News Gist .News

Articles | Politics | Finance | Stocks | Crypto | AI | Technology | Science | Gaming | PC Hardware | Laptops | Smartphones | Archive

Archive: 2025-03-05 (581) - Page 1/12 (50)

← Back to March 2025 Archive

Reddit Will Issue Warnings to Users Who Repeatedly Upvote Banned Content

Reddit will now issue warnings to users who "upvote several pieces of content banned for violating our policies" within a certain timeframe, starting first with violent content. The company aims to reduce exposure to bad content without penalizing the vast majority of users, who already downvote or report abusive content. By monitoring user behavior, Reddit hopes to find a balance between free speech and maintaining a safe community.

Tesla to Build New Megafactory in Texas, Electrek Reports

Tesla is going to build a new megafactory near Houston to operate a battery storage facility, allowing the electric vehicle company to further expand its presence in the energy sector. The factory will be built on a 1-million-square-foot site and is expected to create around 1,500 jobs. Tesla has been actively expanding its operations in Texas, following similar moves in China.

Tesla to Build New Megafactory in Texas

Tesla is building a new megafactorY in Texas, with plans to manage its Megapack energy products in over 1 million square feet of space near Katy. The company has secured a tax abatement agreement worth $194 million, based on upgrades to the facility and equipment installation. This expansion aims to capitalize on cost advantages from China's supply chain and support the growth of Tesla's solar energy and battery business.

Senate Republicans Push to Codify DOGE Cuts After Musk Meeting

U.S. Senate Republicans pushed for the U.S. Congress to codify spending cuts identified by billionaire Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency on Wednesday, after the Supreme Court declined to let President Donald Trump withhold payments to foreign aid organizations. This move aims to formalize the spending reductions into law, preventing potential future disputes over their implementation. The proposal also seeks to address public concerns about the DOGE's methods and ensure accountability for its actions. Senate Republicans acknowledged that the Supreme Court ruling does not bode well for White House hopes of taking unilateral action on spending cuts.

Nothing Phone (3a) Series Survives Harsh Durability Test Despite Plastic Frame

The Nothing Phone (3a) and Phone (3a) have withstood rigorous testing by JerryRigEverything, showcasing their resilience despite having a plastic frame. The phone's Panda Glass display has also demonstrated excellent durability, although it is advisable to use a case for added protection. The company's latest flagship model, the Phone (3a), features an aluminum mid-frame that contributes to its overall robustness.

Trump Mulls Exempting Certain Agricultural Products From Canada, Mexico Tariffs

U.S. President Donald Trump is considering exempting certain agricultural products from tariffs imposed on Canada and Mexico, a move that could ease trade tensions between the three countries. If implemented, the exemptions would apply to specific products such as milk, wheat, and sugar, which are among the most heavily taxed items under the current tariffs. The decision would likely be made in consultation with Canadian and Mexican officials.

RCS Support Coming to Popular MVNOs with iOS 18.4

RCS on iOS is finally becoming more widespread as the launch of iOS 18.4 brings messaging standard Rich Communication Services to more iPhones, particularly those operating on popular MVNOs like Mint Mobile and Google Fi. These carriers piggybacking on T-Mobile's network will now offer RCS support to their customers. The rollout of iOS 18.4 has been a long time coming for iPhone users who wanted features like read receipts and higher resolution video files that are available in RCS.

U.S. Firms Demand Crackdown on Tariff-Evading Chinese Importers

The U.S. needs tougher legislation to enforce trade laws and ensure criminal prosecution of Chinese government-subsidized companies that circumvent U.S. tariffs by shipping goods through third countries, according to U.S. executives. The country has been losing out on tariff revenue and American companies have been forced out of business by Chinese firms that exploit trade rules. Limited funding for enforcement has allowed Chinese firms to find loopholes, forcing U.S. companies to close factories, reduce employment, and reduce investment.

U.S. Firms Demand Crackdown on Tariff-Evading Chinese Importers

The U.S. needs tougher legislation to enforce trade laws and ensure criminal prosecution of Chinese government-subsidized companies that circumvent U.S. tariffs by shipping goods through third countries, according to U.S. companies. For years, these loopholes have allowed Chinese exporters to evade duties, forcing American companies out of business. The reintroduction of a bipartisan bill aims to ramp up prosecution and enforcement, but its success depends on increased funding.

The Trump Administration Seeks Social Media Accounts of Immigrant Applicants

The Trump administration has proposed a new policy requiring people applying for green cards, US citizenship, and asylum or refugee status to submit their social media accounts. This move is seen as an attempt to vet applicants more thoroughly in the name of national security. The public has 60 days to comment on the proposal, which affects over 3.5 million people.

Abercrombie & Fitch Stock Hammered by Tariff Concerns — Why More Brutal Warnings Lurk

Investors are grappling with the potential seismic shift in the retail landscape as consumers' spending habits continue to evolve. The company's robust growth over two years has been followed by a disappointing earnings report, highlighting the challenges posed by tariffs on freight costs and consumer spending. Abercrombie & Fitch now expects net sales to grow at a slower pace than previously anticipated.

Behind the Scenes of Online Child Abuse Removal Efforts

The Internet Watch Foundation's analysts spend their days trawling the internet to remove the worst child sex abuse images online, a task that is both crucial and emotionally draining. Mabel, one of the organization's analysts, describes the work as "abhorrent" but notes that it also allows her to make a positive impact on the world. Despite the challenges, organizations like the IWF are helping to create safer online spaces for children.

The AI Research Gap: Comparing Deep Research with Standard ChatGPT Models

Deep Research on ChatGPT provides comprehensive, in-depth answers to complex questions, but often at a cost of brevity and practical applicability. While it delivers detailed mini-reports that are perfect for trivia enthusiasts or those seeking nuanced analysis, its lengthy responses may not be ideal for everyday users who need concise information. The AI model's database and search tool can resolve most day-to-day queries, making it a reliable choice for quick answers.

MODerna Stock Zooms Nearly 16% Higher on Hump Day

Moderna's stock price surged nearly 16% higher following a court ruling in Germany that found Pfizer and BioNTech had violated a COVID-19 patent held by Moderna. The company, best known for producing the Spikevax vaccine, will receive compensation from its rivals for the use of the patent in developing their own COVID jab, Comirnaty. This decision establishes a significant precedent for intellectual property protection in the pharmaceutical industry.

Trump Wants to Kill the CHIPS Act — Says Chipmakers Are Coming to the USA to Avoid Tariffs

In a recent address to Congress, President Trump criticized the CHIPS Act, calling it “a horrible, horrible thing” and advocating for its repeal to redirect funds toward reducing national debt. The CHIPS Act, originally passed during President Biden’s administration, allocated substantial subsidies to semiconductor companies, aiming to bolster domestic manufacturing amid increasing tariffs on foreign goods. Trump’s stance emphasizes a shift from incentivizing investment through subsidies to relying on tariffs as a means to stimulate domestic production in the semiconductor industry.

Best Kindle Deals Right Now

The best Kindle (2024) deals offer various options for readers looking to upgrade their e-reader experience, from budget-friendly choices like the entry-level Kindle starting at $109.99 to more premium options like the Paperwhite Signature Edition. Amazon has also introduced a new kid-friendly version of its popular e-reader, the Kindle Kids, which comes with additional features and accessories. For those seeking deals, discounts on these models can be found, but be aware that prices may vary depending on the retailer.

Trump Issues Final Warning to Hamas Over Israeli Hostage Release

US President Donald Trump has issued a "last warning" to Hamas to release the hostages being held in Gaza, threatening mass casualties if they do not comply. He appeared to threaten civilians in Gaza, saying they would be "dead" if they held hostages. The White House confirmed direct talks with Hamas over the hostages, which raises concerns about the implications of this unprecedented move.

Tax-Loss Harvesting: What It Is and How It Works

Tax-loss harvesting is a strategy where investors sell securities at a loss to offset taxable gains, ultimately reducing their overall tax liability. This approach is particularly beneficial when it comes to managing short-term capital gains, which are taxed at higher rates than long-term gains. However, investors must navigate specific regulations, such as the wash-sale rule, which can complicate the execution of this strategy.

Starbucks CEO Tells Employees to Work Harder After Layoffs

Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol is urging corporate employees to increase their workload and take responsibility for the coffee giant's financial health following recent layoffs. The company has been struggling with declining sales and inflation, which has made consumers more cautious about spending. To address these issues, Niccol has unveiled a "Back to Starbucks" strategy aimed at restoring the brand's momentum and return to its roots.

Senate Votes to Strip the CFPB of Its Power to Regulate X

The Senate has voted to remove the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's (CFPB) authority to oversee digital platforms like X, coinciding with growing concerns over Elon Musk's potential conflicts of interest linked to his ownership of X and leadership at Tesla. This resolution, which awaits House approval, could undermine consumer protection efforts against fraud and privacy issues in digital payments, as it jeopardizes the CFPB's ability to monitor Musk's ventures. In response, Democratic senators are calling for an ethics investigation into Musk to ensure compliance with federal laws amid fears that his influence may lead to regulatory advantages for his businesses.

Global Bond Selloff Ramps Up, Asian Equities Rise: Markets Wrap

A global bond selloff accelerated in Asia on Thursday, pushing Japanese benchmark yields to their highest in more than a decade after heavy selling in German bunds spread across fixed income markets. Asian stocks were buoyed by a delay to some US tariffs on Mexico and Canada, while benchmarks in Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong all rose. The Hang Seng China Enterprises Index jumped as much as 2.9%, reflecting investors' heightened expectations for more supportive measures that may be announced at Chinese government ministries' joint press conference this afternoon in Beijing.

Tapbots Launches New Bluesky App Phoenix, Citing Need for Separate Experience

Tapbots, the developer behind popular iOS applications Ivory and Tweetbot (RIP), is preparing to launch a new app called Phoenix for Bluesky's growing social network of over 32 million users. The company has clarified that its work on a Bluesky client doesn't mean it's abandoning its efforts in the fediverse, but rather creating a better experience for Bluesky users. This move comes as many former Twitter users have moved to Mastodon and Bluesky since Twitter's acquisition by Elon Musk.

Marvell Stock Drops Despite Strong Earnings as Outlook Fails to Impress

Marvell Technology reported fiscal fourth-quarter results that beat analysts’ expectations, but shares tumbled in extended trading as its outlook failed to impress. The semiconductor company saw revenue grow 27% year-over-year to $1.82 billion, above the analyst consensus from Visible Alpha. Adjusted earnings came in at $531.4 million, or 60 cents per share, up from $401.6 million, or 46 cents per share, a year earlier, and ahead of expectations.

Portugal PM Calls Confidence Vote He'll Likely Lose, Election Looms

The proposal for a confidence vote comes as the prime minister's minority government faces intense opposition from main parties, with a third early election since 2022 on the cards. If the motion fails, Montenegro risks losing his position, and President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa will decide whether to dissolve parliament and call fresh elections, which many analysts consider likely. The president stated he would meet with the ruling parties and consultative Council of State after the vote to make a decision on the election calendar.

AI-Generated Review Summaries Hit Apple's App Store with iOS 18.4

Apple is introducing AI-generated review summaries to its app store with iOS 18.4, generating brief paragraphs from user reviews using large language models to "compile highlights and key information." The summaries are refreshed weekly as new reviews are added, initially available in the US App Store for English-language apps and games with sufficient reviews. This feature aims to provide users with a concise overview of app ratings and sentiments.

The Audacity of Portable Doubles 24-Inch Monitor Pushes Boundaries

This latest launch from Thanko certainly takes display innovation to new heights. As users can expand the monitor into two screens, connected in one single unit, it's perfect for working on the move - if you have the space. The monitor's measurements come in at 542 x 17 x 650mm (when unfolded) and 542 x 25 x 323mm (when folded), making it a great piece of equipment for those short on desk space.

Canoo's CEO Is Buying the Bankrupt EV Startup's Assets

The CEO of Canoo, Anthony Aquila, has made a court filing to acquire nearly all of the company's assets out of bankruptcy for $4 million, simultaneously eliminating over $11 million in debt owed to his financial firm. This transaction comes shortly after Canoo filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy and reflects the challenges faced by electric vehicle startups amid a saturated market. The bankruptcy trustee has indicated that the sale to Aquila's new entity, WHS Energy Solutions, is the preferred option due to the lack of financing available for EV manufacturing.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 Rumors Point to an All-Screen Cover

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 may feature a new all-screen design on its outside cover, according to leaked renders by OnLeaks. This edge-to-edge screen could provide more real estate for the device's display and cameras. The inner display is also expected to grow in size, with some reports suggesting a 6.8-inch screen.

Gaming Mouse Deal Catches Gamers Off Guard

The Logitech G502 X Plus Lightspeed gaming mouse has been discounted on Amazon to one of its lowest prices yet, offering a significant 30% discount relative to the official list price. This deal is particularly noteworthy for gamers in the market for a new accessory, as PC gaming requires a proper gaming mouse with low latency. The Logitech G502 X Plus Lightspeed features impressive build quality, low latency, and stylish RGB lighting, making it a worthy investment for gamers at this price range.

Logitech G502 X Plus Wireless Gaming Mouse Gets Big 30% Price Cut on Amazon

The Logitech G502 X Plus Lightspeed wireless gaming mouse has received a significant discount of up to 30% on Amazon, making it an attractive deal for gamers in the market for a new accessory. The discounted price brings this high-performance gaming mouse within reach of those who want to upgrade their PC gaming experience. With its impressive features and low latency, the G502 X Plus should be a worthwhile investment for gamers.

Bose’s Noise-Canceling QC Ultra Earbuds Are on Sale for Their Best Price to Date

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, our top pick for noise-canceling earbuds, can now be had at a new low price of $219 through March 31st from Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and Bose. This discount brings the already excellent value proposition of these earbuds even closer to mainstream consideration. With their outstanding performance in both sound quality and noise cancellation, it's no wonder they've become a favorite among audio enthusiasts.

Meta Pushes for App Store Age Verification Bill in Every State

Utah has become the first state to pass legislation requiring app store operators to verify users' ages and require parental consent for minors to download apps. This move follows efforts by Meta and other social media sites to push for similar bills, which aim to protect minors from online harms. The App Store Accountability Act is part of a growing trend in kids online safety bills across the country.

Exclusive: US Marshals Providing Security to Health Secretary Kennedy, Email Shows

The U.S. Marshals Service is providing security to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., an unusual arrangement that has raised questions about the role of law enforcement in protecting government officials. The HHS Office of the Inspector General had previously provided protective services for Kennedy, but a February 12 email revealed plans to end this operation. The transition of security responsibility is being handled by Attorney General Pam Bondi, who described Kennedy as a "valued and respected leader" in her statement.

Canada Muses About Oil and Gas Exports as Lever in Tariffs Dispute, Also Mentions Potash

Canada could potentially use oil and gas exports as a strategic bargaining chip in negotiations with the United States if U.S. tariffs on Canadian imports escalate, Foreign Minister Melanie Joly suggested, while leaving open the possibility of imposing export tariffs on key commodities to counter U.S. measures. The country is vowing to impose tariffs on C$155 billion worth of U.S. imports but has not yet indicated its willingness to reduce exports or impose tariffs on them. Canada's decision-making process is complex and influenced by various domestic interests, including Alberta's resistance to reducing energy exports.

Trump Gives Automakers One-Month Tariff Reprieve to Move Operations From Canada, Mexico to US

The temporary reprieve on tariffs for automobile imports from Canada and Mexico allows the Big Three automakers to reassess their production plans, with the expectation that they will shift any offshore operations to the United States by April 2. The reprieve comes as car prices are already at historic highs, threatening to send sticker prices skyrocketing by as much as $12,000. Automakers face significant challenges in meeting this deadline, particularly given the complexities of their supply chains and manufacturing facilities in Mexico and Canada.

My Favorite Android Smartwatch Beats Samsung and Google with Its Multi-Day Battery Life

The OnePlus Watch 3 offers a remarkable five-day battery life, setting it apart from other Google Wear OS watches like the Apple Watch, Google Pixel Watch, and Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra. Its improved design, durability, and utility also make it a compelling choice for those in the market for a new smartwatch. However, some features such as ECG measurements and customizable workout data screens are limited.

Trump Urges Hamas to Release Hostages in Gaza in What He Calls 'Last Warning'

U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a stark ultimatum to Hamas militants, demanding the immediate release of hostages held in Gaza while warning the group's leadership to evacuate the area. In a post on Truth Social, Trump emphasized the dire consequences for both Hamas and the hostages if his demands are not met, framing the situation as a critical juncture for the future of Gaza. This statement reflects the heightened tensions surrounding the ongoing conflict and the international community's concern for the safety of hostages.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 14S: Leak Reveals 120Hz AMOLED Display and 200MP Camera

The upcoming Xiaomi Redmi Note 14S will reportedly boast an impressive set of features, including a high-resolution 200MP primary camera and a smooth 120Hz AMOLED display. The phone is also expected to pack a large 5,000mAh battery with fast charging capabilities, but no wireless charging support. These specs suggest that the Redmi Note 14S will be a formidable contender in the budget-friendly mid-range smartphone market.

Navimow Rolls Out Major Update with New Functions and Improvements for I-Series

The Navimow i-series is receiving a major update via a new version of the Navimow app (version 3.0), which introduces a range of improvements and new features, including voice control via the Google Assistant and a new edge mowing function. The update also enhances the robot's behavior to better adapt to various weather scenarios, providing more precise control over its movements. Additionally, owners of the Navimow i-series will benefit from enhanced safety features, such as child safety locks and anti-theft protection.

The US Should Not Pursue a Manhattan Project for AGI

Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt, Scale AI CEO Alexandr Wang, and Center for AI Safety Director Dan Hendrycks argue that the U.S. should not pursue a Manhattan Project-style push to develop AI systems with “superhuman” intelligence, also known as AGI. The paper asserts that an aggressive bid by the U.S. to exclusively control superintelligent AI systems could prompt fierce retaliation from China, potentially in the form of a cyberattack, which could destabilize international relations. Schmidt and his co-authors propose a measured approach to developing AGI that prioritizes defensive strategies.

Elon Musk's DOGE May Bring Some Pain to These 4 High-Growth Restaurant Stocks

Elon Musk's initiatives to reduce government employment through his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) are projected to adversely affect sales at fast-casual restaurants like Cava, Shake Shack, Chipotle, and Sweetgreen, particularly in the Washington, D.C. area. Bank of America analysts highlight that a significant portion of these chains' business relies on government workers, whose diminished presence due to layoffs could lead to reduced foot traffic and sales. The ongoing decline in jobless claims in D.C. signals a challenging environment for these restaurants as they adapt to shifting consumer behavior driven by workforce changes.

The Trump Administration's Trade Favoritism Faces Scrutiny

Trump has now begun the process of offering exemptions to his tariffs, allowing him to dole out favors to those businesses deemed worthy. With President Trump’s tariffs now set to exact a price from thousands of businesses, the stage is set for the next act in the drama: special favors exempting certain applicants from the punishment, giving them an advantage over less-lucky competitors. Just one day after enacting new 25% tariffs on most imports from Canada and Mexico, the Trump administration said it is giving a one-month exemption to three domestic automakers, General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis.

The Hunt for the Next Twitter: All the News About Alternative Social Media Platforms

The landscape of social media continues to evolve as several platforms vie to become the next dominant microblogging service in the wake of Elon Musk's acquisition of Twitter, now known as X. While Threads has emerged as a leading contender with substantial user growth and a commitment to interoperability, platforms like Bluesky and Mastodon also demonstrate resilience and unique approaches to social networking. Despite these alternatives gaining traction, X remains a significant player, still attracting users and companies for their initial announcements and discussions.

Tapbots' Developers Make Bluesky Client

Tapbots, the developer behind Tweetbot and Ivory apps, is working on a new iOS and Mac app called Phoenix for Bluesky, a relatively new social media platform. The company plans to release Phoenix this summer, with an initial limited public alpha launch soon after. Tapbots aims to support both Ivory and Phoenix concurrently, acknowledging that their customer base has become split between the two services.

Marvell Plunges After Forecast Trails Loftiest Estimates

Marvell Technology Inc. declined in late trading after delivering a revenue forecast that fell short of the highest estimates, disappointing investors who were looking for a bigger payoff from the AI boom. The company's shares had been up recently due to expectations of strong demand for its chip design services, which cater to major tech customers developing their own data center semiconductors. However, concerns about the slowdown in AI spending and the emergence of cheaper alternatives have led investors to reassess the stock.

Marvell Plunges After Forecast Trails Loftiest Estimates

Marvell Technology Inc. experienced a significant drop in share value following a revenue forecast that did not meet the highest expectations of investors, resulting in a 16% decline in late trading. The company projected fiscal first-quarter sales of approximately $1.88 billion, aligning with average analyst estimates but falling short of some forecasts that reached up to $2 billion. This disappointment comes as the chipmaker is viewed as a crucial player in the AI sector, where investor sentiment has been shaky due to concerns over spending cuts from major customers.

Dutch Government Pledges $3.8 Billion in Support to Ukraine for 2026

The Dutch government has committed to providing $3.8 billion in support to Ukraine in 2026, with Prime Minister Dick Schoof stating that the funds would ensure continued assistance next year and could be used in 2025 if necessary. The previous government had already allocated a comparable sum for support through 2025, with plans to invest 700 million euros in drones for Ukraine. This investment aims to enhance Ukraine's defense capabilities and aid its efforts against Russia's ongoing attack.

The Impact of Inflation on Savings and CD Rates

When inflation rises, it tends to increase interest rates on savings accounts and certificates of deposit (CDs), which can result in higher earnings for savers. However, when inflation falls, the opposite occurs, leading to lower interest rates and potentially eroding the purchasing power of savings balances. The Federal Reserve's actions, such as adjusting federal funds rates, also influence banks' decisions to change their deposit rates.

The Smart Ring Market Gains Momentum with FDA-Approved ECG

The Circular Ring 2 offers a comprehensive set of health tracking features, including an electrocardiogram (ECG) with FDA approval, which allows for the detection of certain heart rhythm irregularities. The wearable automatically tracks heart rate, skin temperature, SpO2 levels, and other vital signs throughout the day, providing users with valuable insights into their overall health. With its emphasis on feature accessibility without paid subscriptions, the Circular Ring 2 positions itself as a more affordable alternative to existing smart rings.

Macron to Meet with Army Chiefs as US Pauses Intelligence Sharing with Ukraine

The United States has temporarily halted intelligence sharing and military aid to Ukraine, raising concerns about the future of US support following a breakdown in relations between President Trump and President Zelensky. In response, French President Emmanuel Macron has called for a meeting of European army chiefs, emphasizing the need for Europe to prepare for a future without US assistance and to increase defense spending. This development highlights the fragile dynamics of international alliances and the potential implications for Ukraine's defense capabilities in the ongoing conflict.