Welcome to today’s curated collection of interesting links and insights for 2025/09/26. Our Hand-picked, AI optomized system has processed and summarized 30 articles from all over the internet to bring you the key the latest technology news.
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1. Microsoft blocks Israel’s use of its technology in mass surveillance of Palestinians
Microsoft has taken the significant step of preventing Israel from using its technologies for widespread surveillance of Palestinians. This action follows concerns about #mass surveillance practices impacting Palestinian communities, raising questions about ethical responsibilities of tech companies. Microsoft’s decision reflects growing scrutiny over how advanced technologies can be used in conflicts and the importance of corporate accountability in human rights issues. By restricting Israeli access, Microsoft aims to align its technological applications with broader international human rights standards. This move highlights the intersection of technology, politics, and ethics in the context of ongoing regional tensions.
2. Trump’s TikTok deal with China in jeopardy amid new US restrictions
The Trump administration’s attempted deal to allow #TikTok to continue operating in the US under a Chinese partnership is now at risk due to newly imposed US safeguards on Chinese technology firms. These restrictions aim to prevent the transfer of sensitive data and technology that could compromise national security. The policy has prompted increased scrutiny of Chinese-owned apps and limits the potential for any deal to move forward without stringent regulatory approval. The evolving US strategy represents a broader effort to decouple American tech infrastructure from Chinese control. This development casts uncertainty on the future of the TikTok deal and exemplifies intensified US-China tech tensions.
Neon, a viral iPhone app that records calls and pays users by sharing audio data to train AI, went offline after a security flaw allowed any logged-in user to access another user’s phone numbers, call recordings, and transcripts. TechCrunch showed that the back end exposed transcripts and public links to raw audio files, and could reveal recent calls and related metadata such as numbers, times, durations, and earnings for any user. The flaw was discovered during a test, prompting @AlexKiam to take down Neon’s servers and notify users to pause the service, though the founder initially did not disclose the lapse. The incident highlights weak access controls in Neon’s backend and raises serious #privacy and #security concerns about monetizing personal conversations and sharing data with #AI providers. With thousands of users and tens of thousands of downloads in a single day before shutdown, Neon’s shutdown serves as a cautionary example of how rapid growth can collide with data-protection risks.
4. Austria military ditches Microsoft for open-source LibreOffice – here’s why
Austria’s military migrated from #Microsoft Office to the open-source #LibreOffice across about 16,000 workstations to bolster #digital sovereignty rather than to save money. Evidence includes the 16,000-workstation scope and the cost comparison—LibreOffice is zero-cost versus a Microsoft 365 E3 subscription for 16,000 workstations at about $6,480,000 per year. @Michael Hillebrand of Directorate 6 ICT and Cyber Defense emphasized that the move aims to strengthen independence and keep data in-house. This aligns with EU-wide actions by regions such as the German state of Schleswig-Holstein, Denmark, and the French city of Lyon, who are pursuing similar shifts to protect citizens’ data from US providers. The plan began with voluntary migrations in 2022 and expanded with external developers joining in 2023 for training, illustrating sustained momentum toward digital sovereignty.
5. OpenAI introduces personalized daily summaries with ChatGPT Pulse
OpenAI’s ChatGPT Pulse is presented as a personalized morning bulletin that starts the day with updates it curates before you ask, based on asynchronous research by the AI. It can be steered toward or away from topics and draws on chat history and, if connected, your Gmail and Google Calendar, with examples like follow-ups on topics you discuss often, quick dinner ideas, or next steps toward long-term goals. This shift from answering questions to preemptively offering relevant prompts shows Pulse aiming to anticipate user needs and fit into daily planning. The feature is currently in testing for Pro tier subscribers, with plans to roll it out to all users, signaling broader adoption. @OpenAI #ChatGPTPulse #Gmail #GoogleCalendar #ProTier
6. Amazon reaches settlement with FTC over Prime membership auto-renewal
Amazon has agreed to a settlement with the Federal Trade Commission (#FTC) concerning its Prime membership auto-renewal practices. The FTC alleged that Amazon made it difficult for customers to cancel their Prime subscriptions, which led to unauthorized charges. Under the settlement, Amazon will simplify the cancellation process and pay fines to reimburse affected customers. This resolution aims to enhance transparency and protect consumers from deceptive subscription practices. The agreement reflects increased regulatory scrutiny over major tech companies’ subscription models and emphasizes accountability.
7. Meta Talks to Google to Use Gemini Model to Improve Ad Targeting
Meta has engaged in discussions with Google about leveraging Google’s new Gemini AI model to enhance its advertising targeting capabilities. The Gemini model, Google’s advanced AI integration, promises improved performance in understanding and predicting user behavior, which is critical for ad personalization. Meta’s interest in using Gemini stems from a need to keep pace with AI advancements that can optimize ad delivery and effectiveness amid increasing competition in digital advertising. These talks indicate a strategic move by Meta to potentially incorporate external AI innovations rather than relying solely on internal developments. This collaboration could reshape ad targeting dynamics by combining Google’s AI prowess with Meta’s massive advertising platform.
8. The OnePlus 15 gets early reveal, with new image engine and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5
The OnePlus 15 is being teased as a major shift for @OnePlus, with official confirmation of the #Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and cues of a redesigned flagship look. The company also reveals a self-developed DetailMax image engine, described as using advanced algorithms and powerful processors, while noting the dissolution of its partnership with @Hasselblad. Alongside imaging changes, OnePlus promises an unrivaled gaming experience through software enhancements, though precise details on battery size, RAM, storage, and display are not yet shared. The early reveal suggests OnePlus is moving ahead of its usual schedule, hinting at a sooner-than-expected launch window and steady rollout of information in the coming weeks. In time, more official details should clarify how the new engine and the Snapdragon chip translate to real-world photography and performance for the #OnePlus flagship, reinforcing the strategy behind this rapid tease.
9. HSBC claims quantum trading breakthrough — Financial Times
HSBC asserts that it has made a significant advance by applying #quantum computing techniques to trading, purportedly boosting efficiency in test environments. The bank argues this could mark a turning point in using quantum algorithms for real-world financial markets. However the claim is met with caution: experts warn that the results are preliminary and that true quantum advantage in trading remains speculative given challenges in scalability, error correction, and practical integration. The article situates HSBC’s announcement amid broader competition in quantum finance, where firms race not just for theoretical breakthroughs but for verifiable, scalable performance in volatile market conditions.
10. Intel Seeks Help From Apple and Others as U.S. Backs Comeback Bid
Intel is actively seeking partnerships with companies like @Apple to strengthen its position amid the U.S. government’s push to revive domestic semiconductor manufacturing under the #CHIPS Act. The company is leveraging federal support to boost production capacity and innovation in an increasingly competitive global chip market dominated by #Taiwan and #SouthKorea. Intel’s strategy involves collaboration with technology leaders to meet rising demand for advanced chips used in devices from smartphones to automobiles. These efforts reflect a national priority to secure supply chains and reduce reliance on foreign manufacturing. Intel’s initiative highlights the interplay between government policy and industry dynamics as the U.S. aims to regain semiconductor manufacturing leadership.
11. Experts urge caution about using ChatGPT to pick stocks
AI chatbots like @ChatGPT are expanding how retail investors approach stock picking, signaling a #democratization of investment analysis, but the trend carries clear risks. Reuters notes that about 1 in 10 retail investors consult AI for stock selection, with roughly 13% using tools like ChatGPT or Gemini and about half willing to rely on them for portfolio decisions, effectively replacing some human advice. Evidence from Finder’s March 2023 test shows a 38-stock AI-selected portfolio rising nearly 55% and outperforming the UK’s 10 most popular funds by about 19 percentage points. But market conditions matter: US stocks hover near record highs, with the S&P 500 up 13% this year after a 23% jump last year, which can make many strategies look successful. Experts warn AI models can confabulate data, misquote figures, and rely on past price action while lacking real-time market information, making them risky substitutes for professional guidance, underscoring the need for cautious use of #AI-driven investing despite its accessibility.
12. Public toilets in China demand ad views for loo roll
Public toilets in China have implemented a unique system requiring users to watch advertisements to obtain toilet paper. This approach aims to reduce the wasteful use of loo roll and promote responsible consumption. By linking the distribution of toilet paper to ad viewing, facilities manage resources more efficiently while generating revenue through advertising. This method reflects a wider trend of integrating marketing with public services to balance sustainability and user needs. Ultimately, it showcases innovative efforts to address everyday environmental challenges through practical solutions.
13. Microsoft and Asus open Xbox Ally preorders — the X costs $999
Microsoft and @Asus opened preorders for the ROG Xbox Ally handhelds, with the Ally at $599 and the Ally X at $999, shipping October 16. In the US, the Xbox Ally X will be exclusive to Best Buy, the Asus Shop, and Microsoft, while the Xbox Ally will be sold more widely through Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, Microsoft, the Asus Shop, and Ant Online. The devices are positioned as PC like handhelds running a new build of Windows that hides the desktop and Explorer shell, enabling controller based navigation. The cheaper Ally uses a Ryzen Z2 A with 4 Zen 2 CPU cores and 8 RDNA 2 GPU cores (6-20W), while the Ally X uses a Ryzen Z2 Extreme configuration aimed at higher performance and pricing that roughly aligns with other premium handhelds. In Europe and the UK, the weaker model costs the same as an Xbox Series X, underscoring the premium positioning of the line.
14. Sierra’s Dream Chaser is starting to resemble a nightmare
Sierra Space’s Dream Chaser spacecraft, designed for delivering cargo to the International Space Station, is facing significant setbacks and delays, casting doubt on its viability and Sierra’s ability to fulfill contract obligations. The Dream Chaser, promoted as a reusable spaceplane offering flexibility and rapid turnaround, has encountered technical hurdles and missed key deadlines, including problems with its cargo module and integration challenges. These issues have raised concerns among NASA and industry observers regarding cost overruns and schedule slippage, undermining confidence in the program’s management and prospects. While the Dream Chaser was intended to complement other commercial resupply vehicles, its troubled development risks jeopardizing the broader objective of fostering a competitive commercial space transportation sector. The unfolding difficulties with Dream Chaser highlight the complexities of innovative spacecraft development and the risks involved in ambitious commercial space initiatives.
15. Hackers reportedly steal pictures of 8,000 children from Kido nursery chain
About 8,000 children’s names, pictures and addresses have reportedly been stolen from the Kido nursery chain by a gang of cybercriminals, with a ransom demand reported. The company, which runs 18 sites in London and has more in the US, India and China, has not commented on the hackers’ claims, while the BBC is cited as the source. The hackers are said to also possess information about parents and carers and safeguarding notes, and have contacted some victims by phone. The Metropolitan Police said they received a referral and that inquiries are ongoing in the cyber crime unit, with no arrests yet; the ICO said Kido International has reported the incident and is being assessed. This incident underscores ongoing concerns about data-breach and ransomware risks to child-related data and the importance of safeguarding and rapid reporting @BBC @Metropolitan_Police @ICO #ransomware #data-breach #safeguarding
16. NASA targeting early February for Artemis II mission to the Moon
NASA is targeting an early February 2026 launch window for #ArtemisII, a 10-day mission that would send four astronauts – @Reid Wiseman, @Victor Glover, @Christina Koch, and @Jeremy Hansen – around the Moon and back. The @Space Launch System (#SLS) rocket has been stacked and declared ready for flight, the @Orion spacecraft is in final prep to be attached atop the stack later this year, and the combined vehicle will roll out to Kennedy Space Center ahead of a planned wet dress rehearsal where fueling will proceed to T-29 seconds. If checks pass, Orion will separate from the upper stage about three hours after liftoff, spend roughly 24 hours in Earth orbit performing life-support and systems checkouts, then fire its main engine to enter a free-return trajectory around the Moon. A key objective is testing the heat shield during reentry; Artemis I’s investigation showed charred fragments broke off, leading NASA to modify the reentry path to reduce gas buildup, and engineers express confidence in Artemis II after extensive testing, per flight director statements. Taken together, Artemis II marks a major step toward returning humans to the Moon and validating systems for longer, more distant exploration #Moon.
17. Lazarus RAT code resurfaces in North Korean IT-worker scams
The @LazarusGroup’s malware resurfaces in North Korea-aligned IT-worker scams, with DeceptiveDevelopment posing as recruiters and distributing a backdoor that shares much of its code with the Lazarus Group’s #PostNapTea RAT. A Virus Bulletin 2025 white paper by ESET researchers links DeceptiveDevelopment’s #BeaverTail and #InvisibleFerret to #PostNapTea, noting overlaps with campaigns like Contagious Interview and WageMole. The criminals use social engineering such as fake job profiles and the ClickFix scheme to lure software developers, exfiltrate data and proprietary code, funnel salaries back to Pyongyang, and threaten leaks for ransom. Tropidoor, the most sophisticated DeceptiveDevelopment payload to date, shares substantial code with #PostNapTea and supports Windows commands like schtasks, reg, net, nslookup, and wmic; in late 2024, #InvisibleFerret gained a browser-data stealer module.
18. There Are More Robots Working in China Than the Rest of the World Combined
China has launched a broad push to automate its factories, deploying more robots than the rest of the world combined and cementing its status as a manufacturing powerhouse. The International Federation of Robotics reports there are more than two million robots in Chinese factories, with about 300,000 new installations last year, surpassing the rest of the world. The government has used public capital, state-backed loans, and policy support as part of its #MadeInChina2025 effort to become a global leader in #robotics and adjacent technologies, a trend analysts like @Lian Jye Su describe as the result of years of strategic investment. China’s share of the world’s robot manufacturing rose to roughly a third last year, up from 25% in 2023, while Japan’s fell from 38% to 29%. By early this year, Chinese factories were making nearly a third of all manufactured goods, reinforcing China’s rise as the dominant global manufacturing hub and the role of automation in reshaping production #AI #semiconductors.
19. 1 in 5 Americans now regularly get news on TikTok, up sharply from 2020
A fifth of U.S. adults now regularly get news on @TikTok, up from 3% in 2020 and marking the fastest growth among the platforms Pew studied. Among adults under 30, 43% say they regularly get news on @TikTok, up from 9% in 2020. Adults ages 30 to 49 also show growth, with 25% regularly getting news on the platform, up from 2% five years ago. Among TikTok users specifically, 55% regularly get news there, up from 22% in 2020. The findings are based on Pew’s analysis of a survey of 5,153 U.S. adults conducted Aug. 18–24, 2025, and the platform has brought @TikTok to parity with @X, @Facebook, and @TruthSocial for the share of adult users who regularly get news there.
20. Judge in Anthropic copyright case preliminarily approves $1.5 billion settlement with authors
A federal judge preliminarily approved Anthropic’s $1.5 billion settlement with authors, a decision described as the largest publicly reported copyright recovery in history, with @DarioAmodei leading the company. The suit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California by authors @AndreaBartz, @CharlesGraeber, and @KirkWallaceJohnson, alleges Anthropic illegally downloaded books from pirated databases #LibraryGenesis and #PirateLibraryMirror. The settlement provides roughly $3,000 per book plus interest and requires destruction of the datasets containing the allegedly pirated material, reflecting a push toward accountability for AI training practices. U.S. District Judge William Alsup initially raised reservations about how authors would be informed, but he approved the deal after weeks of assessment, and final approval will depend on the notice and claims process. Deputy general counsel @AparnaSridhar said the decision lets Anthropic focus on developing safe AI systems that extend capabilities and advance discovery.
21. Google likely to be hit with second EU antitrust fine, sources say
Google is expected to face a second antitrust fine from the European Union related to its advertising technology practices, sources familiar with the matter reveal. This upcoming fine, which could amount to billions of euros, follows an earlier record penalty linked to Google Shopping. The investigation centers on allegations that Google gave its own services preferential treatment, harming competition in the digital ads market. The expected fine underscores continued regulatory scrutiny by the EU on #BigTech firms to ensure fair competition and protect consumer choice. This development illustrates the ongoing challenges @Google faces in balancing innovation with compliance in global markets.
22. Alex Jones and Nick Fuentes banned from YouTube amid Covid misinformation clampdown
YouTube has permanently banned right-wing conspiracy theorist @AlexJones and far-right personality @NickFuentes for repeatedly violating its Covid-19 misinformation policies. The platform cited their promotion of false claims regarding Covid-19 vaccines and treatments as the reason for the suspensions, reflecting YouTube’s ongoing effort to curb the spread of harmful misinformation. This move aligns with broader digital company trends to regulate content linked to public health risks and prevent the amplification of dangerous conspiracy theories online. The bans highlight the challenges social media platforms face in balancing free speech with public safety concerns amid pandemic-related disinformation. YouTube’s enforcement action underscores its commitment to limiting the reach of influential figures who undermine trust in science and public health measures.
23. Oracle founder Larry Ellison pledged to fight climate change by planting a trillion trees
@Larry Ellison, founder of #Oracle, pledged to combat climate change by supporting a global effort to plant a trillion trees, highlighting the urgency of reforestation as a natural solution to reduce carbon levels. He noted the critical role that trees play in absorbing CO2, emphasizing this approach alongside technological innovation. Ellison’s commitment aligns with scientific recommendations to utilize nature-based solutions to improve air quality and biodiversity. This initiative not only aims to mitigate environmental damage but also demonstrates the influence of tech industry leaders in addressing climate issues. Ellison’s pledge reinforces the importance of collaborative action between private sector leaders and environmental goals.
24. Accenture to ‘exit’ staff who cannot be retrained for age of AI — Financial Times
Accenture has unveiled a $865 million restructuring program predicated on the belief that not all employees can transition into the AI era; those unable to reskill may be “exited” from the company. The move is responsive to weak demand in consulting, and signals a sharper shift toward prioritizing AI-capable talent and automation. The article frames this as symptomatic of broader industry tensions: firms are under pressure to modernize fast, but risk alienating long-tenured staff whose roles may not map neatly to AI-augmented futures. The decisions being made now define who gets to stay in evolving sectors, not just for Accenture, but for every business navigating workforce transformation.
25. Musk’s xAI to provide Grok chatbot to US federal agencies in 2025
Elon Musk’s AI company, xAI, announced it will offer its Grok chatbot to U.S. federal agencies starting in 2025, aiming to enhance government services with advanced conversational AI. The Grok chatbot, integrated with Twitter, delivers AI-driven responses and information, leveraging Musk’s recent acquisition of the social media platform. xAI’s move to supply federal agencies underscores the growing role of private AI firms in public sector technology modernization. This partnership reflects Musk’s strategy to expand AI applications beyond commercial use, potentially influencing how government agencies interact with citizens through digital means. The collaboration positions Grok as a significant tool in the evolving landscape of #AI-powered public services.
26. Russian ‘Noah’s Ark’ satellite carrying 75 mice and 1,500 flies lands back on Earth
The Russian Bion-M No. 2 biology satellite, nicknamed a “Noah’s Ark,” returned to Earth after 30 days in orbit carrying a mini‑menagerie of 75 mice, more than 1,500 flies, cell cultures, microorganisms, plant seeds and other specimens. It launched from Baikonur on Aug. 20 aboard a Soyuz-2.1b rocket and was placed in a polar orbit at about 370-380 km altitude with a ~97° inclination, before landing on Sept. 19 in the Orenburg region, where a small brush fire sparked by the descent was quickly extinguished. The mission is a collaboration of @Roscosmos, @IBMP, and the Russian Academy of Sciences, and its program spans 10 sections, including studies of #gravitational-physiology, plant and microbial biology, and #radiobiology to help future life-support and radiation-safety technologies for crewed spaceflight. One experiment, called “Meteorite,” embedded basalt rocks with microbial strains inside the capsule to test survival during reentry and assess #panspermia, the idea that life could move between worlds. Post-flight analyses began at a field medical tent and samples were slated to return to @IBMP laboratories for detailed study, underscoring ongoing work to understand spaceflight’s effects on living systems and inform future missions.
27. Billionaire Xiaomi Founder Unveils a $630 Answer to iPhone 17
Billionaire @Lei Jun, the founder of #Xiaomi, has introduced a new smartphone priced at $630 to compete with Apple’s iPhone 17. The device boasts competitive features such as a high-resolution camera, fast charging capabilities, and a sleek design, aiming to attract consumers seeking premium quality at a more affordable price. The launch represents a strategic move by Xiaomi to challenge Apple’s dominance in the smartphone market by offering significant value. This initiative reflects Xiaomi’s continued innovation and aggressive pricing strategy in the highly competitive tech landscape.
Microsoft will offer free access to Windows 10 extended security updates (#ESU) in the European Economic Area (#EEA) for another year, through October 14, 2026, and it will no longer require cloud backup of PC settings. The enrollment changes are intended to be secure and streamlined as users transition to #Windows11, according to a statement from @Microsoft to Windows Central. @Euroconsumers confirms the no-cost ESU option and notes that cloud backup of settings, apps, or credentials is not required. Users in the #EEA must enroll and authenticate with a Microsoft account every 60 days, but no payment is needed. Outside the #EEA, ESU access remains conditional on cloud synchronization or payment, with options including upgrading to #Windows11 or continuing to use Windows 10 until the end of support on Oct 14, 2025.
@Humain has revealed the Horizon Pro, a “agentic” AI laptop powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite, claiming it can perform at “100 times faster than human thought.” The device runs Humain’s AI layer—Humain One OS—on top of Windows 11 and is equipped with specs like 32 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD, a 14-inch OLED display, Wi-Fi 7, and a 1080p webcam. Battery life is quoted at up to 18 hours. The machine includes a special AI key (analogous to a Copilot key) for invoking AI functions. @Humain plans to release the OS formally on October 27 in Riyadh. The Horizon Pro will be offered to both enterprise and consumer markets (with AI features unlocked via subscription), and Humain promises to distribute 500 units to students initially. They also foresee a future “Horizon Ultra” model without disclosing further specs.
30. Dubai launches $1 million prize for AI-generated films
Dubai has announced a global short film competition for movies created with #AI, offering a prize pool of $1 million with winners to be revealed at the “One Billion Followers Summit” in January 2026. Open to individual creators worldwide, submissions must be between 7 and 10 minutes long, with at least 70% of scenes generated using @Google #Gemini tools like Veo, Imagen, and Flow. Entries can be in any language but must include English subtitles. Films should be uploaded as unlisted YouTube videos and judged based on creativity, storytelling, technical execution, and transparency in AI usage. This initiative positions Dubai as a leader in promoting the intersection of #AI and digital creativity.
That’s all for today’s digest for 2025/09/26! We picked, and processed 30 Articles. 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! 🚀