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Memory and storage costs push Apple to raise prices on dozens of devices

Apple has raised prices across its Mac, iPad, HomePod, and Vision Pro lines, citing a global memory and storage shortage driven by AI infrastructure demand. The increases, which affect at least 15 devices, range from $30 on the HomePod mini to as much as $1,300 on higher-end configurations, according to Insider-Gaming. The company's online store now reflects the new pricing, effective immediately. "AI-driven demand for memory and storage has sharply increased component costs." CBS News reported that Apple previously shielded customers from these increases but can no longer absorb the costs. The MacBook Neo, for example, jumped from $599 to $699, while the MacBook Air rose from $1,099 to $1,299, and the MacBook Pro from $1,699 to $1,999, as detailed by TechCrunch and 9to5Mac. CNBC noted that Apple’s historical strategy includes removing lower-cost options, such as discontinuing the $599 256GB Mac mini variant, to steer buyers toward higher-capacity models. "Unavoidable" CEO Tim Cook confirmed the price hikes were unavoidable due to rising component costs, particularly for memory and storage, 9to5Mac reported. The Verge described the situation as a "severe RAM and component pricing crisis," adding that Apple’s famously generous margins make these moves a bellwether for the industry: if Apple is raising prices, the supply chain situation is dire. The HomePod mini rose from $99 to $129, and iPad and iPad Air models also saw increases, per Insider-Gaming and TechCrunch. Notably, the iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods remain at their previous prices for now, though TechCrunch warned that iPhone prices may rise later this year. Apple’s move reflects a broader trend as memory suppliers like Micron benefit from the surge, CNBC reported, but consumers face higher costs across nearly every Apple product that relies on memory and storage components.

7 sources · 27 Jun

Anthropic's Claude Mythos 5 Reinstated for Over 100 US Institutions After Two-Week Standoff

The Trump administration has lifted its block on Anthropic's most advanced AI model, Claude Mythos 5, allowing the company to grant access to more than 100 US institutions including major corporations and government agencies, according to Semafor and Wired. The decision comes two weeks after the government imposed export controls that shut down the model and its public-facing counterpart, Fable 5, following warnings from Amazon and other companies. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick informed Anthropic co-founder Tom Brown in a letter that the restrictions were eased because "appropriate safeguards are in place," as Wired reported. The move marks a significant de-escalation in tensions between the Trump Administration and Anthropic, Semafor noted, following weeks of negotiations between the White House and the AI lab. "appropriate safeguards are in place." Despite the reinstatement, the public version of the model, Fable 5, remains in limbo with no clear timeline for rollout, according to The Verge. Axios reported that the Commerce Department approved a limited return of both Mythos 5 and Fable 5 after the company addressed risks, with Lutnick's letter acknowledging "significant progress" from Anthropic's engagement with the government. "significant progress" The abrupt removal of the models on June 12 had created uncertainty in the industry and among allies whose cyber capabilities were impacted, Axios added. The partial resolution now allows select organizations to access Mythos 5, while Fable 5's future remains uncertain as negotiations continue.

7 sources · 27 Jun

Trump administration tightens grip on AI cybersecurity model releases from OpenAI and Anthropic

The Trump administration is exerting unprecedented control over the release of advanced cybersecurity AI models from both OpenAI and Anthropic, with each company now offering its latest tools only to small, government-approved groups of experts. OpenAI has released GPT-5.5-Cyber to vetted cybersecurity firms and researchers, while Anthropic received approval for a limited launch of its own model after an earlier effective ban, according to reports from Axios and The Associated Press. "The government's unprecedented intervention has drawn criticism from experts who warn it could unpredictably hinder U.S. AI companies." The AP report highlighted the broader implications of the administration's role in vetting AI products for cybersecurity risks, noting that OpenAI also restricted the release of its GPT-5.6 Sol model at the Trump administration's request. This marks a sharp departure from previous industry self-regulation, raising questions about how such oversight might affect American competitiveness in AI. OpenAI's GPT-5.5-Cyber model is being positioned as a rival to Anthropic's similar offering, yet the political fallout has been strikingly uneven. Axios reported that OpenAI faced "minimal political backlash" compared to Anthropic, which had drawn concern from the Trump administration. The contrast leaves observers wondering what specifically triggered the government's scrutiny of one company over the other. "OpenAI releases GPT-5.5-Cyber cybersecurity model with minimal political backlash, contrasting Anthropic's experience." That Axios account underscores a key dynamic: both companies are developing tools for cyber defenders, but the regulatory climate appears inconsistent. Anthropic's similar model, which Axios noted remains "in regulatory limbo" with the U.S. government, was only cleared for a constrained rollout to administration-approved partners. The administration's involvement extends beyond mere review. According to the AP, both companies will now only provide their cybersecurity models to "small groups of administration-approved trusted partners," effectively making the government a gatekeeper for cutting-edge AI security tools. While intended to mitigate risks, experts cited by the AP warn that such intervention could unpredictably hamper U.S. AI firms in the global race.

3 sources · 27 Jun

Vance Brings His Book Tour to Maher's 'Real Time' as Iran Tensions Boil Over

Vice President JD Vance sat for a wide-ranging interview on HBO's 'Real Time with Bill Maher' on Friday, appearing as scheduled even as renewed U.S.-Iran military strikes and Iranian retaliation dominated the news. According to Deadline, Vance visited CBS Television City to promote his book 'Communion' while simultaneously issuing an online statement warning that 'violence will be met with violence' amid the escalating conflict. "violence will be met with violence" Decider reported that the appearance marked 'the first appearance of a sitting VP on the show,' a milestone for the long-running program. Maher pressed Vance on several hot-button topics, including negotiations with Iran, immigration and ICE policies, and the ongoing controversy over 2020 election denial. "the first appearance of a sitting VP on the show" Maher pushed back on Vance's election denial claims during the interview, but the exchange did not unfold entirely according to the host's expectations. Decider noted that the conversation 'didn't go exactly as planned for the host,' though neither outlet detailed specific moments where Vance gained the upper hand. Deadline further reported that Vance engaged in a 'wide-ranging interview' with Maher, balancing his promotional duties with the gravity of the moment. The Vice President's dual role as author and administration spokesperson on foreign policy underscored the unusual optics of a book tour segment unfolding against a backdrop of military strikes. The appearance offered viewers a rare live, unscripted look at the administration's second-highest official during a crisis, with Maher's signature interrogative style providing a contrast to the typical cable news format.

2 sources · 27 Jun

Palantir Secures 12-Month £2m Met Police Pilot After Mayor Vetoed Larger Deal

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has allowed the Metropolitan Police to extend their pilot project with US spy-tech firm Palantir by 12 months at a cost of £2m, weeks after he blocked a £50m contract between the force and the company over procurement violations. The reversal, reported by Novara Media, grants Palantir continued access to the Met while a formal procurement process for a long-term supplier is carried out. The mayor's office previously halted the larger deal after citing a "clear and serious breach" of procurement rules, according to The Guardian. The office criticized the Met for having seriously considered only one supplier during the original negotiation. The 12-month pilot extension allows the force to keep using Palantir's data analysis tools while it runs a compliant competition for a permanent contract. Novara Media noted that Khan had earlier expressed opposition to Palantir's involvement in the Gaza conflict and its work with US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, raising questions about the consistency of his stance on public contracts and corporate values. The £2m pilot contract represents a fraction of the originally proposed £50m deal but grants the company continued access to London policing systems. "clear and serious breach" The Guardian reported that the mayor's office faulted the Met for failing to consider other suppliers during the procurement process, which it described as serious enough to warrant blocking the original agreement. The extension, however, gives the force room to conduct a proper market competition without immediately losing access to Palantir's technology. Critics have pointed to Khan's apparent shift, with Novara Media highlighting that the mayor had previously signaled discomfort with Palantir's activities abroad. The Met Police have not commented on whether the pilot extension could lead to a renewed push for a long-term deal after the procurement process is completed.

3 sources · 27 Jun

Vanilla Ice's Freedom 250 Set Scuttled by Rain After Most Acts Had Already Backed Out

Vanilla Ice's scheduled performance at President Trump's Freedom 250 Great American State Fair on the National Mall was canceled less than two hours before showtime, with heavy rainfall blamed for the late cancellation. The rapper had been one of the few headliners who did not bow out of the event earlier this month, according to TheWrap. "Vanilla Ice was scheduled to perform at President Trump's Freedom 250 Great American State Fair on the National Mall as part of an 'I Love the 90s!' event, but the concert was canceled less than two hours before showtime due to heavy rainfall." The cancellation came amid a broader exodus of acts from the Freedom 250 concert series, which Stereogum reported had seen nearly all scheduled performers drop out. Only Lee Greenwood had taken the stage on June 25 before Vanilla Ice's event was called off. "Donald Trump's Freedom 250 concert series has seen nearly all scheduled acts drop out. After Lee Greenwood performed on June 25, Vanilla Ice's concert was canceled two hours before showtime due to weather." Earlier that day, the rapper had posted a video online promising an "epic" event, making the weather-forced cancellation a stark comedown. The heavy rain that swept through the National Mall effectively ended what was already a severely depleted lineup for the president's Independence Day weekend festivities.

2 sources · 27 Jun

Lorde Opens the Vault with 49 Demos and Intimate Reflections for Virgin Anniversary

Lorde has shared 49 demo tracks from her fourth studio album Virgin to mark its one-year anniversary, along with behind-the-scenes photographs and a deeply personal essay sent to fans via her newsletter. According to Rolling Stone, the collection offers a raw look into the creative process behind the album, which the artist described as an emotionally exposing project. In a letter accompanying the release, Lorde reflected on the intense period during which she made Virgin while navigating a breakup, an eating disorder, and a diagnosis of PMDD. Consequence.net reported that she called every day of making the album "a total gift" and described the release of the demos as emotionally raw. "the true 'X-rays' of the work are more revealing and authentic than polished composites." Stereogum noted that the collection, titled XRAYS, includes skeleton versions and composite tracks that strip the music down to its most essential form. Lorde’s commentary suggests that these unvarnished recordings offer a more honest window into the album's creation than the final polished versions. The singer also shared personal photographs dating back to 2022, giving fans a visual diary of the album’s development. Rolling Stone added that the release was a way for Lorde to mark the milestone and connect with listeners who have followed her career. The gesture underscores the artist’s willingness to embrace vulnerability as part of her creative identity.

4 sources · 27 Jun

Mick Jagger Eyes a Tight, Two-Year Window for a Rolling Stones Biopic

Mick Jagger has expressed interest in a Rolling Stones biopic, but the frontman is already setting firm creative boundaries for any such project. In a recent GQ interview, Jagger outlined a vision that would break sharply from the sprawling career-spanning portraits that have become standard for music biopics. According to Vulture, Jagger wants a film that "zeroes in on a specific two-year period of the band's history" rather than attempting to cover the Stones' entire six-decade arc. This focused approach would mirror the narrative strategy of recent biopics he admires, including A Complete Unknown, the Bob Dylan film, and Get On Up, the James Brown movie that Jagger himself produced, as Deadline reported. "zeroes in on a specific two-year period of the band's history." Jagger, who served as a producer on Get On Up, pointed to that film and the Dylan project as reference points for the kind of tight storytelling he envisions. Yet he declined to elaborate on specific details, with Deadline noting that he "declined to reveal specific details about his vision for the project." The timing of Jagger's comments suggests the band is at least in the early stages of discussing a film, though no director, writer, or studio has been attached. By signaling a preference for a concentrated narrative window, Jagger may be attempting to avoid the pitfalls of the conventional biopic, which often struggles to capture a half-century of excess, reinvention, and cultural impact in a single feature. "declined to reveal specific details about his vision for the project." Whether the band can agree on which two-year period to dramatize remains an open question. For fans, the prospect of a Stones film narrowed to a single creative or chaotic chapter offers the promise of depth over breadth, a chance to see the band at its most defining moment rather than through a rushed highlight reel.

2 sources · 27 Jun

Billy Strings Blends Bluegrass and Metal at Inaugural Ionia Freak Fair with Dedicated Stage

Billy Strings, the Grammy-winning bluegrass musician known for his metal influences, has unveiled a dedicated metal stage for his debut Ionia Freak Fair festival. The event takes place August 28-29 at the Ionia Fairgrounds in Ionia, Michigan, with Strings headlining both nights alongside bluegrass peers Greensky Bluegrass and Leftover Salmon, according to Stereogum. The addition of the "Pyramid Scheme Pinball and Metal Tent" underscores Strings' unusual crossover appeal. Consequence.net reported that the stage will feature hardcore band Bane, death metal band Cryptopsy, For the Fallen Dreams, Flesh and Blood Robot, Heartsick, and See You Next Tuesday, bringing a heavy element to the traditionally acoustic festival. "The announcement highlights Strings' crossover appeal between the Americana and metal scenes." This eclectic booking reflects Strings' well-known passion for heavy music, a departure from his bluegrass roots that has intrigued fans of both genres. Stereogum noted that Strings' own performances will bookend the festival alongside other bluegrass stalwarts. Festival organizers have yet to announce whether the metal tent will feature pinball machines as its name suggests, though Consequence.net confirmed the stage's full lineup and billing. The blend of genres positions Ionia Freak Fair as a unique event in the summer festival circuit, bridging two audiences that rarely overlap at the same venue.

2 sources · 27 Jun

Tamil Screenwriting Legend K. Bhagyaraj Dies at 73; Leaders Hail His 'Distinctive Storytelling'

K. Bhagyaraj, the acclaimed Tamil cinema writer, director, and actor, died at age 73 in Chennai due to cardiac arrest, Variety reported. His passing prompted tributes from top Indian officials. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay announced state honors for his final rites, while India's Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan confirmed the news. "praising Bhagyaraj's extraordinary contribution to Indian cinema through his memorable films, distinctive storytelling, and innovative screenplay techniques that could present complex narratives in a simple yet engaging manner." Variety noted that the Chief Minister praised Bhagyaraj's films for their humor, family relationships, and reflection of social values. The filmmaker, born on January 7, 1953, in Vellankoil, was widely regarded as one of Tamil cinema's defining creative figures. "praising Bhagyaraj's films for their humor, family relationships, and reflection of social values." Bhagyaraj's career spanned decades, during which he shaped Tamil cinema with his distinctive voice. Both reports underscored his status as a defining figure whose work connected with audiences through accessible yet profound storytelling. His death leaves a significant void in Indian cinema.

3 sources · 27 Jun

Robot Chicken's anniversary special digs up Adult Swim's strangest relics

Adult Swim is marking a major anniversary with a Robot Chicken special that resurrects some of the network's most forgotten oddities. The stop-motion sketch series, created by Seth Green and Matthew Senreich, will pay tribute to both beloved hits and deeply obscure shows that aired in the block's late-night graveyard slots. According to Polygon, the special is part of the network's 25th anniversary celebration and will parody shows including Rick and Morty and Metalocalypse. The A.V. Club, however, reports that the anniversary is the 20th and that the special will revive short-lived cult favorites like "Assy McGee" and "Fat Guy Stuck In Internet." Both outlets agree on the special's content while differing on exactly which milestone Adult Swim is honoring. "Those bizarre, late-night concepts that seemed funny only in a writer's room at 2 AM got greenlit, ran for a season or two, and then disappeared." The network's willingness to air such oddities is exactly what the special aims to celebrate. The A.V. Club noted that Robot Chicken's stop-motion tributes will bring back shows that many viewers may have forgotten or never seen in the first place. Polygon highlighted that the special's signature sketch comedy style allows it to both honor and satirize two and a half decades of Adult Swim's unique mix of animated and live-action content. The inclusion of Rick and Morty, one of the network's biggest hits, alongside long-gone experiments suggests a broad range of targets for the Robot Chicken treatment. "The special features the signature stop-motion sketch comedy style of creators Seth Green and Matthew Senreich, celebrating and satirizing two and a half decades of Adult Swim's unique animated and live-action content." The special promises a nostalgic trip through Adult Swim's history, balancing reverence for its enduring hits with affection for the strange shows that barely lasted a season. Whether the number on the anniversary cake is 20 or 25, the tribute underscores how Robot Chicken has itself become a fixture of the block it is now parodying.

2 sources · 27 Jun

Lee Cronin's Supernatural Horror 'The Mummy' Sets HBO Max Streaming Date

Lee Cronin's supernatural horror film 'The Mummy' will begin streaming on HBO Max on July 3, with a linear debut on HBO on July 4, according to reports from Variety and Deadline. The film, released theatrically by New Line Cinema on April 17, follows a journalist whose daughter vanishes into the desert and returns eight years later, turning a family reunion into a nightmare. Directed and written by Lee Cronin, the movie stars Jack Reynor, Laia Costa, May Calamawy, Natalie Grace, and Verónica Falcón, Variety reported. The plot hinges on the daughter's mysterious reappearance and the horrors that follow. Despite strong trailer hype, the film underperformed critically and had only modest box office success, Bleeding Cool reported. "The film, which looked promising in trailers, failed to fully deliver according to critics." The outlet noted that the film had "some strong moments" despite its shortcomings, and the coming streaming release could help it reach a wider audience. Bleeding Cool suggested that HBO Max might give the movie a second life. The July 3 premiere on HBO Max offers a chance for viewers who missed the theatrical run to judge the film for themselves. With a holiday weekend launch, 'The Mummy' could find new viewers among horror fans looking for a fresh scare.

3 sources · 27 Jun

Pixar's 'Toy Story 5' on Track to Nearly Double 'Supergirl''s Opening Weekend Box Office

Disney and Pixar's 'Toy Story 5' is projected to dominate the domestic box office in its second weekend, earning an estimated $80 to $90 million, while DC Studios' 'Supergirl' is expected to open with a relatively modest $47 to $50 million, according to two industry reports. The animated sequel's strong hold reflects enduring family audience demand, whereas the debut of DC's latest superhero entry underscores the challenges facing the studio's revamped slate under James Gunn and Peter Safran. Variety reported that 'Supergirl', starring Milly Alcock as Superman's cousin, earned $7.8 million in Thursday previews, with a global preview total of $13 million. Deadline noted that the film is the second DC Studios production overseen by Gunn and Safran, following last summer's 'Superman', which opened to $125 million domestically. The outlet also drew comparisons to previous DC misfires, including 'The Flash', which debuted to $55 million. "It draws comparisons to previous DC releases like 'The Flash' ($55M opening) and mentions the challenges facing the new DC slate." Deadline's analysis highlights the uphill climb for DC's new era after several underperforming titles. While 'Supergirl' is tracking ahead of some recent entries, it still trails the benchmark set by 'Superman' and faces stiff competition from Pixar's family powerhouse. "The film is projected to make $47-50 million in its debut, but is expected to be outperformed by Disney and Pixar's 'Toy Story 5,' which is estimated to earn $80-90 million in its second weekend." Variety's projection confirms that 'Toy Story 5' will likely earn nearly double what 'Supergirl' manages in its opening frame, a clear sign that brand loyalty and family appeal remain potent forces at the multiplex. For DC, the numbers suggest that rebuilding audience trust will take more than a few high-profile releases, even with a charismatic lead in Alcock.

2 sources · 27 Jun

MSNBC shifts weekend evenings to taped podcasts; veteran anchor Alex Witt set to exit

MSNBC is overhauling its weekend evening lineup, swapping live hosted hours after 6 p.m. ET for taped video podcasts and parting ways with longtime anchor Alex Witt. The changes, outlined in a memo from MSNBC president Rebecca Kutler, reflect a broader push toward podcast-driven programming and content partnerships, according to Variety. Under the restructuring, weekend slots after 6 p.m. ET will feature taped shows from Crooked Media as well as podcasts hosted by Nicolle Wallace and Chris Hayes. The network cited the success of its existing Crooked Media agreement, reported Deadline. The Weekend: Primetime will end on Saturdays, and co-anchor Antonia Hylton will move to weekend daytime hours from 1 to 4 p.m. ET, Deadline added. Co-anchors Ayman Mohyeldin, Elise Jordan, and Catherine Rampell will remain as contributors. "The strategy signals the network's push toward more content partnerships and podcast-driven programming on weekends." Variety noted that the move underscores the growing convergence between creator media and traditional TV news. The shift also comes as part of a cost-cutting effort aimed at funding a direct-to-consumer streaming service and live event business, reported the Los Angeles Times. Alex Witt, who joined the network in 1999, will depart later this summer, both Deadline and Variety confirmed. The Hollywood Reporter described her exit as happening after nearly 30 years at the channel. A small number of layoffs are also part of the restructuring, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Witt's departure and the elimination of live weekend evening programming represent a notable break from the network's traditional live news format, as MSNBC leans into taped, podcast-style content for its weekend nights.

4 sources · 27 Jun

British Film Institute Board Grows to 14 With Six New Appointments

The British Film Institute (BFI) has expanded its board of governors to 14 members with the appointment of six new individuals, each serving a four-year term. Creative Industries Minister Ian Murray announced the additions, which include Tanya Cordrey, Mark Herbert, Ganan Kanagathurai, Hakan Kousetta, Ryan Prince, and Jane Tranter, who will serve as Wales Governor. The appointments were reported by both Deadline and Arts Professional. "Creative Industries Minister Ian Murray has announced the appointment of six new members to the board of the British Film Institute (BFI)." The move brings fresh perspectives to the BFI's leadership, which now counts a total of 14 governors. According to Deadline, the board is still seeking a governor representing Scotland, with recruitment ongoing for that role. Alongside the new members, the BFI has also reappointed four existing governors for another four-year term. Monica Chadha, Elizabeth Karlsen, Laura Miele, and filmmaker Edgar Wright will continue their service on the board, as detailed by Deadline. This mix of new and returning faces suggests a blend of continuity and renewal in the institute's governance. Each governor's term is set at four years, a standard duration that allows for sustained oversight of the BFI's operations. The appointments reflect the institute's ongoing effort to maintain diverse representation, with the Wales governor position now filled and the Scotland seat still open. Both outlets confirmed the four-year term structure and the list of appointees.

2 sources · 27 Jun

Dembele's 32-minute hat-trick leads France past Norway, securing Group I top spot

France defeated Norway 4-1 in Boston, with Ousmane Dembele scoring a stunning hat-trick in 32 minutes to secure top spot in World Cup Group I, according to mirror.co.uk. The Ballon d'Or holder was the standout performer, well supported by Kylian Mbappe, as reported by goal.com. Dembele's explosive display put France firmly in control, and the victory marked the first time since 1998 that the French team has won all three group matches, mirror.co.uk noted. France will now face Sweden in the Round of 32. Norway's coach Stale Solbakken opted to rest key players such as Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard for the match, but goal.com reported that the decision backfired as Norway fell to a heavy defeat. Despite the win, France coach Didier Deschamps was not present on the touchline due to his mother's passing, mirror.co.uk reported, but is set to rejoin the squad for the knockout stage.

2 sources · 27 Jun

Justin Bieber booed in Buffalo while announcing Maple Leafs' first-round draft pick

Justin Bieber made a surprise appearance at the 2026 NHL Draft in Buffalo, New York, where he announced the No. 1 overall pick for his favorite team, the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Canadian pop star was greeted with boos from the Buffalo crowd when he expressed his love for the rival Maple Leafs, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Bieber was introduced by NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman as one of the team's "most diehard and iconic fans," The Hollywood Reporter reported. The crowd's hostile reaction reflected the intense rivalry between the Buffalo Sabres and the Maple Leafs, with the draft taking place in Sabres territory. The Maple Leafs selected forward Gavin McKenna from Whitehorse, Yukon, with the first overall pick. According to Rolling Stone, McKenna walked up to the stage to Bieber's song "Yukon" and will join the team after the draft. "most diehard and iconic fans" While the boos underscored the cross-border tension, Bieber's presence as a celebrity announcer highlighted the star power the NHL has sought to bring to its draft events. Rolling Stone noted that McKenna's selection was the key moment of the evening, with Bieber personally making the announcement on stage. The draft in Buffalo marked a rare instance of a pop star serving as the draft announcer for a rival team in enemy territory, a spectacle that blended sports fandom with entertainment flair.

2 sources · 27 Jun