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Slashdot is a pioneering technology news website that was founded in 1997. It focuses on delivering news, insights, and commentary on various topics of interest across multiple sections such as News, Technology, Science, Tech Culture, and Off Beat. In addition to news articles and blog postings, the site features a robust community-driven system which enables users to comment on articles, participate in discussions, and submit new stories. A strong feature of Slashdot is the comment rating system, where comments are rated by users - allowing for insightful comments to rise to the top of the conversation while filtering out less useful ones. The site also hosts polls on different topics, giving members an opportunity to express their views as part of a broader community. Slashdot covers technology news, product reviews, interviews from tech pioneers, and new technological advancements. It has played a significant role in breaking key tech stories over the years and introducing new ideas and technologies to the tech community. A notable aspect of Slashdot is its nerdy or "geeky" culture, with many members participating in the site being knowledgeable about technical terms, acronyms, jokes, and references, which are also frequently used within the site itself. In summary, Slashdot is a platform filled with a knowledgeable and passionate community, an extensive forum for discussing the latest in technology and science, and a source where readers can find in-depth coverage of the latest innovations and developments in the tech and science communities.

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RSS Hunter • Aug 19, 2024

Thread Of Notes

Lawmakers Probe Growing Use of Chinese AI Models In US Companies

U.S. lawmakers are investigating American companies' use of Chinese artificial intelligence models due to significant concerns. These concerns include potential censorship, security risks, and the possibility that U.S. firms are opting for cheaper foreign AI due to the cost or restrictions of domestic alternatives. The House Committee on Homeland Security and the House Select Committee on China are jointly conducting this probe. They have sent letters to companies like Cursor and Airbnb regarding their exposure to risks from Chinese-developed AI. Chairman Andrew Garbarino highlighted China's rapid advancement in AI, particularly in cybersecurity capabilities, which is alarming for U.S. national security. While some government bodies ban Chinese AI models, their use by private U.S. companies is not prohibited, leading some tech leaders to advocate for their cost-effectiveness. Cursor, for instance, utilized a Chinese AI model for its Composer 2 model. The investigation also assesses whether the U.S. has an adequate strategy to counter the rise of these foreign AI models. Potential responses include federal procurement bans, though enforcing bans on open-source models is challenging. Disseminating information about the risks of Chinese AI models to U.S. companies is another proposed approach. Ultimately, both branches of government are expected to express their disapproval of U.S. companies adopting these AI models.

https://news.slashdot.org/story/26/07/09/1947218/lawmakers-probe-growing-use-of-chinese-ai-models-in-us-companies news.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Yesterday

Google Search Hits All-Time Usage Record

Google experienced its highest Search usage ever, driven by the World Cup, with peak queries occurring after Argentina's victory. This surge highlights the continued relevance of Google's traditional search engine amidst the rise of AI. Despite market shifts, Google maintains a dominant 90% search market share and has seen significant stock price growth and revenue acceleration. Popular World Cup-related searches included game results, player statistics, and questions about game rules and player futures.

https://tech.slashdot.org/story/26/07/09/1829252/google-search-hits-all-time-usage-record tech.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Yesterday

Meta Patents AI Device That Tracks Your Emotions, Watches You Take Your Meds

Meta has filed a patent for a system that continuously records a user's voice and surroundings throughout the day. This system would then utilize an AI to analyze the user's mood. The purported goal is to sell users a wearable device that personalizes workouts based on their emotional state. The patent, published in July after being filed in December 2025, describes an apparatus designed for constant surveillance to enhance workout regimens. It categorizes audible communications and associates them with contextual factors like time, location, and activity. The AI would transcribe these communications and employ machine learning to interpret verbal and nonverbal cues for emotional indicators. To accurately gauge moods, the AI requires data beyond spoken words, including sighs, laughter, physical location, surrounding objects, and even medication intake. The system aims for precise and reliable emotional inference by aligning multimodal sensor inputs on synchronized timelines. This creates a novel data structure for richer emotional analysis, enabling continuous emotional monitoring. The patent explains that humans are less precise than machines in providing corrective workout guidance, necessitating such a technological approach. However, Meta states that patents are often filed to disclose concepts that may or may not be implemented and do not guarantee pursuit of the technology.

https://yro.slashdot.org/story/26/07/09/1835232/meta-patents-ai-device-that-tracks-your-emotions-watches-you-take-your-meds yro.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Yesterday

OpenAI Rolls Out GPT-5.6 After Government Greenlight, Announces 'ChatGPT Work'

OpenAI has obtained approval from the Trump administration for the public release of GPT-5.6. They have also introduced ChatGPT Work, a new agent powered by GPT-5.6. This agent integrates ChatGPT and Codex capabilities, enabling it to access user-selected apps, files, and workflows. ChatGPT Work can then generate various materials like documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. A unified plugins directory allows ChatGPT to connect with tools such as Slack, Gmail, and Google Drive. The ChatGPT desktop app will provide immediate access to GPT-5.6 and ChatGPT Work for Mac and Windows users globally. Initially, mobile and web access will be for Pro, Enterprise, and Edu users, with other tiers gaining access soon. This release positions ChatGPT Work as a competitor to Anthropic's Claude Cowork. OpenAI is particularly optimistic about Sol, a GPT-5.6 model, for its advancements in coding, cybersecurity, and science. The company is also promoting GPT-5.6 as a more cost-effective option compared to rival models.

https://slashdot.org/story/26/07/09/1821245/openai-rolls-out-gpt-56-after-government-greenlight-announces-chatgpt-work slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Yesterday

Google Hands Open Health Stack To the Linux Foundation

The Linux Foundation is launching the Open Health Stack Software Foundation to host Google's Open Health Stack project. Google is contributing its code and assets, along with a $3 million grant from Google.org. Microsoft, Anthropic, and the World Health Organization are also supporting this initiative. The primary goal is to establish open source, AI-ready digital health infrastructure. This new foundation will concentrate on HL7 FHIR technologies for healthcare interoperability. It will also focus on the Open Health Stack Player deployment toolkit. A key aspect is AI Commons, a model-agnostic healthcare AI initiative developed with the WHO. A planned Implementer Program aims to involve startups and developers from low- and middle-income countries in governance. This program seeks to ensure that those implementing the software in underserved markets influence the project's direction. The initiative aims to build healthcare software standards and empower their implementers.

https://news.slashdot.org/story/26/07/09/1659227/google-hands-open-health-stack-to-the-linux-foundation news.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Yesterday

San Francisco Moves To Build Private Luxury Airport Terminal

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) plans to build a new premium terminal for commercial passengers seeking an enhanced experience. This exclusive terminal will offer amenities like private security and customs lines, as well as valet service. SFO is currently seeking bids for the development, construction, and operation of this facility. The proposed terminal will be located across the runway from the existing public terminals. Development proposals are due in late September or early October, with a contract expected by early December. The airport aims to have the new terminal operational by late 2028. If successful, SFO would join other major US airports that already offer luxury terminal services. Airports like Los Angeles, Dallas Fort Worth, Miami, and Atlanta have private terminals operated by a company called PS. These existing private terminals can cost passengers over a thousand dollars for a single visit or thousands for an annual membership. PS, owned by Gavin de Becker and Associates, has ambitions to expand its private terminal services to most major US airports by 2030.

https://news.slashdot.org/story/26/07/09/1649254/san-francisco-moves-to-build-private-luxury-airport-terminal news.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Yesterday

macOS 28 Will Drop Support For Encrypted Mac OS Extended Volumes

Apple is discontinuing support for encrypted Mac OS Extended (HFS+) volumes starting with macOS 28. Users with these encrypted drives must decrypt them or reformat them to APFS. This change means that Mac OS Extended will only be supported for unencrypted volumes in future macOS versions. Apple has not provided a specific reason for this decision. However, it is seen as a continuation of their shift towards the APFS file system. APFS, which offers native encryption, replaced Mac OS Extended as the default in macOS High Sierra. Starting with macOS 26, Macs may begin notifying users about incompatible encrypted HFS+ disks. These notifications will identify the specific volume by name. Users can manually check their volume's format and encryption status. Unencrypted Mac OS Extended volumes will remain compatible with macOS 28 and later releases.

https://hardware.slashdot.org/story/26/07/09/1641225/macos-28-will-drop-support-for-encrypted-mac-os-extended-volumes hardware.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Yesterday

OpenAI Releases New Voice Models For More Natural Live Conversations

OpenAI has launched GPT-Live-1 and GPT-Live-1 mini, new full-duplex models designed for more natural and intelligent conversational AI. These models represent a significant leap forward, allowing simultaneous speaking and listening for seamless interruptions and real-time features like live translation. GPT-Live-1 mini will become the default voice model for ChatGPT's Advanced Voice Mode, with the larger GPT-Live-1 available for paid subscribers. The previous architecture relied on separate speech-to-text, LLM, and text-to-speech components, which led to conversational limitations.The new models address issues like interrupting users and improving response intelligence. They integrate with advanced text models like GPT-5.5 to leverage robust search, reasoning, and agentic capabilities during ongoing conversations. This integration allows for more intelligent and contextually aware responses.During a demonstration, OpenAI showcased the models' ability to maintain silence and absorb conversation context until prompted. Furthermore, access to newer GPT models enables the voice mode to present information visually. This visual capability aligns with a broader industry trend among startups like Monogram, aiming to enhance assistant interactivity.OpenAI emphasizes that the new ChatGPT voice mode is built for extended conversations. Product lead Atty Eleti shared personal experiences of engaging in 30- to 40-minute discussions with the feature.

https://slashdot.org/story/26/07/09/0452203/openai-releases-new-voice-models-for-more-natural-live-conversations slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Yesterday

Parents' Phone Addiction Affects Bond With Kids, New Study Finds

Researchers have found that parents' attachment to screens and smartphones can have negative effects on their children's development and psychological well-being. A study published in Frontiers in Psychology discovered that caregivers who mismanage their devices can exacerbate insecure attachment in children. The study surveyed 600 minors in the US between 12 and 17 years old and found that kids felt marginalized or neglected by parents glued to their screens. Children with insecure attachment may lack confidence, have difficulty with relationships, and be unwilling to take risks. The study's findings suggest that parents' screen time can make healthy relationships more anxious and avoidant for children. A significant number of US teens report that their parents are distracted by phones during interactions, with nearly half saying this happens at least sometimes. However, when parents were asked about their own behavior, they were less likely to acknowledge it as an issue. Earlier data found that most parents believe their phones can interfere with quality family time, with 68% reporting being distracted by them at least sometimes. The normalization of this behavior is a concern, as it can have long-lasting effects on children's development and psychological well-being. The research highlights the importance of parents being mindful of their screen time and its impact on their relationships with their children.

https://mobile.slashdot.org/story/26/07/09/0445259/parents-phone-addiction-affects-bond-with-kids-new-study-finds mobile.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Yesterday

Meta To Build $9 Billion Alberta Data Center, Its First In Canada

Meta is constructing its first Canadian data center in Alberta, marking a significant $9 billion investment. This facility will be a 1-gigawatt site designed to expand to 1.8 gigawatts, catering to Meta's growing AI infrastructure demands. The project includes Meta funding new generation and grid infrastructure, including a long-term agreement for a new natural gas power facility. Meta also pledges to offset its electricity usage through investments in clean and renewable energy. This announcement highlights Meta's substantial commitment to AI development and its expanding global data center footprint. Alberta's rich natural gas resources and cold climate offer cost-efficiency for such large-scale data centers. The provincial government is encouraging such investments by allowing proponents to build their own power sources. Meta's chosen data center will consume electricity equivalent to approximately 800,000 homes. The company is partnering with Pembina Pipeline for a new natural gas-fired power generation facility and Capital Power for interim electricity supply. This initiative is expected to stimulate demand for Western Canadian natural gas producers.

https://news.slashdot.org/story/26/07/09/0436235/meta-to-build-9-billion-alberta-data-center-its-first-in-canada news.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Yesterday

Shoebox-Sized 'Detector Satellites' Could Sniff Out a Nuclear Bomb In Space

A new study proposes using shoebox-sized satellites to detect nuclear weapons in orbit. This addresses concerns about space-based nuclear detonations destroying satellites. MIT professor Areg Danagoulian suggests a constellation of small cubesats, each with a radiation detector. These satellites could identify unexploded nuclear bombs by sensing their unique radiation signatures. The study examines a scenario involving a Russian satellite at an altitude of 1,200 miles, an orbit previously linked to suspicions of orbital nuclear weapon testing. At this altitude, satellites pass through the Van Allen radiation belt, interacting with fissile material in a nuclear device. This interaction creates distinct signatures, like an intense neutron source, that Danagoulian's detectors could identify. The proposed sensor combines two types of detectors to filter out natural background particles and pinpoint the source of neutrons. These inspector satellites would need to get within a few kilometers of a suspicious spacecraft. Gathering enough data to confirm a nuclear weapon would take about a week per satellite. A constellation of ten satellites could achieve this confirmation in hours. If a nuke is detected, military options could include jamming its communication link. The study also touches upon improving satellite survivability in space through radiation hardening.

https://science.slashdot.org/story/26/07/09/0427237/shoebox-sized-detector-satellites-could-sniff-out-a-nuclear-bomb-in-space science.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Yesterday

US Food and Drug Administration Rejects Petition To Set PFAS Limits In Food

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has rejected a petition to set limits on toxic Pfas chemicals in food. This decision is a setback for public health advocates seeking to reduce exposure to these compounds. Despite scientific evidence and the EPA identifying food as a major source of Pfas exposure, the FDA is refusing to set mandatory limits. High levels of Pfas have been found in certain food items, equivalent to drinking many glasses of contaminated water. The petition, initially filed by TEJTF, sought limits on up to 30 Pfas compounds in various foods. After the FDA missed a legal deadline, the petition was scaled back to request advisory thresholds for PFOA and Pfos in seafood and milk. Recent FDA testing revealed Pfas in 70% of seafood samples and 12% of milk samples, with some brands showing extremely high levels. The FDA stated it plans to develop "action levels," which are not binding, rather than "tolerance levels" that would make contaminated food illegal to sell. The agency cited insufficient evidence for the petition's request in its rejection.

https://yro.slashdot.org/story/26/07/09/0359202/us-food-and-drug-administration-rejects-petition-to-set-pfas-limits-in-food yro.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Yesterday

A Silent Workspace In Claude Mirrors Key Features of Human Consciousness

Anthropic researchers have discovered a functional digital equivalent to the human brain's global workspace within their AI model, Claude. This internal activation subspace, named J-space, allows Claude to process complex, deliberate reasoning. J-space exhibits five key cognitive properties associated with human conscious access, including verbal report and internal reasoning. Suppressing J-space significantly impairs Claude's inference, creativity, and multistep logic capabilities. It also alters the AI's self-narration, suggesting a form of internal monologue. The tool used to inspect J-space, the Jacobian lens, has significant implications for AI safety and auditing. It enables researchers to observe the model's silent reasoning and detect situational awareness. This tool can identify hidden malicious dispositions in AI models and observe the installation of self-monitoring perspectives. The discovery is likened to charting the currents of a non-biological mind, revealing a structure similar to human thought processes. This advancement offers a new way to understand and scrutinize the internal workings of AI.

https://slashdot.org/story/26/07/08/2059254/a-silent-workspace-in-claude-mirrors-key-features-of-human-consciousness slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 8

John Deere Agrees To 10-Year Right-To-Repair Deal In FTC Antitrust Lawsuit

John Deere has reached a ten-year settlement with the FTC concerning equipment repair. This agreement resolves antitrust allegations that John Deere monopolized repair services, leading to increased costs and delays for farmers. The FTC-supervised settlement mandates that John Deere provide farmers and independent repair shops with identical repair resources as its authorized dealers. This includes access to crucial software capabilities for diagnosing and resolving equipment issues. Previously, farmers faced significant limitations in accessing these tools, causing delays that jeopardized harvests. The settlement requires John Deere to offer this comprehensive access for the next decade under FTC monitoring. John Deere has stated that the agreement aligns with their existing practices and ongoing efforts to enhance repair options and transparency for customers. They emphasize that this formalizes their commitment to expanding access to diagnostic and repair tools. The company has previously maintained that they already offer substantial repair resources, such as service manuals and diagnostic equipment, to their customers. This settlement aims to ensure farmers have the necessary means to maintain their equipment promptly and efficiently.

https://yro.slashdot.org/story/26/07/08/2049231/john-deere-agrees-to-10-year-right-to-repair-deal-in-ftc-antitrust-lawsuit yro.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 8

Meta's Glasses Will Turn Off the Camera If You Tamper With the Privacy Light

Meta is implementing a new security update for its smart glasses that will disable the camera if the privacy LED is tampered with. This measure is in response to modders who have attempted to disable or destroy the LED, which indicates when the camera is recording. Previously, Meta had warned users against blocking the LED with prompts, but these warnings were often circumvented. The new update aims to provide a more robust deterrent against unauthorized modifications that compromise user privacy.

https://yro.slashdot.org/story/26/07/08/1750234/metas-glasses-will-turn-off-the-camera-if-you-tamper-with-the-privacy-light yro.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 8

Apple Says It Will Spend $30 Billion To Design US-Made Broadcom Chips

Apple announced a $30 billion investment to design wireless connectivity chips made in the US by Broadcom. This partnership will result in the production of 15 million chips domestically and enable Broadcom to invest $1.5 billion in its Colorado facilities. The initiative is a component of Apple's larger commitment to invest $600 billion through its "American Manufacturing Program." This program aims to significantly expand the company's supply chain and advanced manufacturing operations within the United States.

https://hardware.slashdot.org/story/26/07/08/1744225/apple-says-it-will-spend-30-billion-to-design-us-made-broadcom-chips hardware.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 8

Windows Drops Under 60% in Global Desktop OS Share

Windows' global desktop OS share fell to 56.55% in June 2026, marking its first time below 60% in years. Linux showed a strong performance, reaching 4.39%, while Apple's combined desktop presence with OS X and macOS significantly surpassed Linux's share. Chrome OS accounted for 1.21% of desktop OS usage during the same period. It is important to note that these statistics are based on web usage data from page views, not a direct count of installed operating systems.

https://tech.slashdot.org/story/26/07/08/1728229/windows-drops-under-60-in-global-desktop-os-share tech.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 8

'Knockoff' Browser Extension Hides Sketchy Brands On Amazon

A software developer created a browser extension called Knockoff for Chrome and Firefox. This extension automatically hides, grays out, or filters products from questionable brands on Amazon. Knockoff highlights the prevalence of shady brands and their frequent appearance in searches for common items. Examples of these brands include SUNHZMCKP, SACATR, and ROTTOGOON. The developer, Josh Pigford, sarcastically apologized to many brands in a tweet accompanying the extension's release. Beyond specific brands, Knockoff also offers the option to hide all sponsored product listings. The extension rapidly gained popularity as a valuable tool for Amazon users. For those who avoid Amazon due to ethical concerns, Knockoff serves as further proof of the platform's decline. It demonstrates the extent to which Amazon has become a marketplace filled with unseemly offerings and questionable sellers. The tool addresses a growing frustration with the quality and authenticity of products found on the e-commerce giant.

https://tech.slashdot.org/story/26/07/08/1643256/knockoff-browser-extension-hides-sketchy-brands-on-amazon tech.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 8

Apple Loses EU Fight Over App Store Gatekeeper Label

The European Union's General Court has upheld the designation of Apple's App Stores and iOS as "gatekeepers" under the Digital Markets Act. This decision means Apple must continue to comply with DMA regulations. These obligations include allowing third-party app stores on its devices. Apple is also required to enable interoperability with competing services. Furthermore, the company cannot unfairly prioritize its own services over those of rivals. The DMA also prevents gatekeepers from combining personal data across different services. Apple had previously challenged the classification of its App Stores and iOS in court. It also disputed iMessage being classified as a number-independent interpersonal communications service. However, the court found Apple's challenge regarding iMessage to be inadmissible. The ruling reinforces the EU's efforts to promote fair competition in digital markets.

https://apple.slashdot.org/story/26/07/08/1638234/apple-loses-eu-fight-over-app-store-gatekeeper-label apple.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 8

Valve Releases Proton 11 With Huge Linux Gaming Improvements

Valve has released Proton 11.0-1, a significant update to its Linux compatibility layer for Windows games. This update restores many EA games, adds support for new titles like X-Plane 12, and moves several older Resident Evil and Total War games to the stable release. Key fixes include addressing crashes in HELLDIVERS 2, reintroducing No Man's Sky VR, and improving Steam Overlay compatibility. Proton 11.0-1 is now based on Wine 11.0 with updated graphics components.

https://games.slashdot.org/story/26/07/08/0713204/valve-releases-proton-11-with-huge-linux-gaming-improvements games.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 8

Mysterious Spheres Found In Australia Are Likely Space Debris

A beach community in Queensland, Australia, was surprised by the appearance of six metallic spheres on their shore. Initially, the unusual objects sparked widespread speculation, including jokes about alien spacecraft. Residents described the spheres as being roughly twice the size of a basketball. The mystery captured public attention, fueling humorous theories among locals and businesses. However, the Australian Space Agency provided an official explanation on Monday. They determined the spheres were likely debris from a rocket that had recently re-entered Earth's atmosphere. The agency stated the objects appeared to be pressure vessels from a space launch vehicle. They indicated consistency with debris from a foreign rocket body. The Australian Space Agency has identified the probable origin of the debris. They are also collaborating with international agencies for confirmation.

https://science.slashdot.org/story/26/07/08/078258/mysterious-spheres-found-in-australia-are-likely-space-debris science.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 8

Superconducting Thruster Harnesses Earth's Magnetic Field In First Orbital Test

Zenno Astronautics successfully tested its "Supertorquer" system in orbit. This shoebox-sized device utilizes superconducting magnets and solar power to control satellites without propellant. The technology works by generating a magnetic field that interacts with Earth's magnetic field. By controlling this induced field, the satellite's orientation can be precisely managed. Superconducting magnets require extremely low temperatures to function but can generate significant magnetic forces. The Supertorquer system is insulated and uses a heat pump to maintain these low temperatures. Solar panels charge a battery that powers the superconducting coils when needed. This process converts solar energy directly into useful work for satellite maneuvering. Zenno Astronautics aims to develop larger systems for fuel-free satellite docking and proximity operations. Future plans include using these magnets for deep-space missions, like journeys to the Moon and Mars.

https://science.slashdot.org/story/26/07/07/2327219/superconducting-thruster-harnesses-earths-magnetic-field-in-first-orbital-test science.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 8

Japan Releases Snowman-Like Asteroid Image After Flyby

Japan's Hayabusa2 probe has captured unprecedented close-up images of near-Earth asteroid Torifune. The images reveal the asteroid has a distinctive snowman-like shape, formed by two connected lobes. This mission demonstrated the probe's capability to potentially deflect hazardous asteroids. The detailed imagery provides valuable scientific data on the asteroid's size, shape, and surface features. Scientists expressed excitement, with one remarking on the unexpected clarity of the rock details. Hayabusa2 flew at high speed, passing very close to the asteroid. The exact distance of the flyby is still under analysis. This encounter could represent one of the closest near-Earth asteroid flybys on record. Furthermore, the probe successfully collected data on its distance from Torifune. It also gathered information concerning the potential presence of water on the asteroid.

https://science.slashdot.org/story/26/07/07/2245233/japan-releases-snowman-like-asteroid-image-after-flyby science.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 8

Meta Now Lets Anyone Use Your Instagram Photos In AI Images

Meta has launched its new AI image model, Muse Image, to compete with rivals. This model is deeply integrated into the Instagram app. Public Instagram profiles are now automatically included for generative AI remixes. Users can tag someone's public profile in a prompt to generate an image using their likeness. Meta describes this as a personalized way to create images of real people. The feature allows for designing invitations or mock-ups using tagged usernames. Instagram's help center states that public accounts may have their content used for AI at Meta. Users who want to prevent future AI generations from their content must manually disable settings. This opt-out only affects future creations. Importantly, users will not be notified when their content is used for AI image generation.

https://tech.slashdot.org/story/26/07/07/2239255/meta-now-lets-anyone-use-your-instagram-photos-in-ai-images tech.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 8

Doom Developer id Software Is Reportedly Losing Half Its Staff

Doom developer id Software is reportedly experiencing significant layoffs, with approximately half of its staff being affected. This amounts to around 90 employees losing their jobs. While neither Microsoft nor id Software have officially confirmed these numbers, a former employee has corroborated the fifty percent figure on social media. The exact departments within id Software that have been most impacted remain unknown at this time. These cuts are occurring amidst a broader restructuring within Microsoft's Xbox division. Parent company ZeniMax Media is said to be prioritizing its major franchises, including Doom. This strategic shift might be a contributing factor to the layoffs at id Software. The studio has recently announced Doom: The Dark Ages, slated for a 2025 release and an expansion in July 2026. These developments suggest a continued focus on the Doom franchise despite the workforce reductions. Microsoft's Xbox has already laid off 1,600 employees and intends to cut an additional 1,600 in the near future.

https://games.slashdot.org/story/26/07/07/1938210/doom-developer-id-software-is-reportedly-losing-half-its-staff games.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 7

Microsoft Flips Windows Backup On By Default Outside the EU

Microsoft is enabling Windows settings backup and restore by default on eligible Windows 11 business devices outside the EU, beginning with the 26H2 release. This feature backs up device settings and a list of installed Microsoft Store apps for easy restoration to new devices. The functionality aims to aid users during hardware refreshes, lost devices, or unexpected resets by ensuring backups are active. However, organizations with strict privacy, data sovereignty requirements, or those regulated by the EU Digital Markets Act will be excluded from this default behavior. Devices running Windows 11 25H2 and earlier versions are also not affected. Furthermore, any device with a policy that explicitly disables this backup setting will remain excluded. The feature will be turned on automatically for devices running Windows 11 26H1 and 26H2 after a feature update. Administrators may express concern about this being an opt-out rather than an opt-in feature. Microsoft clarifies that this is not a complete backup solution but rather a part of broader Windows resiliency efforts. The automatic data transfer aspect of this opt-out setting could potentially increase administrative workloads.

https://tech.slashdot.org/story/26/07/07/1933209/microsoft-flips-windows-backup-on-by-default-outside-the-eu tech.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 7

Samsung Passes Nvidia To Become Most Profitable Company In the World

Samsung's chip division is experiencing unprecedented growth, with projections indicating its 2026 earnings will surpass its cumulative profits from the previous 40 years in the semiconductor industry. This surge is primarily fueled by the escalating demand for memory and storage solutions driven by artificial intelligence. In a significant development, Samsung's latest quarterly operating profit has reportedly exceeded Nvidia's. This achievement positions Samsung as the world's most profitable technology company for that specific period. Brokerage consensus forecasts Samsung's full-year 2026 operating profit to reach approximately 300 trillion won, or $196 billion. The company's second-quarter operating profit was estimated around 84.6 trillion won, or $55.1 billion. Samsung exceeded these expectations, posting $58.5 billion in preliminary results, thereby surpassing Nvidia's $53.54 billion quarterly operating profit. The DS division, Samsung's semiconductor arm, accounted for a substantial 94% of the company's total operating profit in the first quarter of 2026. This impressive performance has led to significant bonuses for Samsung's chip workers, averaging $340,000. The overwhelming success underscores the transformative impact of the AI boom on the semiconductor market.

https://hardware.slashdot.org/story/26/07/07/1927217/samsung-passes-nvidia-to-become-most-profitable-company-in-the-world hardware.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 7

FCC To End Biden-Era Rule That Forces ISPs To List All Their Fees

The FCC is proposing to roll back broadband labeling rules that require internet service providers to itemize all passthrough fees. Under the new proposal, ISPs could instead list a single "up to" amount for location-based charges. This change would allow providers to aggregate various fees, including those from local governments and utility pole owners, into a single sum. Furthermore, ISPs would be permitted to link to pricing labels rather than display them prominently on ordering pages and account portals. The proposal also eliminates the requirement for machine-readable pricing files, making data less accessible for research. Additionally, ISPs will no longer need to provide complete price label information over the phone, instead summarizing key details. These changes are intended to reduce complexity for ISPs, who have previously complained about the burden of itemizing fees. Consumer advocacy groups have expressed concerns that these changes will obscure actual costs and hinder affordability research. The FCC is scheduled to vote on this order later this month, with the changes taking effect shortly after. Another planned change will remove the requirement for ISPs to archive service plan labels for two years after discontinuation.

https://yro.slashdot.org/story/26/07/07/1918257/fcc-to-end-biden-era-rule-that-forces-isps-to-list-all-their-fees yro.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 7

China's DeepSeek Developing Its Own AI Chip

Chinese AI startup DeepSeek is developing its own AI chip to decrease dependence on Nvidia and Huawei. This new chip is specifically designed for AI inference, not for training new models. Such a move represents a significant strategic change for DeepSeek, a company recognized as a leader in China's AI landscape. Success in this endeavor could also create further competition for Chinese tech giant Huawei.

https://hardware.slashdot.org/story/26/07/07/1740259/chinas-deepseek-developing-its-own-ai-chip hardware.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 7

Major Banks In Talks To Exploit Debit Card Loophole

Major banks are reportedly exploring acquiring Fiserv's debit-card networks, STAR and Accel. This potential acquisition aims to circumvent federal caps on debit-card transaction fees for large banks. A law limits these fees when transactions are routed through outside networks, but not on bank-owned networks. By owning a network, banks can bypass this regulation and potentially increase their revenue. The acquisition of Discover by Capital One demonstrated the advantage of owning a network that eliminates intermediaries. These network fees represent billions of dollars annually across the industry. Banks argue that current fee caps hinder their ability to offer customer rewards and services. While discussions have occurred, no deal is certain, and some banks have expressed doubts about proceeding. Concerns about potential backlash from lawmakers, regulators, and merchants are also a significant factor.

https://news.slashdot.org/story/26/07/07/1726247/major-banks-in-talks-to-exploit-debit-card-loophole news.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 7

Microsoft Can Track Users Via a Windows Device ID

A criminal complaint against alleged Scattered Spider member Peter Stokes has shed light on Microsoft's Global Device ID. Investigators used this identifier to link Stokes' personal computer to online activity related to a hack. While unique device IDs are common, concerns about privacy have emerged. The identified can persist across operating system updates and lacks an easy opt-out. This identifier may allow Microsoft to connect Windows activity with third-party services. The case involved the alleged hacking of a luxury jewelry retailer using a VPN. The FBI discovered Stokes' IP address was linked to Microsoft's Global Device ID, or GDID. According to a Microsoft representative, the GDID uniquely identifies a Windows installation across various Microsoft services. This persistent identifier, combined with its ability to be associated with third-party services and timing, theoretically allows Microsoft to track users' online activity. Investigators used the GDID to trace Stokes’ computer accessing ngrok signup pages and multiple websites. The use of this identifier by federal investigators has prompted concerns about potential surveillance abuse. Cybersecurity experts have labeled Windows as surveillance software due to these capabilities.

https://yro.slashdot.org/story/26/07/07/1650237/microsoft-can-track-users-via-a-windows-device-id yro.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 7

Amazon Will Stop Accepting New Customers For Mechanical Turk

Amazon's Mechanical Turk crowdsourcing service will cease accepting new customers on July 30, 2026. Existing customers can continue to use the platform as usual, and Amazon will maintain the service's security and availability. However, no new features are planned, indicating the service is effectively being phased out. This decision follows careful consideration by Amazon Web Services.

https://tech.slashdot.org/story/26/07/07/0715252/amazon-will-stop-accepting-new-customers-for-mechanical-turk tech.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 7

Learning Another Language Appears To Slow Brain Aging By Up To 13 Years

A new study indicates that multilingualism might slow down brain aging. Bilingual individuals exhibited brains appearing approximately six years younger than their monolingual counterparts. Those speaking four languages showed brains that seemed up to 13 years younger. Researchers suggest that learning languages earlier and achieving higher proficiency enhance this beneficial effect. The study involved comparing brain activity in individuals from the Basque region with varying language proficiencies. Scientists used magnetoencephalography to measure brain activity and AI to assess neurological age. This technology allowed them to determine brain connectivity levels relative to chronological age. A separate group of participants, speaking one to four languages, were also scanned and analyzed. The findings suggest that speaking more languages is linked to younger-appearing brains. It was also observed that higher language proficiency and earlier second language acquisition further contributed to delayed brain aging.

https://science.slashdot.org/story/26/07/07/076229/learning-another-language-appears-to-slow-brain-aging-by-up-to-13-years science.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 7

US Cyber Agency Is Using Anthropic's Mythos To Audit Government Code

CISA is reportedly using Anthropic's Mythos model to scan government code for security vulnerabilities. This initiative is being conducted by CISA's Attack Surface Evaluation team. The team performs digital security assessments and hacking exercises across government systems. Early audits using Mythos have allegedly uncovered a significant number of bugs. However, the exact scope of the code scanned and the nature of the vulnerabilities remain undisclosed. The National Security Agency has also been utilizing Mythos since April, despite it being on a blacklist. NSA analysts have reportedly been impressed with the model's capabilities during classified testing. Anthropic released a public version of Mythos called Fable with cybersecurity safeguards. The White House then mandated that foreigners be banned from running Fable. This directive led to a temporary global shutdown of the model, which has since been resolved.

https://yro.slashdot.org/story/26/07/07/0036203/us-cyber-agency-is-using-anthropics-mythos-to-audit-government-code yro.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 7

GitHub Thumbs Nose At Sony's Controversial End to Physical Media With Its Introduction of Repo CDs

GitHub is offering a limited run of 1,000 CD-ROM copies of public repositories as a response to Sony's plan to stop producing PlayStation game discs in 2028. The company is allowing users to order a burned CD of their own public GitHub repo, which can be held in their hands and does not require a download. This offer is only available between July 2 and July 6, and each person is limited to one disc, with availability varying by country or region. The CDs are being presented as a way to physically own and keep code, with GitHub suggesting that users can lend them to friends or pass them on to their children. However, it is clear that this is a limited-time stunt and not a serious attempt to promote physical media. The company seems to be aware that many of the CDs will be lost or discarded, and is even acknowledging this in its marketing. Despite this, some of the CDs may become collector's items or be sold for money on eBay, particularly if they have unique numbers. The offer is being seen as a protest against the decline of physical media, but it is also being criticized as a potential source of e-waste. GitHub's move is being viewed as a lighthearted jab at Sony's decision, rather than a serious attempt to promote physical media. Overall, the offer is a unique and humorous response to the shift towards digital media, but its impact and significance are likely to be limited.

https://hardware.slashdot.org/story/26/07/07/0027252/github-thumbs-nose-at-sonys-controversial-end-to-physical-media-with-its-introduction-of-repo-cds hardware.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 7

Research Universities Are Admitting Fewer PhDs, a Bad Sign For Science

The number of students admitted to Ph.D. programs at top research universities has fallen by 15 percent, causing concern about the future of scientific innovation. This decline is partly attributed to an unstable federal funding environment under the Trump administration. Uncertainty surrounding federal budgets and proposed cuts makes it difficult for universities to commit to long-term support for doctoral students. Key federal agencies like the NIH and NSF are funding fewer research grants. Additionally, wealthy institutions are facing a new tax on their endowments. University leaders fear a loss of a generation of talent, impacting teaching, mentoring, and the scientific workforce. The disruption caused by abrupt grant cancellations and reversals, even if later overturned, has been detrimental. This situation arises from an unpredictable federal funding landscape that discourages multiyear commitments. The data comes from 55 prestigious research institutions that confer half of the nation's research doctorates.

https://news.slashdot.org/story/26/07/06/228207/research-universities-are-admitting-fewer-phds-a-bad-sign-for-science news.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 7

Small AI Models Gain Traction Around the World

Adebayo Alonge developed the RxScanner, a handheld spectrometer and AI system to combat counterfeit medication in Africa. During a demonstration in Cape Town, the system failed due to connectivity issues. Alonge's team quickly adapted the AI model to run offline on an Android phone, saving the demo. This innovation allowed the RxScanner to function without broadband or reliable electricity. The success highlights the potential of "small AI" – efficient AI models running on low-power devices. Other examples of small AI include a drone system for diagnosing cashew plant diseases in India. This drone processes data locally, eliminating the need for external computers or internet. Small AI is also deployed in Uruguay to identify ant infestations in vineyards. Furthermore, small AI is used for detecting malaria-carrying mosquitoes in remote areas. In Brazil, small AI powers electrocardiograms on Arduino devices and analyzes sensor data to detect mosquito breeding sites.

https://slashdot.org/story/26/07/06/221233/small-ai-models-gain-traction-around-the-world slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 6

Supreme Court Allows Texas To Require Age Verification For Mobile Apps

The Supreme Court has permitted Texas to enforce a new law that mandates app stores to verify users' ages. This law also requires parental consent for minors to download applications. Tech industry organizations contend that this legislation significantly limits young people's access to digital speech. The Supreme Court's decision allows Texas to implement the law while legal challenges continue. Texas argued that children downloading apps agree to potentially problematic terms regarding privacy and data sales. Trade groups, including those representing Apple and Google, stated the law would restrict access to diverse content, impacting digital speech protections. A federal district court had previously blocked the law's enforcement. However, the 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals later put that block on hold. By not intervening, the Supreme Court has effectively allowed the 5th Circuit's decision to stand. This means the age verification law can be enforced as the case proceeds.

https://yro.slashdot.org/story/26/07/06/2144244/supreme-court-allows-texas-to-require-age-verification-for-mobile-apps yro.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 6

South Korea's SK Hynix Launching $28 Billion US Listing To Ride Global AI Wave

SK Hynix is launching a Nasdaq listing to raise approximately $28 billion. This move will enhance US investor access to the company, a major player in the AI memory-chip market. The tech giant will offer 17.79 million new American Depositary Receipts, with ten ADRs representing one common share. The pricing will be determined based on SK Hynix's current trading price in Seoul, though its stock saw a 4% dip on Monday. Despite this, the company's share price has surged by approximately 273% this year due to high investor demand for AI-related stocks. This Nasdaq listing is significant as it makes SK Hynix, a top performer among its rivals in the AI boom, more accessible to US institutions. The funds raised are slated for building chip factories in South Korea and acquiring advanced chipmaking equipment, including an ASML EUV scanner. The final price will be set on Thursday, with trading expected to commence on Friday. This deal is poised to be the second-largest share sale, following SpaceX's substantial IPO. The company's management is currently engaged in a roadshow to meet with global investors.

https://hardware.slashdot.org/story/26/07/06/1859227/south-koreas-sk-hynix-launching-28-billion-us-listing-to-ride-global-ai-wave hardware.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 6

Zombie 'Who Owns Unix?' Lawsuit Comes Alive Again

The SCO/IBM Unix and Linux ownership dispute has re-emerged through Xinuos, seeking to revive old claims related to Project Monterey. This project, a 1998 alliance between IBM and SCO, aimed to create a unified Unix for multiple processors by blending their code. IBM later shifted focus to Linux, allegedly contributing Monterey code to the open-source project, which SCO believed infringed upon its ownership.SCO sued IBM, and despite SCO's financial struggles, successors kept the lawsuit active due to the potential for significant financial gain. Previous litigation concluded in 2021 with a settlement where no fault was admitted by IBM. SCO had sold its software assets to Xinuos, which decided to continue the legal battle.The current Xinuos case recently had a hearing, revisiting arguments about Project Monterey and ownership rights. Xinuos contends that IBM lacked the necessary licenses for SCO's code. IBM maintains its actions were lawful. The central legal question revolves around Xinuos's right to litigate these outdated claims, considering potential expired legal windows.

https://tech.slashdot.org/story/26/07/06/1844204/zombie-who-owns-unix-lawsuit-comes-alive-again tech.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 6

Secret Claude Tracker Shocks Users After Anthropic's Anti-Surveillance Stance

Anthropic secretly embedded a tracker in Claude Code to monitor Chinese users. A security researcher discovered the hidden code, calling it spyware and a breach of trust. The tracker, using prompt steganography, collected user timezone, proxy information, and potential ties to Chinese AI labs. Anthropic engineer Thariq Shihipar confirmed it was an experiment to prevent account abuse and protect against distillation attacks. Unauthorized resellers were selling access to models at significantly reduced prices. Shihipar claimed Anthropic intended to remove the tracker, having implemented stronger mitigations. Privacy advocates expressed concern about Anthropic's willingness to surveil users. This incident is surprising given Anthropic's refusal to allow US government surveillance of users. The tracker is seen as an aggressive measure by US firms to prevent Chinese AI firms from copying their models. Chinese firms have rapidly matched US model capabilities, even surpassing Anthropic's latest model in some areas.

https://yro.slashdot.org/story/26/07/06/1836230/secret-claude-tracker-shocks-users-after-anthropics-anti-surveillance-stance yro.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 6

Microsoft Lays Off Nearly 5,000 Employees Across Xbox, Commercial Sales

Microsoft is laying off approximately 4,800 employees, with 1,600 of those cuts impacting the Xbox division. This significant restructuring is driven by Microsoft's strategic pivot towards AI investments and an effort to revitalize its gaming business. The company acknowledges that the industry is rapidly changing, necessitating adjustments in its operations and priorities to meet evolving customer needs. While AI is automating some tasks, Microsoft emphasizes that these specific layoffs are not directly due to AI replacing roles. Instead, the changes reflect a broader need for employees to adapt and acquire new skills as work evolves.The Xbox business, in particular, is undergoing its most substantial restructure ever, as it is not performing as healthily as desired. Its operating margins are significantly lower than comparable industry businesses. Despite strategic investments in Game Pass, content expansion, and multi-platform growth, these initiatives have not yielded the expected results. The industry is also facing a severe hardware crisis, prompting the need for a reset at Xbox. As part of this overhaul, four game studios will transition to new management structures. Compulsion Games and Double Fine Productions will become independent, while Ninja Theory and Undead Labs will receive funding under new ownership. Xbox is also drastically flattening its management layers. Longtime executive Helen Chiang will become Chief Operating Officer overseeing profit and loss across all Xbox operations. The restructuring aims to narrow focus on core strategic pillars like Mojang and King, moving away from less successful creative ventures.

https://games.slashdot.org/story/26/07/06/1827209/microsoft-lays-off-nearly-5000-employees-across-xbox-commercial-sales games.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 6

Nintendo Switch 2 Is Getting a Replaceable Battery in Europe

Nintendo will stop selling the original Switch in Europe in mid-February 2027, nearly 10 years after its launch. The company will release updated versions of the Switch 2 and several controllers to comply with new EU regulations. The EU regulations require user-replaceable batteries, which will be introduced in various Nintendo devices on a rolling basis starting this summer. The updated devices will include the Switch 2, Joy-Con controllers, Joy-Con 2, Switch 2 Pro Controller, and N64 and GameCube Switch controllers. There will be no difference in functionality between the current products and the revised products containing user-replaceable batteries. The Switch 2 is the most notable product being updated, with the new version expected to start rolling out in the fall. The updated versions of the devices will be released ahead of the EU regulations coming into effect on February 18th, 2027. Nintendo notes that the revised products may not become available in all European countries simultaneously due to various factors. The company is making these changes to comply with the new EU regulations, which aim to make devices more sustainable and environmentally friendly. The introduction of user-replaceable batteries is a significant update to Nintendo's lineup, and it will be interesting to see how it affects the company's products and sales in Europe.

https://hardware.slashdot.org/story/26/07/06/1636252/nintendo-switch-2-is-getting-a-replaceable-battery-in-europe hardware.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 6

Americans of All Ages Are Spending Less Time Socializing

Americans are spending less time socializing daily compared to twenty years ago. This trend is observed across all age groups, with a particularly significant decrease among young adults aged 15 to 24. Sociologists and psychologists attribute this decline to several interconnected factors. One primary driver is the increased usage of smartphones and online interactions, which often replace face-to-face connections. Teenagers, for instance, spend a considerable amount of time daily on social media applications. The shift towards remote work and living, accelerated by the pandemic, has also contributed to more time spent at home. Furthermore, larger and more comfortable homes, coupled with readily available food delivery services, make staying in more appealing. The erosion of communal gathering spaces, including libraries, coffee shops, and museums, also plays a role. Additionally, a notable increase in church closures further reduces opportunities for community interaction. These combined trends are reshaping daily life, making isolation more prevalent.

https://news.slashdot.org/story/26/07/06/056242/americans-of-all-ages-are-spending-less-time-socializing news.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 6

Fines Doubled As Teens Outsmart Australia's Social Media Ban

Australia intends to significantly increase penalties for social media platforms that fail to prevent underage children from accessing restricted services. Regulators observed that a substantial majority of children with accounts remained active on these platforms three months after the ban's implementation. The proposed legislative changes will empower the eSafety Commissioner with greater authority to request information from platforms and age verification providers. This move comes as teenagers continue to find ways to circumvent the existing regulations.The draft legislation will double the maximum fine to 99 million Australian dollars for platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok that do not adequately comply with the ban. Communications Minister Anika Wells criticized Big Tech, stating that the current scheme is not working effectively due to their lack of effort. She indicated a lack of improvement despite monthly updates from the online safety regulator.Furthermore, the amendments will grant the eSafety Commissioner enhanced powers to compel information from platforms and third-party age assurance technology providers. This is to verify claims made by companies about how minors bypass the restrictions. Despite initial reports of millions of accounts being removed or restricted, the eSafety Commissioner's findings revealed continued activity from children on restricted platforms. The Commissioner has previously considered legal action against some platforms for failing to take reasonable steps to exclude children. An opposition lawmaker suggested supporting reforms but attributed the initial shortcomings to the original legislation lacking sufficient powers for the eSafety Commissioner.

https://tech.slashdot.org/story/26/07/06/0459219/fines-doubled-as-teens-outsmart-australias-social-media-ban tech.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 6

Google Ordered to Pay $2 Billion For Anti-Competitive Practices By Swedish Court

Google has been ordered to pay nearly $2 billion to Pricerunner by a court in Stockholm. Pricerunner, a Swedish price-comparison website, alleged that Google abused its search engine dominance for over a decade. The company claimed Google favored its own comparison shopping service over independent rivals. The awarded sum is intended to compensate for lost revenue due to Google's preferential treatment. Pricerunner also argued this conduct harms consumers by raising costs. Google disagrees with the ruling and is considering its legal options, as the decision can be appealed. The tech giant stated that changes made in 2017 have spurred growth for hundreds of comparison shopping services in Europe. This litigation stems from a 2017 EU antitrust decision that fined Google €2.4 billion for similar practices. The EU ruling allowed for subsequent lawsuits, and the EU's top court confirmed Google's antitrust violations. A German court previously ordered Google to pay €573 million in damages to two comparison websites, a ruling Google is also appealing. Additional similar cases are currently proceeding in Europe.

https://tech.slashdot.org/story/26/07/06/0510248/google-ordered-to-pay-2-billion-for-anti-competitive-practices-by-swedish-court tech.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 6

Is Big Tech Now Backpedaling on the AI Jobs Wipeout Scenario?

A year ago, business leaders predicted AI would eliminate jobs. However, tech CEOs now express a more optimistic outlook regarding AI's impact on the workforce. OpenAI's Sam Altman acknowledged being wrong about the social and economic implications of AI, emphasizing the human element. Anthropic's CEO also shifted from warning about job losses to highlighting AI's potential for increased productivity or efficiency with fewer resources. This change in narrative may be an attempt to regain public trust in AI. Alternatively, the role of AI in the workplace might simply be better understood now. The prevailing sentiment has moved from AI-induced job losses to a future where workers retain their jobs and experience productivity gains. CEO surveys show a significant decrease in the belief that AI investments will lead to substantial headcount reductions. Economists suggest leaders may have realized the labor market isn't collapsing as predicted. Making negative predictions about a new product's economic impact could also be bad for business. Amazon's Jeff Bezos has a history of predicting AI will create jobs, even suggesting a future labor shortage. He believes public fear stems from constant pronouncements of AI taking jobs, a message now being heard less frequently.

https://it.slashdot.org/story/26/07/06/0552215/is-big-tech-now-backpedaling-on-the-ai-jobs-wipeout-scenario it.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 6

How Tech Scammers Conned Four People Out of $673,000 in Three Days

Four Clallam County residents recently lost over $673,000 in just three days due to various scams. One victim lost $3,500 by purchasing Apple gift cards for a fake Microsoft technical support scammer. Another individual lost $50,000 after clicking a malicious email that granted scammers access to their financial accounts. A 64-year-old resident lost approximately $200,000 in cryptocurrency by downloading a fake "rescue" app after believing their Coinbase account was closed. This application allowed remote access to their phone, leading them to transfer funds to a scammer's fraudulent wallet. In another scam, an 84-year-old resident was tricked into believing they were under investigation for child pornography and money laundering. They were instructed to purchase gold to protect their assets, losing around $420,000 worth of gold. The victim handed this gold over to an unknown man at the end of their driveway. This realization of being defrauded only occurred after speaking with bank officials. The sheriff's office warns that criminals use fear, trust, and urgency to manipulate victims. They strongly advise pausing before sending money, purchasing gift cards, or transferring cryptocurrency. A simple phone call to a trusted family member, bank, or law enforcement can prevent significant financial loss.

https://yro.slashdot.org/story/26/07/06/0446207/how-tech-scammers-conned-four-people-out-of-673000-in-three-days yro.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 6

Hundreds Support Legal Defense for Engineer Charged with Destroying Flock Surveillance Cameras

An Air Force engineer named Jeffrey Sovern is facing multiple charges for allegedly damaging over a dozen AI-integrated surveillance cameras. The Virginia resident is accused of destruction of property, petit larceny, and possession of burglary tools. These actions were reportedly taken against Flock license plate cameras, which have been described as sometimes misdirected or thrown down. Sovern, with the support of privacy advocates, used tools like spray paint and chainsaws to protest the surveillance technology. He explained on a GoFundMe page that this type of vandalism has considerable underlying support. Sovern launched his legal defense fundraising campaign in late December 2025. His initial goal was to raise $8,500 for his legal expenses. The online fundraising effort has gained significant traction as his case has become more widely known. Currently, the legal fund has surpassed $23,000 with over 680 donors contributing. Sovern had also encouraged supporters to contact local governments to advocate for the removal of these surveillance systems.

https://yro.slashdot.org/story/26/07/06/0011246/hundreds-support-legal-defense-for-engineer-charged-with-destroying-flock-surveillance-cameras yro.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 6

Go-based TypeScript 7.0 Finally Reaches Release Candidate Stage

TypeScript's creator, Anders Hejlsberg, announced plans to rewrite its compiler in Go over two years ago. This week, Microsoft released the first Go-based release candidate for TypeScript 7.0. The new compiler is reportedly ten times faster than TypeScript 6.0 due to native code speed and shared memory parallelism. TypeScript 7.0 executes many build steps concurrently, including parsing, type checking, and emitting code. Parsing and emitting can largely be performed independently for different files. This parallelization scales effectively with larger codebases and minimal overhead. However, not all build steps within TypeScript are easily made parallel. Microsoft intends to officially release TypeScript 7.0 within the next month. Developers can test the new compiler now by installing it from npm. They can do so using the command npm install -D typescript@rc.

https://developers.slashdot.org/story/26/07/05/2335217/go-based-typescript-70-finally-reaches-release-candidate-stage developers.slashdot.org

RSS Hunter • Jul 6