers include R&D, supply chain dynamics, and partnerships across foundries, designers, and manufacturers.

Indycar Racing 2 Gets HD Graphics Upgrade and Modern Force-Feedback Mod

October 20, 2025, 3:48 AM EDT. Retro-enthusiasts are reviving Indycar Racing 2 (1995) with two standout mods. A wrapper by sharangad translates the vintage Rendition API to modern hardware, letting the DOS classic splash into HD resolutions on current monitors. While textures aren't being upscaled, the effect is a dramatic visual upgrade that preserves the original's pixel art. Separately, a mod by GPLaps feeds physics data from game memory to a modern force-feedback wheel, letting players actually feel skids and traction-decades ahead of keyboard-only play. The community-driven effort, highlighted by TedMeat's video and tips from Keith Olson, shows how fans keep old favorites alive through dedicated hacking and remasters.

Honor Magic 8 Pro camera outshines iPhone 17 Pro Max with 200MP periscope and 5.5-stop stabilization

October 20, 2025, 3:46 AM EDT. Honor Magic 8 Pro reportedly tops the iPhone 17 Pro Max in imaging specs, thanks to a 200MP periscope telephoto with PDAF, OIS and 3.7x optical zoom, plus the industry's first CIPA 5.5-stop image stabilization. By contrast, the iPhone 17 Pro Max uses a 48MP telephoto with 4x zoom. Honor's AiMAGE Nox Engine and a 1/1.4-inch sensor with f/2.6 aperture help deliver clearer, brighter, and more detailed night shots. The setup includes a multi-directional system and advances like OIS. Honor even staged a helicopter zoom camera test at night comparing the Magic 8 Pro to the iPhone 17 Pro Max. If verified, the Magic 8 Pro could challenge most Max-class devices for photography.

Satellite communications exposed: unencrypted traffic can be intercepted by anyone

October 20, 2025, 3:44 AM EDT. Researchers from the University of California and University of Maryland revealed a vulnerability in satellite communications: many transmissions were collected unencrypted for years. A standard amateur radio receiver could intercept private calls, SMS from mobile networks, airplane Wi-Fi data, critical commands for power grids and oil platforms, and even military and police reports. The finding shatters the view that satellite links are inherently secure and shows how easily data can be exposed or manipulated, including the risk of fake base stations spoofing signals. Only 15% of traffic was analyzed, implying the real scale may be far larger. In response, carriers like T-Mobile and AT&T have begun implementing encryption; researchers have released tools for independent verification. A coordinated, global push is needed to secure satellite links and protect personal and critical infrastructure data.

Microsoft Surface Pro 12in: a versatile Windows tablet at a compelling price, with optional keyboard and pen

October 20, 2025, 3:42 AM EDT. Microsoft's new Surface Pro 12in packs a Snapdragon-powered Windows tablet into the smallest Surface form factor, delivering light weight and strong versatility. The 256GB model starts at £799, with 512GB (£899) and 1TB (£1,049) options; the keyboard (£149) and pen (£249) are optional, and a 65W USB-C charger adds £50. Cheaper than the new Surface Pro 13in, it lacks cellular connectivity and a display choice, positioning it as a competitor to the iPad Air and even higher-end tablets. Design leans conventional: 100% recycled aluminum, a built-in kickstand, a 9mm bezel, and dual 10Gbps USB-C ports with DP AltMode. It omits the audio jack and memory card slot, and the old Surface Connect port. Tablet weighs 650g; with keyboard and pen, 340g more. A versatile Windows device at a bold price.

Apple TV, Apple Music and App Store outage hits Apple services; status updated to resolved

October 20, 2025, 3:40 AM EDT. An Apple-wide outage disrupted core services, taking down Apple TV, Apple Music, and the App Store for several hours. Users reported errors like 'There's a problem loading this content' while streaming Apple Originals, causing episodes to stop mid-way. Social chatter noted trouble with TestFlight, the Games app, and some iCloud Storage settings, pointing to a backend/storefront issue. Apple's system status page confirmed issues starting around midnight ET, with no firm fix timeline. The incident marked one of 2025's most impactful Apple outages, though updates now show the services as resolved.

AST SpaceMobile Valuation Faces Scrutiny After Verizon Deal

October 20, 2025, 3:38 AM EDT. AST SpaceMobile's Verizon deal to deliver direct-to-smartphone satellite connectivity in 2026 has fueled a sharp rally, signaling growing credibility in space telecom. Yet the move fanned a lofty price-to-book of 26.2x, well above industry peers, raising questions about valuation. In contrast, a DCF view suggests the stock trades at a discount to fair value, implying the market may be underpricing future cash flows. The tension between multiples and fundamental valuation underscores risk from execution and growth pace. Investors should weigh the valuation divide-strong near-term catalysts versus longer-term profitability-before extrapolating the recent surge.

Windows 11 25H2 Bug Breaks WinRE: USB Keyboard/Mouse Disabled in Recovery Environment

October 20, 2025, 3:36 AM EDT. Microsoft's Windows 11 25H2 October 2025 update (KB5066835) introduces a bug that can render Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) unusable. Users report USB keyboards and mice stop working when WinRE is invoked, blocking startup repair, resets, and other recovery tasks. Microsoft confirms the issue on the official Known Issues page and says a fix is coming in the coming days. The bug underscores how a routine security patch can disrupt recovery workflows, potentially bricking a PC if WinRE can't function. Workarounds are limited; some advise avoiding the update for now, especially on critical devices. Monitor Microsoft's guidance for a timely fix and consider delaying updates until the patch lands.

California Signs AI Transparency Bill for Police Reports (SB 524)

October 20, 2025, 3:34 AM EDT. California Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed SB 524, boosting transparency around AI use by police departments. The bill requires agencies to disclose when reports are generated by generative AI, and, starting Jan. 1, 2026, to include the statement: 'This report was written either fully or in part using artificial intelligence,' plus which software version was used. Departments must retain the first draft and identify the report creator, and officers must verify all AI-generated content with a signature. Proponents warn that AI hallucinations can affect a suspect's defense, so verification is crucial. California is leading in AI regulation, with lawmakers aiming for greater accountability in law enforcement documentation. Vendors like Axon are integrating AI into police workflows.

AI Governance at the Board Level: Boosting Literacy and Ethical Oversight

October 20, 2025, 3:32 AM EDT. Boards must actively raise AI literacy and strengthen ethical oversight to harness AI's benefits while mitigating risks. An AI-literate board understands core AI technologies, capabilities, limits, and potential business impact. The 2024 Deloitte Global Boardroom Program found only about 2% rate themselves as highly knowledgeable, with nearly 80% reporting limited or no experience. To close the gap, boards are adopting structured AI education programs (around 40%), regularly briefing by external AI experts, and, in some cases, appointing AI specialists as directors (8%). Alongside literacy, boards should establish and uphold clear AI principles-transparency, accountability, privacy-and oversee governance frameworks, such as dedicated committees and review protocols, to ensure responsible AI development.

Elon Musk Says 'Same' to Twitter User on Changing Minds With Facts

October 20, 2025, 3:24 AM EDT. Twitter user Pascal Anglehart (@DemosKratosCA) posted a tongue-in-cheek claim that people can be persuaded by 'the correct arguments with the appropriate facts and data.' Elon Musk replied simply with 'Same,' turning the moment into a relatable thread that drew thousands of likes. The exchange highlighted how online debates often hinge on emotions rather than logic, prompting a flurry of reactions about persuasion, eloquence, and cognitive biases. Critics and fans noted the irony of the billionaire's concise verdict, and the moment quickly became a talking point about how people try to change others' minds on social media.

OpenAI's GPT-5 math claims spark backlash from LeCun and Hassabis

October 20, 2025, 3:20 AM EDT. OpenAI's victory lap over GPT-5's math claims drew swift pushback from AI luminaries. Meta Chief AI Scientist Yann LeCun called the reaction 'embarrassing,' and Demis Hassabis of Google DeepMind chimed in with similar skepticism. The controversy centers on a since-deleted tweet from OpenAI VP Kevin Weil asserting that GPT-5 "found solutions to 10 previously unsolved Erdős problems and made progress on 11 others." Mathematician Thomas Bloom argued this was a misrepresentation: the problems were open, but no paper solving them was cited; GPT-5 seemingly found references that solved them, which Bloom hadn't seen. OpenAI researcher Sebastien Bubeck conceded only literature-based solutions were found, yet suggested the feat still demonstrates the challenge of exhaustive literature search. Event context: TechCrunch, San Francisco, October 27-29, 2025.

Bringing Windows Phone Tiles to Android: Launcher10 vs Square Home

October 20, 2025, 3:18 AM EDT. Tech nostalgia meets practical Android: you can recharge the old Windows Phone tile aesthetic on modern devices with an Android launcher. The article weighs two popular options: Launcher10, the closest faithful replica that offers easy tile resizing and layout tweaks but can crash or lose apps; and Square Home, which trades perfect accuracy for rock-solid stability. The piece highlights how switching to a Windows Phone-style launcher changes screen organization, pushing users toward a minimalist aesthetic with easy access to favorites via simple tile moves, color tweaks, and size adjustments. In short, you get a practical, customizable homage to Windows Phone that balances fidelity with daily reliability through different launchers.

Self-Organizing Light Could Transform Computing and Communications

October 20, 2025, 3:16 AM EDT. USC engineers unveiled an optical device where light finds its own path through nonlinear systems, powered by optical thermodynamics. Published in Nature Photonics, this breakthrough moves away from switches and digital control toward a self-guiding, nonlinear photonics approach. In a marble-maze analogy, light drops in and automatically reaches its destination, eliminating manual routing. The technology could accelerate data transmission, computing, and telecommunications by offering a more natural, energy-efficient form of optical interconnects. As electronic speeds plateau, chipmakers may turn to self-organizing light for faster, simpler connections. While still foundational, the concept promises to simplify routing in photonic networks and could influence secure data transfer and high-performance computing through thermodynamic-driven light control.

How AI Is Reshaping Hiring: GenAI, OECD Principles, and Trustworthy AI in Talent Acquisition

October 20, 2025, 3:14 AM EDT. AI is reshaping hiring by turning GenAI into a partner that supports human decision-making across the six phases of hiring, from applications to offers. The study assesses GenAI's impact through the OECD AI Principles for trustworthy AI, addressing four guiding questions: revolutionary changes, ethical concerns, competitiveness and compliance for both firms and job seekers, and new research directions. Findings show GenAI boosts efficiency by automating resume screening, interview scheduling, and data analysis – hotel and hospitality sectors already use chatbots, AI video tools, and analytics to speed decisions. Yet risks remain: bias, opacity, and data privacy without human oversight. Framed by fairness, accountability, and transparency, the work proposes six phase-specific propositions. It highlights how GenAI can aid contract preparation and offer negotiations, contingent on data quality and governance.

OpenAI Tops Google in Consumer AI Token Consumption, Enterprise Edge Shifts to Anthropic

October 20, 2025, 3:12 AM EDT. OpenAI has surged in consumer AI token consumption, processing 6 billion tokens per minute and powering ChatGPT with over 800 million weekly active users, while Google handles 1.3 quadrillion tokens per month across its services. Barclays notes OpenAI leads in consumer token usage, roughly double Google Gemini, though Google remains dominant in lab-token totals. In the enterprise arena, Anthropic is vying for leadership, with nearly twice OpenAI's revenue share and ambitious targets of $9B annualized revenue by year-end and up to $20B by 2026, backed by 300k+ business customers. The piece also flags AI's potential to trim supply-chain costs by 3-4% and highlights how agentic AI improves fulfillment and liquidity management as CFOs push for AI-driven finance integration.

Snap AR Glasses Add Synth Riders, Star Wars, and Avatar Minigames Ahead of 2026 Specs

October 20, 2025, 3:10 AM EDT. Snap OS 2.0 expands its AR ecosystem with minigames from Synth Riders, Star Wars, and Avatar: The Last Airbender for the consumer Snap Specs at launch. While Spectacles remain a developer-focused kit ($99/month), Snap aims for a lighter, more capable consumer device by 2026. Snap OS runs sandboxed Lenses built in Lens Studio using JavaScript/TypeScript, with no APKs or native engines. New developer APIs, a WebXR-friendly browser, Travel Mode, and a Gallery app deepen the platform. At Lens Fest, Snap unveiled more branded Lenses and continued work on multi-user experiences and in-app payments, signaling a broader consumer rollout ahead.

Fort Worth venue ruling in Musk-X antitrust suit urges Apple and OpenAI to relocate HQs to Texas

October 20, 2025, 3:06 AM EDT. US District Judge Mark Pittman issued a four-page order in the Musk-X suit against Apple and OpenAI, accusing them of an antitrust-level "anticompetitive scheme." He sarcastically urged the parties to relocate their headquarters to Fort Worth, Texas, criticizing the practice of venue-shopping. The case will stay in the Fort Worth division of the Northern District of Texas despite scant ties to the city, with Pittman noting the division's docket is two to three times busier than the Dallas division. He highlighted the broader issue of forum-shopping in high-profile cases and directed the parties to Fort Worth's Business Services site to start the move. The ruling preserves the case in Fort Worth and underscores how venue decisions can affect competition in AI and tech litigation.

OpenAI GPT-5 math claims debunked: Erdős problems solved by literature search, sparking ridicule

October 20, 2025, 3:02 AM EDT. OpenAI claimed that GPT-5 had solved 10 previously unsolved Erdős problems and made progress on 11 others. However, investigators found the work amounted to literature search for already solved results, and Weil's post was later deleted, provoking ridicule from rival developers. Critics such as Stefan Schubert warned to be skeptical of these claims. OpenAI researcher Sebastien Bubeck described GPT-5 as 'superhuman at literature search' for locating earlier solutions. Harvard's Mark Sellke joined the discussion, listing ten Erdős problems now believed solved by GPT-5 and noting significant partial progress on 11 more; some corrections to Erdős's original paper were also discussed. In a later update with Mehtaab and colleagues, the team reportedly refined the results. The episode underscores the need for verification and clear attribution in AI research.

Manganese X Urges North American Battery Materials Supply Chain Amid China's Export Controls

October 20, 2025, 3:00 AM EDT. Manganese X Energy Corp. calls for a rapid build-out of a North American battery materials supply chain in response to China's export controls that take effect November 8, 2025. The controls cover high-performance lithium-ion batteries, cathode materials (including LFP), ternary precursors, and graphite anode tech, threatening global supply chains. CEO Martin Kepman argues this shift accelerates domestic self-sufficiency for EV and energy-storage sectors. The company highlights its Battery Hill project in Woodstock, New Brunswick, as a path to produce high-purity manganese (HPMSM) for next-gen chemistries such as LMR, LMFP, and NMC. Manganese X aims to reduce reliance on foreign processing, position itself as a cornerstone supplier, and align with North American energy security and clean-tech leadership.

What's Next for SpaceX After Starship's Big Test Flight

October 20, 2025, 2:56 AM EDT. SpaceX's 11th Starship test again showed the vehicle's power, firing all 33 engines at liftoff and re-igniting in space while deploying mock Starlink satellites. While the goal is to support Starlink, the Artemis III Moon mission in 2027, and future Mars exploration, industry experts say the vehicle still faces key hurdles before carrying humans. The craft has been suborbital so far and has not yet reached orbit, a threshold many expect to test next. After achieving orbit, SpaceX would need to demonstrate in-space refueling between two Starship vessels – a critical capability for long-range missions. Analysts warn time is running out, with milestones including orbital deployment and reliable propellant transfer seen as essential before crewed Moon or Mars flights.

Time is running out for SpaceX as Artemis III deadline looms after Starship test

October 20, 2025, 2:54 AM EDT. SpaceX's Starship just completed its 11th test flight, firing all 33 engines on liftoff and six more in ascent, with eight mock satellites released and an engine reignition in space. The mission is threefold: advance Starship for Starlink, support Artemis III's Moon landing in 2027, and enable future Mars exploration. Industry experts warn there are still major milestones before humans travel to the Moon. ESPI's Lars Petzold cautions that time is running out and that SpaceX will likely prove capabilities incrementally, including achieving a full Earth orbit. ASD-Eurospace's Pierre Lionnet notes Starship has yet to deploy a satellite in orbit. A key, currently unproven step is propellant transfer between two Starships, a prerequisite for long-distance missions.

Most AI privacy research misses lifecycle risks, CMU/Northeastern study finds

October 20, 2025, 2:36 AM EDT. A new study from Carnegie Mellon University and Northeastern University argues that privacy research for LLMs has focused too narrowly on training data leakage and direct chat exposure, neglecting how models collect, process, and infer during regular use. After reviewing 1,322 papers (2016-2025), researchers find 92% address data memorization while the remaining 8% cover inference attacks and broader risks like context leakage and data aggregation. They advocate expanding the privacy map across the entire LLM lifecycle, from data collection to deployment, and note barriers: policy lags and a culture that underestimates human factors in privacy. They propose a five-category taxonomy, including indirect context leakage, indirect attribute inference, and direct aggregation into detailed profiles.

AMD Surges as a Leading AI Hardware Challenger Backed by OpenAI and Oracle

October 20, 2025, 2:22 AM EDT. While Nvidia remains the dominant force in AI hardware, AMD is positioning itself as a credible challenger. The company's MI300 architecture is already competing at high performance tiers, with the upcoming MI400 expected to boost memory, energy efficiency, and throughput. Through open standards like ROCm, AMD is offering a flexible ecosystem that helps developers move models across platforms instead of locking into a single vendor. Major hyperscalers such as Microsoft and Meta are integrating AMD chips in next-gen data centers, while marquee partnerships with OpenAI and Oracle underscore its scale. These deals signal a shift toward diversified GPU supply chains and competitive price-performance, supporting AMD's case as a leading AI accelerator supplier.

AI-generated 'poverty porn' images spark ethics debate in aid sector

October 20, 2025, 2:20 AM EDT. AI-generated imagery of extreme poverty is flooding stock photo sites and increasingly used by leading NGOs, triggering an ethics debate over consent, cost, and the risk of stereotypes. Researchers like Arsenii Alenichev warn the visuals reproduce a biased poverty grammar, creating what he calls poverty porn 2.0. The spread is aided by cheap licensing on platforms such as Adobe Stock and Freepik, with many captions that reinforce racialized tropes. NGO leaders note the tension between urgency and responsibility, arguing platforms and consumers must scrutinize imagery, while some say developers cannot fully curb bias. The piece also highlights industry responses to bias and asks whether AI-generated photos should replace real photography in advocacy campaigns.

OnePlus Nord CE5 Review: Elegant Marble-Back Mid-Range Smartphone with Fast WLAN

October 20, 2025, 1:48 AM EDT. OnePlus Nord CE5 delivers a classy, marble-back design with a sturdy plastic chassis that feels premium. The MediaTek Dimensity 8350 keeps everyday tasks smooth in this mid-range device. The camera system is versatile, especially with the added wide-angle lens, producing usable photos. Battery life is strong in daily use, though EU models ship with a capped capacity; fast charging helps top up quickly. It offers Wi-Fi 6, numerous 4G/5G bands, and speeds up to about 1.3 Gbps. An in-display fingerprint sensor and face unlock provide convenient biometrics. Shipping with Android 15 / OxygenOS 15, OnePlus promises four Android updates and six years of security patches. The white marble finish is a standout visual, with pricing around €300 and solid value for a mid-range smartphone.

This Week's Japanese Game Releases: Ninja Gaiden 4, Double Dragon Revive, Once Upon a Katamari and More

October 20, 2025, 12:56 AM EDT. This week brings major Japanese releases across platforms including NINJA GAIDEN 4 on PS5, Xbox Series, and PC; Double Dragon Revive arriving on PS5, Xbox Series, PS4, Xbox One, Switch, and PC; and Once Upon a KATAMARI expanding to PS5, Xbox Series, Switch, and PC. Other highlights include Full Metal Schoolgirl for PS5, Switch, and PC, and Persona 3 Reload with related updates for Switch 2. The lineup also features digital-only debuts such as Angry Video Game Nerd 8-bit and titles like Bounty Star, Criss Cross, and more, with Gematsu noting affiliate links through Play-Asia. Expect cross-gen, cross-platform releases and several indie titles alongside big mainstream ports.

Should You Sell Nvidia Stock to Buy IonQ? A Quantum Computing Bet in AI's Arms Race

October 20, 2025, 12:54 AM EDT. AI's rise has made Nvidia a top performer, while IonQ has attracted attention as a potential quantum computing disruptor. The article notes that Nvidia dominates GPUs for AI training, whereas IonQ offers a full-stack quantum computing approach. While IonQ has delivered stellar gains when measured against Nvidia, the quantum space remains far from mainstream adoption, with 2030 often cited as commercialization target. Some analysts estimate a possible $15-$30 billion annual quantum market by 2030, and if IonQ captured a large share at favorable margins, proponents envision a multi-hundred-billion valuation. However, this is highly speculative and hinges on timing, technology milestones, and execution; investors should weigh risk versus potential in AI and stock diversification rather than chasing a single theme.

Kyndryl Readiness Report: AI Delivers Early Returns Amid Infrastructure and Skills Gaps

October 20, 2025, 12:52 AM EDT. New York, Oct. 20, 2025 – Kyndryl's Readiness Report surveys 3,700 senior leaders across 21 countries, revealing AI momentum even as foundational gaps define the next phase. While 54% report positive ROI from AI and the figure is up 12 points from 2024, 62% have not moved beyond pilots and less than a third say employees are truly ready for AI. AI is expected to transform jobs for 87% within 12 months, yet widespread skills gaps persist. Leaders say their tools enable rapid experimentation, but a fragile tech stack and a fragmented regulatory landscape slow progress. Data and cloud strategies are being reevaluated amid geopolitics, while cyber resilience tops ROI concerns as AI spending rises about 33% on average. Cloud adoption remains a work in progress.

iPhone 17 Still Sells Out Globally as iPhone Air Sells Out in China

October 20, 2025, 12:42 AM EDT. Apple's latest wave of launches is proving hot: iPhone Air preorders in China sold out within hours after regulatory approval, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max led the charge by going out of stock first during the launch weekend. Across the globe, supply constraints persist on the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and standard iPhone 17 models, with delivery estimates stretching to 2-3 weeks in several regions. The iPhone Air is the only 2025 model not yet sold out in some markets at launch. Analysts from Mizuho Securities estimate Apple will produce about 94 million new iPhones this year, underscoring stronger-than-expected demand, even as regions like China see early sellouts.

iOS 26.1 beta 3: Alarms, Apple Music swipes, and Apple TV rename

October 20, 2025, 12:40 AM EDT. iOS 26.1 beta 3 brings a few small refinements after the main iOS 26 release. Highlights include alarms that are harder to dismiss (slide to stop), Apple Music now supports swipe gestures to switch between tracks, and a rename of Apple TV+ to simply Apple TV with a redesigned icon. The update follows betas 1 and 2 (Sept. 22 and Oct. 6) and is expected to remain a minor, incremental release.

Starlink Mini Discount Brings Satellite Internet Anywhere: $299 in the US, CAD$399 in Canada

October 20, 2025, 12:38 AM EDT. Starlink Mini is SpaceX's portable satellite internet device. SpaceX is discounting it to $299 in the US and CAD$399 in Canada, making on-the-go connectivity more affordable. The device is designed for use where traditional broadband isn't available, leveraging Starlink's satellite network to deliver internet on the move. The price cut signals SpaceX's push to broaden consumer access to satellite internet, appealing to travelers, remote workers, and rural users seeking reliable service. Availability remains in the US and Canada, with more details to come.

Apple's New iPhone Air Sells Out Within Minutes in China, Signaling Brand Loyalty

October 20, 2025, 12:36 AM EDT. Apple's new iPhone Air reportedly sold out within minutes of its Friday China launch, buoyed by strong local interest. South China Morning Post notes brisk demand, and Counterpoint Research analyst Ivan Lam says loyalty to the Apple brand remains high in China despite fierce competition from domestic rivals. At 5.1mm, the iPhone Air's record-thin chassis stands out, underscoring Apple's design appeal. Tim Cook's China visit-meeting fans, developers, and officials, announcing a Shenzhen research lab, and attending the China Development Forum-helped fuel excitement, with Cook's Weibo posts going viral. Though Apple hasn't disclosed unit numbers, estimates suggest hundreds of thousands sold early. China remains a crucial market as Apple broadens manufacturing elsewhere amid tariffs. Wall Street shows a Moderate Buy on AAPL with a target of $255.84.

iPhone 17 Faces AI-Driven Headwinds as Apple Intelligence Trails

October 20, 2025, 12:34 AM EDT. Sales of the iPhone 17 stay strong, but AI momentum could shift buying decisions. In Power On, Mark Gurman argues that AI on smartphones may become more important in the coming months, elevating the role of Apple Intelligence. Apple's AI efforts lag behind rivals like Google's Gemini, and attrition among AI leads has hurt progress. If AI becomes a bigger factor, the iPhone 17, iPhone 18, and later models may meet stiffer competition unless Apple closes the gap. The report hints at future hardware boosts-Face ID under display on the iPhone 18 and a cutout-free Pro for the 20th-anniversary model-but cautions that true AI dominance isn't imminent.

Samsung Galaxy XR Android Apps Surface Ahead of October 21 Unveil

October 20, 2025, 12:32 AM EDT. Android apps for Samsung's Galaxy XR (aka Project Moohan) are appearing on the Google Play Store ahead of the official unveiling on October 21. The apps carry the XR label, hinting at immersive experiences that mix virtual reality with real-world overlays. Titles resemble Quest 3-style experiences – a virtual golf game, a space shooter, and a virtual TV screen app. The reveal on October 21 is set, with price rumors around $1,760 (roughly £1,315 / AU$2,715). Samsung and Google have teased Android XR software with Gemini and AI features, including live translation and quick responses. If true, Galaxy XR could rival Meta Quest 3 as a leading VR/AR headset.

Microsoft expands Dragon Copilot AI for nurses, adds third-party app and agent integrations

October 20, 2025, 12:30 AM EDT. Microsoft expanded its Dragon Copilot AI clinical assistant to nurses, tailoring ambient AI for frontline nursing workflows and co-developing the capability with Mercy and Advocate. The update will bring Dragon Copilot into Epic's Rover app and adds support for integrating partner AI apps and agents directly into the platform. Unveiled earlier at HIMSS 2025, Dragon Copilot combines Dragon Medical One's voice dictation with ambient listening from DAX Copilot to streamline documentation. It records nurse-patient conversations and auto-files the details into EHR flowsheets, with nurses able to preview or edit for accuracy. The tool also drafts notes and summarizes interactions to reduce clicks and administrative burden. With nurse burnout high (65% report stress) and 25% of shifts spent on documentation, this aims to reclaim patient-facing time.

AI Helps Itself: How Generative AI Wrote a Course About AI for Middle Schoolers

October 20, 2025, 12:16 AM EDT. Anna Otto, a middle school computer science coordinator in Colorado, enlisted AI to help design a short course about AI for students. The effort shows that AI can assist with planning, but it also reveals limitations: generic prompts often yield teacher-centric lessons and may not fully align with standards. To counter that, Otto crafted very specific prompts and built customized assistants-what ChatGPT calls GPTs and Gemini terms as gems-to guide the curriculum. The course emphasizes formative assessment and real-time checks of student understanding, aiming for student-centered learning. Even with safeguards, the AI made mistakes, such as misapplying standards; the example underscores the need for human oversight, critical thinking, and careful alignment to standards in AI-assisted curriculum design.

How AI Search Is Reshaping Publisher Visibility and Licensing Deals

October 20, 2025, 12:14 AM EDT. Generative AI platforms are growing, boosting AI referrals to publishers but not enough to offset declines in traditional Google search traffic. For meaningful visibility, publishers should pursue licensing deals with AI platforms, which can promise prominence in AI search results and attribution, says Semrush. The landscape shows Google still dominates overall search, while ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude, and Copilot are rapidly expanding their reach (YoY Sep 2024-2025). AI referrals to major outlets rose year over year, but remain under 1% of total traffic. Each AI click, per SEOClarity, is tied to roughly 20 underlying searches, underscoring the need for accessible, crawler-friendly content. Publishers should align with AI partners and optimize content for AI crawlers to enhance visibility in AI search results.