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Archive: 2025-02-24 (658) - Page 6/14 (50)

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Segway Unveils E150S eScooter with Integrated Navigation System

The Segway E150S eScooter has been revealed ahead of its launch later this year. It builds on two earlier models but is equipped with a more powerful motor. Other features include an expandable battery, a traction control system and a color TFT display with smart features, including navigation.

Crypto Regulatory Clarity Boosts Industry Confidence

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has closed its investigation into Robinhood's crypto arm with no action, a move that is seen as a shift towards clearer regulatory guidelines for the digital assets industry. This development comes amid efforts to revamp policing of crypto assets since President Donald Trump took office, including the establishment of a task force to clarify the regulatory framework around crypto assets. The closure is also expected to boost investor confidence and support Robinhood's continued expansion in the crypto market.

Google, Meta Face Penalties for Anti-Competitive Behaviour Towards South African News Media

Google may be required to compensate South African media outlets up to 500 million rand annually after the Competition Commission found it guilty of anti-competitive practices that favor global news over local content. The report indicates that Google's algorithm has significantly contributed to the decline of local media, leading to recommendations for financial remedies and changes to search functionalities to enhance local media visibility. Meta and other platforms are also facing scrutiny, with potential fines looming if they do not rectify their impact on news media traffic.

Switching to Linux for a Windows 10 Alternative?

Free10, a repacking of the Q40S Linux distribution, offers an outstanding option for anyone looking to migrate from Windows to Linux. Free10's resemblance to Windows 10 is impressive, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a familiar user interface. The distro's creators have effectively struck a balance between maintaining the core Q40S distribution and adding a Windows-like aesthetic.

US DOT TELLS EMPLOYEES TO RESPOND TO MUSK EMAIL ON ACCOMPLISHMENTS

The U.S. Transportation Department instructed employees to respond to a demand by President Donald Trump's adviser Elon Musk to list their accomplishments in the past week by 11:59 p.m. ET on Monday, requiring them to include five bullet points but excluding classified information. The department's email aims to meet Musk's request, which some agencies have deemed an unreasonable and potentially embarrassing task for employees. This directive reflects the Trump administration's efforts to implement a presidential-level evaluation system.

Best Money Market Account Rates Today: Earn Up to 4.51% APY

Money market account interest rates are well above historical norms, and it's still possible to find accounts paying more than 4% APY. These accounts offer a relatively high interest rate along with liquidity and flexibility, making them ideal for long-term savings that need to grow over time but can be accessed when needed. However, rates have been falling in recent months, so it's essential to shop around and compare accounts before making a decision.

Ukraine could join EU before 2030 if reforms continue, von der Leyen says

Ukraine is on track to join the European Union before 2030, according to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who cited the country's swift and high-quality reform pace as a key factor in this timeline. The European Commission has consistently emphasized the importance of Ukraine's EU accession for its security and stability, with von der Leyen expressing confidence that the country will meet all necessary requirements. If Ukraine continues on its current trajectory, it could potentially become an EU member state ahead of schedule.

The Best Password Generator of 2025: Expert Tested

NordPass is the top-rated secure password manager, and its password generator is available to users on free and paid plans as well as anyone with access to a web browser. The generator defaults to a password length of 20 characters but allows as few as eight and as many as 64, with a strength indicator that lets you know whether your password is weak, moderate, or strong. Reviewers praise the user-friendly interface and fast password generation process, making it an ideal choice for both individuals and businesses looking to protect their online identities.

Revolutionary Battery Repair Technique Boosts Lithium-Ion Battery Life Sixfold

A revolutionary battery repair technique developed at Fudan University could potentially extend lithium-ion battery life by over 600 percent through a special solution that restores degraded cells. A new battery repair method created by Chinese researchers may boost the lifespan of lithium-ion batteries by over six times, potentially reshaping the durability of electric cars and mobile devices. The discovery, which appears in Nature, centers on injecting a tailored solution that restores worn-out batteries to near-original performance levels.

Intel Xeon 6 Processors Take Aim at Nvidia in AI-Driven Data Centers

Intel Xeon 6 processors provide a significant boost in power and intelligence for data centers and AI processing, positioning Intel as a leader in the industry. The new P-core hardware promises increased performance and efficiency, allowing businesses to optimize workloads, reduce costs, and build flexible and scalable networks. With over 500 designs already available or in progress, Intel's Xeon 6 series is poised to disrupt the competitive landscape of data center hardware.

STARTUP BATTLEFIELD 200 APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN

TechCrunch is now accepting applications for Startup Battlefield 200, a premier startup pitch competition that will take place at Disrupt 2025 from October 27-29. The competition offers exposure, learning opportunities, and a chance to compete for the coveted $100,000 equity-free prize. Applicants can gain a global platform to showcase their groundbreaking startups to world-class VC judges.

Meta Abandons Fact-Checking Programs as Misinformation Spreads

In an effort to prioritize content moderation, Meta has announced the phasing out of its third-party fact-checking programs in the U.S., while reintroducing a bonus program for creators who produce viral content. The move could lead to a surge in misinformation, particularly as the company deprioritizes fact-checking and allows creators to monetize false claims. As a result, Meta's approach to addressing misinformation is likely to be met with skepticism by many experts.

Realme Teases "Ultra" Phone with a Large Camera Sensor

Realme is set to unveil its new "Ultra" smartphone at MWC 2025, which is designed to be camera-centric with a focus on high-quality photography. The device is expected to feature a larger-than-usual sensor and an optical telephoto lens, potentially surpassing the capabilities of leading flagship models. Although specific details remain limited, the teaser suggests that Realme aims to position this phone as a strong competitor in the high-end smartphone market.

US Judge to Hear AP Challenge to Trump's Ban Over Use of Gulf of Mexico Name

A federal judge is set to review the Associated Press's request to regain access for its journalists after the Trump administration barred them for using "Gulf of Mexico" in their reporting. The AP contends that this restriction violates First Amendment rights, as it attempts to control the language used in news coverage. The case highlights tensions between government authority and press freedoms, raising questions about access and accountability in journalism.

Galaxy Z Fold7: Samsung tipped to deliver new ultra-thin body and larger foldable display

The Galaxy Z Fold7 is reportedly set to boast an even thinner design than its predecessor, with a thickness of 4.5 mm in its open state and up to 9.5 mm when closed. The phone's dimensions are expected to increase slightly compared to the Special Edition, allowing for larger displays. Samsung's new foldable model will feature improved display capabilities, including a 6.5-inch cover screen and an 8.2-inch foldable display.

Morocco Foils IS Attacks in Sahel Operation

A 12-member cell loyal to Islamic State in the Sahel was foiled by Morocco's counterterrorism agency, with suspects arrested and explosives, chemical substances, and firearms seized. The operation highlights the threat of jihadist militancy in the region, where groups linked to Islamic State expand activity in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. The suspects, radicalized online, planned remotely controlled bomb attacks and were supplied by the IS leader via smugglers.

Why Gmail is replacing SMS codes with QR codes - and what it means for you

Gmail is transitioning from using SMS codes as a two-factor authentication method to utilizing QR codes for more robust security. Google aims to reduce the impact of rampant global SMS abuse by switching to a more secure approach. The change will eliminate the numeric authentication code, making it harder for scammers to intercept or exploit.

The Luxury of Bulk: Costco's High-End Appeal

Costco moves a significant amount of luxury goods, with Rolex watches, gold bars, and high-end items becoming an integral part of its business. Weaker shoppers are willing to pay top dollar for these luxury items, which has become a major profit driver for the company. According to chairman Hamilton "Tony" James, Costco's focus on quality, pricing, and selective inventory sets it apart from competitors like Amazon and Walmart.

Google, Meta Face Penalties for Anti-Competitive Behaviour Towards South African News Media

Google may be liable for compensating South African media outlets up to 500 million rand ($27.29 million) annually, following findings of anti-competitive practices by the Competition Commission of South Africa. The investigation revealed that Google's search algorithms favor global over local news, significantly harming the local media landscape over the past 14 years. Recommendations include compensatory payments and changes to improve traffic referrals for South African news media, with potential fines if compliance is not achieved.

VERIZON'S HOME INTERNET DEAL IS EXPIRING THIS WEEK - DON'T MISS YOUR CHANCE TO GET A YEAR OF NETFLIX FREE

Verizon is offering a limited-time deal that includes up to $300 off its 5G Home Internet service, as well as a year of Netflix and HBO Max on the house. The streaming bundle alone is worth at least $200 in value over a year, making this one of the best internet deals on the market right now. Verizon's 5-year price guarantee ensures that customers can lock in their rates for the long term.

The BOI Filing Requirement for Fleets: A Compliance Conundrum Takes Center Stage

Fleets operating in the United States are facing a new layer of complexity with the implementation of the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), which mandates Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) filing with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). As a result, trucking companies must navigate the added regulatory burden, which creates uncertainty over compliance and potential risks. The law's goal is to prevent illicit activities by requiring businesses to report sensitive ownership information, but its implementation has been marred by litigation and unclear guidelines.

What Is My IP Address? How to Find Out and What It Means

An Internet Protocol address is a unique number that identifies a device connected to the internet. IP addresses can reveal your approximate (but not exact) location, such as the town or city you're connected to the internet with. Consequently, there have been some pricey concerns around browsing or using the internet for casual and professional use.

The Best Android Smartwatches in 2025: Expert Tested and Reviewed

A comprehensive evaluation of the best Android smartwatches for 2025 highlights key models, including the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra, OnePlus Watch 3, and Google Pixel Watch 3, each excelling in specific features such as battery life, design, and health tracking capabilities. The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra stands out for its advanced safety features and fitness metrics, while the OnePlus Watch 3 impresses with its exceptional battery longevity and durability. As the smartwatch market evolves, these devices reflect a trend toward integrating health and fitness technology into user-friendly designs.

Reviving Rural Cyprus through Fowl Play

Organic farmers in Cyprus have recruited hundreds of retired hens to fertilize olive groves, boosting yields and combating disease. The pilot project, known as the Kot-Kot initiative, collects food waste donations to feed the hens, which provide natural fertilizer for olive trees producing oil high in polyphenols. By harnessing the power of retired hens, farmers can create a biodiverse, self-sustained ecosystem that enhances agricultural productivity.

Ukraine Seeks Minerals Deal with US Amidst Ongoing Conflict

Ukraine is finalising a deal with the US that would grant American companies access to its mineral deposits, including graphite and lithium. The agreement aims to secure Ukraine's critical raw materials, which are vital for electric car production and renewable energy. If successful, the deal could reduce the US's dependency on China for rare earth minerals.

Stock Market Struggles to Recoup Loss Amid Ongoing Inflation Woes

US stocks struggled to recover from last week's losses as ongoing inflation worries and economic concerns kept investors skittish. A survey showed consumers are feeling more pessimistic, with inflation fears creeping up again amid President Trump's constant threats of broad tariffs. Another economic report showed the services sector fell into contractionary territory, contributing to the decline in stocks.

STEAM GAME OF THE CENTURY SNUBBED BY HISTORICAL PRICE CUT

A Juggler's Tale - a cinematic indie platformer with almost 900 "Very Positive" reviews, is now $3.59 on Steam after an 80% discount. This fairytale adventure is short but memorable. The sale ends March 9. Originally released in September 2021, this cinematic puzzle-platformer has rightfully earned a "Very Positive" rating from nearly 900 players, with special focus on its storytelling and art direction.

Your TV's USB Port Has Superpowers: 5 Useful Benefits You're Not Taking Advantage Of

The USB ports on modern TVs offer a variety of functionalities that many users overlook, including transforming the TV into a media player, workstation, or even a charging hub. By connecting external devices, users can enhance their viewing experience, utilize larger screens for work tasks, and power streaming devices without the need for additional outlets. These features not only maximize the utility of the TV but also highlight the importance of exploring all available options to fully enjoy technology at home.

Netanyahu Seeks German Visit Amid ICC Warrant

Germany's likely next chancellor Friedrich Merz has invited Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to visit, promising to find ways for him to do so without being arrested under a warrant by the International Criminal Court. Despite widespread criticism, Merz views the invitation as a matter of principle and solidarity with Israel. The move is seen as a test of Germany's commitment to international justice versus its historical ties to the Jewish state.

Tesla to release cheap Model 2 as well as Model S and Model X facelifts in 2025

Tesla is on track to unveil its cheapest vehicle, dubbed the Model 2 or Q, alongside a refreshed Model Y and updated Model S and Model X models in 2025. The company's chief engineer Lars Moravy has emphasized that the new car will not compromise on quality compared to its existing lineup. To achieve this balance, Tesla is focusing on optimizing performance, efficiency, and affordability.

APPLE DESIGNER SUSAN KARE CREATES MAC-INSPIRED PHYSICAL ICONS

Susan Kare has released 32 new retro-inspired icons that are designed to live outside of your computer screen. Each piece in the "Esc Keys" collection is crafted in silver or gold-coated silver and features an 8-bit pixel art illustration like a dog, a plant, mail, and coffee. The designs, created by Kare in collaboration with Asprey Studio, come with limited edition prints starting at $650 for computer keys and ranging up to $2,064 for necklace pendants.

Musk's demand to government workers opens fissures in Trump administration

Elon Musk's order to U.S. government workers to justify their jobs has raised questions about the authority of the world's richest person in President Donald Trump's administration as he leads an effort to slash the federal payroll, with some agencies telling workers to respond and others ignoring him. Musk's directive to the nation's 2.3 million civil-service workers to provide a five-point summary of their work by a specific deadline has created confusion and raised concerns about employee security. The situation is part of a broader downsizing effort that has already laid off more than 20,000 workers.

US Job Investments Amid Tariff Threat

Apple Inc. is investing $500 billion domestically over the next four years, including a new server manufacturing facility in Houston and additional spending with existing suppliers, to create 20,000 new jobs and maintain its supply chain resilience amid US President Donald Trump's tariffs on Chinese goods. The move marks Apple's biggest US commitment to date, building upon its previous investments of $430 billion over the next five years. By expanding its operations in the US, Apple aims to mitigate the impact of Trump's tariffs on its products.

APPLE COMMITTS TO LARGEST EVER $500BN US INVESTMENT

Apple plans to invest over $500bn in the US over the next four years, with a new factory in Texas and money spent on suppliers. The tech giant expects to create 20,000 new jobs, mostly in research and development, software, and artificial intelligence (AI). The investment is part of Apple's efforts to expand its support for American manufacturing.

Garmin Issues Beta Update Fixing HRM Connection Issues on Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro

Garmin has published a new beta update for the Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro, addressing System Software 2 issues that previously broke compatibility with HRM accessories. The company now also warns that System Software 20.16 breaks compatibility with HRM accessories in some instances, prompting the release of Beta Version 20.19 to fix the issue. Garmin claims that Beta Version 20.19 should resolve crashes that occur during activities, but the company is still investigating an issue preventing external sensors from auto-connecting.

Technicolor Faces Financial Woes: Creative Industry Struggles Amidst Economic Turmoil

Technicolor's UK entity has filed for administration, with 'the majority' of its UK staff made redundant, due to 'economic headwinds affecting companies right across the creative industries'. The company, which owns several leading visual effects studios, had been looking to sell its business but was unable to find a buyer. Technicolor's collapse is part of a broader trend in the creative industry where businesses are struggling to stay afloat amidst rising costs and declining profits.

Black Basta's Internal Secrets Exposed: A Glimpse into the World of Cybercrime

The leaked chat logs of Black Basta, one of the largest ransomware groups in Russia, reveal valuable information on their internal structure, tactics, and targets. The group's phishing templates, emails, cryptocurrency addresses, and data drops have been exposed, providing insight into their operations. However, the true extent of their activities remains a mystery.

Zen Is My New Favorite Browser - And These 5 Mods Make It Even Better

Zen Browser has gained popularity due to its enhanced tab management and customization features, particularly through its unique Zen Mods. These community-driven modifications allow users to personalize their browsing experience, introducing fun and efficiency to the interface. Among the recommended mods, Erics Zen UI Tweak Box stands out for its comprehensive set of tweaks that improve aesthetics and usability.

Italy's Meloni Bags UAE Investment Pledge Worth $40 Billion

The United Arab Emirates plans to invest $40 billion in Italy, the two countries said at a bilateral summit in Rome, without providing any time frame. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has pursued stronger ties with Gulf countries since taking office in 2022, ignoring concerns over human rights issues raised by political opponents. Under her watch, Italy lifted arms sales embargoes for the UAE and Saudi Arabia imposed by previous governments due to the war in Yemen.

DOGE Team Blocked from Accessing Education Department Data

A U.S. judge has blocked the government downsizing team created by President Donald Trump and spearheaded by billionaire Elon Musk from accessing sensitive data maintained by the U.S. Education Department and the U.S. Office of Personnel Management. The judge's order was issued at the behest of a coalition of labor unions who argued that the agencies had wrongly granted DOGE sweeping access to records containing personal information on millions of Americans. The Privacy Act of 1974 was likely violated, according to the judge.

Cloud Adoption Critical for Financial Institutions Amid Uncertainty

Financial institutions need to adopt a cloud-first approach in order to maximize their investments. They must leverage technology such as generative AI to scale, streamline, and personalize services. However, many firms are still struggling to realize the full value of their cloud investments.

MANAGEMENT BUYOUT OF REAL ESTATE FIRM BRIDGE INVESTMENT GROUP BY APOLLO GLOBAL MANAGEMENT TO BE VALUED AT $1.5 BILLION

Apollo Global Management is set to acquire Bridge Investment Group, a real estate firm that manages over $50 billion in assets, in an all-stock deal valued at approximately $1.5 billion. The acquisition will expand Apollo's real estate offerings and enhance its origination capabilities in both real estate equity and credit. By purchasing Bridge, Apollo aims to increase its scale in the real estate market and bolster its position as a leading asset manager.

Netflix Leaks Stranger Things Season 5 Details as Streamer Battles Data Breach

Stranger Things season 5 details have leaked online, with reportedly over 400 individual assets accessed and downloaded by the original leaker. The leak comes six months after Netflix was hit a similar incident, and this time, key information about the show's final season has been shared across the internet since the breach occurred last Saturday (February 22). Netflix has quickly taken action to takedown social media posts, YouTube and TikTok videos, and other internet posts that include any materials relating to Stranger Things season 5.

French President to Warn Trump Against Appearing Weak to Putin

Emmanuel Macron is set to meet Donald Trump at the White House, where he will urge the US president to avoid appearing weak to Russian President Vladimir Putin in order to maintain credibility with other world leaders and prevent China from taking advantage of a perceived vulnerability. Macron believes that appearing weak on Russia would undermine Trump's stance against China and threaten global stability. The French president aims to persuade Trump that European interests are aligned with those of the US, and that any peace deal must be negotiated with Ukrainians and Europeans around the table.

Samsung's iPhone 16e Rival is Down to Its Black Friday Price

The Galaxy S24 FE has received a significant discount on Amazon, bringing it down to under $500 for the 128GB version and under $600 for the 256GB version. At the discounted prices, both variants not only cost less than the iPhone 16e but offer more features, too. The Galaxy S24 FE has been available to buy for almost six months now and during that period it has received some huge discounts.

Tesla Prepares to Deploy Full Self-Driving Features in China

Tesla is preparing a software update for customers in China to offer driving-assistance capabilities similar to its full self-driving (FSD) features in the U.S. The update will be deployed to customers who have paid 64,000 yuan ($8,831.73) for what Tesla calls FSD, allowing owners to use driver-assist features on city streets on select models. This move aims to help the company weather slowing demand for its electric vehicles in the U.S.

Russia's Ryazan Oil Refinery Halts Operations After Drone Strike

Russia's Ryazan oil refinery has suspended operations after an attack by Ukrainian drones on Monday, three industry sources told Reuters. The main crude distillation unit at the refinery, CDU-6, caught fire in the attack and the plant has fully suspended oil processing. Rosneft, which owns the plant, did not respond to a request for comment.

Global security arrangements 'unravelling', UN chief warns nuclear disarmament conference

Security arrangements that have supported global peace for decades are unraveling, the head of the United Nations warned on Monday as he urged countries to work together towards a nuclear free world. The warning comes at a critical time, as the Conference on Disarmament gathers in Geneva to discuss nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation commitments. The UN Secretary General's call for cooperation highlights the growing concern about the erosion of trust and stability globally.

Fixing File Explorer's Slowness Issues in Windows 11

Microsoft is finally fixing an annoying problem with File Explorer being slow in Windows 11, but there are still a good many complaints about this central part of the interface being overly sluggish. For the uninitiated, File Explorer is the app that shows you the files and folders stored on your PC – and it’s the medium by which you browse through said files. The fix mentioned is a solution for File Explorer being “very slow to close” when the ‘X’ button (top-right) is clicked to shut it.

Finding Clues in The NYT Strands Game

The NYT Strands game offers a mix of word-based challenges and fun clues to solve, keeping players engaged and entertained. By utilizing the hint system and spangram positions, players can unlock valuable information to progress through the game. With its unique blend of wordplay and puzzle-solving, The NYT Strands game has become an enjoyable addition to the NYT's game portfolio.