All Baker's Takes

New Apple Corps Deal Hands Universal Global Control Over Beatles Merchandise

Apple Corps, the company that manages The Beatles' creative and business interests, has signed a new multi-year partnership with Universal Music Group that puts UMG in charge of the band's worldwide physical and digital merchandise, licensing, and e-commerce, according to Chennaionline and Deadline. The agreement comes as UMG already handles The Beatles' music catalog and brought the band's recordings to streaming sites, Deadline reported. Tom Greene, chief executive officer of Apple Corps, said UMG was the right partner for a moment packed with new Beatles projects. "We are delighted to partner with UMG on a new global merchandising deal," Greene told licenseglobal.com. In a separate statement carried by Music Week, Greene tied the partnership directly to what fans can expect soon. "There has never been a more exciting time to work on The Beatles as we look ahead to the 3 Saville Row fan experience in 2027, and our biopic movies in 2028," he said. "The Beatles message has never been more relevant or needed in the world today." Those biopics, four separate films about John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, are set for a 2028 release, Billboard reported. Far Out Magazine noted the new agreement covers areas such as licensing and merchandise, arriving ahead of that slate. Universal Music Group chairman and CEO Lucian Grainge expressed gratitude for Apple Corps' trust and emphasized the company's commitment to protecting and growing The Beatles' legacy while deepening their global partnership, according to Variety. With both the 2027 fan experience and 2028 films on the horizon, the merchandising deal gives UMG a central role in how the band's image travels through the next chapter of its history.

7 sources · 19 Aug

Meta's Child Safety Trial Opens With Four States Demanding $200 Billion

Opening statements began in a landmark federal trial against Meta, the parent company of Instagram and Facebook, with California Deputy Attorney General Megan O'Neill addressing U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers in a California courtroom, according to the Associated Press and spokesman.com. ANEWS described the proceedings as a landmark case over alleged harm to children. The case stems from lawsuits filed by 29 attorneys general accusing Meta of designing addictive apps that harm young people, usatoday.com reported. Four states, California, Colorado, Kentucky and New Jersey, are taking the social media giant to trial first, with the New York Times reporting they are seeking $200 billion. "A landmark trial begins as 29 attorneys general sue Meta for allegedly harming children with addictive apps." The combined state action shows how broadly the allegations reach beyond the four states now in court, even as this trial serves as the opening test case. "California, Colorado, Kentucky and New Jersey are taking the social media giant to trial in the first bellwether federal case over child harm." As a bellwether, the outcome could influence how the remaining state claims proceed, a point the Times highlighted as arguments got underway. "The trial is taking place in a California federal court before District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers, with an eight-person jury serving in an advisory role while the judge will ultimately decide the case." Al Jazeera reported the trial is expected to last several weeks, with the judge holding the final say rather than the advisory jury. The Associated Press reported the four states accuse Meta of contributing to the youth mental health crisis by designing features that addict children, while the Independent called the proceedings a landmark online child safety trial. Together, the accounts point to a case that could reshape how social media platforms are held accountable for younger users.

7 sources · 19 Aug

Salmonella Scare Prompts Jalapeño Recall at Two Texas Costco Stores

Jalapeño lovers in Texas are being warned to check their fridge after a recall hit five-pound bags of the peppers sold at two Costco locations. Dairyland Produce LLC, operating as Hardie's Fresh Foods in Houston and Dallas, issued the recall over potential Salmonella contamination, according to Food Safety News and foodsafetynews.com. "Taylor Farms announced the HeB salmonella jalapeño recall on Aug. 9, saying it is pulling products made with jalapeños because of potential Salmonella contamination amid a multistate outbreak." The Taylor Farms announcement ties the local Texas recall to a broader multistate investigation, meaning the Houston repacker's action may be part of a larger picture than a single store issue. The affected peppers were distributed to Costco Store 1487 in Stafford and Store 0655 in Dallas, the reports said. The recalled PEPPER JALAPENO 5 products come in clear plastic bags with pink stick-on labels, and the recall covers seven lot codes with production dates ranging from July 11 to July 18, according to Food Safety News and foodsafetynews.com. "A Houston repacker recalled five-pound bags of jalapeños sold at two Texas Costco business centers, with seven lot codes and no illnesses reported." The absence of reported illnesses so far offers some relief, though officials are still urging shoppers to check their bags and return any affected product. Chron.com reported that the recall covers seven lot codes with production dates in July, narrowing the window for consumers trying to identify whether their purchase is at risk. The specific lot codes include X2741775, X2741859, X2744163, X2744706, X2746349, X2746490, and X2748743, according to the recall notices.

5 sources · 19 Aug

Hanna and Horovitz Cover Bieber's 'Let Me Love You' to Rally 30-Plus Acts Against ICE

Kathleen Hanna and Ad-Rock, the Beastie Boys' Adam Horovitz, have released a cover of DJ Snake and Justin Bieber's 'Let Me Love You' for the anti-ICE benefit compilation 'Contra-ICE Vol. 1: ICE OUT,' Pitchfork reported. The collection, out October 2 via SoundsGood on digital, CD, and vinyl, was organized by Build Art Make Change and features more than 30 music, spoken-word, and comedy icons, according to Rolling Stone. The lineup includes Tom Morello, Jello Biafra, Fred Armisen, Fishbone, Ozomatli, Money Mark, and David J, with proceeds going to the National Day Laborer Organizing Network and Unión del Barrio. As ALT AZ 93.3 put it, the married pair are: "taking their marriage to the studio" The outlet noted the Bikini Kill vocalist and the Beastie Boys member, who wed in 2006, released their take on the 2016 hit. The Hanna/Ad-Rock track also includes Money Mark, Fredo Ortiz, and Frank Figueroa, Pitchfork noted. Hanna said in a press release that it is: "rare to play music with favorite people while working with a grassroots organization" That collaborative spirit extends across the rest of the record, which mixes punk and rap veterans with spoken-word and comedy acts. Other outlets also flagged the release: Fuzz 96.1 and 98 Rock both carried the news, carmandragone.car.blog highlighted the involvement of Tom Morello, Jello Biafra, and Fred Armisen, and Far Out Magazine confirmed the October 2 release date.

7 sources · 19 Aug

Elden Ring Switch 2 gameplay showcase lands amid mixed performance verdicts

Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition is getting one last look before its Switch 2 debut. Nintendo and Bandai Namco have released a "Gameplay Showcase" trailer, and separate off-screen footage shows the game running in portable mode, according to RPG Site and news.instant-gaming.com. The all-in-one edition, which bundles the base game and its DLC, is set to arrive on August 28, reported news.instant-gaming.com. The showcase caps a rocky road to release. Notebookcheck reported that development of the Switch 2 version has been long and difficult, and Eurogamer noted that early playable builds, including one shown at Gamescom 2025, performed poorly. That led FromSoftware to delay the port in order to make targeted performance adjustments, according to Eurogamer. The new footage has produced mixed readings. Notebookcheck's analysis of the fresh videos found better performance overall, but docked mode offers only limited advantages and handheld mode can still dip below 30 FPS. Eurogamer, by contrast, said the new preview wipes away performance concerns. "We're continuing to get looks at Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition on Nintendo Switch 2, and a 'Gameplay Showcase' trailer has now surfaced." Nintendo reported that looks at the game keep coming, with the showcase trailer now part of the rollout. "Nintendo and Bandai Namco share the first gameplay showcase video for Elden Ring Tarnished Edition." RPG Site described the new trailer as the first gameplay showcase video for the edition, while IGN Adria likewise circulated the official gameplay overview. With opinion split between lingering frame rate worries and a more upbeat preview read, the August 28 launch will settle the question.

7 sources · 19 Aug

Dual Pistols Face New Competition in Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis' Combat Overhaul

The latest developer documentary for Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis dives into the combat and progression overhaul for the remake of the 1996 original, with Crystal Dynamics and Flying Wild Hog showing off how Lara's arsenal and growth systems are being rebuilt ahead of the game's February 2027 release, thegamerztheory reported. According to gameloop.gg, the new trailer confirms a Focus system, skill trees, artifact-based upgrades, weapon roles and herb crafting, while IGN Adria noted the reimagining also includes a chargeable Focus meter and RPG-like skill tree alongside herb brewing. Men's Journal described the reveal as including a massive change to gameplay mechanics, and PlayStation Universe framed the video as a look at how the game revamps combat and progression. "Choosing between Lara's iconic dual pistols and a host of other equally capable weapons is a good dilemma to have in the upcoming adventure." That choice appears to be central to the remake's approach, with the weapons now apparently serving distinct roles rather than simply being alternatives. "When you're dealing with a character like Lara Croft, who has such a rich history behind her, there are some expectations from players." Game director Raul Siqueira, speaking in the trailer, explained how the remake takes ideas from the original and makes them more attuned to the Tomb Raider of today, Gamereactor reported, with Flying Wild Hog and Crystal Dynamics collaborating on the project.

7 sources · 19 Aug

Pikachu Takes the Spotlight as Pokémon TCG Turns 30 With a Boosters-Wide Celebration

The Pokémon Trading Card Game is turning 30, and The Pokémon Company is marking the milestone with an anniversary set built around its most electric mascot. The Pokémon TCG: 30th Celebration expansion launches worldwide on 16th September 2025, according to nintendolife.com, with a special lineup of Pikachu cards at its core. Techgenyz reported that the expansion spotlights a dedicated parade of Pikachu cards, giving collectors a reason to chase the milestone set. The outlet noted that the celebration leans on one of the franchise's most recognizable faces. "collectors will have plenty of little reasons to be excited about the anniversary set." That excitement extends to the set's structure. nintendolife.com detailed that the release includes 30 rare Pikachu cards featuring Pikachu numbering, with one found in every booster pack. The cards mix reprints of classic designs, brand-new artwork, and two Pikachu "ex special illustration rares" that highlight a specific anniversary theme. "two Pikachu 'ex special illustration rares' that highlight a 'day and night aesthetic' for the anniversary." Player.one added that the 30th Celebration unveiling also introduced cards beyond Pikachu, including legendary Pokémon, with the full reveal arriving ahead of the set's release next month. Nintendo, meanwhile, showcased the same gallery on its own site, giving fans another look at the electrifying artwork. GoNintendo kept its reaction short and sweet. "Celebrate good times!"

5 sources · 19 Aug

Snap and Print: Polaroid Launches Limited Pokémon Instant Camera Collection

Polaroid has unveiled a Pokémon-themed special edition range, and preorders begin Aug. 25, according to Mashable. The lineup includes three camera designs inspired by Pikachu, Sylveon and the Poké Ball, CNET reported, with themed film and Poké Ball accessories accompanying the cameras, per Gadget Flow. "Finally, Pokémon Snap in real life!" GoNintendo's reaction captures the immediate appeal of the pairing, which Mashable framed as a cult-classic game meeting a cult-classic camera. "slapping Pokemon on things remains an excellent business model." CNET noted the cameras carry a $100 price tag, suggesting nostalgia is the driving force behind the collaboration. "accessories that demand to be caught." Digital Camera World highlighted the wider range of Pokémon-themed film packs and add-ons, a pitch that may resonate with fans who want to collect them all. ValoSettings.com also reported that Polaroid and Pokémon joined forces for the special collection, while Mashable called it "the most perfect combination ever" in its coverage of the launch.

7 sources · 19 Aug

August's Game Pass Farewells Include The Witcher 3 and Four More

Xbox Game Pass is saying goodbye to five titles when August ends, with The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Complete Edition headlining the departures. GameSpot reported that the list, visible on the "Leaving Soon" tab of the Xbox mobile app, also includes Another Crab's Treasure, I Am Your Beast, Neon Abyss, and One Lonely Outpost, all exiting the subscription service on August 31. ComicBook framed the Witcher 3 exit in loftier terms, calling it a once-in-a-generation loss for the service. Polygon noted that subscribers have until the end of August to play the acclaimed RPG before it leaves, and observed that Game Pass is losing more notable games than it adds this month. "What is widely considered one of the best video games in history will be departing from Xbox Game Pass at the end of August 2026." That reputation makes this month's turnover sting a bit more for subscribers who haven't finished their playthrough yet. GameSpot described the departing batch as "some cool, cute, and critically acclaimed games," and added a practical tip: players can still save 20% on any of these titles if they decide to buy them before they leave Game Pass. "As usual, you can save 20% on these games if you decide to buy them before they leave Game Pass." Gamer Social Club offered a more playful send-off, suggesting a coin toss in XBOX to keep playing The Witcher 3 as the five games prepare to make their exit. The departures come as Xbox simultaneously rolls out its second wave of August additions, per GameSpot, leaving players to weigh new arrivals against what they're about to lose.

4 sources · 19 Aug

GOG's Preservation Program Adds Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time With Modern PC Upgrades

GOG has added Ubisoft's Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time to its Preservation Program, giving the 2003 classic a technical update for modern PCs. OC3D reported that GOG preserved the original PC version and made it fully functional on modern systems, while the announcement was also carried by savingcontent.com and worthplaying.com. According to GOG, the team behind the update built a lightweight wrapper to solve modern hardware compatibility problems. The update also brings widescreen and ultrawide support, customizable camera scaling, and new FOV and FPS options, as detailed by Prima Games. "We've rebuilt our initial experimental work into a lightweight wrapper that tackles modern hardware compatibility" That wrapper approach means the classic adventure runs on current PCs without being rebuilt from scratch, keeping the original experience intact. "Through this program, GOG has preserved the original PC version of the game and has made it fully functional on modern PCs." It is a restoration rather than a remaster, a distinction that matters to fans of the original release. CPStesters added that the game now has native widescreen and ultrawide support, fixes for multi-monitor setups, and an overlay that lets players adjust the new FOV. The Overclock3D forum, meanwhile, pointed its readers to the same announcement, keeping the news circulating across the community.

7 sources · 19 Aug

No Man's Sky Marks 10 Years With a Free Switch Online Trial

No Man's Sky is marking its 10th anniversary with a limited-time Switch Online trial in Europe, giving subscribers a free taste of Hello Games' space exploration epic. nintendolife.com reported that the trial runs from August 20th to August 26th, while GAMINGbible described the move as making the game free on Nintendo Switch for a limited time. The trial arrives as the game celebrates a major milestone, and Nintendo reflected on the game's rocky start and its decade of redemption. "No Man's Sky may not have launched in the best state, but over the last decade, Sean Murray and his team at Hello Games have continued to update the title with new content and features to improve the overall experience." That long-running support has carried the game to new hardware, with Nintendo and nintendolife.com noting the developer has released No Man's Sky on both Switch and Switch 2. For those who have not yet jumped in, GAMINGbible framed the trial as an ideal entry point. "If you're yet to experience Hello Games' sci-fi masterpiece, now is the perfect time as it approaches its 10th anniversary." After a decade of updates, the anniversary trial offers Switch Online members in Europe a chance to see why the game has endured.

3 sources · 19 Aug

Control Resonant Is Ready For September Launch, With One Caveat For Boxed Copies

Control Resonant has officially gone gold, with Remedy Entertainment confirming the milestone on social media, according to PlayStation Universe. The paranatural action-RPG is locked in for a September 24 launch on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S, as vgtimes.com reported, with VGChartz noting the game is now being pressed onto discs and prepared for digital release. The gold announcement came with a twist. RPG Site reported the physical edition has been delayed to October 15, and GamingBolt noted Remedy requires "more time to deliver" the physical edition. IGN Adria relayed the developer's message: "We need just a little more time." That leaves digital players three weeks ahead of anyone waiting for a boxed copy. In its announcement quoted by VGChartz, Remedy told fans to "get ready to unleash Dylan Faden's paranatural abilities on September 24th". The studio added that it needed more time to deliver the physical version to you. "Get ready to unleash Dylan Faden's paranatural abilities on September 24th." GameSpot described the situation as a catch for disc buyers, who must wait a few weeks to play as the protagonist. It also noted a way in for early players: preordering the digital deluxe edition on PS5 grants two-day advanced access on Sony's system.

7 sources · 19 Aug

Sega's Summer eShop Blowout Slashes Switch Games Up to 70%

Sega is closing out the summer holidays with a major eShop sale offering discounts of up to 70% off across all platforms, including Switch 1 and 2, according to Nintendo Life. The promotion runs until the end of the month and stretches across heavy hitters like Yakuza, Sonic, and Persona. "Another day, another eShop sale, and this time it's Sega rounding out the summer holidays with a blowout across all platforms." That framing from Nintendo Life's guide captures the sale's tone: a broad, end-of-season clearance rather than a niche drop. The outlet noted it is focused on Nintendo platforms, where the discounts appear to be running across all territories. Nintendo Life has rounded up every discounted Sega game on Switch 1 and 2, listed alphabetically, with notable deals including Sonic Mania at a very low price. The guide reflects the scope of the sale, spanning classic Sonic entries alongside the sprawling Yakuza series and role-playing Persona games. "Of course, we're preoccupied with Nintendo platforms around here, so we've taken the liberty of rounding up all the Sega games discounted on Switch 1 and 2." With the sale running through the end of the month, Nintendo Life's exhaustive list gives Switch owners a practical path through the discounts, especially for anyone eyeing Sonic Mania or franchise staples before summer wraps up.

2 sources · 19 Aug

Dr. Mario World Trademark Renewal Raises More Questions Than Answers

Nintendo has reportedly filed a new trademark for Dr. Mario World, the free-to-play mobile puzzle game that launched in 2019 and was shut down in 2021, according to nintendolife.com. The filing was spotted by Mike Odyssey on social media and shared via My Nintendo News, and vgtimes.com reported that it became known on August 18, 2026. No announcement followed, but fans are already speculating. Vgtimes.com reported that the reasoning goes that if Nintendo is re-securing rights to a game it shut down itself, it might have plans for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2. "Since the company is re-securing rights to a game it shut down itself, the reasoning goes, it might have plans for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2" That line of thinking has some traction among mobile fans, but the trademark paperwork alone is not strong evidence of a comeback. gameloop.gg stressed the limits of the filing, noting that it does not confirm a relaunch, port, or Switch 2 version. "The filing alone does not confirm a relaunch, port, or Switch 2 version." In other words, trademark renewals are often routine housekeeping, even for dead games. Still, nintendolife.com noted that this marks the first time the game has been acknowledged since its service ended, which helps explain the renewed attention. Until Nintendo actually says something, the puzzle game's fate remains a matter of speculation.

3 sources · 19 Aug

Warren Spector, immersive sim pioneer, steps away from game development after nearly 44 years

Warren Spector, the veteran director behind Deus Ex, System Shock, and Thief, has announced his retirement from game development in a LinkedIn post. IGN Adria described the 70-year-old as a founding father of the immersive sim genre, while Gamereactor noted his career spanned almost 44 years. Aftermath.site reported that Spector cited "age and health catching up" and a feeling that he had "done what I set out to do." "with age and health catching up with me I'm feeling like I've done what I set out to do" That sense of completion comes despite unfinished ambitions, as Spector acknowledged there are still projects he would have liked to work on. GamesMarket and gamesmarket.global both reported that Spector said it is now time to write and read books, give talks, and perhaps do some consultancy work. Gamereactor noted that he had said in the past he was retiring without meaning it, but this time is different. Rock Paper Shotgun reported that he has not completely closed the door on a comeback, alluding to "three games in particular" he would still like to make. Gamereactor captured that same lingering pull, with Spector saying he has three games he'd still like to build even as he steps away. "there are three games in particular I'd still like to make" IGN Adria pulled a telling line from the post: "I definitely have mixed feelings about this." The mixed feelings extend to the changing industry: Gamereactor reported that Spector, as someone who has spent almost 44 years as a developer, knows the industry has changed. Nintendo, meanwhile, highlighted Spector's candor about why the time felt right. "It's just not as much fun for me anymore" That combination of weariness and satisfaction marks the end of a career that shaped some of the most influential games of the late 1990s and early 2000s, as Gamereactor put it, a run that leaves the immersive sim genre without one of its foremost figures.

7 sources · 19 Aug

Knights of Fiona Co-Op JRPG Comes To Quest And PC VR With An Optional Paid Story Pass

The co-op VR JRPG Knights of Fiona is set to launch "free-to-start" on Quest and PC VR, with the game's story and other features tucked behind an optional paid Story Pass, according to UploadVR. The model lets players jump into the experience without an upfront purchase, while the full narrative journey requires the add-on. "free-to-start" That phrasing signals a growing trend in VR game monetization, where the entry point is free but the complete content comes at a cost. Building on that, eicker.news reported that the game arrives in September, with the Story Pass priced at 18.99 USD for full story content. Early backers, meanwhile, get complete story access including six voiced chapters in both Japanese and English, per eicker.news. "full story content" The substantial price for a story pass suggests the campaign is a central pillar of the experience rather than a minor extra, and the bilingual voiced chapters add meaningful production value for backers. Together, the two reports paint a picture of a game that lowers the barrier to entry while keeping its core narrative as a premium layer, a model that will be worth watching when Knights of Fiona lands on Quest and PC VR this September.

2 sources · 19 Aug

Nexo Australia enters regulated crypto credit market with 0.9% borrowing rates

Nexo Australia has extended its lending business to local customers, launching crypto-backed credit lines with rates from 0.9% after becoming an authorised credit representative, according to crypto.news. The move places the offering inside a formal regulatory framework. coinomedia.com reported that the service operates under Australia's National Consumer Credit Protection Act, allowing eligible users to borrow against their digital assets. "The offering operates under Australia's National Consumer Credit Protection Act, allowing eligible users to access credit secured by their cryptocurrency holdings within a regulated framework." That is a meaningful step for Australian borrowers who want to tap their crypto without selling it, and the sub-1% starting rate positions Nexo well against traditional personal loan products. Nexo Australia has also joined the Australian Financial Complaints Authority, which coinomedia.com said reinforces its commitment to consumer protection standards. "Nexo Australia is also a member of the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA), reinforcing its commitment to Australian consumer protection standards." The authority gives customers an external avenue for dispute resolution, a crucial feature for a relatively new lending category. coinomedia.com added that the company has introduced new investment and loyalty products alongside the credit lines, while crypto.news highlighted that the launch follows Nexo's formal appointment as an authorised credit representative, a signal that the platform is betting on regulatory alignment rather than operating in a gray zone.

2 sources · 19 Aug

Energy market's widening diesel-crude gap adds new wrinkle to bitcoin's Fed-driven outlook

The gap between diesel and crude oil prices has blown out to a record, and the ripple effects could reach the Federal Reserve's next move and bitcoin's path. CoinDesk reported that the crack spread surged to $102.20 per barrel, driven by wars in Iran and Ukraine disrupting global oil supply, while harvesting season pushes diesel demand higher. "The crack spread has surged to a record $102.20 per barrel due to wars in Iran and Ukraine disrupting global oil supply, while harvesting season drives up diesel demand." That spike lands at an awkward moment for crypto traders, who had been leaning on a more optimistic inflation picture. According to CoinDesk, Goldman Sachs downplayed the chance of the Federal Reserve raising interest rates in September, citing slower inflation and dovish trader expectations, which had been seen as a potential tailwind for bitcoin. "The new data on oil prices muddies that optimistic outlook, suggesting inflationary pressures from energy costs could complicate the Fed's rate decision and affect crypto markets." The oil market data undercuts that comfort, making a rate cut feel less certain right as bitcoin looks for macroeconomic support. ShortSingh framed the stakes in its day-ahead outlook, warning that the widening crack spread is more than a fuel story. "The 'crack' in the energy market is wider than ever. Bitcoin might feel it." The diesel-crude gauge essentially tracks refining margins, so a record reading signals sustained energy cost pressure, which historically feeds into broader inflation readings. For bitcoin, that means the Fed's September decision could hinge on diesel prices as much as on cooling consumer prices, leaving the asset's near-term direction tied to a rather unlikely variable.

3 sources · 19 Aug

Saylor Prioritizes Credit Fix Over MSTR Buybacks, Urges Long Holding Period

Michael Saylor has put share buybacks on the back burner. Asianet Newsable reported that during the Q2 earnings call, Saylor said a stronger credit business could ultimately support a higher equity premium for MSTR shareholders. BitcoinWorld reported that the chairman of Strategy said the company is not prioritizing buybacks at this time, though the door remains open if the stock trades at a steep discount to its net asset value. "Fixing The Credit" That framing puts credit work ahead of returning cash to shareholders, a priority Asianet Newsable highlighted. Investors should therefore plan to wait. Both news.bitcoin.com and bitcoin.com reported that Saylor told shareholders to expect a minimum four-year holding period for MSTR stock, with seven to ten years being the preferred window for the bitcoin treasury company's strategy to fully play out. The company currently holds a $4.8 billion cash reserve, according to the same two outlets. BitcoinWorld also reported the $4.8 billion cash figure, and noted that Saylor said Strategy is currently concentrating on its STRC. The remarks come as Strategy navigates a period of volatility in its stock, news.bitcoin.com and bitcoin.com reported.

4 sources · 19 Aug

Governments resist accountability: Bulgaria's stalled reforms and Poland's blocked data check

On August 16, Rumen Radev's Bulgarian government marked 100 days in office, but the milestone has brought little of the change promised before the election, according to OSW. The one-party cabinet of the conservative-social Progressive Bulgaria party has not signaled fundamental internal reforms or a swift reckoning with previous governments. On the international stage, Radev has pursued a more careful balancing act. OSW reported that the prime minister criticizes the mainstream of EU foreign policy while declining to block its decisions, a stance that preserves his image as a constructive partner. A separate accountability dispute is unfolding in Poland, where citizens have been told they cannot check whether their PESEL numbers are among the 19 million stolen from the MyDr database. Wyborcza reported that the police are opposed to such checks, meaning people will not be able to verify their exposure to the breach. Both cases highlight institutional resistance to transparency, albeit in different arenas. OSW described the Bulgarian government's posture as neither fully supporting nor opposing reform, while Wyborcza characterized the Polish police response as a flat refusal to let the public examine the damage.

2 sources · 19 Aug

States open $200bn Facebook and Instagram harm trial in Oakland, echoing the tobacco settlements

The federal trial that will test whether Meta misled the public about the harms of Facebook and Instagram opened in Oakland, California, with 29 US states seeking $200bn in damages, The Guardian reported. The states are claiming the platforms were "addictive by design," a charge that carries echoes of the litigation that brought the US tobacco industry to heel decades ago. MarketWatch framed the moment as Meta's "Big Tobacco" moment, suggesting even a loss in the landmark youth-safety trial would do little to hurt Mark Zuckerberg's empire. "In 1994, more than 40 US states came together to sue one of the most powerful industries on Earth: big tobacco." That earlier wave of suits ended not with a verdict but a negotiated settlement, as The Guardian reported, one in which tobacco companies agreed to pay more than any industry ever while states dropped a large portion of their claims. Whether Meta's case follows a similar arc remains to be seen. "Even a loss in the landmark youth-safety trial would do little to hurt Mark Zuckerberg's empire." The outlet's coverage framed the proceedings as an opportunity for investors to profit, arguing the legal exposure is manageable relative to Meta's broader business. Hacker News and The Economist both reported that the trial centers on allegations Meta hid that its products were harmful, and both drew parallels to a forthcoming film sequel to The Social Network titled "The Social Reckoning," which dramatizes whistle-blower allegations from the early 2020s. The two outlets also noted that, despite the legal drama, "investors are not panicking," a market calm that stands in contrast to the existential stakes the states are pressing in court.

4 sources · 19 Aug

Time-travel series 'The Ministry of Time' sets its leads as BBC and A24 begin production

The BBC and A24 have found their leads for The Ministry of Time, with Aoife Hinds and Billy Howle set to star as filming begins in and around London, TVZoneUK reported. Whatfinger noted the six-part show is based on Kaliane Bradley's bestselling debut novel of the same name, which has been adapted by Alice Birch. Deadline reported that Hinds will play Sophy and Howle will play Commander Graham Gore in the fantasy series. UPI characterized the pair's relationship in the drama this way: "star-crossed lovers Sophy and Graham" That framing suggests the time-travel story will center as much on the bond between its leads as on the mechanics of the premise. Radio Times described the adaptation as "much-anticipated" and a time-travel drama. The Industry offered a glimpse of the show's setup, writing that it is set in a government agency that gathers: "expats" across history to test the viability of time travel Deadline reported that A24 is producing with Amediateka, Australia's Binge, Canada's Crave, and Germany's ZDF serving as co-producers, and that additional casting announcements are expected in due course. ATV Today confirmed the series will run for six episodes, while TVZoneUK noted that Aneil Karia is directing.

7 sources · 19 Aug

NYFF's Final 2026 Section Digs Up Restored Classics From Six Decades of Film History

The 64th New York Film Festival has completed its programming with the unveiling of its Revivals section, the festival's final film section, according to The Film Stage. Next Best Picture reported that the lineup includes 12 features and two programs of rare shorts, all drawn from films that have been restored, preserved, or digitally remastered. Headlining the slate is Ken Russell's restored "The Devils," which IndieWire said will have its North American premiere after debuting at Cannes and screening at TIFF. IndieWire also noted that the section includes works from Barbara Hammer, Yuri Ilyenko, Alexander Kluge, and Luchino Visconti. The Film Stage described the section's mission as one that brings "both landmarks of cinema history and overlooked discoveries to new audiences." It is a framing that sets this final announcement apart from the festival's earlier Main Slate, Spotlight, and Current sections, which were more concerned with new films than with cinema's past. The Industry offered a more colorful take, opening its coverage with the line "Old films never die." Indeed, the outlet reported that the selections span six decades and eight countries, with 12 features and two short programs "pulled straight from the vaults." With restorations of material ranging from Powell and Pressburger to Hou Hsiao-hsien, the Revivals slate gives festivalgoers a chance to see both landmarks and rarities the way they were meant to be seen.

4 sources · 19 Aug

Cristiano Ronaldo signals the end: current campaign is likely his last

Cristiano Ronaldo has told Vogue magazine that the current season is "probably" his last, with the 41-year-old's remarks published Sunday. New Straits Times reported that the Portuguese superstar said this year is likely the end of his professional football career, while Sky News said he called the new season "probably" his last. ANEWS similarly reported that Ronaldo hinted at retirement and said the upcoming year could be his last. Ronaldo also emphasized his desire to leave a lasting mark as he outlined his plans, according to SPORTbible. "I want to leave a spectacular legacy" That legacy is already one of the sport's greatest, but Bleacher Report noted he could be approaching his farewell campaign on the pitch. english.ratopati.com reported from Riyadh that the 2026-27 season may be his final one in professional football. Free Press Journal framed the news even more definitively, quoting the Portugal legend as he plans his football exit. "This Will Be My Last Year" Whichever phrasing is used, the message from the 41-year-old is consistent across the coverage: the end is near.

7 sources · 19 Aug

Pamela Voorhees' Backstory Comes With Blood Everywhere in Peacock's 'Crystal Lake' Prequel

Linda Cardellini is promising that the upcoming "Friday the 13th" prequel series "Crystal Lake" will live up to the franchise's bloody reputation. Variety reported that Cardellini plays Pamela Voorhees in the Peacock series, which premieres Oct. 15 and follows Voorhees' life before the events of the first film. The series also stars William Catlett as Levon Brooks, though character details remain undisclosed, according to Variety. Bleeding Cool reported that the show comes from showrunner Brad Caleb Kane in partnership with A24, adding a major horror pedigree to the prequel. Speaking with Variety at an HBO Max event, Cardellini explained how the longer television format shapes the project. Rather than just a quick burst of horror, the series can build its world while still delivering what fans expect. "a lot of story" That balance between narrative and scares is central to the show's approach, with Bleeding Cool highlighting Cardellini's point about the difference between making a horror film and a serialized television series. Mandatory reported that Cardellini's tease points to intense practical effects and an extended storytelling format ahead of the October premiere. The star's warning to fans is blunt about what is coming. "gory" with "blood everywhere" Variety also noted that Cardellini recalled a memorable moviegoing experience seeing "Freddy vs. Jason" at Universal City Walk, a fitting origin story for an actor now stepping into one of horror's most iconic roles.

3 sources · 19 Aug

Ankara police break up 38-day vigil as veterans' families removed from Güvenpark

Police intervened in Ankara's Güvenpark in the early morning, breaking up a 38-day sit-in by relatives of fallen private soldiers and veterans demanding equal personal rights, according to Haberler.com. The operation came at 04.45, Yeniçağ Gazetesi and gazeteoksijen reported, and those in the park were taken to the Bilkent Gazi Uyum Evi while Güvenpark was closed with barriers, karar.com added. The overnight raid was rough. Reporters at haber.sol.org.tr described police entering the park, forcibly clearing the area, waking sleeping protesters by shining flashlights in their eyes, and pushing them onto buses bound for the Gazi Rehabilitation Center. "Police teams woke the sleeping veterans by shining flashlights in their eyes." The detail underscores how the nearly six-week-long vigil ended abruptly before dawn, with little warning for those asleep in the park. The demonstrators had come from across Turkey to make their demand, karar.com reported. Their slogan, "eşit özlük hakları," or equal personal rights, was the central demand of the group that had occupied the park for more than a month, as İlke TV noted. After the evacuation, protesters were transferred to Bilkent Gazi Uyum Evi, gazeteoksijen reported, while police barriers sealed off the park, according to İlke TV. The action may not be over: haber.sol.org.tr reported that the group was expected to march to the Interior Ministry later that day. "It was learned that the veterans would march to the Ministry of Interior today." That plan, if carried through, would move the confrontation from the park to the government's doorstep. Şehit Aileleri ve Gaziler Derneği Genel Başkanı Erdem Çerçioğlu reacted after the intervention, Haberler.com reported, though details of his response were not given.

6 sources · 19 Aug

Acemoglu demands rebuttal space after Economist calls his influence unpersuasive

A war of words has broken out between Nobel laureate Daron Acemoglu and The Economist, after the magazine published an unsigned critique questioning why the world's most influential economist is not, in its view, more convincing. Medyascope reported that The Economist put Acemoglu's standing in the economics world under the microscope, while Yeniçağ Gazetesi described the "article crisis" between the two sides as growing, noting that Acemoglu responded on social media. The piece, which gazeteoksijen.com reported was titled "The world's most influential economist is oddly unpersuasive," took aim at both Acemoglu's academic work and his public commentary. Serbestiyet, which published a Turkish translation of the article, noted that it opens with a pointed question about the respect he commands. Acemoglu, for his part, did not take the criticism quietly. "This article feels like a smear. There is a background to this, which is even more concerning." That initial reaction hardened as Acemoglu sought a formal remedy, telling gazeteoksijen.com that the essay felt like an "itibar suikastı," or character assassination, and that he had contacted the magazine to request a right of reply. The Nobel winner has made clear he will not simply wait for the magazine to decide. According to 12Punto, Acemoglu announced that he has formally requested a right of reply from The Economist, and if his response is not published, he will release his own statement. The episode, which began with an anonymous critique of one of the most cited economists of his generation, now appears set to continue in public, with Acemoglu promising his side of the story either way.

5 sources · 19 Aug

CDC's congressionally funded programs sit idle as new director faces pressure to act

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's new director is being pressed to do something about the agency's so-called zombie programs, the congressionally funded initiatives that have lost the staff needed to operate them, The Independent reported. Newsday described the same picture, noting the CDC has several programs funded by Congress that lack staff to run them. "Congress appropriated $41 million to it this year. There's just no one staffing it." KTAR, reporting from the AP, used those words to illustrate the Alzheimer's disease program, adding that Congress allocated $246 million for the Office on Smoking and Health whose staffers were also cut, and that the epilepsy program suffered the same fate. The money is still flowing, but the expertise that was supposed to spend it has vanished. "CDC experts who did the work were laid off by Trump's administration or remain on leave." The News Herald, Sterling Journal-Advocate, Santa Cruz Sentinel, and dailybreeze.com all made the same point, pinning the staffing gaps on the previous administration's layoffs or on employees still on leave. That leaves the new director with programs that are funded, unstaffed, and now squarely in the spotlight.

7 sources · 19 Aug

Burnham's first interests filing shows donor haul worth hundreds of thousands

Andy Burnham's first financial interests filing as prime minister reveals hundreds of thousands of pounds in donations from supporters before he took office. The Guardian reported that the new MPs' register of interests shows donations of almost £350,000, while BBC News and theukpulse.co.uk put the figure at £345,000. The Standard, Irish News, ireland-live.ie, and Express and Star each reported £325,000. According to The Guardian, major contributors included Burnham's former adviser Sacha Lord and billionaires David Sainsbury and Gary Lubner. The same register records hospitality and trips worth more than £12,000, much of it tied to Greater Manchester from his time as mayor. The Guardian highlighted the scale of the declared benefits: "hospitality and trips worth more than £12,000" That total also included £1,500 of Glastonbury tickets and £500 of tickets to Ladies Day at Aintree, The Guardian reported. Other outlets summarized the support more broadly. The Standard, along with Irish News, ireland-live.ie, and Express and Star, said donors gave hundreds of thousands of pounds of support in the months leading up to Burnham's leadership win: "Donors gave hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of support" BBC News framed the disclosure as a first for the new prime minister: "The prime minister lists his financial interests for the first time since returning to Parliament." The varying figures reflect different tallies of what was registered, but each outlet agreed the sums were substantial. The disclosure offers the first public accounting of how Burnham's leadership campaign and transition were funded, as theukpulse.co.uk noted in its own report of £345,000 in donations.

7 sources · 19 Aug

Cheetos Brings a Sichuan Pepper Twist to Halloween With Sweet Phantom Heat

PepsiCo is getting into the Halloween spirit with a limited-edition Cheetos flavor that blends sweet and heat. The snack, called "Sweet Phantom Heat" and billed as "The Flavor of Fear," is arriving next week, according to Bleeding Cool, while Foodbeast reported it launches later this month. The flavor is built around a hint of Sichuan pepper. As Foodbeast put it: "Cheetos is already getting into the Halloween spirit with a new flavor that apparently wants to haunt your mouth." Bleeding Cool offered a more precise taste test, describing the pepper kick as: "a few notches shy of too spicy for a snack food." That positioning suggests Cheetos is aiming for a playful scare rather than an overwhelming burn. Foodbeast noted the flavor reportedly creates four different sensations in your mouth, a fitting gimmick for the season. Bleeding Cool also expressed surprise that Cheetos hadn't previously gone the ghost pepper route for Halloween, making this Sichuan-inspired release a fresh twist. The limited-edition drop gives snack fans a new reason to check the chip aisle as October approaches.

2 sources · 19 Aug

Disney goes to federal court to shield ABC stations from FCC pressure linked to White House

Disney is going to court to defend its ABC television stations against what it describes as a pressure campaign from the Trump administration. The company filed a lawsuit Tuesday in federal court alleging that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) under the Trump administration is waging a "campaña de represalias" against ABC, according to CNN reporting by Brian Stelter carried by KESQ, KTVZ, KRDO, keyt.com and KVIA. "campaña de represalias" That phrase, Spanish for "retaliation campaign," gets to the heart of Disney's argument: the pressure on ABC is not regulatory routine but punishment for what the network airs. BioBioChile reported that Disney, described as the world's largest media and entertainment conglomerate, sued the FCC, a US government agency that regulates radio and television, arguing that the administration is trying to punish the network because it "desaprueba lo que ABC transmite." "desaprueba lo que ABC transmite" In other words, BioBioChile noted, the administration disapproves of ABC's content, and Disney says that disapproval is driving the FCC's actions. Infobae added that ABC, the Disney-owned network, went before a federal court in Washington to halt an early license review and to block measures that could take stations off the air in key US markets. The lawsuit thus frames the FCC's license moves as retaliation tied to broadcast content, with the company asking the courts to step in before any station is pulled from the air.

7 sources · 19 Aug

D&AD report warns the price of AI-powered creative speed is the industry's future talent

D&AD's 2026 AI & Creativity Report, titled "The Cost of the Shortcut," warns that the creative industry's rush to adopt artificial intelligence could trade speed and efficiency for originality, talent development and long-term creative capability. According to bestmediainfo.com, the report, published on August 18 and sponsored by Shutterstock Studios, drew on responses from 197 creative leaders including founders, creative directors, executive creative directors, strategists, producers and lecturers. The report examines six areas where AI adoption is raising structural questions around creative output, pricing and junior talent, bestmediainfo.com reported. Creative Bloq reported that D&AD specifically cautions companies replacing creative staff with AI could face significant hidden costs, since cutting entry-level positions guts the pipeline that produces the industry's future creatives. "eliminating entry-level creative positions undermines the pipeline of human judgment and creative talent" That training ground, Creative Bloq reported, is exactly where creative judgment is built, and losing it means the industry's long-term capability erodes even as short-term costs look attractive. Creative Bloq also reported that the report cites recent AI branding failures, including Coca-Cola's Christmas advert, McDonald's withdrawn advert and the Starbucks controversy in South Korea, as evidence that human judgment remains vital. Those cases suggest the apparent savings from AI-driven production can disappear quickly when a brand misstep forces a costly retreat. "gains in speed and efficiency could come at the cost of originality, talent development and long-term creative capability" For D&AD, that is the central trade-off: the shortcut that feels efficient today may be the very thing that hollows out the creative industry tomorrow.

2 sources · 19 Aug

Christmas roof for every rough sleeper: Burnham plan revives pandemic-era pledge

Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, has unveiled a plan to offer housing to every rough sleeper in England this Christmas, according to bbc.co.uk. BBC News reported the move was likened to the 'Everyone In' initiative during the pandemic, while theukpulse.co.uk said Burnham pledged beds for every rough sleeper in England this Christmas. "Everyone in for Christmas" That phrase, featured in BBC News' coverage, captures the scale of the ambition, though the plan's details will determine whether the pledge reaches beyond the emergency accommodation seen during Covid-19. Irish News reported that the Government has pledged to offer a place to stay to every rough sleeper by Christmas, and that Rayner defended Burnham's record on tackling rough sleeping in Manchester. The defence suggests the plan also comes with political scrutiny over how previous efforts in the region have gone. bbc.co.uk highlighted the perspective of Chloe, a 27-year-old from London who experienced rough sleeping after growing up in care and foster services. She argued that hidden homelessness, including sofa-surfing and living paycheck to paycheck, has become normalized, and that foundational issues need to be addressed to ensure the scope of help is adequate. "No rough sleeper would turn down a bed if it came with the right support." The quote, reported by bbc.co.uk, points to the condition attached to Burnham's offer: housing alone may not be enough without the support that makes it sustainable.

4 sources · 19 Aug

Clean-air zone linked to healthier lungs in London children, seven years after landmark rollout

A study has found that London's ultra-low emission zone (Ulez) led to improved lung size and function among the city's children, according to The Guardian. In an op-ed for the newspaper, Mayor Sadiq Khan said the finding vindicates the scheme he introduced more than seven years ago, which he described as the hardest decision of his tenure. "Critics said I was attacking motorists. It's more important for me that the city's children are no longer breathing dangerous levels of pollution." Khan acknowledged the fierce opposition, including claims that he had declared war on drivers, but said the new evidence changes the conversation. The Ulez was first confirmed in a london.gov.uk announcement by then-Mayor Boris Johnson, who described it as the world's first such zone. The statement said: "a major environmental initiative to reduce harmful vehicle exhaust pollutants in London by more than half from 2020." The announcement included a £65 million fund to support taxi drivers transitioning to zero-emission vehicles, plus £25 million from the government. According to london.gov.uk, the decision followed a consultation that received more than 16,000 responses, with 79 per cent in favour of improving London's air quality. Khan later expanded the scheme, first to inner London and then to the entire city, making it the biggest clean-air zone in the world, The Guardian reported. The two accounts, seven years apart, frame the same policy in very different terms: an ambitious first step under Johnson, and a hard-fought legacy under Khan. The study's finding on children's lung health, reported by The Guardian, is now the measure by which its success is being judged.

2 sources · 19 Aug

The Sims 4 Sims Can Now Dress Like Cher Horowitz or a Mathlete

Electronic Arts and Maxis are giving The Sims 4 a high school movie makeover with two new Capsule Kits inspired by Clueless and Mean Girls, Bleeding Cool reported. The Mean Girls kit leans into Y2K fashion with miniskirts, matching sweaters, Mathletes jackets, and the "COOL mom" tracksuit, while the Clueless kit delivers peak '90s style including Cher's plaid set, layered tops, skirts, workout wear, and overalls. "Both packs are primarily about fashion and aesthetic vibes rather than adding characters or settings." Bleeding Cool noted that the packs are available for purchase, making them a pure style upgrade for players who want their digital avatars to channel iconic movie wardrobes. "Fashion is cyclical, and the gaming world is certainly no exception." 2EC framed the release as part of a broader fashion trend in gaming, suggesting players thought their digital avatars were already covered before these new options arrived. The crossover cosmetics follow in the footsteps of a previous SpongeBob collaboration, according to ScreenHub Australia, showing The Sims 4 continues to lean on pop culture tie-ins for fresh content.

3 sources · 19 Aug

Season 4 'Ted Lasso' Episode 3 Brings a Secret Family Cameo and a New Defender to Richmond

The third episode of "Ted Lasso" Season 4, titled "Richmond's Got Talent," centers on open tryouts for the new women's team, the Lady Greyhounds, and introduces a new center back character named Lizzie, Decider reported. The episode also reunites Ted with original cast members including Rebecca, Keeley, Roy Kent, Beard, and Higgins. Deadline reported that the episode carried a surprise on the casting side: actor Cristo Fernández has not returned for Season 4, but his sister, Paloma Cinco, debuted a secret new role in the episode. The outlet broke down Cinco's surprise appearance as part of the installment's broader developments. The tryout storyline is part of a season that sees Ted meet the newly formed Lady Greyhounds, including Coach Alice Chilton and players such as Boots, according to Decider. The episode's open audition format gives the show a chance to spotlight fresh faces like Lizzie while keeping the original ensemble active. Deadline also detailed a key plot twist in "Richmond's Got Talent": a leaked risk management report about the Lady Greyhounds, secretly created by Leslie Higgins and Rebecca, left Keeley blindsided during a press conference. The dual threads of new on-field talent and off-field scheming give the episode both its comic open tryouts and its dramatic tension.

2 sources · 19 Aug

Jenrick lays out £50bn welfare redesign touching nearly three million benefit claims

Robert Jenrick has set out Reform UK's plans to redesign the welfare system, scrapping Personal Independence Payments and the health element of Universal Credit for working-age adults, according to The Independent. Reform's Treasury spokesman says the overhaul would save more than £50bn a year, the Newark Advertiser reported, while i Paper said the party estimates 2.89 million people could see their benefits cut or withdrawn under the plans. The BBC reported that the proposals would affect nearly three million people. Jenrick cast the plans as far more than cost-cutting, describing them as the biggest shake-up of the welfare state in a generation, according to Nation.Cymru, and telling GB News the party would introduce the "most comprehensive redesign" of the system. "We would introduce the most comprehensive redesign of the welfare system." The centrepiece is replacing PIP with a "Health Security Allowance" that would be regularly reviewed, GB News reported. Jenrick described the existing system as "suicidal empathy" and "a strange perversion of compassion," according to the BBC. "a strange perversion of compassion." The language signals how sharply Reform is framing the welfare debate, but the proposals drew immediate criticism from the other parties. Labour dismissed them as "fantasy economics" that strip support from disabled people, while the Conservatives called them "half-baked," the BBC reported. City AM echoed the generational framing, reporting that Jenrick claimed nearly 3 million people would have their disability and sickness payments withdrawn or modified under the plans. A full 50-page plan is due to be released on Monday, the BBC reported.

7 sources · 19 Aug

Frank Beard, ZZ Top's Beat-Keeper for Over Five Decades, Dies at 77

Frank Beard, the drummer who anchored ZZ Top for more than half a century, has died at the age of 77. He passed away in hospice care at his ranch in Richmond, Texas, surrounded by family, according to the band's representative Bob Merlis, as reported by Rolling Stone. The Music Universe confirmed that he was in hospice care when he died with family members at his side, following recent health issues. "He was in hospice care when he passed away at his ranch in Richmond, TX yesterday (Mon, Aug 17th), with family members at his side." The family detail was echoed across the coverage, with Blues Rock Review describing Beard as the longtime drummer and a member of the legendary Texas rock band for more than five decades. ZZ Top canceled its scheduled shows in Salt Lake City and Colorado Springs following his death, according to Rolling Stone. Just The News reported that the tour will resume with shows on Aug. 22 and 23, leaving only a brief pause in the band's schedule. "Beard performed with the group for more than 55 years and was known for his hard-shuffling drumming style." That relentless shuffle drove hits like "Sharp Dressed Man," the song Just The News singled out as part of the band's enduring legacy. The Music Universe noted that Beard had been with the band for the past 56 years, making his tenure one of the longest in rock. With Beard's passing, the band's legendary lineup is reduced to a single survivor. JubileeCast reported that Billy Gibbons is now the last surviving member of the iconic ZZ Top lineup. Both 94.1 KRNA and 105.7 The Hawk also carried the announcement of the drummer's death.

7 sources · 19 Aug

Children's lungs bounce back as London's clean air zone takes effect, study finds

A major study has linked London's ultra-low emission zone to improved lung growth in children, according to coverage from Metro, Sky News, and the Irish News. Scientists assessed how air quality changes affected children's lung development following the introduction of Ulez in 2019, the Irish News reported. The Guardian reported that children's lung capacity, which had been stunted by exposure to traffic pollution, was restored after the most polluting vehicles were restricted from entering the city. The findings were presented as a vindication of the low-emission zone policy, which had faced criticism as a burden on motorists. "children's lung capacity, which had been stunted by exposure to traffic pollution, was restored after the most polluting vehicles were restricted from entering the city." The Guardian's framing suggests the study offers direct evidence that the policy, once controversial, is paying measurable health dividends for the youngest Londoners. Meanwhile, aol.co.uk reported that ultra low emission zones should be introduced across the whole country after the new research linked London's scheme to improved outcomes. "Ultra low emission zones should be introduced across the whole country" That call for a national rollout is echoed by a grieving parent: The Independent reported that the mother of a girl whose death was linked to air pollution has said the UK needs more clean air zones like Ulez following the landmark study.

7 sources · 19 Aug

Hayden Panettiere, on-screen from 'A Bug's Life' to 'Scream VI,' dies at 36

Hayden Panettiere has died at the age of 36, her representative confirmed to ABC News, Variety reported. A cause of death was not immediately known. The actress and singer had been visible on screens both big and small for the better part of three decades, as Disney noted. Panettiere began her career as a child star, according to Just The News, and built an early résumé in daytime television with roles on "One Life to Live" and "Guiding Light," Soap Central reported. She later appeared in "Ice Princess" and lent her voice to "A Bug's Life," per Disney, before finding broad fame on "Heroes" and "Nashville," as Sky News and Variety reported. More recently she returned to horror in "Scream 4" and "Scream VI," according to Variety. "It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden." The statement from her representative, carried by The Hollywood Reporter, gave no further details about the circumstances of her death, leaving fans to mourn the loss of a performer who had been a familiar presence across generations of television and film. "She was an incredible light" Variety's report offered that tribute to Panettiere's spirit as outlets including film-news.co.uk and Sky News also confirmed her passing, each pointing to the roles that made her a beloved figure in popular culture.

7 sources · 19 Aug

David Krumholtz Steps Back From Acting and Then Deletes the Announcement

David Krumholtz, known for roles in 'Oppenheimer,' 'Supergirl' and 'The Santa Clause' per Whatfinger, has announced he is stepping away from acting. Variety reported that he posted on Threads that he is putting his career on hold and ready to start a 'new life,' but that he later deleted the posts. Deadline reported that Krumholtz is taking an indefinite break from acting, writing that he was 'frustrated, fed up, fried' with the business. He also said the profession had lost its appeal: 'The profession has lost its gleam.' That blunt assessment fits the wider frustration Whatfinger described, with the outlet reporting that Krumholtz was 'fed up' with Hollywood. In one version of his announcement, he reflected on how his ambition had changed: 'There was a time when being competitive and self-involved really served my pursuit. That time has passed.' The deletion of the posts, per Variety, left fans speculating about whether he truly intends to retire or turn in his SAG-AFTRA card. Whatfinger also reported that Krumholtz framed the move as an 'indefinite break' and said he hopes to pursue 'a higher calling' moving forward. Between Deadline's report that he had long feared going broke and the sense that the industry's shine has worn off, the announcement sounded less like a whim than a decision that had been building for years.

4 sources · 19 Aug

Harmony's Aug. 11 Rollback Deletes Legitimate Transactions to Purge Trillions of Forged ONE

Harmony is rolling back its blockchain to two Aug. 11 checkpoints, a recovery plan that discards more than 109,000 regular transactions along with the malicious state created by a forged mint, cryptonews.net reported in its latest incident update. Bitcoin.com and news.bitcoin.com reported that the rollback reverts Shard 0 to block height 92,730,034 and Shard 1 to block height 94,978,278, undoing the unauthorized inflation. The move follows a major breach on Aug. 12 in which an attacker exploited smart contract verification vulnerabilities to mint 2.385 trillion ONE tokens, bitcoin.com and news.bitcoin.com reported. Meanwhile, cryptonews.net noted that Harmony has shifted from merely considering a rollback to publishing exact checkpoints. "Harmony has moved from considering a rollback to publishing the exact checkpoints it plans to use." That precision matters, since the fix touches far more than the forged tokens. BitRss reported that Harmony will replace the transaction history on two of its shards with a reviewed backup database, a solution the company says an outside security firm independently verified. Cointelegraph reported that Harmony rejected selectively restoring transactions because it could create an inconsistent chain state, and noted that Ravencoin is facing a separate rollback dispute after its own exploit. "selectively restoring transactions could create inconsistent chain state" The choice to wipe legitimate post-checkpoint activity as well as the malicious state, spendnode.io reported, reopens the debate over what finality means on a chain that can be reversed.

7 sources · 19 Aug

Switch 2's Oblivion Remastered Earns Its Keep in Digital Foundry Face-off

Digital Foundry has put The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered through its paces on both Switch 2 and Xbox Series S, and Pure Xbox reported that the Xbox console generally still leads with mostly higher-quality visuals. The Switch 2 port still has some performance issues, according to Pure Xbox, though it holds up well enough in other respects to be considered an impressive feat. The Switch 2 version does look great in certain areas, making it an impressive feat for the handheld-hybrid console despite its downsides. That caveat-laden praise reflects the inherent challenge of running a sprawling RPG on Nintendo's hybrid hardware, and Digital Foundry's technical look found plenty to weigh on both sides. Nintendo Life, meanwhile, has turned to its readers for their own verdicts. The outlet noted that Oblivion Remastered arrived on Switch 2 with no cut content and picked up an 8/10 in Nintendo Life's own review. That review was enthusiastic about the package overall, but not without reservations. The review praised the sheer amount of content and the new mouse and gyro controls, but noted some niggling performance issues. Nintendo Life's accompanying poll invites readers to submit their own review scores, giving the community a chance to weigh in alongside the critics. Both outlets land on the same takeaway: the Switch 2 version is a serious technical effort, even if the performance hiccups keep it from matching the Xbox Series S.

2 sources · 19 Aug

Deported From Fiji, Alleged $165M 'Crypto Program' Mastermind Faces 25 Federal Counts

Edward Zimbardi, the man prosecutors say masterminded a $165 million cryptocurrency Ponzi scheme called "The Crypto Program," was deported from Fiji to the United States last week to face federal fraud and money laundering charges, Cointelegraph reported. BitcoinWorld reported that he is scheduled to appear in a U.S. federal court this week, after Fijian authorities acted on a U.S. extradition request. The charges center on losses to a wide circle of investors, according to New Straits Times, which reported that the U.S. attorney in Atlanta said on Monday he is accused of defrauding more than 6,000 investors. "defrauding more than 6,000 investors and causing more than US$165 million of losses" That scale of investor harm explains why the case has drawn attention across international borders, from Fiji to Los Angeles. Cointelegraph noted that Fijian authorities deported Zimbardi in coordination with the FBI and the State Department. He now faces 25 federal counts and was scheduled to appear before a federal magistrate judge in Los Angeles, with prosecutors seeking his detention pending proceedings in Georgia. Cryptonews.net also reported his return to face the fraud and money laundering charges, citing the U.S. Attorney's Office. BitRss reported that prosecutors allege Zimbardi collected crypto from thousands of investors, lost more than $34 million on currency trades and spent at least $10 million personally. "lost over $34 million on currency trades and spent at least $10 million personally" Those alleged losses and personal spending paint a picture of a scheme that unraveled well before Zimbardi's deportation. en.bloomingbit.io also carried word of the deportation, adding to the international coverage of the case. BitcoinWorld noted that Zimbardi's return came after Fijian authorities acted on the U.S. extradition request, setting the stage for his court appearance this week.

7 sources · 19 Aug

Firefox 154's latest update brings AI controls to the forefront, plus new PDF and tab tools

Firefox 154 has started rolling out to users, with piunikaweb reporting the update landed on August 18. Tux Machines confirmed the open-source browser is now available for download, featuring a range of usability tweaks. Among the headline additions is a new management shortcut for AI features. piunikaweb reported the desktop update includes "a new 'Manage AI' button for easier AI control," while Tux Machines described the same feature as a "Manage AI" quick action. "a new 'Manage AI' button for easier AI control" The differing phrasing shows how the two outlets framed the same control, one emphasizing the button itself and the other its placement as a quick action. The change appears aimed at giving users a more direct handle on AI-related settings. Tux Machines also highlighted other changes in the release, including "support for clearing and updating cached favicons." "support for clearing and updating cached favicons" That favicon fix is a smaller maintenance tweak compared with the more visible improvements piunikaweb outlined, which include highlighting and selecting text within PDFs, smarter tab organization with tab groups, and fixes to Vertical Tabs. piunikaweb noted that the stable version had not yet arrived on their macOS laptop, which was still on v153.0.4, so they tested v154 on iOS, where a native ad blocker was introduced, and used the latest Firefox Beta to review the desktop changes.

2 sources · 19 Aug

Long-Term U.S. Yields Hit Two-Decade Peak as Debt Worries Weigh on Stocks

The 30-year U.S. Treasury yield climbed to 5.31%, its highest level since 2007, as a bond market selloff rattled Wall Street. The Business Times reported that the long bond interest rate hit that level on Aug 17, while Seoul Economic Daily noted the 19-year high came as U.S.-Iran tensions lifted oil prices and sent major indexes lower. The Dow fell 272 points on Monday, according to 41nbc.com. Asianet Newsable described a sharp selloff in U.S. government debt, with major financial institutions warning of systemic market risks tied to inaction on monetary policy and ballooning federal debt. The Business Times framed the move as reflecting investor angst over rising government spending. The pressure is global. businesstoday.in reported that French, German, UK and Japanese yields are also elevated, which can increase borrowing costs for governments, companies and retail borrowers while pressuring bond prices and equities. Abhishek Basumallick, Co-founder and Fund Manager at Shree Rama Managers, said the spike in U.S. bond yields is an important reason behind recent weakness in equity markets. "the spike in U.S. bond yields is an important reason behind recent weakness in equity markets." He also warned that persistent inflation and geopolitical uncertainty could push U.S. yields higher, adding to concerns around global markets and tech. Investors are now looking ahead to the Federal Reserve's Wednesday update, with a Reuters poll cited by 41nbc.com finding most economists expect interest rates to remain unchanged. That expectation has not stopped some strategists from watching the 10-year yield more closely. MarketWatch reported that the 10-year yield continues to climb, but Strategas says the ascent will be much higher before stocks start to hurt. "that ascent will be much higher before stocks start to hurt." Meanwhile, CoinDesk framed the global yield surge as a test of bitcoin's hedge narrative, asking whether debt fears undermine the asset's appeal as a store of value.

7 sources · 19 Aug

Sheridan Rules Out Yellowstone Spin-Off at the Four Sixes Ranch

Taylor Sheridan has definitively closed the door on a Yellowstone spin-off set at the 6666 Ranch, the famed Texas property also known as the Four Sixes Ranch. According to Deadline, Sheridan confirmed on the Rodeo Time podcast that there will never be a fictionalized version of the ranch, putting to rest a project that had previously been announced. Fans had reason to believe the spin-off was moving forward after character developments involving Jefferson White's character in the mothership series, Deadline reported. But CarterMatt noted that the 6666 Ranch spin-off idea is now "officially dead," following years of discussion about a show built around the working cattle operation. "I Could Never Do That To Them" That line, from Sheridan's interview as highlighted by Holler, signals a rare note of reverence from the creator toward the real-life ranch and the people connected to it, even as he continues to expand the Yellowstone universe elsewhere. "There will never be a fictionalized version of the ranch" Sheridan's blunt statement, as reported by Deadline, makes clear that the real Four Sixes Ranch will remain just that: real, and not a backdrop for scripted drama.

3 sources · 19 Aug

With AI slop spreading, Robin Williams' family reclaims his Instagram as a trusted legacy space

Robin Williams' three children, Zak, Zelda, and Cody, have reactivated their late father's Instagram account, which had been dormant since his death in 2014, Deadline reported. The move is part of an effort to counter AI-generated content, or "AI slop," that has been using the actor's likeness, coming as the family marks what would have been Williams' 75th year. The account's revival comes with a sharp warning from Zelda Williams, who called out "rampant AI abuse of his voice and likeness" on social media, according to IGN Adria. Superintelligence News reported that the children relaunched the account to preserve authentic memories and push back against AI abuse of his image. In a statement, the siblings wrote that they want the late actor's Instagram profile to be a "safe, trusted place where the stories, photos, videos, and memories shared reflect his legacy with authenticity, warmth, and care." That framing turns the page from deepfake battleground into a curated family archive, with the family also expressing gratitude that new generations are discovering Williams' work, Deadline reported. "This is our way of sharing his unique talent and humor with the world." The sentiment balances the defensive purpose with celebration, suggesting the relaunched page is meant to carry Williams' comedy forward even as it guards against misuse. Shatners World similarly framed the revival as preserving his legacy in the face of AI misuse. "For many of us, Robin Williams was more than just an actor or comedian; he was a force of nature, a source of boundless joy." The reboot gives that audience a direct place to reconnect, as the family steps in to decide what counts as an authentic part of his digital legacy.

6 sources · 19 Aug

Disney sues FCC, framing broadcast license fight as a free-press showdown

The Walt Disney Company has taken the Federal Communications Commission to court, alleging that a challenge to ABC's broadcast licenses amounts to retaliation over Jimmy Kimmel's satire. The suit, filed Tuesday, accuses the agency of violating ABC's First Amendment rights, the Lowell Sun reported. Disney's own coverage described the lawsuit as a major shift in a dispute that has been building for months. "There's been a simmering battle going on for months between The Walt Disney Company and the federal government." The company's report also noted that the FCC made an unusual demand against ABC back in April. Both WDIV and Newsday reported that the suit warns the stakes reach far beyond one network. "every media outlet in the nation is at risk due to the Trump administration's retaliation over Jimmy Kimmel's satire." That framing puts Disney's complaint squarely in First Amendment territory rather than a simple licensing dispute. The lawsuit arrives as FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has defended the agency's actions, saying broadcasters have a duty to "operate in the public interest" according to KTAR's report on the chairman's recent remarks. The Orange County Register and The Press Democrat both reported that ABC cast the agency's move as "a brazen attempt to chill its constitutionally protected free speech." With the case now in federal court, the question of how far the government can go in policing broadcast content will play out in public.

7 sources · 19 Aug

Newfoundland and Quebec join Ottawa in record $70B clean-energy build

The federal government announced a roughly $70 billion Canadian (about $50 billion U.S.) clean energy investment that Prime Minister Mark Carney's government called the largest in North American history, dailyclimate.org and Inside Climate News reported. The package covers hydropower, onshore wind and transmission projects designed to serve Canadian electricity needs while exporting power south of the border, according to Inside Climate News. The projects center on Labrador, where the Churchill Falls Generating Station will be upgraded and a new hydro facility will be developed on Gull Island, qazinform reported. Digital Journal said the work would add 14,000 megawatts and new transmission capacity across Labrador, while Manila Times noted that some of the new power would also be transmitted to Quebec. "the country has what the world wants in terms of clean energy resources and capabilities." The prime minister's office framed the announcement as a sign of Canada's advantage in clean energy. The tentative agreement involves the federal government, Quebec, and Newfoundland and Labrador, Manila Times reported. "meeting electricity needs while also exporting power to Massachusetts and New York." That export angle, reported by Inside Climate News and dailyclimate.org, signals the project's reach beyond Canadian borders. GreenTV similarly described the announcement as Canada betting big on hydro and wind. The overall investment has been pegged at nearly $70 billion by qazinform, with Digital Journal characterizing it as a $10 billion federal commitment behind a $70 billion electricity build. From the government's perspective, the deal turns Canada's resources into a starting position of strength, as pm.gc.ca put it.

7 sources · 19 Aug