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Microsoft has quietly tweaked Windows Backup for Organizations to include restore at first sign-in. The feature aims to simplify data recovery for users who skip initial setup options, reducing the need for complete system rebuilds.

Microsoft is adopting a new approach to its AI data centers, prioritizing support for the local community. This strategy could become a blueprint for other hyperscalers in the sector, who have often overlooked the social impact of their infrastructure.

A new study analyzes the existential risk posed by artificial intelligence (AI) systems. The paper proposes a framework for assessing threats, examining two fundamental premises: the increasing power of AI and the potential danger it poses to humanity. Several survival stories are identified, evaluating the challenges and possible responses to mitigate the risks.

Merge Labs, Sam Altman's new startup focused on brain reading and writing technology via ultrasound, has raised $252 million in funding. OpenAI is among the investors, marking a growing interest in advanced human-machine interfaces and their potential future applications.

OpenAI is investing in Merge Labs, a company focused on developing brain-computer interfaces. The goal is to create bridges between biological and artificial intelligence, enhancing human capabilities. The initiative aims to improve the human experience through the integration of advanced technologies.

A group of Democratic lawmakers in the United States has proposed legislation to dramatically curb the use of the Mobile Fortify facial recognition app by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The app, used to scan faces and verify citizenship, has raised concerns about civil rights violations. The new law aims to protect the privacy of American citizens by limiting the app's use to ports of entry only and requiring the deletion of biometric data collected.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is using a tool developed by Palantir, called ELITE, to identify and locate potential deportation targets. The app creates maps with individuals' data, providing a "confidence score" for each address. ELITE draws on various data sources, including the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The use of ELITE raises concerns about mass surveillance and privacy violations.

The Mayor of London has warned that artificial intelligence could trigger mass unemployment. At the same time, he announced free AI training and a task force to help workers adapt. Across Europe, the debate on the impact of AI on the world of work is intensifying, between apocalyptic visions and growth scenarios. The challenge is to manage the transition, seizing the opportunities offered by new technologies and mitigating the risks to employment.

NIAR chairman Cheng-wen Wu has urged ITRI (Industrial Technology Research Institute) to take a leading role in the practical application of research findings. The goal is to translate scientific innovation into concrete and industrializable solutions.

Beijing has revealed new investigative techniques to expose corrupt officials who receive bribes in cryptocurrencies. Chinese authorities are able to track down perpetrators by monitoring how they spend their illicit proceeds. A documentary highlighted the case of Yao Qian, former director of the digital currency institute at the People's Bank of China, who came under investigation for buying a villa in Beijing.

Hong Kong’s new Legislative Council held its first meeting, focusing on follow-up work after the deadly fire at Wang Fuk Court. Priorities include rehousing displaced residents, reforming industry practices, and holding those responsible accountable. The government aims for greater transparency in bidding processes and safer construction sites.

The death toll from the devastating fire in Hong Kong has risen to 168 after authorities completed the identification of the remains. Secretary for Security Chris Tang Ping-keung announced that all victims have been identified through dental examinations and DNA testing. Families have been notified and have confirmed the identities of the deceased.

Financial control is shifting from traditional spreadsheets to software architecture. Companies face risks related to complex integrations and discontinuous data flows. Finance teams must acquire technical skills, while engineering teams must consider financial constraints. Collaboration between CFOs and CTOs becomes essential to ensure compliance and scalability.

The free online encyclopedia Wikipedia celebrates its 25th anniversary, but faces numerous challenges. These include political opposition, AI content scraping, a decline in volunteers, and a possible loss of public trust in its founding ideals. The future of this pillar of online knowledge is more uncertain than ever.

The Pentagon's "Arsenal of Freedom" tour borrows its name from a 1988 Star Trek episode, in which an AI destroys a civilization. Elon Musk and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth promoted the initiative at SpaceX headquarters, seemingly unaware of the dystopian reference.

A software engineer in Minneapolis launched a dashcam crowdsourcing initiative, receiving over 500 devices. The goal is to monitor the activities of federal agents in the area, in response to their increased presence and threats from the Trump administration. The initiative aims to ensure transparency and document operations in the area, providing citizens with a monitoring tool.

Astronomers have potentially solved the mystery of "little red dots" at the edge of the observable universe. New research suggests these are likely young black holes cocooned in dense gas. The James Webb Space Telescope made this discovery possible, potentially revolutionizing our understanding of cosmic evolution and supermassive black hole formation.

Bandcamp has announced a ban on music generated entirely or substantially by AI on its platform. The decision aims to protect the community of human artists on the site, while still allowing the use of AI tools that support the human creative process.

In Colorado, a woman was wrongfully accused of theft based on evidence from Flock cameras. Despite providing evidence of her innocence, the police refused to consider it, insisting on taking the case to court. The charges were later dropped.

Video doorbell maker Ring, owned by Amazon, is preparing to integrate artificial intelligence into its products, transforming itself into an "intelligent assistant." The company promises new features and greater automation for home security, leveraging the power of AI to improve the user experience and offer more advanced services.