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Chrome 148 Introduces OS Fingerprinting via Math.tanh Changes
Starting with Chrome 148, the Math.tanh function provides distinct outputs based on the operating system, enabling fingerprinting. This change allows techniques to classify the OS based on floating-point calculations, introducing privacy implications for users.
Google Research study shows routing apps can reduce urban traffic congestion
Google Research conducted a large-scale study showing that coordinated routing in navigation apps can improve traffic flow and reduce emissions in cities. By guiding a portion of trips away from congested routes, overall driving speeds increased citywide, showcasing the potential for digital platforms to optimize urban transportation networks.
Tech Reporting Expands Focus to Physical Infrastructure in AI Sector
Tech journalists are increasingly investigating physical aspects of the AI industry, such as data centers. Recent reporting revealed that an £8.2bn AI complex in Scotland misrepresented its renewable energy commitments, highlighting the importance of reliable infrastructure for tech developments.
AI Tools Enhance Scholarly Publishing but Stifle Scientific Diversity
An analysis of over 40 million papers reveals that AI tools boost publishing rates and citations for scientists, but also lead to a homogenization of research topics. This trend may limit individual creativity in favor of rapid career advancement and increased conformity in scientific inquiry.
Sotheby’s to auction working Apple-1 computer serial number 01-0033
Sotheby’s will auction a working Apple-1 computer, serial number 01-0033, as part of its upcoming History of Science & Technology sale. Estimated at $300,000 - $500,000, this unit is notable as one of the first batch of Apple computers sold. The auction highlights the significance of such artifacts in tech history and collectors' markets.
Windows 95's installer detection relied on filename heuristics, says Microsoft engineer
Windows 95 identified setup programs by matching executable names against a list of keywords, as revealed by Microsoft engineer Raymond Chen. This heuristic aimed to protect system files from being overwritten by installers, which was a common issue during that era.
Survey finds majority of U.S. workers support AI wealth fund amid tech layoffs
A survey indicates that 69% of U.S. workers support the creation of an AI sovereign wealth fund. This proposal aims to redirect profits from AI companies to the public as dissatisfaction grows over tech layoffs despite rising corporate profits.
Community Pushback Challenges AI Data Center Expansion Plans
Community opposition is forcing some companies to rethink their AI data center plans. Concerns include energy consumption and environmental impact, echoing previous conflicts like Apple's 2015 proposal in Ireland.
Research Shows Some Simple Fluids Can Fracture Under Stress
Researchers at Drexel University found that nonelastic simple fluids can fracture, contrary to previous understanding. This discovery has implications for material science, particularly in the behavior and application of viscous liquids.
Non-compete clauses increasingly common among global workers
Recent OECD findings reveal that up to one-third of private-sector workers in various countries are bound by non-compete clauses, often extending their reach beyond original intent. This trend potentially stifles economic mobility, prompting discussions on regulatory measures in multiple OECD nations.
Chinese Voice Actor Faces Challenges from AI Voice Cloning
Shen Anyu, a Chinese voice actor, continually proves his identity as AI clones of his voice spread online, mislabeling his work. This issue affects his income and leads to a significant burden of documenting and combating unlawful use of his voice.
Oregon AG withdraws request to delay Paramount and Warner Bros. merger
Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield has withdrawn his effort to delay the Paramount and Warner Bros. merger after Paramount refused to comply with his document requests concerning lobbying activities. This decision follows pressure from multiple states and international regulators considering antitrust actions against the deal.
Google's Eclipsa Video Introduced as Open HDR Standard
Google has launched Eclipsa Video, an open HDR standard designed to improve the consistency of HDR playback across devices. It aims to address issues like crushed shadows and washed-out highlights by utilizing dynamic metadata that adapts to screen capabilities and ambient lighting. This development could enhance user experience, particularly in varying viewing conditions.
Orbit App Enables Real-Time Augmented Reality Satellite Tracking
Orbit app allows users to track over 15,000 satellites in real time via augmented reality. Users can point their iPhone or iPad at the sky to explore satellites, planets, and constellations without needing to create an account or share personal data.
Even Realities G2 smart glasses prioritize productivity over recording features
Even Realities has launched its G2 smart glasses, which lack cameras and speakers to emphasize productivity. The G2 features upgrades such as a 1,200-nit display and improved connectivity, aimed at users in professional settings.
Earendel: Most Distant Star Cluster Observed Using Gravitational Lensing
Earendel, a star cluster located 28 billion light-years away in Cetus, has been studied using Hubble and JWST. Its discovery indicates the capabilities of gravitational lensing in observing cosmological distances in astronomy.
Ivan Miranda releases design files for foldable 3D-printed electric motorbike
Ivan Miranda has announced design files for the Mirandetta, a foldable 3D-printed electric motorbike. The design allows users to print and assemble the bike using a standard 300mm x 300mm printer, catering to makers interested in personal builds.
Kelsey Pfendler Sets Historic Solo Rowing Record from California to Hawaii
Kelsey Pfendler completed a solo journey from California to Hawaii, setting a new record of 43 days. Pfendler broke both the women's and men's records for the route, becoming the first U.S. woman to achieve this feat. The journey is significant for redefining endurance records in ocean rowing for solo women rowers.
Study Links Modern Visual Patterns to Physical Discomfort in Neurodivergent Individuals
A review suggests modern decor like striped patterns and flickering lights can cause physical discomfort, particularly in neurodivergent individuals. The research posits that these stimuli may overload the brain, leading to headaches and other symptoms.
OpenAI's head of safety leaving amid company restructuring
Johannes Heidecke, OpenAI's head of safety, will leave as part of a company restructuring. Saachi Jain will step in as interim head of safety, with safety teams now reporting to Mia Glaese, the new vice president of research and safety.
Ghost Font Uses Motion to Deliver Messages Humans Can Read, AI Cannot
Ghost Font is a new anti-AI font that utilizes motion to convey readable messages to humans while evading AI detection. Unlike traditional fonts, this prototype renders text through dynamic video, creating static images that are unreadable to AI models. This innovation addresses growing concerns about AI's capabilities in deciphering human communication.
Avi Loeb appointed to lead White House UAP Science Advisory Council
Avi Loeb, a Harvard astrophysicist known for his claims about alien technology, will lead the UAP Science Advisory Council established by the White House and intelligence agencies. The Council aims to provide scientific insights to better understand unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP), despite skepticism from parts of the scientific community regarding Loeb's credibility.
Engadget reviews Steam Machine, Samsung Music Studio 7, Oura Ring 5
Engadget summarizes recent reviews, highlighting products like the Steam Machine, Samsung Music Studio 7, and Oura Ring 5. The Steam Machine faces criticism for its performance and price, while the Music Studio 7 speaker is praised for sound quality, and the Oura Ring 5 is noted for its compact design and battery life improvements.
China's BrainCo focuses on non-invasive brain-computer interfaces as Neuralink leads implants
BrainCo is developing non-invasive wearable devices that use brain-computer interface (BCI) technology, diverging from traditional implant methods employed by companies like Neuralink. The Chinese government recognizes BCI as a strategic industry, reflecting a growing interest in augmenting human capabilities rather than just addressing disabilities.
Engadget Indie's Pitch Features Lovecraftian Game Penguin Colony
Engadget showcases Penguin Colony, a Lovecraftian horror game by ORIGAME DIGITAL addressing colonial themes. The game aims to re-examine Lovecraft’s problematic legacy while providing an experimental gaming experience reminiscent of the PS2 era.
New List Ranks Wealth Creators by Wealth Generated for Others
A new ranking lists founders by the wealth they have created for others rather than their ownership. This 'Anti-Forbes List' totals $18.31 trillion generated by 28 founders, with calculations based on shareholder value minus the founders’ current net worth.
Discovery of WD 1856 b: A planet orbiting a white dwarf
Astronomers have confirmed WD 1856 b as the only known planet that survived a Sun-like star's death, now scrutinized with the James Webb Space Telescope. Findings indicate its proximity and unusual transit behavior challenge existing models of stellar evolution.
GameStop's Pokémon cards marked up over 300% amid scalping concerns
GameStop is charging over 300% more for Pokémon trading cards compared to standard retail prices. This increase highlights ongoing issues of price gouging in the trading card market, prompting Nintendo to consider measures against such practices.
New indie games: Palworld 1.0 and Permaban announced
Palworld 1.0 and Permaban have been recently released in the indie games market. These titles offer unique gameplay experiences—Palworld combines Pokémon-like creature collection with survival mechanics, while Permaban is a nostalgic forum moderation simulation set in the mid-2000s.
New BLM regulations aim to increase grazing while limiting public input
The Bureau of Land Management is proposing new rules to expand livestock grazing on 155 million acres of public lands while reducing public participation in the decision-making process. This overhaul, the first since 1995, could exacerbate environmental concerns regarding overgrazing and limit oversight by non-ranchers.
Police detain car reviewer due to Flock system error about stolen tags
A data entry mistake in Flock’s tracking system led to the wrongful detention of car reviewer Joel Feder, who was surrounded by police due to a vehicle plate misidentification. This incident highlights potential flaws in AI surveillance technologies and their implications for privacy and safety.
Flock Safety denies sending cease and desist letters over surveillance discussions
Flock Safety responded to allegations of sending cease and desist letters aimed at suppressing discussions about its surveillance technology. Company officials claimed the letters were forgeries, arguing that they support public debate on their technology.
Assassin's Creed Black Flag remake released after 13 years
Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced has been released, utilizing modern graphics and gameplay. This remake removes modern-day segments from the original, focusing solely on the pirate experience that defined the game, appealing to fans of the franchise.
Drone surveillance leads to $100K fine for illegal fireworks in Sacramento
Sacramento Fire Department imposed a $100,000 fine for illegal fireworks using drones for surveillance. This trend reflects a nationwide shift among first responders to leverage drone technology for public safety during Fourth of July celebrations.
New York City implements Click-to-Cancel rule for subscriptions
New York City has introduced a Click-to-Cancel rule requiring easy online cancellation of subscriptions, effective October 1. This regulation aims to simplify the cancellation process and enforce transparency, reviving a previously abandoned FTC initiative.
U.S. eases export controls for UAE, raising concerns over Trump ties
The Commerce Department is easing export controls for the UAE, favorably reviewing licenses for MGX. Senator Elizabeth Warren criticized the move, linking it to Trump's financial interests and potential national security risks.
Scraper Attacks on Websites Persist Despite Previous Mitigations
Web scraping attacks using residential proxies continue to escalate, overwhelming websites with traffic. Recent observations indicate that media-streaming devices are increasingly being exploited to carry out these malicious activities, presenting challenges to the open web.
45% of PlayStation Enthusiasts Consider Switching to PC Gaming
A Push Square poll reveals that 45% of PlayStation enthusiasts are contemplating transitioning to PC gaming, particularly citing Sony's decision to stop manufacturing disc-based games. This shift reflects growing frustrations with Sony’s ecosystem, indicating a potential decline in loyalty among hardcore gamers.
Metal spheres from space wash ashore in Queensland, Australia
Six metallic spheres, thought to be pressure vessels from a foreign rocket, have washed up on Forrest Beach in Queensland, Australia. The Australian Space Agency is investigating the objects' origins, while local businesses are creatively responding to the phenomenon.
New York City bans deceptive subscription practices starting October 1
New York City has implemented a rule prohibiting deceptive subscription practices effective October 1, imposing fines on companies that fail to provide easy cancellation options. This legislation aims to enhance transparency in pricing for subscriptions and combat hidden fees, particularly in rental markets.