The "Saturday Night Live" post-election episode did not land well with fans of the show or Elon Musk.Fans called Bill Burr, this week's host, racist and sexist after his controversial opening monologue.Musk criticized the show after Dana Carvey did an impression of him. Thanks for signing up! Access your favorite topics in a personalized feed while you're on the go. The "Saturday Night Live" post-election episode was criticized by people across the political spectrum, including Elon Musk.The show featured a controversial monologue by comedian Bill Burr, and a skit featuring SNL alumnus Dana Carvey doing an impression of Musk.In 2016 and 2020, when Donald Trump and Joe Biden won the presidential races, respectively, Dave Chappelle hosted the first post-election episodes. It's unclear why he wasn't chosen this year, but in recent years he has been criticized for jokes viewed as antisemitic and transphobic. Burr took over this year, and joked that Asian people spread COVID-19 and that women should "whore it up" to become president."Listen, I know a lot of ugly women, feminists I mean, don't want to hear this message. But just tease him a little bit. Make a farmer feel like he's got a shot," Burr advised future female presidential candidates after Kamala Harris lost to Trump last week.Some fans called Burr's jokes racist and sexist.Other defended the jokes, saying that critics were being too sensitive.Later in the monologue, Burr turned his attention to Trump, calling him an "orange bigot" and "lunatic," but those jokes appear to have been overshadowed by his previous comments. Burr is known for being controversial, with his last appearance on SNL in 2020 receiving a similarly mixed response from fans after he made jokes about white women, anti-maskers, and Pride month.Before Burr's monologue, the show opened with the "Saturday Night Live" cast standing together onstage saying that they have always been Trump supporters, in an apparent joke about companies currying favor with the president-elect. Some fans said the joke wasn't funny.Later in the skit, James Austin Johnson, a cast member who usually impersonates Trump, appeared as a "Hot Jacked Trump," while Carvey sent up Musk, who was instrumental to Trump's election campaign.On Sunday, Musk, who has previously hosted the show, replied to three different X users to criticize the show.NBC and Burr's representatives did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.

The app's design felt simple and user-friendly. I selected a few interests, including concerts and museums. Pie Social; Gia Yetikyel Downloading and signing up for the app was incredibly straightforward and free.I made an account with my phone number, checked off a few prewritten interests (cafs, concerts, dance parties, museums and galleries, and park hangs), and added a picture of myself. I also had the option to add my Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, city, and bio to my profile.Aside from my profile, the app is split into four other pages: Invites, Your Plans, Friends, and Chats. There was also the option to create an event of my own using the "+" at the bottom of the app. There weren't many event options at first.More event options seemed to appear the more I interacted with the app. Gia Yetikyel The core of Pie is its list of local events created by others (groups or individuals) that users can sign up for.Pie doesn't have its own events. Instead, the app relies on people in the community to create meetups and offers incentives for those who do with the Pie Creator Fund.Event creators can apply to it to receive payment for hosting they're paid based on the number of RSVP responses to their events on the app.A few events were already on my Invites page, including a coding meetup and a silent book club.I could RSVP "Yes," "Maybe," or "No" on Pie, though some events had limited spots and required I leave the app to get a ticket or use an additional RSVP link.Once I said "yes" to an event, it got added to my plans and I could message other attendees.I noticed few events at first, especially for a lively city like Chicago. There was an average of one per day, and if I didn't seem interested in it, I'd have to look at another date for more options.Maybe it was a coincidence, but it seemed that the more I used the app, the more new events popped up. I first attended a field-day event, even though it was a little out of my element.I took the bus up to Waveland Picnic Field in Lakeview. Gia Yetikyel The first event I attended was the Chicago Picnic Club at Waveland Picnic Field, hosted by the social groupLet's Do Fun Things Chicagoand events companyThe Friendwork Collective.The free event was on a sunny Saturday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and included a yoga class, volleyball, and pizza.Let's Do Fun Things is a Chicago-based meetup organization that started this summer and seems to list many events on the Pie app. Its founder, Sam Mahafzah, was a popular name among the attendees.Upon arriving at the grassy field, he greeted me and waved for me to sit among the people talking and eating pizza under the trees. I liked how the event pushed me out of my comfort zone.I don't usually seek out yoga classes or outdoor games, but I had fun at this event. Gia Yetikyel I'm not one for yoga, but I brought a mat and did my best not to collapse while doing a downward-facing dog. After, the event creator broke out a colorful parachute, reminiscent of elementary school gym class, and called people over to grab onto a loop and run in circles.There was something absolutely freeing about screaming the lyrics to Natasha Bedingfield's "Unwritten" while sitting underneath a parachute with a bunch of strangers. Silly, yes, but thoroughly fun.My social skills were definitely on the stiffer side, but I managed to enjoy myself and exchange Instagram handles with two women before leaving.This didn't feel like the start of some beautiful friendship, and I'm not certain we'll connect later, but it's nice knowing I might see them at future gatherings.A field day isn't the first way I'd think of spending a Saturday, which made me a little anxious, especially with the added element of strangers. But the event allowed me to get out of my comfort zone and Pie made it easier for me to seize that opportunity.Notably, though, no one I spoke to at this meetup mentioned Pie. The second event I attended was a crafting meetup.I had previously attended Chicago Craft Club meetups, but I found out about this one on Pie. Gia Yetikyel The next event I attended was hosted by theChicago Craft Club, which, on its Instagram page, describes itself as "a community for adult creatives of all ages." I was already familiar with the club as I had attended a couple of their events in the past that I'd found on TikTok and liked the vibes overall.For this one, I RSVP'd on the Pie app and through Chicago Craft Club's separate link so I could receive a QR code I could use to get in.This free, two-hour afternoon meetup was hosted at the immersive art experience, the WNDR Museum, in a large room with tables and folding chairs. For those who didn't bring a craft, there was an area with crayons, markers, and paper. I loved the crafting crowd.I had a nice time at the Chicago Craft Club. Gia Yetikyel After writing my name tag, I took a seat at the nearest table, which had four other people already knitting and drawing.The room was lush with positive energy a lot of the crowd was knitting, sharing encouragement and advice about stitches.I opted to doodle with crayons as I got to know my table with the usual small talk that weaved its way from where we grew up to our favorite musicals. As the knitters fell into focus, the rest of us followed in a comfortable silence, sometimes asking a question or telling a funny story.The group told me they'd learned about the Chicago Craft Club and its events from Instagram. Again, no one mentioned Pie.Although I didn't exchange contact information with the group, I departed with the promise of seeing them at the next meetup. Next time, I'll cut out the middleman and skip Pie since the club's events are listed online, and I had to RSVP elsewhere anyway. The third event I attended was a bachata class.I brought my friend to the bachata class. Gia Yetikyel For my third meetup, I looked for a meetup unlike the others, which led me to Salsa on a School Night.Once again, this event was hosted by Let's Do Fun Things Chicago. The beginner-friendly bachata lesson was free with an RSVP, and attendees could bring a friend if they wished.I brought a friend who was down because she'd previously attended similar meetups in Chicago that she found on Instagram. When we arrived at Barcocina Lakeview, I noticed that the back room was predominantly full of men, with a few familiar faces from the field-day event.The first half hour was filled with mingling among the crowd. Once again, event host Mahafzah was there to greet attendees. I asked him how to make friends at events like this, and he immediately introduced us to two other women.During our small talk, one of the women mentioned she used Pie to find events like this the first time I heard the app mentioned in real life. She said she enjoyed using it. The host's extroverted energy made all the difference.The room was filled with people learning the steps to bachata. Gia Yetikyel At around 8:30 p.m., the bachata instructor climbed up on a table and gave step-by-step instructions on dancing. Over the next half hour, to the sounds of the rhythmic music, attendees spun, stepped, and shook their hips to the instructor's guidance.When asked to pair with the opposite gender, I danced with Mahafzah, who cackled in delight as attendees shuffled with each other.Later, when asked, Mahafzah told BI he started as a community organizer using the creator fund but is now a "Creator in Residence" at Pie, meaning he has equity in the company and is "embedded in the team part-time."As Mahafzah went off to create content for the event, it was evident that his keen hosting skills played a large part in its overall success. He greeted nearly every attendee and spent all night introducing strangers to one another. I liked Pie as a concept, but it's not particularly groundbreaking.Andy Dunn's goal with Pie is nice, but I'm not sure the app is as helpful as he'd hoped. Daniel Boczarski/Getty Images for Bonobos; Spencer Platt/Getty Images; Rebecca Zisser/Insider Although Pie isn't revolutionary, its goals are noble people in their 20s and 30s crave genuine platonic connections, especially since the pandemic.Pie does a decent job of gathering events for those who don't know where to begin, but it's akin to an application that organizes your subscriptions for you.Unfortunately, I don't believe it's the groundbreaking connection-creator young adults have been looking for. It doesn't eliminate awkward lulls in conversation or uncertainty about potential future hangouts that come with making strangers into friends.The app mostly just highlights the community-building work people are already doing in Chicago, whether it's free yoga classes in the West Loop or crafting sessions at a Logan Square brewery.I found fun events on Pie, but I could've found and attended them without using the app at all after all, that's what just about everyone I spoke to did.Even so, I do think this app has the potential to be a useful tool for making friendships. I'd use Pie again when my social-media algorithms get stale and I want to explore new social circles. If you're new to Chicago, though, it's a decent tool for making the seemingly overwhelming task of building a community that much more attainable.Pie did not respond to a request for comment.

Look around: Does it seem like everyone has been pouring little packages of electrolyte into their beverages lately? Pre-workout, post-workout, without a workout at all? Powders and tablets like LMNT, Liquid I.V., and Nuun are everywhere, from TikTok ads to your office snack counter.The concept of hardcore hydration isnt new athletes have been adding stuff to their water for millennia. And electrolyte-filled drinks like Gatorade have been mainstays in sports culture for decades.But todays electrolyte supplements arent just for football players or ultramarathoners. Companies like Nuun market their tablets for everyone from aspiring endurance athletes to regular people going to yoga classes during their lunch breaks.These brands are playing into peoples perception of what is healthy, said Samantha Coogan, a nutrition sciences educator at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. And it seems to be working: According to Precedence Research, the global electrolyte drinks market is worth over $40 billion and is expected to grow to nearly $75 billion in the next decade.The concept of hydration has become a point of fixation in wellness culture, even though experts still dont entirely agree on how much hydration we need or the ideal way to get there. With electrolytes making their way from the world of endurance athletes to brunch cocktails, its tempting to believe that they might indeed be a magic cure for everything from leg cramps to hangovers. While electrolyte supplements are great for athletes and lifesaving for cholera patients, theyre not magic. Heres what you need to know about what electrolytes can and cant do, and whether you need them. What is an electrolyte, anyway?Our bodies need to maintain a certain balance of essential minerals to function properly: sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, chloride, phosphate, and bicarbonate.These minerals are all electrolytes, substances that carry electricity through the body, controlling fluid balance, muscle function, and communication between the brain and the body. The electro in electrolytes comes from the electric charge produced when theyre dissolved in a fluid like blood. Without electrolytes, these electrical signals get disrupted, causing muscle spasms and cramps, headaches, and trouble thinking clearly. Sodium in particular is an important electrolyte because it aids in controlling the amount of water in your blood. Electrolytes like sodium basically help water in the body go where its supposed to go, said Holley Samuel, a registered sports dietitian who works with endurance athletes. When we sweat, we lose a lot of sodium and chloride (a.k.a. salt). But if a person profusely sweating only chugs water without also replenishing the salt, it throws off the balance of sodium and water in the body, pushing too much fluid inside of cells. This can eventually make those cells swell like raisins soaking in water, a potentially dangerous condition called hyponatremia. When you drink water with electrolytes, that water is better able to stick around inside your body where its needed. Electrolytes like sodium basically help water in the body go where its supposed to go.Its important to note that electrolytes dont exist only in a magic packet, said Stavros Kavouras, director of the Hydration Science Lab at Arizona State University. Beyond tablets, packets, and powders, electrolytes exist in regular foods we eat all the time, like bananas (potassium), cheese and crackers (sodium and calcium), and spinach (magnesium). Electrolytes as pre-packaged water supplements, as we think of them today, have only been around for a few decades. In the 1960s, assistant coach Dewayne Douglas noticed that his University of Florida football players were struggling to recover after practices in the swampy Gainesville heat. Athletes shed weight Douglas recalled losing up to 18 pounds per game himself, when he played but barely felt the need to pee.After conducting studies with UF first-year football players as subjects, kidney disease specialist J. Robert Cade found that players felt terrible because in addition to experiencing low blood sugar after working out, they were sweating out tons of electrolytes, especially sodium and potassium. So he created a new sports recovery drink for the Florida Gators, called Gatorade: basically water, salt, sugar, and lemon juice for taste. The sodium-enriched drink helps athletes retain water while sweating, and the results were remarkable. One Lil Swig of That Kickapoo Juice and Biff, Bam, Sock Its Gators, 8-2, the Florida Times-Union celebrated in December 1966, after Gatorades first season with the team.Sports drinks took off, and other companies began capitalizing on Gatorades success. All sports drinks are variations on Gatorades theme: Water for hydration, sugar for energy, and electrolytes to aid in fluid absorption, as well as flavoring to get it down. Sports drinks act as one magic bullet for athletes, Kavouras said. You take one thing, and it has everything in there. This formula is so effective its recommended by the World Health Organization for rehydrating people, especially cholera patients or children experiencing diarrhea.At first, these beverages were primarily marketed to professional athletes. Today, Powerade and Gatorade are advertised as soft drinks for anyone. In 2024, the year of the giant water bottle, there are also a bunch of new-wave electrolyte supplements like Nuun, LMNT, and Liquid I.V. in grocery and convenience store aisles, which swap sugar for alternative sweeteners like stevia leaf extract or allulose to target consumers who dont want to drink too many extra calories. These supplements market themselves as hydration superfoods: something to help athletes, sure, but also a hangover cure and overall vibe-booster for regular, health-conscious people. Coogan said, if youre eating a balanced diet and arent training for a marathon, you probably shouldnt be pounding back electrolyte packets.If your body needs extra electrolytes, supplements whether a Gatorade or a Nuun can be an efficient way to rehydrate. But, Coogan said, if youre eating a balanced diet and arent training for a marathon, you probably shouldnt be pounding back electrolyte packets. Too much of a good thing is not always a good thing, Coogan said.Okay, but what about hangovers? Pedialyte, an oral electrolyte solution meant for babies and children, has become the go-to hangover cure for young adults at music festivals and fraternity parties. College students are even trying to sidestep the consequences of binge drinking by swapping beers for BORGs (blackout rage gallons): a half-gallon of water mixed with a bottle of liquor and an electrolyte additive.Alas, electrolytes are not a magic hangover cure trying to undo a night out with electrolyte supplements is just going to be an uphill battle, Coogan said. While pre-hydrating with an electrolyte supplement before a night out might help mitigate some of the consequences of the impending alcohol-fueled dehydration, the only real hangover cure is time.MIAMI, FLORIDA - JUNE 15: Ms+ by Messi, a new beverage made with a blend of electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals, and created by global soccer icon Lionel Messi, hits shelves for the first time. (Photo by Rodrigo Varela/Getty Images for Ms+ by Messi) Getty Images for Ms+ by MessiElectrolytes are great for super-sweaty times. Otherwise, meh.The best time to consume extra electrolytes is when youve been sweating a lot, or otherwise losing a lot of fluids through something like food poisoning. Training for a long-distance run? Working on a construction site on a summer day in a place like Phoenix? Experts say electrolyte supplements are definitely a good call.Many people (myself included) fall somewhere in between couch potato and ultramarathoner. I asked experts how I should think about electrolytes, as someone who spends most of the day sitting in front of my computer, then goes to a CrossFit or pole dancing class after work. Samuel says that for casual gym rats and recreational athletes, how you should rehydrate largely depends on how much you sweat, and what your sweat is made of.Some people go to do a spin class and theyre on the bike for five minutes, and theres a puddle around them, Samuel said. If thats you, youre a heavy sweater. Sodium levels in sweat can also vary anywhere from 200 milligrams per liter to 2,000, depending on the person. If your sweat tends to sting your eyes or leave white streaks or crystals on your skin and clothes, you might be a salty sweater.For casual gym rats and recreational athletes, how you should rehydrate largely depends on how much you sweat, and what your sweat is made of.Both heavy sweaters and salty sweaters should consider electrolyte supplements before, during, and after working out. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends consuming at least 300 milligrams of sodium per hour if youre going to be out sweating for more than an hour, whether youre participating in a sport or simply working outside on a hot day. Read labels, too: Try to stay below 14 grams of sugar per 8 ounces of fluid (thats about half of the amount in a Gatorade Thirst Quencher). Make sure to check the sodium content on the label of your electrolyte supplement, though: Some popular supplements, like Liquid I.V., contain 500 mg of sodium, which is more than whats necessary for all but the sweatiest endurance athletes. Those athletes usually need to consume more sodium than other people, Samuel said. For everyone else, supplements with more moderate levels of sodium (around 200 to 300 mg), should be enough to rehydrate. About one-third of otherwise healthy people are sensitive to salt, meaning that consuming high amounts of sodium causes an increase in blood pressure. Thats why you have heard that a high sodium diet can lead to hypertension and cardiovascular disease, Kavouras said. If youre sensitive to salt, youll want to be careful. The FDA recommends Americans limit their sodium intake to 2,300 mg per day. Nevertheless, for most people, its next to impossible to consume a dangerous amount of electrolytes. If you eat more carbs, fat, or protein than your body needs, they get stored as fat. But electrolytes arent stored theyre eliminated. If you drink too much sodium, Kavouras said, you will be peeing more sodium.You dont necessarily need an electrolyte supplement after your workout. Low-fat milk (or soy milk, for lactose-intolerant and plant-based athletes) offer enough electrolytes, carbs, and protein to rehydrate, repair muscles, and stabilize blood sugar, and smoothies can incorporate protein and fats in addition to electrolyte-rich foods like bananas, dates, leafy greens, and coconut water.Electrolytes have another counterintuitive benefit: making you thirstier. Electrolytes help in maintaining the thirst drive for a longer period of time, Kavouras said. This can be helpful for those who struggle to drink enough water, because they arent thirsty enough to reach for it or because they dont like the taste of water. If it tastes better, and if it drives thirst longer, you will be drinking more on your own, Kavouras said.While drinking an electrolyte supplement when you dont really need one is rarely dangerous, Samuel cautioned that consuming extra sodium without enough extra water (or sweating it out) is dehydrating say pouring two LMNT packets into one regular-sized water bottle, although that would taste pretty bad. Youre basically creating jerky out of yourself by salting too much, she said. We want to be a nice, hydrated steak.You dont need them all the time, but electrolytes can help rebalance a sweaty body and make drinking water a little more fun. Just remember that theyre hardly magic theyre salts. Youve read 1 article in the last monthHere at Vox, we're unwavering in our commitment to covering the issues that matter most to you threats to democracy, immigration, reproductive rights, the environment, and the rising polarization across this country.Our mission is to provide clear, accessible journalism that empowers you to stay informed and engaged in shaping our world. By becoming a Vox Member, you directly strengthen our ability to deliver in-depth, independent reporting that drives meaningful change.We rely on readers like you join us.Swati SharmaVox Editor-in-ChiefSee More:

The US nuclear industry has been struggling to hold its ground for decades as it contends with rising costs, an aging fleet, a shrinking workforce, and stiff competition from natural gas and renewable power. The most recent US nuclear reactors to come online, units 3 and 4 at Plant Vogtle in Georgia, started up in 2023. It was years behind schedule and billions of dollars over budget. Meanwhile, more than a dozen reactors have shut down since 2013. Several companies developing advanced reactors and small modular reactors, promising greater safety and lower costs, have seen their projects and their businesses collapse.Nuclear power has been holding fairly steady for decades. Energy Information AdministrationBut in the past year, some big tech companies have taken steps toward a revival. Amazon has signed a $500 million deal with X-energy to deploy 5 gigawatts worth of small modular reactors (SMRs) in Washington state. The company is also investigating new nuclear projects in Virginia. Google and nuclear startup Kairos Power agreed to develop molten salt-cooled nuclear reactors, an approach that promises greater efficiency and lower costs. Microsoft has made advanced nuclear energy, including technologies like SMRs and fusion, a part of its energy strategy. These tech firms are looking to meet their climate goals while sating energy appetites that have exploded with the push for artificial intelligence. Last year, new data center power demand grew 26 percent to more than 5 gigawatts in North America. The case to lean into nuclear power at this moment is compelling. It could generate massive quantities of electricity, day or night, rain or shine, without emitting greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere. Nuclear fission is also one of the safest energy sources. Coal kills more than 32 people per terawatt-hour of electricity produced while nuclear kills about 0.03. But building a new nuclear power plant from scratch, especially a new design, is an arduous, expensive process that can span decades. At the same time, old, carbon dioxide- and soot-spewing coal power plants are also shutting down. Many states are looking to fill the void while also trying to meet their goals to decarbonize their power grids.Thats why tech companies are also looking to revive shuttered nuclear plants. Progress is underway to resurrect reactors at three nuclear power plants that were slated for dismantling and could restart as soon as next year. Its a stunning and unprecedented development for the nuclear industry. If you told me we wouldve been talking about this 10 years ago, I wouldve laughed at you, said Patrick OBrien, head of government affairs and communications at Holtec International, a nuclear services company that until recently specialized in shutting nuclear plants down. Three plants are on the resuscitation list. The 800-megawatt reactor at the Palisades Nuclear Power Plant in Michigan, which shut down in 2022, is slated to revive by the end of 2025; Holtec bought the Palisades plant in 2022 and is now leading its restart. Microsoft signed a deal with Constellation to resuscitate the 835-megawatt Unit 1 reactor at Three Mile Island in Pennsylvania, which initially turned off in 2019 and could power up by 2028. NextEra Energy is mulling breathing life back into the 600-megawatt Duane Arnold nuclear power plant in Iowa. The plant closed in 2020 after sustaining damage during a derecho, a fast, powerful thunderstorm. Restarting these plants is a critical test for nuclear power in the US, and how they fare will bolster or erode confidence in broader ambitions for a new generation of nuclear deployment.But whether they will help keep global warming in check depends on how much they will displace dirtier energy sources as opposed to merely enabling new demand. How to restart a nuclear reactorAlas, restarting a nuclear power plant doesnt involve flipping a comically large circuit breaker. The reality is much more tedious. For a would-be nuclear resurrectionist, the main tasks are appeasing the regulators and reinvigorating the hardware. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), the federal agency in charge of commercial nuclear reactors, says the reason these power plants Palisades, Three Mile Island, Duane Arnold are eligible to be restarted is that, from the regulators perspective, theyre only mostly dead. When a reactor first gains approval from the NRC, its initial operating license runs for 40 years. At the end of the first license, the operator can then seek a 20-year extension. The key to all of these restart efforts is the fact that the licenses that are involved have not yet hit their expiration date, said Scott Burnell, a spokesman for the NRC. These reactors were shut down ahead of schedule not for technical problems but because the business wasnt panning out. After shutting down a plant, operators remove fuel from the reactors and place it in spent fuel pools. They disassemble pipes and machinery. They drain coolants and lubricants to prevent contamination. A complete decommissioning can cost up to $2 billion and take 20 years. But the three plants under restart consideration havent gotten far along in the disassembly process. Until recently, no one has sought to bring back a plant already slated for retirement, so there isnt an established rulebook for how to go about it. Theres never been a case up to this point where a company has come back and said, Well, Ive changed my mind, Burnell said. The first thing someone seeking to resuscitate a nuclear reactor must do is seek an exemption from the current rules that make shutting down a one-way street, which requires an enormous amount of paperwork. The operator then has to put a safety plan in place and bring the plant back up to the original requirements under its operating license. Therein lies the next undertaking. Palisades, Three Mile Island, and Duane Arnold shut down relatively recently, but theyve still been offline for years. Imagine letting a car sit in your driveway unused for a couple of years and then trying to fire it up. Odds are, it wont start on the first try. The motor may have seized, the fuel may have separated, the battery may have discharged completely. Even sitting unused, components like rubber hoses, gaskets, and tires can oxidize and turn brittle with time. Metal parts can rust. A shuttered nuclear power plant faces similar concerns, albeit with significantly higher consequences. Nuclear operators have to first meticulously investigate all the parts of their offline facilities before they get the thumbs-up to power up again. However, this shutdown, inspection, and resuscitation process can also be an opportunity. Holtecs OBrien noted that operating nuclear power plants have regularly scheduled downtime lasting a month or so to conduct maintenance and refuel. But a longer outage gives the operator more time to do more extensive upgrades and restoration. We have parts of the turbine that have been sent out to North Carolina for refurbishment thatll be gone for a year with the work being done, OBrien said. You couldnt have done that when youre an [actively] operating plant.The other challenge is the workforce. Running a nuclear power plant requires highly specialized personnel, and since the US has been so slow in building reactors, many veteran staffers have retired or left the industry while fewer new graduates are rising to replace them. Palisades employed 600 workers when operating and brought in 1,000 more during refueling and maintenance periods.When a plant is slated for shutdown, many of those workers leave the area or retire. So to restart a nuclear facility, operators need to get their teams back together, sometimes bringing workers out of retirement while recruiting and training new ones. Nuclear revivals still have to prove their economicsThe biggest challenge for nuclear restarts may not be the hardware or the regulations, but competition. According to a 2021 report from the Congressional Research Service, The US nuclear power industry in recent years has been facing economic and financial challenges, particularly plants located in competitive power markets where natural gas and renewable power generators influence wholesale electricity prices.Related:Why nuclear plants are shutting downThe reactor revivers say they can overcome what killed these power plants in the first place. With Palisades, Holtec is securing a power purchasing agreement with Wolverine Power Cooperative, a nonprofit that provides electricity to 280,000 homes and businesses in rural Michigan. Rather than competing head-to-head with other generators, this guarantees the plant can sell a given amount of electricity at a fixed rate. OBrien said Holtec is putting up $500 million of its own money. The company also received $300 million in grants from the state of Michigan and a $1.52 billion loan guarantee from the US Department of Energy for its effort. Holtec is also aiming to use the Palisades site to deploy two 300-megawatt small modular reactors, essentially becoming its own first customer for these reactors and demonstrating them for future clients. Since the site is already certified to be a nuclear power plant, it cuts out a lot of the development costs that come with building a plant on fresh soil. Holtec is aiming to have its first SMR up by 2030. While a lot of the recent activity around nuclear power has been fueled by the energy-hungry tech industry, Michigan has set its own ambitious climate goals that make Palisades an even more attractive option. The state is aiming to phase out all of its coal-fired power plants by 2030. Coal currently provides more than 22 percent of the states electricity. Thats a big hole to fill in over the next six years. Like many states, Michigan is experiencing growing electricity demand, particularly as hotter summers increase cooling needs. The rise of electric cars and switching from natural gas heating to electric heat pumps is increasing energy appetites as well. The state also sees an opportunity to get a piece of the AI action and is instituting tax breaks for new data centers.Revived plants like Palisades cant keep running forever though. In a car, regular oil changes, tire replacements, and inspections can keep it on the road for a long time. But if the engine block starts to wear down, its usually not worth the time or money to replace it. Similarly, with a nuclear power plant, ongoing fueling and maintenance can keep it operational, but if its equivalent of an engine block the reactor pressure vessel around the reactor core becomes brittle over time as neutrons from nuclear fission bombard it, that can be expensive and difficult to replace. Its integrity is often the main determinant of the overall lifespan of a nuclear plant. Palisades was already 50 years old when it went offline, and the NRCs current regulations are set up to allow for two 20-year renewals after an initial 40-year license for a nuclear power plant. Weve had several plants that have come in for a second renewal, which would allow them to run essentially for 80 years, Burnell said. A plant could theoretically push that further, but no one has tried yet. And all nuclear plants have to deal with rising costs. Maintaining a nuclear workforce is getting more expensive, and safety regulations continue to ratchet up. Inflation is making materials more pricey and higher interest rates are increasing financing expenses. At the same time, photovoltaic solar panels and wind turbines have experienced extraordinary price drops and explosive growth around the world.The nuclear industrys challenges remain immense, but concerns about climate change might end up being the most compelling driver for new nuclear power. When it comes to ample, around-the-clock, zero-emissions power, nuclear is a strong contender in the competition. But nuclear energy is now facing another curveball. Donald Trumps reelection to the White House likely means that addressing climate change will become a lower priority, as it did during his first term. How much the federal government will continue backing nuclear restarts and new companies is unclear, and the industry might need to figure out a new pitch for more public investment. Youve read 1 article in the last monthHere at Vox, we're unwavering in our commitment to covering the issues that matter most to you threats to democracy, immigration, reproductive rights, the environment, and the rising polarization across this country.Our mission is to provide clear, accessible journalism that empowers you to stay informed and engaged in shaping our world. By becoming a Vox Member, you directly strengthen our ability to deliver in-depth, independent reporting that drives meaningful change.We rely on readers like you join us.Swati SharmaVox Editor-in-ChiefSee More:

Nintendo is being a big tease (Reuters)As the world awaits news on the Switch 2, Nintendo continues to troll fans with another Direct presentation on something completely unrelated.Ever since Nintendo confirmed its next console will be shown at some point before April 2025, every new announcement from the company has come with added anticipation.Nintendo has resorted to putting disclaimers on subsequent Direct presentations to control expectations, but theres been a string of surprises in recent months which has bordered on troll behaviour including a museum, the Alarmo clock, a new music app, and a Switch port of Xenoblade Chronicles X.The company has now announced a Direct presentation for something else completely separate from Nintendos Switch successor: a new area in the Super Nintendo World theme park.When is the next Nintendo Direct? The Super Nintendo World Direct is set to be streamed live today and will showcase the new Donkey Kong Country expansion coming to the theme park at Universal Studios Japan. It will span roughly 10 minutes, with the disclaimer that no game information will be featured.Youll be able to watch the stream live through Nintendos YouTube channels on Monday, November 11 at 10pm GMT in the UK, which translates to 2pm PT/5pm ET in the US.The Donkey Kong Country expansion was originally slated to open in spring this year, but it was delayed to late 2024 with no specific date. As such, its very likely this presentation will reveal an opening date, potentially for this month.While this is focused on Universal Studios Japan, Donkey Kong Country and its Mine-Cart Madness ride will debut in the West at the upcoming Super Nintendo World park at Universal Orlando, which is set to open next year.Theres currently no confirmation that itll be part of the Universal Studios park in Los Angeles, which is more pushed for space.This is Nintendos third Direct presentation since August, following a Nintendo Museum broadcast and a joint Indie World and Partner Showcase.Is there a Zelda surprise coming in 2024? While it looks increasingly unlikely that well see any news about the Switch 2 this year, rumours suggest Nintendo isnt quite done with surprise announcements.Insider Samus Hunter, who teased the Donkey Kong Country showcase ahead of its reveal and correctly predicted the Xenoblade Chronicles X remaster, has hinted that something Zelda-related is also coming this winter.In a post on X, the insider states it is not a hint for a Zelda game and is more like a riddle, with the picture showing Link playing the ocarina from Zelda: Ocarina Of Time. Many have suggested it could be related to additional Zelda songs for the Nintendo Music app, which makes sense considering there are barely any songs on it. With the musical theme, a Zelda concert of sorts might also be a possibility. Well have to wait and see if a Zelda announcement does materialise, but just dont expect the long rumoured Wind Waker and Twilight Princess remasters to make a sudden appearance.Donkey Kongs expansion is coming to Super Nintendo World in Orlando too (Nintendo)Emailgamecentral@metro.co.uk, leave a comment below,follow us on Twitter, andsign-up to our newsletter.To submit Inbox letters and Readers Features more easily, without the need to send an email, just use ourSubmit Stuff page here.For more stories like this,check our Gaming page.MORE : Nintendo Switch 2 will run current Switch games but unveil is likely till 2025MORE : The Nintendo 3DS is finally dead as its last player is forced offlineMORE : Yes, someone has got THAT game running on Nintendos Alarmo clockSign up to all the exclusive gaming content, latest releases before they're seen on the site.Privacy Policy This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

The iRobot Roomba Combo i5+ is a self-emptying robot vacuum and mop, and its currently available at an impressive discount of 46%, bringing the price down to $299 from its original list price of $549.99. This deal is part of Amazons early Black Friday sales which have begun ahead of the official shopping holiday. The Roomba Combo i5+ is not just a vacuum: it also functions as a mop and makes it a great addition to any home cleaning arsenal.See at AmazonThis robot vacuum features a powerful 4-Stage Cleaning System that effectively pulls in everyday dirt and debris. Its unique dual multi surface rubber brushes are designed to adapt to various floor types for a thorough clean without the hassle of tangling with pet hair. One of the very much appreciated features of the Roomba Combo i5+ is its self-emptying capability: it can automatically empty its bin for up to 60 days.Empty Bin For Up to 60 DaysThe Roomba Combo i5+ is equipped with smart mapping technology which allows it to learn the layout of your home. This feature enables you to direct the robot to clean specific rooms at your convenience, whether on a set schedule or in real-time. Additionally, its patented dirt detect technology identifies dirtier areas in your home and cleans them more thoroughly when the vacuum bin is installed. This ensures that high-traffic areas receive the attention they need for a cleaner living space.Moreover, this model doubles as both a vacuum and a mop: with a simple switch of the bin, you can convert it from an all-floor vacuum into a wet mopping robot. The microfiber mop pad is designed for effective cleaning of footprints, dirt and dust on hard floors. Users can fill the Roomba bins tank with their choice of compatible cleaning solution or just water for customizable cleaning options that leave your home fresh and spotless.The integration with smart home devices enhances its usability: you can pair the Roomba Combo i5+ with Alexa, Siri or Google Assistant-enabled devices. You can use voice commands to instruct the robot to clean specific rooms or areas in your home for a seamless cleaning experience without manual intervention.As part of Amazons early Black Friday deals, this offer not only provides significant savings but also comes with an extended return policy: items purchased between November 1 and December 25, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025, or within 30 days from receiptwhichever is later. This ensures that customers can shop with confidence during the holiday season.See at Amazon

After a few days of stock shortage, the popular Blink Outdoor 4 cameras are back on Amazon with a huge 60% discount. This early Black Friday deal is turning heads as savvy shoppers rush to secure these great security devices at a fraction of their usual cost.The Blink Outdoor camera is known for its reliability and ease of use and has been a go-to choice for those looking to enhance their home security at a reasonable price. Now, with this substantial price cut, its become an even more attractive option: the single camera kit which typically retails for $99 is available for just $39.99. For those looking to secure multiple entry points or cover a larger area, the five-camera pack is an absolute steal at $159, down from its original price of $399.See Blink Outdoor 4 at AmazonSee 5-pack at AmazonThis wireless camera system offers a plethora of features that make it a standout in the crowded smart home security market. With its weather-resistant design, the Blink Outdoor can withstand the elements, making it perfect for monitoring your propertys exterior. The camera boasts HD video quality, ensuring clear footage day or night, thanks to its infrared night vision capabilities. Two-way audio allows you to communicate with visitors or deter potential intruders, while the motion detection feature sends alerts directly to your smartphone.Great Security, Great BatteryOne of the most appealing aspects of the Blink Outdoor is its impressive battery life: it can last up to two years of power from two AA lithium batteries so you wont find yourself constantly climbing ladders to change batteries. This longevity is a game-changer for those who want a set-it-and-forget-it security solution.Installation is a so easy and requires no wiring or professional help: simply mount the camera where you need it, sync it with the included module and youre ready to go. The user-friendly Blink app allows you to view live streams, receive notifications, and customize settings from anywhere in the world. This is also what makes it so popular.While this early Black Friday deal is exceptionally tempting, potential buyers should act fast. Given the high demand for these cameras and the depth of the discount, theres a strong possibility that stock will run out quickly (as it was the case earlier in November). Waiting until the end of November for traditional Black Friday sales might mean missing out on this opportunity entirely.At this price point (60% off on all kits; theres also one with three cameras), securing your home with an efficient camera system has never been more affordable. Whether youre looking to monitor your front porch for package deliveries, keep an eye on your backyard or simply want peace of mind when youre away from home, the Blink Outdoor camera system offers a cost-effective solution.See Blink Outdoor 4 at AmazonSee 5-pack at Amazon

Airports as Destinations: Branding Cities in East and Southeast AsiaSave this picture!The Rain Vortex indoor waterfall at Jewel Changi Airport. Image Freedomz via ShutterstockAir travel has opened up multiple avenues for travel experiences. Lately, these transitional spaces have become destinations themselves, with airports like the Hong Kong International Airport and Incheon International Airport commanding over 60 million visitors per year. Airports are often the first and last impression of a city, and designers and city planners are recognizing their role in telling a place's brand story. As hubs of both travel and tourism, these airports aim to blend functionality with cultural engagement, offering passengers a taste of the local flavor before they even leave the terminal.Packed with a golf course, ice skating rink, and even a Museum of Korean Culture, Seoul's Incheon International Airport offers amenities that provide entertainment for long layovers and attract even casual visitors. The Hong Kong Airport is another one of the growing number of airports enticing passengers with exciting forms of entertainment. The airport hosts a four-month cultural festival of music and art and also boasts a workshop where passengers can make personalized gifts and enjoy VR experiences.Save this picture!These mega-hubs set a new vision for what airports can be, breaking the distinction between transportation infrastructure and urban attractions. By integrating art, culture, and recreation into their design, these airports are going beyond the typical passenger experience, transforming what was once merely a waiting area into a community space and a touristic attraction in its own right. Related Article Airports: Examples in Plan & Section Airports as Mega-HubsAirports in metropolitan cities are revising themselves as attractions that compete with city landmarks for the attention of leisure travelers. New amenities and experiences have shifted the meaning of air travel. Singapore's Changi Airport is the best example of this trend. Its newest addition, the Jewel Changi Airport designed by Safdie Architects, features the world's tallest indoor waterfall, a canopy park, and a multi-story indoor garden. The attractions serve transit passengers while also drawing in local residents and tourists, effectively turning the airport into a destination itself. "Jewel weaves together an experience of nature and the marketplace, dramatically asserting the idea of the airport as an uplifting and vibrant urban center", shares Moshe Safdie whose firm designed the airport. Save this picture!The airport design facilitates a perception of the city of Singapore, mimicking its "garden-like" atmosphere. On the 5th level, the Canopy Park includes 14,000 square meters of attractions integrated within the garden spaces. These include net structures suspended within the trees, a suspended catenary glass-bottom bridge walk, a planted hedge maze and mirror maze, and feature installations completed in collaboration with internationally acclaimed artists. (write about how airports help with city branding - building a clear perception of what the city wants to be known for).Save this picture!As airports take on the role of gateway destinations, they start to become representatives of the identity of their city. The airport's design, amenities, and overall experience are becoming tools for shaping perceptions of the city and region it serves. Architectural design is often used to create a strong sense of place. Zaha Hadid Architects' undulating roof of Beijing Daxing International Airport, for example, reflects traditional Chinese architecture and symbolizes the country's rapid modernization. The designers' intentional fusion of cultural heritage and contemporary design creates a memorable first impression; a statement of the city's values, aspirations, and position on the global stage.Save this picture!Reimagining the Arrivals ExperienceThe arrivals area is often a traveler's first interaction with a city, making it a crucial touchpoint for shaping perceptions and experiences. Progressive airports are reimagining this space, moving towards single-level arrival areas that showcase local culture and integrate seamlessly with public transit. One approach is the concept of "curbside to city" design, creating a smooth transition from the airport to the city by incorporating elements of local architecture, art, and culture. At Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, Thailand, the arrivals hall features Thai-inspired design elements and sculptures, offering visitors an immediate taste of the country's rich heritage. The connection to the city's efficient Skytrain system further enhances the arrival experience and helps reinforce the city's image as modern, efficient, and visitor-friendly. Save this picture!Integration with public transit is another key aspect of this reimagined arrivals experience. Hong Kong International Airport offers in-town check-in services at metro stations, allowing travelers to drop off their luggage and obtain boarding passes before even reaching the airport. This enhances convenience while encouraging the use of public transportation and demonstrates how city branding can extend beyond the airport itself. These redesigned arrival areas are changing the first impressions of cities for travelers. By showcasing local culture and providing seamless connections to the city, airports are becoming true gateways that set the tone for a visitor's entire stay.The New Airport EconomyThe transformation of airports into destinations has a strong impact on airport business models and profitability. Traditional aeronautical revenue sources, such as landing fees and passenger charges, are being supplemented and sometimes overshadowed by additional revenue. Sophisticated retail and dining spaces are now the norm. Tokyo's Narita Airport contains a vibrant shopping hub with high-end stores like Bulgari and Tiffany & Co., providing passengers with an upscale retail experience that blends international luxury with Japanese craftsmanship. Luxury brands are setting up shop in international airports, recognizing them as prime locations with a captive audience of international travelers. Save this picture!Save this picture!Airports are also becoming central to urban development, anchoring them as commercial hubs rather than mere transportation gateways. The concept of an "aerotropolis" redefines how modern cities can be designed around airports as the focal point. In Zhengzhou, China, the airport has expanded its role beyond aviation to include a commercial complex with office spaces, retail outlets, and hotels. The Zhengzhou Airport Economic Zone (ZAEZ), established by China's State Council in 2013, highlights airports' position as drivers of economic growth. By integrating transportation, business services, and residential areas, the ZAEZ offers unmatched connectivity, thereby attracting industries like high-tech, biomedical, and advanced services that rely on speedy, global communication. Its proximity to major cities like Beijing and Shanghai makes it an ideal location for businesses seeking quick access to international markets. This strategy strengthens the region's economic infrastructure by integrating local and neighboring provinces into global supply chains.Save this picture!Airports are embodying microcosms of the cities they serve. The "aerotropolis" concept positions airports as central to urban development, demanding influence on the city's physical and economic landscape. The emphasis on airports as facilitators of global connectivity strengthens a city's identity as an international business center, showcasing economic strength, cultural richness, and innovation potential.City Branding for Architects"In the next decade, airports and airline lounges will evolve into emotional landscapes, intertwining local culture, sustainability, and technology. In these spaces, we become more than just passengers traversing points on a map, but ones open to new ideas and cultures," predicts Elias Andrews, an expert in airport design. As airports increasingly transform from mere transit points into vibrant destinations, architects can create spaces that reflect local culture and provide engaging experiences for travelers. Save this picture!Architects can extend their practice toward the communication of a city's essence through thoughtful airport design. By incorporating local materials and cultural references, designers can craft environments that resonate with visitors from the moment they arrive. To enrich the passenger experience, airports also become a powerful marketing tool for the city, establishing a strong sense of place that enhances its global image. Ultimately, well-designed airports can become integral components of a city's identity and economic vitality.Image gallerySee allShow lessAbout this authorAnkitha GattupalliAuthorCite: Ankitha Gattupalli. "Airports as Destinations: Branding Cities in East and Southeast Asia" 11 Nov 2024. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1023352/airports-as-destinations-branding-cities-in-east-and-southeast-asia&gt ISSN 0719-8884Save!ArchDaily?You've started following your first account!Did you know?You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.Go to my stream

The Forestias Six Senses Residences / Foster + PartnersSave this picture! Weerapon SingnoiArchitects: Foster + PartnersYearCompletion year of this architecture project Year: 2024 PhotographsPhotographs:Weerapon Singnoi, Foster + PartnersMore SpecsLess SpecsSave this picture!Text description provided by the architects. The first phase of the Six Senses Residences The Forestias development by the Thailand-based developer MQDC has been completed. Following the key principles of The Forestias master plan, the luxury villas are inspired by traditional Thai architecture to provide the highest levels of sustainability, well-being, and connections with nature. The development will be serviced by the nearby Six Senses The Forestias hotel and is designed to align with their pioneering approach to wellness, crafted experiences, and care towards local communities and the environment. Sunphol Sorakul, Partner, Foster + Partners, said: "The Six Senses Residences The Forestias is a private green haven at the edge of our masterplan. It offers an unparalleled living experience with access to the very best services and amenities to promote physical and emotional well-being while providing a strong sense of community. Every villa has been designed to optimize views of the spectacular natural surroundings, with an emphasis on quality materials and highly flexible living spaces that work for the whole family unit."Save this picture!Save this picture!The living quarters are raised up off the ground to enhance views of the surroundings, improve natural ventilation through the home, and create space for parking and MEP services below. The first level of the villas contains state-of-the-art dining and living spaces, the grandparents' bedroom, and a shaded courtyard where the family can gather at the heart of the home. A private infinity pool on the rear terrace appears to merge with the lagoon at the center of the development, while the rear terraces of the large residences connect with the forest, creating a seamless transition between inside and outside. The level above provides additional bedrooms and generous shaded terraces for socializing, relaxing, or practicing yoga.Save this picture!Save this picture!The breathable design is driven by an internal system of sliding louvers, which allows air to circulate through the villa and offers maximum flexibility for residents. Living spaces can be opened up, to create larger communal areas, or shut down for more privacy. The facade is carefully designed to balance views of the surroundings and privacy for residents. Timber screens on the first level are made from regionally sourced bamboo, with aluminum rain screens and stone cladding above. These screens provide shading and gently filter light into the living spaces, while also creating an elegant aesthetic that reflects the local culture and maintains a sense of seclusion. A large undulating aluminum roof with a timber soffit draws on natural forms, enhances water drainage, and features PV panels that provide energy to the home. Residents will have access to their own clubhouse, with a private health center and a large infinity pool that connects with the lagoon. The gridshell free-span timber structure creates a flexible event space that can accommodate a range of different activities.Save this picture!Project gallerySee allShow lessProject locationAddress:ThailandLocation to be used only as a reference. It could indicate city/country but not exact address.About this officeFoster + PartnersOfficeMaterialsWoodGlassMaterials and TagsPublished on November 11, 2024Cite: "The Forestias Six Senses Residences / Foster + Partners" 11 Nov 2024. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1023336/the-forestias-six-senses-residences-foster-plus-partners&gt ISSN 0719-8884Save!ArchDaily?You've started following your first account!Did you know?You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.Go to my stream

OPINION AMD Is Making Great Strides in AI, May End Up Merging With IntelBy Rob EnderleNovember 11, 2024 5:00 AM PT ADVERTISEMENTQuality Leads That Turn Into DealsFull-service marketing programs from TechNewsWorld deliver sales-ready leads. Segment by geography, industry, company size, job title, and more. Get Started Now. AMD has made significant strides in AI. Last week, it announced that its first 1-billion parameter large language models are performing exceptionally well. Under the leadership of CEO Lisa Su and with the help of CTO and Executive VP Mark Papermaster, AMD has done an admirable job of fast pivoting after Nvidia and OpenAIs initial surprise success to create a credible generative AI solution.What makes this incredible is that it took Nvidia around 20 years to get where it is and although Nvidia clearly plowed the AI field, AMD is planting AI seeds like crazy. While this might be considered a risk to Nvidias growth, demand for AI solutions remains high and largely unmet. In a rapidly expanding market, all major players can benefit, and both AMD and Nvidia are well-positioned to succeed.In addition, the U.S. is pushing for AMD and Intel to merge, which could remove a lot of the marketing inefficiencies in the x86 space and allow both firms to better compete in the growing battle for AI dominance, in which China represents the most significant competitive threat.Lets talk about AMDs AI progress and its potential merger with Intel. Well close with my Product of the Week: Google Gemini Advanced, which has proven incredibly helpful in creating images to accompany my writing.AMD and AINvidia caught the tech market with its pants down when it became clear that it was the technology behind OpenAIs ChatGPT platform that was, in turn, the foundation for Microsoft Copilot. While Microsoft did a relatively poor job launching Copilot+, Copilot has been immensely successful, particularly with developers. Given that Nvidia took around two decades to build its incredible AI platform, it seemed unlikely that anyone would be able to compete with it for a few years.Well, AMD clearly didnt get that memo. To catch up with Nvidia, AMD bought a company called Silo AI, known for its extensive pool of AI experts, rivaling even IBM. Silo AI was already amassing a number of successful AI projects in a market currently more defined by unsuccessful projects.AMDs methodical approach to AI has been refreshing in a market where many players seem to be selling solutions that fall short. Sadly, this is the nature of a new tech market darling. People are so desperate to get it they arent looking under the covers hard enough. The result is an unusually high failure rate.However, both AMD and Nvidia are providing well-curated solutions. Nvidia built its capabilities largely organically, while AMD has done it faster through acquisition (given Nvidia was a first mover, this option wasnt available to it in time).Much like AMD has always been a strong competitor to Intel and is an even stronger one today, it has also become an impressively strong peer to Nvidia as both companies move aggressively on this massive AI growth opportunity.AMD and Intel May MergeCurrently, AMD is also outselling Intel in the data center space, which most of us thought was impossible. This shift showcases the difficulty Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger faces as he tries to turn around the company, partly by navigating the Chips Act to build a massive U.S. microprocessor manufacturing capability, a strategic imperative for both Intel and the U.S. Government.Intel is one of the too big to fail companies from a national security perspective, so the U.S. government is pushing for an AMD/Intel merger where AMD would manage the combined companies while manufacturing would spin out as a separate entity. Gelsinger would likely run the manufacturing spin-out, giving Lisa Su the resources to better compete with the threat represented by China, especially Huawei, a company that has overcome U.S. sanctions to challenge Apple, among others. Huawei is considered one of the AI challengers to Nvidia and, by extension, AMD and Intel.This combination would significantly improve both x86s prospects by eliminating unneeded competition between AMD and Intel both of which are facing challenges from Arm, China, and Huawei and allow greater focus on the strategic U.S. effort to build up domestic processor manufacturing.Wrapping UpThere is a lot of change going on in the tech space. Companies are flocking to AI solutions like nothing Ive ever seen. The AI ramp-up and competitive dangers are pronounced. The U.S., while currently in the lead, is being approached rapidly by China, which is executing well with better government support than the U.S. has been able to create yet. AMD has stepped up to this competition behind Nvidia and is performing impressively well and not just with AI. Its primary processor business is doing so well that its being asked to buy and merge with Intels development side and spin out manufacturing so it can advance more quickly with greater focus.While we often hold up Nvidia as the gold standard for AI computing, AMD is moving up fast as an alternative, and the market needs alternatives. Its growing too fast for one or even two primary vendors. Lisa Sus team continues to do impressive work, and I can only imagine the success they will likely enjoy in 2025.Google Gemini AdvancedI use several AI products at the moment, one of which is Google Gemini. There are two forms of Gemini: The base form is free, and Gemini Advanced costs around $20 monthly.While I initially struggled a bit learning how to state prompts to create images I wanted properly, both Gemini Advanced and I have improved over time. It now only takes me one or two iterations to create an image to complement my writing.Ive found Gemini Advanced to be incredibly fun to mess around with. For instance, I created the image shown here with the prompt, generate an image of a beautiful anime girl in a flying car fighting a horrific monster in space.The thing about AI tools is that they need to be fun and rewarding to use because there is a bit of a learning curve in how you phrase prompts and each tool requires slightly different phrasing. Gemini Advanced is clearly a kid-friendly, G-rated tool, so its a bit safer than some of the others that dont have guardrails.Im having great fun with Google Gemini Advanced, so its my Product of the Week. You should check out the free version.Rob Enderle has been an ECT News Network columnist since 2003. His areas of interest include AI, autonomous driving, drones, personal technology, emerging technology, regulation, litigation, M&E, and technology in politics. He has an MBA in human resources, marketing and computer science. He is also a certified management accountant. Enderle currently is president and principal analyst of the Enderle Group, a consultancy that serves the technology industry. He formerly served as a senior research fellow at Giga Information Group and Forrester. Email Rob.Leave a CommentClick here to cancel reply. Please sign in to post or reply to a comment. New users create a free account.Related StoriesMore by Rob Enderleview allMore in Tech BuzzShould we end the twice-yearly clock change for business efficiency?Yes - Making Daylight Saving Time permanent could boost evening activity.Yes - Making Standard Time permanent could improve early work hours.No - Businesses adapt well to the current system.Loading ...