Google is using AI to make fake podcasts from your notes

A recent Echelon firmware update has rendered its smart gym equipment unusable offline, requiring a connection to Echelon's servers for basic functionalities, including access to workout stats and compatibility with third-party apps like QZ. Developers like Roberto Viola have criticized this change, warning that if Echelon ceases operations, users' equipment could be rendered entirely inoperable. Want More Context? 🔎

Hot on the heels of a major ransomware group's takedown, a new group named Chaos has emerged, likely composed of some of the same members, engaging in high-stakes attacks primarily against US organizations since February. They demand around $300,000 in ransom, promising victims a decryptor and vulnerability reports, while threatening severe repercussions for non-payment. Want More Context? 🔎

Christina Chapman, a 50-year-old woman from Arizona, has been sentenced to 102 months in prison for aiding North Korean hackers in stealing U.S. identities to secure remote IT jobs with over 300 American companies, including Nike, which funneled millions to North Korea. In her apology, she expressed remorse, explained her motivations related to her mother's illness, and shared plans to write books and start a business upon her release. Want More Context? 🔎

This week, Google shows a robust performance with CEO Sundar Pichai citing increased AI-driven search queries and user engagement, while Meta appoints Shengjia Zhao as its chief AI scientist. The competitive landscape remains intense, with Google retaining talent and pushing back against AI threats despite looming challenges. Want More Context? 🔎

Meta will halt political advertising on its platforms in the EU starting October 2025, citing challenges posed by the EU's new transparency regulations (TTPA) as the reason for this decision. The rules, aimed at preventing foreign election interference, impose complex restrictions on ad targeting and personal data processing, leading Meta to conclude that the operational burdens make political ads unfeasible. Want More Context? 🔎

CRISPR gene-editing therapy has made a breakthrough in malaria prevention by modifying a single gene in mosquitoes, rendering them incapable of transmitting the disease. Researchers from UC San Diego, Johns Hopkins, and UC Berkeley discovered that altering an amino acid in mosquitoes can block malaria parasites from reaching salivary glands, allowing for the potential release of these genetically modified mosquitoes to combat the 600,000 annual malaria deaths. Want More Context? 🔎