Welcome to today’s curated collection of interesting links and insights from 2025/08/20. Our AI-powered system has processed and summarized 25 URLs to bring you the key takeaways.
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1. White House TikTok account mocks Donald Trump during Biden administration
The White House TikTok account has actively mocked former President @realDonaldTrump, highlighting the contrast between the Biden administration and his tenure. Videos posted often include clips of Trump making controversial statements, paired with humorous captions and visual effects designed to engage younger audiences. This strategy aims to reshape public perception and emphasize the current administration’s policies while capitalizing on the popularity of #socialmedia platforms like TikTok. Critics argue this approach risks politicizing an official government channel, but supporters see it as a modern method of communication. Overall, the White House leverages TikTok’s format to create a direct, engaging dialogue with the public that distinguishes Biden’s presidency from Trump’s.
A fan-made concept named Copilot Veja by @Braz_de_Pina imagines ear-worn wearables with dual cameras and built-in #AI that omit HUDs and rely on audio interaction. The Veja features ear stems, a dedicated Copilot button, and two cameras for stereo vision to understand the world, delivering information through voice rather than a display. The piece argues that audio interfaces are easier for real-time AI feedback, drawing on the idea from #Her where @Joaquin_Phoenix’s AI communicates mainly via voice. This challenges the necessity of visual AR displays and suggests a hands-free, voice-first AI in the ear could be more natural, especially since we already carry screens in our pockets and on our wrists. The concept illustrates a potential future where an all-knowing #Copilot in our ear guides us through audio while cameras provide contextual input.
4. Windows 11 August Update Triggers NVMe Controller Failures, Phison Investigates
The Windows 11 August update has caused failures in NVMe controllers on devices using Phison hardware, prompting an investigation by Phison Technology. Several users reported issues with NVMe SSDs experiencing controller malfunctions after installing the update, leading to data loss and system instability. Phison acknowledged the problem, emphasizing their commitment to resolving it quickly through firmware updates or patches. This incident highlights challenges in software and hardware compatibility in modern computing ecosystems and underscores the importance of coordinated responses from software developers and hardware manufacturers. The ongoing investigation aims to restore reliability for affected users and prevent further disruptions.
5. Mark Zuckerberg’s AI Shake-Up at Meta
Meta CEO @Mark Zuckerberg is spearheading a radical reorganization of the company’s AI division, now dubbed Meta Superintelligence Labs (MSL), in response to mounting pressure from rivals like OpenAI and Google DeepMind. MSL has been split into four distinct groups — TBD Labs, which focuses on foundation models and is led by former Scale AI founder Alexandr Wang; a research arm (formerly FAIR); a products-and-applied-research team headed by David Gross and Nat Friedman; and an infrastructure division. This marks Meta’s fourth restructuring of its AI unit in just six months, signaling both urgency and instability. The realignment also comes amid high internal tension: Wang’s push for a closed-source approach is clashing with Meta’s traditional open-source ethos, and the company is considering downsizing or redeploying AI staff, with some longtime AI researchers already departing. Despite the upheaval, Zuckerberg is doubling down, backing the new structure with massive compensation packages and positioning AI as “a new era of individual empowerment” while aiming to make the next leap in the AI race.
6. U.S. wants equity stake in Intel cash grants approved under Biden
The U.S. government seeks an equity stake in Intel as part of cash grants approved under the Biden administration’s efforts to boost domestic semiconductor production. This approach reflects Washington’s strategy to ensure strong government influence and return on investment in critical technology sectors. Intel’s plans to expand chip manufacturing facilities have received significant federal support under the CHIPS Act, aimed at reducing reliance on foreign suppliers. The equity interest would enable the government to share in potential profits and maintain leverage over Intel’s operations linked to national security and economic competitiveness. This move aligns with the broader policy to reinforce the U.S. semiconductor industry amid rising global tech competition.
7. Spotify’s latest feature lets you add your own transitions to playlists | TechCrunch
@Spotify is rolling out a custom transitions feature that lets Premium subscribers build more professional, personalized playlists by automatically inserting transitions between tracks or letting users pick styles like fade, rise, or blend, labeled with #transitions and #Mix. In editing mode via the Mix tool, listeners can tweak volume, EQ, and effects, and use waveform and beat data to place transitions, with automatic key and BPM display to help novices align mixes. The feature targets experienced playlist curators while remaining accessible to others, and can be saved, shared, or opened for collaboration; it can be toggled off to return to traditional playback. The rollout is gradual, with most Premium users worldwide gaining access today, though some APAC markets will wait a bit longer, and it aims to compete with @AppleMusic’s AutoMix. Spotify also advises mixing works best with tracks already produced for smooth transitions, such as house and techno, and adds custom cover art, stickers, and labels for mixed playlists #Playlists #BPM #EQ.
8. Asus has the new world’s fastest OLED monitor at 720Hz, and it’s dripping with style
At Gamescom 2025, Asus unveiled the ROG Swift OLED PG27AQWP-W, a 26.5-inch 2560×1440 OLED that can run 540Hz and up to 720Hz in 1080p mode, a claim highlighted by @Sean Hollister. The panel uses a tandem OLED design intended to boost HDR brightness and lifespan, and it adds a glossy coating that may deepen colors and blacks while reducing glare #tandemOLED #HDR. The design emphasizes a striking silver translucent chassis, and while price and release date are not announced, the setup appears premium. Asus is also launching a related ROG Strix OLED XG27AQWMG with the same tandem tech but a 280Hz panel and DP 2.1a for higher bandwidth, and the article notes LG Display’s 4th-gen WOLED panels along with burn-in protections #DP2_1a #WOLED.
9. Jimmy Fallon is ‘officially hosting’ Google’s Pixel 10 event
@Jimmy Fallon is officially hosting Google’s Pixel 10 Made by Google 2025 event, signaling a shift toward broader audience appeal for the keynote. A teaser shared by @Google Pixel on Instagram confirms Fallon will host the star-studded event on August 20 at 1 PM ET, and shows him with the Pixel 10 and the Pixel Watch 4. This marks a departure from past hardware events hosted by hardware chief Rick Osterloh and suggests Google may emphasize use cases and entertainment value over pure tech specs. The teaser hints that additional stars, including @Stephen Curry, @Lando Norris, and @Jonas Brothers, may appear, underscoring a high-profile approach to the presentation. The move appears aimed at appealing to iPhone owners and a wider audience by showcasing everyday use of Pixel devices under #MadeByGoogle and #Pixel10, leveraging Fallon’s talk-show experience.
10. China’s Pivot to Wind and Solar Gains Traction While Power Demand Soars
China is accelerating its shift towards #wind and #solar energy as its power demand surges amid efforts to curb carbon emissions and reduce reliance on coal. Recent data shows substantial growth in renewable capacity installations, supported by government policies incentivizing clean energy expansion. This shift reflects China’s commitment to the Paris Agreement and its broader strategy to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. However, the increase in power demand poses challenges in grid management and energy storage, requiring technological advancements and regulatory adjustments. China’s renewables push highlights the critical role of policy frameworks and market mechanisms in transforming the energy landscape while addressing climate goals.
A security researcher discovered and downloaded the personal and professional data of 270,000 Intel employees from an internal business card platform, resulting in a significant data breach dubbed #IntelOutside. The exposed information included names, job titles, locations, and contact details, which raised concerns about potential phishing and identity theft attacks. Despite the severity, Intel determined the vulnerability did not qualify for its bug bounty program as the data was accessible only to Intel employees via single sign-on authentication. This incident highlights the risks associated with inadequate internal access controls and the challenges companies face in securing employee data on internal platforms. It underscores the importance for organizations to regularly audit and strengthen internal systems to prevent such large-scale exposures.
12. Oregon man accused of operating as rapper who got 3 people killed
An Oregon man has been accused of operating as a rapper who was indirectly linked to three fatalities involved in violent incidents. Authorities allege that the individual used his music persona to influence and orchestrate criminal activities that resulted in the deaths. The cases highlight concerns about the intersection of music culture and real-world violence, especially how some performers may glamorize or encourage illegal behavior. This situation underscores the challenges law enforcement faces in addressing crimes that may be connected to artistic expressions. Understanding these dynamics is important to inform public safety and community responses to violent crime linked to entertainment.
14. Pharma firm Inotiv says ransomware attack impacted operations
Pharmaceutical company Inotiv experienced a ransomware attack that affected its operations, including systems and internal networks. The company detected the attack promptly and initiated an investigation, engaging cybersecurity experts to contain the breach. The incident disrupted certain business functions and led to the temporary suspension of some services while remediation took place. Inotiv emphasized ongoing communication with customers and stakeholders to provide updates and ensure transparency. This ransomware event highlights the persistent threat that cyberattacks pose to critical healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors.
15. Browser wars are back, predicts Palo Alto, thanks to AI
@Nikesh Arora says AI-driven agents will trigger a new wave of browser wars, as #agenticAI tools from major players seek browser access to perform tasks, nudging enterprises toward secure browsers. Enterprises will not tolerate consumer versions that run agents without control, and Palo Alto Networks’ #PrismaAccess Browser integrated with #SASE positions the company to meet this demand. He argues that a unified security platform is essential because running agents across multiple vendors is impractical, and that consolidation will accelerate as attackers deploy AI-powered agents. With a twenty-five-minute attack window, defenders must detect and stop breaches quickly, which underpins the push for platform-based security and bundled solutions. Palo Alto reports $2.5B quarterly revenue (up 16% YoY) and $9.2B annual revenue (up 15%), and is aiming for $10B in FY2026, underscoring growth from #AI security products, #SASE, and #virtualFirewalls rather than hardware.
A Western Australia lawyer was referred to the Legal Practice Board after immigration submissions included AI-generated citations for cases that did not exist. The four fictitious citations were identified in a federal court judgment, which ordered the lawyer to pay the federal government’s costs of $8,371.30 and warned about the dangers of relying solely on AI in court documents. The lawyer said he used Anthropic’s Claude AI as a research tool and Microsoft Copilot to validate the submissions, admitting overconfidence and inadequate verification and he apologized. Judge @ArranGerrard warned that while AI can help in complex migration law, there is a concerning number of AI hallucinations that undermine cases and waste time, and urged thorough review of sources beyond checking for non-fakery to protect the profession. The case reinforces the need for careful, verifiable use of #AI in legal practice and for regulators to scrutinize AI-assisted submissions (#AIhallucinations, #legalethics).
17. Orca Computing Deploys Two Photonic Quantum Systems at Montana State University
Orca Computing has installed two photonic quantum computing systems at Montana State University to advance quantum research and education. These systems leverage #photonic quantum technology, which uses light particles to perform computations, offering potential advantages in scalability and stability compared to other quantum platforms. The deployment supports MSU’s growing quantum information science program, enabling students and researchers to explore practical quantum applications and algorithm development. Orca’s initiative exemplifies collaboration between industry and academia, promoting innovation in quantum technologies. This partnership enhances MSU’s capabilities and contributes to the broader goal of accelerating quantum computing progress.
18. 82-Year-Old CEO Grew His Company’s Revenue 7 Times in Under 10 Years
An 82-year-old CEO significantly expanded his company’s revenue, growing it sevenfold in less than a decade. This remarkable growth was achieved through strategic leadership and adapting to market changes, demonstrating the value of experience and innovation in business. The CEO’s ability to navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities highlights the importance of vision and resilience in corporate success. This case exemplifies how seasoned leadership can drive substantial business expansion over time. It underscores that age can be an asset in driving growth and long-term strategy in competitive markets.
19. Another Tesla Cybertruck Headache: Insurance Companies Won’t Cover It
Tesla’s Cybertruck faces significant challenges as many insurance companies refuse to provide coverage for the vehicle, creating a major hurdle for owners. This issue stems from the Cybertruck’s unconventional design and lack of safety data, which insurers find risky to underwrite. The unusual materials and structure of the Cybertruck complicate repair processes and increase potential costs, leading to insurer hesitance. This reluctance impacts consumer confidence and could slow adoption of the Cybertruck despite its innovative design and technology. The insurance barrier highlights broader challenges that disruptive automotive innovations face in gaining mainstream acceptance and support.
Space has become a contested domain where satellites, once peaceful tools for communication and navigation, are increasingly vulnerable to hijacking and weaponization. The growing deployment of orbiting weapons systems by major powers heightens the risk of conflict extending beyond Earth to space. This trend reflects advancements in space technology and strategic military thinking, underscoring the importance of regulating space warfare and securing satellites. The militarization of space poses risks to global security and civilian infrastructure relying on satellite technology. Monitoring and developing international frameworks for space governance are critical to preventing an arms race in orbit and maintaining peace.
21. SpaceX says states should dump fiber plans, give all grant money to Starlink
SpaceX argues that states should dump fiber plans and give all BEAD grant money to @Starlink, calling fiber rollout wasteful and unnecessary taxpayer spending. In filings with the Louisiana Office of Broadband Development and Connectivity, SpaceX says the proposal would allocate nearly $499 million to fiber for 127,842 locations, while SpaceX could serve virtually all BEAD households for under $100 million. Louisiana would award 91.5% of funds to fiber providers, with an average per location cost of $4,449, while bids based on LEO technology were rejected at about $750 per location. SpaceX alleges the process lacked competition and was influenced by fiber lobbyists seeking taxpayer spending. It warns @NTIA to reject the Final Proposal if revisions are not made, underscoring a broader policy clash between #fiber deployment and @Starlink driven solutions under #BEAD and #LEO.
Nexon says there were irregularities identified in its TikTok Creative Challenge for The First Descendant’s Season 3: Breakthrough and is conducting a joint investigation with @TikTok to determine the facts. Some promos featured non-real influencers, including an AI-generated lineup, with the first clip referenced as resembling @DanieltheDemon, who has denied involvement, while others appear entirely AI-driven. Nexon notes that submitted videos are verified for copyright before approval, but suggests circumstances around production of certain clips were inappropriate and that the investigation will establish what happened and who approved what. The situation highlights the challenges of policing #AI-generated content in #UGC-style ads and the oversight of brand campaigns within #CreativeChallenge programs, underscoring the risk of misrepresentation and the need for stronger review. As AI content improves, expect more scrutiny of influencer campaigns and platform moderation.
23. Albania considers creating ministry run entirely by AI to fight corruption
Albania is weighing AI-driven reforms to its state apparatus, including the possibility of a ministry run entirely by AI to fight corruption and accelerate EU integration. At a July press conference, @Edi_Rama said AI could become the most effective element of government and a tool for increasing transparency, with local developers potentially creating an AI model to appoint ministers. Politico reports the idea is being seriously considered, though no official steps have been taken yet. AI is already used to monitor #publicProcurement, analyze #tax and #customs operations in real time, and detect violations, and it is used to monitor the territory with #drones and #satellites for illegal constructions, beach developments, or cannabis plantations. The proposal ties to Albania’s anti-corruption and EU-accession goals, but its feasibility and governance implications remain uncertain.
24. Investigation into ‘horrifying’ death of French streamer
An investigation has been launched into the death of French streamer Raphaël Graven, known as @Jeanpormanove, who was found dead at a residence in Contes near Nice and died in his sleep during a live broadcast; authorities have opened a judicial inquiry and ordered an autopsy. Prosecutors note that he endured bouts of violence and sleep deprivation during streams, and a government minister described the death as an ‘absolute horror’ while saying he had been humiliated for months. The live-streaming platform #Kick said it is urgently reviewing the circumstances and reaffirmed its guidelines to protect creators, with regulatory involvement from Arcom and Pharos. Colleagues and fans, including @Owen Cenazandotti, urged people not to share videos of his last moments, reflecting concerns about the spread of violent content online. The case highlights questions about platform responsibility for online content and the safety of creators and audiences, with the autopsy results likely shaping ongoing debates about streaming culture and moderation.
25. Nvidia said to be developing new, more powerful AI chip for sale in China | TechCrunch
@Nvidia is reportedly assembling a new AI chip for sale in China, codename #B30A, designed to be more powerful than the current #H20 GPUs but only about half as powerful as the flagship #B300 Blackwell. Reuters, citing anonymous sources, notes the chip would be single-die rather than the dual-die design of the #B300, but would retain features such as fast data transmission, #NVLink, and #HBM. The report suggests the B30A development is separate from another China-focused chip, and @Nvidia says it evaluates a variety of products for its roadmap with the full approval of the applicable authorities and designed for beneficial commercial use. The news comes as policy shifts in the U.S. on exporting high-performance AI chips to China create uncertainty around approvals, highlighting geopolitical tensions as @Nvidia and peers pursue access to China’s market. Nvidia’s stance is that ceding the Chinese market to rivals would be akin to giving up strategic ground in the AI chip race, and that its offerings are positioned to meet regulatory requirements and commercial needs.
26. McDonald’s Free Nuggets Hack Leads to Exposure of Confidential Data
The investigation by @BobDaHacker exposed a series of vulnerabilities across McDonald’s digital stack, from a mobile app reward-point bug to exposed internal data and misconfigured platforms used by teams in 120 countries. The reward system was validated on the client side, allowing users to claim items without sufficient points, and the Design Hub relied on a client-side password, creating multiple access risks. Even after reports, a three month overhaul attempted to fix logins for employees and partners, but an open endpoint persisted by changing ‘login’ to ‘register’ in the URL, and the API exposed missing fields to guide account creation. Passwords were sent via email in plaintext; JavaScript files revealed exposed Magicbell API keys and secrets; Algolia search indexes were listable, exposing names, emails, and access requests; basic crew accounts could access TRT to view executives’ emails and impersonate; GRS panel lacked authentication for admin functions, allowing HTML injection. The episode underscores security failures across global systems, with a call for better reporting and a bug bounty program; McDonald’s lacks a formal bug bounty and a robust reporting mechanism; the researcher advises maintaining a security.txt, direct security contacts, and launching a bounty program.
27. FDA finds radioactive shrimp at Walmart’s Great Value brand
The FDA has detected radioactive contamination in shrimp sold under Walmart’s Great Value brand, raising serious food safety concerns. Laboratory tests confirmed the presence of radioactive isotopes, prompting an investigation into the source of the contamination. This incident highlights flaws in supply chain oversight and the need for stricter regulatory enforcement to protect consumers. Walmart is cooperating with authorities and investigating the issue to ensure product safety. The discovery underscores the importance of robust testing and monitoring in the seafood industry to prevent health risks associated with radioactive exposure.
That’s all for today’s digest from 2025/08/20! We found and processed 25 URLs. Stay tuned for tomorrow’s collection of insights and discoveries.
Thanks Patricia Zougheib and Dr Badawi for curating the links
See you in the next one! 🚀