NYT Connections today — hints and answers for Monday, August 12 (game #428)

STARBASE, Texas A diverse crowd gathered in South Texas for the upcoming test flight of SpaceX's colossal Starship rocket, standing 404 feet tall, scheduled for launch Sunday at 6:30 pm CDT, with only a 45% chance of favorable weather. The rocket's journey will take approximately 66 minutes to reach its splashdown zone in the Indian Ocean, and viewers can watch the event live on SpaceX's website. Want More Context? 🔎

Archer Aviation has been named the official air taxi partner for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles and recently achieved significant milestones with its Midnight eVTOL, including a successful 31-minute flight covering 55 miles and reaching speeds over 125 mph. The company is progressing towards FAA certification and commercialization efforts in the U.S. and UAE, showcasing the aircraft's operational maturity. Want More Context? 🔎

I’ve been seeking a powerful and compact PC gaming solution for my living room, and the Framework Desktop with the Bazzite Linux distro has proven to be an excellent choice, allowing for seamless 4K gaming while being quieter and more portable than traditional desktops. Although it comes with a higher price tag than consoles, its performance and versatility—especially with Linux's user-friendly aspects—make it a promising alternative for PC gamers. Want More Context? 🔎

YouTube is experimenting with image enhancement technology to improve video clarity without creator input, prompting concerns about a shift towards AI-generated content on the platform. This initiative coincides with YouTube's push for users to create AI-generated shorts, raising questions about the implications for personal expression and the platform's evolving aesthetic. Want More Context? 🔎

The Washington Post criticizes the U.S. government's 10% stake in Intel as a misstep, noting Intel's struggles in key markets. While the funding comes from previously awarded grants under the CHIPS Act, analysts warn that without securing external customers, this investment may not improve Intel's foundry operations or resolve ongoing yield issues. Want More Context? 🔎

Apple has transitioned to eSIM technology by removing the physical SIM card tray from the iPhone 14, a move anticipated since the launch of the first eSIM in 2016, though this change only applies to the US market. This decision reflects Apple's commitment to innovation while adhering to regulatory guidelines surrounding mobile connectivity. Want More Context? 🔎