Opinion We all know the US's incoming president, Donald Trump, has gone off-script in a way that is almost comical. Gulf of America? Make Greenland great again? Taking over the Panama Canal?Unfortunately, there's a method to his pronouncements. After all, he was elected president, and millions of Americans think he's God's gift to the country.But, why are tech leaders and billionaires cosying up to him?In the case of Elon Musk, many would guess that power and money lie at the heart of the new friendship. Musk, who also seems to be wandering further into internet troll territory by the day, has become the "First Buddy."It wasn't always that way. After all, Musk said Trump didn't have "the sort of character that reflects well on the United States," and advised that people shouldn't elect him back in 2016. As recently as July 2022, Trump called Musk a "bullshit artist." Mind you, this came after Musk said he'd let Trump back on Xitter. Following that, Musk suggested, "It's time for Trump to hang up his hat & sail into the sunset." Well, that didn't happen, did it?Instead, in the wake of more sparring between the two, Musk "fully endorsed" Trump after the former president was shot in an attempted assassination. He, along with tech billionaire Peter Thiel, pushed their hand-picked vice-president candidate, JD Vance, to be Trump's running mate.Then, fueled in no small part by Musk's financial and social networking clout, Trump became president. Since then, Musk, along with another billionaire, Vivek Ramaswamy, were chosen to lead the non-governmental Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to, as Trump said, "pave the way for my Administration to dismantle the Government Bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure Federal Agencies."Sure. Whatever you say.Musk seems to want attention and power almost as much as Trump does. And, my friends, that's saying something! He now believes the UK should boot Prime Minister Keir Starmer out of 10 Downing Street and seems to have strong opinions on how things should run in the EU as well. Good luck with that.While money talks, it's this columnist's opinion that Trump's ego won't stand for Musk hogging the spotlight. I expect Trump to throw a fit at Musk sometime soon. We can then look forward to the two of them calling each other names for the next four years from Xitter and Truth Social. Won't that be fun?And the rest of the tech world?Let's start with Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, who's pivoted to Trump after suspending his accounts for two years back in 2021. He dined with Trump at Mar-a-Lago in late November and has since made several policy changes at Meta that align with Trump's view. In case you've been under a rock and if so why didn't you invite me so that I too could have been spared all this? Zuck has ended fact-checking on Facebook and Instagram; contributed a million bucks to Trump's inaugural fund; replaced Nick Clegg with Joel Kaplan, a Republican operative, as head of global policy; all while adding Dana White, Trump ally and the CEO of Ultimate Fighting Championship, to its corporate board.Firing the fact checkers with no notice while enabling Meta users to use racist, sexist, you name it, terms to insult others is all of a piece. As for politics,"Fact-checkers have just been too politically biased and have destroyed more trust than they've created, especially in the US," said Zuck. He also added he was moving what remains of the community standard group from too-liberal California to the political-fair, right-wing state Texas.Just as Xitter has become a fascist haven, Facebook may soon join it as social networking continues its descent into the gutter.Other tech leaders haven't gone as far as Musk and Zuck, but they're also bending the knee to Trump.For example, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has expressed optimism about Trump's second term. He's also contributed $1 million to Trump's inaugural fund and has supported some of Trump's agenda. The Amazon titan's biggest shift, though, is his increasingly heavy-handed control of The Washington Post, which he's shifting from being one of America's great independent newspapers to clamping down on editorial, reportedly blocking the paper's endorsement of then Democratic candidate Kamala Harris.Why? In this columnist's opinion, it is all about the money. If you don't have a long memory, you may not recall that in 2019, Amazon accused Trump of pressuring the Pentagon not to award it a $10-billion cloud contract, Jedi, because he hated Bezos. The company would surely not want a repeat performance.It's the same story for OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, Apple CEO Tim Cook, and Google CEO Sundar Pichai. It's all about preserving their companies. Trump, freed from restrictions by a rubber-stamp Supreme Court,will be free to do pretty much whatever he wants. What they want is for him not to target their businesses.It's perhaps a different story with Musk, Zuck, and Thiel; they're there for the power, in my opinion. The others? They'd be saying nice things about President-elect Kamala Harris in an alternative world, while Trump et al would be having fits about the election being stolen once again.

Next Rich Pedroncelli/APFILE - California Gov. Gavin Newsom delivers his annual State of the State address in Sacramento, Calif., Tuesday, March 8, 2022. On Tuesday, March 22, 2022, Newsom signed a law that will make abortions cheaper for people on private insurance plans. The new law bans private insurers from charging things like co-pays and deductibles for abortion services starting Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli, File) By:Jake GottaPosted CALIFORNIA (KGTV) Gov. Gavin Newsom launched www.californiafirefacts.com on Saturday to address what he calls mis- and dis-information being spread online about the recent fires in Southern California.It was inspired by allegedly false information being spread by Fox News, Donald Trump, and Elon Musks platform, or X, formerly known as Twitter, according to a press release.There is an astonishing amount of mis- and dis-information being spread online - much of it by so-called leaders and partisan media outlets who seek to divide this country for their own political gain, said Governor Newsom in a statement. "It breaks my heart that families in Los Angeles dont just have to worry about the fires but also this malicious disinformation as well.The website is primarily dedicated to responding to posts on X that the Governor alleges are false, like a Fox News post saying, Gov. Newsom cut fire budget by $100M months before lethal California fires.A ridiculous lie, Newsom called this in his own post. We have doubled the size of our firefighting army, built the worlds largest aerial firefighting fleet, and increased the forest management ten-fold since taking office.The Fox News article cites a Newsweek story that references, but does not link to, an analysis of Californias 2024 Budget Bill from the states Legislative Analysts Office.Newsweek claims the report concluded that the bill cut $101 million from seven wildfire and forest resilience programs.The KGTV web team located a report from the LAO from October, 2024, that assesses the 2024-25 spending plan.The budget, Reverts $6 million from 2021-22 related to financing for wildfire and forest resilience projects, according to the report, as well as a $12 million reduction in one-time funds that was budgeted for the California Wildfire Mitigation home hardening program.Newsom says that since 2019, the number of CalFIRE personnel has nearly doubled, from 5,829 to 10,741, and that the CalFIRE budget has increased from $2 billion to $3.8 billion.The fire facts website also addresses claims that California policy has led to a water shortage in Southern California.Governor Gavin Newscum refused to sign the water restoration declaration put before him that would have allowed millions of gallons of water, from excess rain and snow melt from the North, to flow daily into many parts of Californiato protect an essentially worthless fish called a smelt, President-elect Donald Trump said on Truth Social.Screenshot from Truth SocialA screenshot of a post on Truth Social from Donald Trump alleging Gov Newsom refused to sign a "water restoration declaration" that would have provided more water to wildfire affected regions.But Newsom says this is an outlandish connection and that the policy is not about water availability in Southern California.Broadly, there is no water shortage in Southern California right now, despite Trumps claims that he would open some imaginary spigot, the fire facts website says.The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California has a record 3.8 million acre-feet of water in storage, according to the fire facts website.The fire facts website also says that water reservoirs in Southern California are at record levels, and that the Governor has called for an independent investigation into the loss of water pressure to local fire hydrants as well as reported unavailability of water from the Santa Ynez Reservoir.We are here to do the work and ensure the public knows the truth about whats happening with these devastating fires, how their communities are being impacted, and how their government is working to protect and support them, Newsom said in a statement.Newsom is encouraging the public to visit ca.gov/LAFires for resources and up to date information.Californiafirefacts.com will be providing valuable, fact-based information around policies, budget allocations, personnel on the ground, and more, and you can donate to Cal Fire Foundation through the fire facts website.Copyright 2025 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Sign up for the Breaking News Newsletter and receive up to date information. now signed up to receive the Breaking News Newsletter.Click here to manage all Newsletters

Even before CES 2025 kicked off a few trends began to emerge or more accurately, some gaps appeared.All U.S. and some European automakers that have helped turn CES into an auto show were absent. Several Chinese automakers filled that void, notably Zeekr, the EV brand owned by Chinas Geely Holdings. Wey, a premium brand under Great Wall Motor, and Xpeng also had booths.The West Hall in the Las Vegas Convention Center, where the majority of vehicle and transportation tech sets up, felt emptier than previous years. And notably, some of the biggest announcements had nothing to do with new EVs or other products that might take up a lot of physical space. Toyota, for instance, announced the first phase of Woven City, a prototype city built on 175 acres at the foot of Mount Fuji, was complete and in search of inventors and startups. Oh, and that its also exploring rockets. Not exactly something one can exhibit at CES.Still, there was future-of-transportation tech to be discovered. This year, autonomous vehicle technology had a larger presence than ever before, and what was there provided a few hints how the rest of the year may shape up. Here are the major themes we spotted at the show.AI and automated driving techJapanese company Tier IV displays at CES 2025 in Las Vegas. Image Credits:Kirsten KorosecSome of the largest exhibits at the Las Vegas Convention Center focused on automated driving technologies.Autonomous vehicle companies that are developing (or have launched) robotaxi services like May Mobility, Japanese company Tier IV, Waymo, and Zoox all had a presence. Notably, Zoox was also giving robotaxi rides to the media leading up to CES and throughout the show.Automated tech popped in other places too, including agriculture-focused companies like John Deere and Kubota and startups like Polymath Robotics that apply its self-driving systems to off-road environments.Perhaps the largest group of companies were showing off products that support automated driving and advanced driving assistance systems, including simulation, machine learning, sensors, and data integration. Even Honda got into the mix by announcing a new operating system called Asimo (yes, after the iconic robot) that will be integrated into its next-gen 0 Series EVs and used to support ADAS features.Comma.ai was also on the scene. This startup, founded by George Hotz, has developed an open source driver-assistance system and supporting hardware that can be plugged into many modern vehicles to give it advanced driver assistance capabilities on par with Tesla Autopilot and GMs hands-free Super Cruise system.Vay, which has put a driverless twist on car-sharing, was also in Las Vegas although not on the show floor. The startup, which set up shop in the city a couple of years ago, announced a major expansion of its service.Nvidia continues to partner with everyoneJensen Huang, co-founder and chief executive officer of Nvidia Corp., speaks during the Nvidia AI Summit Japan in Tokyo, Japan, on Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024. SoftBank Group Corp.will be the firstNvidia customer to build a supercomputer based on the chipmakers new Blackwell design, a move to meet growing demand in a country eager to catch up in artificial intelligence. Photographer: Akio Kon/Bloomberg via Getty ImagesImage Credits:Akio Kon/Bloomberg / Getty ImagesEvery year at CES, the transportation desk gets a bundle of announcements from Nvidia detailing which automaker, supplier, and transportation partners have signed on to use Nvidias technology, and 2025 was no different. What stood out, though, was Nvidias commitment to providing as much of the self-driving stack as possible, from testing and simulation to onboard supercomputers to cloud supercomputing.One prime example was Nvidias collaboration with Toyota. The two have worked together for years to help Toyotas R&D unit develop, train, and validate AV technology, but this year, the two announced more concrete plans to have Nvidias tech power Toyotas future vehicles, which we now know will be equipped with automated driving capabilities. Specifically, well see Nvidias Drive AGX Orin System-on-a-Chip (SoC) and DriveOS safety-focused operating system deployed on Toyotas next-generation vehicles.When it comes to Level 4 autonomous vehicle technology (meaning, a system that can drive itself without needing a human to take over), Nvidia had more news to share. The chipmaker is partnering with self-driving trucking company Aurora Innovation and automotive supplier Continental that will see Nvidias Drive Thor SoC and DriveOS integrated into the Aurora Driver, which is Auroras AV system that Continental plans to mass produce in 2027.Finally, one of the more surprising partnerships was with Uber. The ride-hail and delivery giant plans to use Nvidias new world model simulation tool, Cosmos, and cloud-based AI supercomputing platform, DGX Cloud, to support the development of autonomous vehicle technology. Uber didnt share how it plans to use those tools, since it doesnt develop its own AV tech. The company plans to partner with AV companies to bring self-driving services to its platform.New takes on the screenValeo shows off its panovision technology at CES 2025. Image Credits:Kirsten KorosecScreens are nothing new at CES. They have been everywhere for a while now. This year, there were some companies pushing the idea of screens beyond traditional ideas.Supplier Valeo showed off a novel product that it calls panovision and which will be in BMWs next-generation Neue Klasse vehicles that reflects a full screen along the base of the windshield. The company revealed this technology at CES 2024. This year, an in-cabin driver monitoring system has been integrated into the system.Automotive supplier Hyundai Mobis showed off a holographic screen that covers the entire windshield. From the outside it looks like any other windshield. But from behind the drivers seat the windshield turns into a transparent screen that gives information like navigation and music playlists.GenAI is creeping into the carAkio Toyoda, Chairman and Master Driver of Toyota, delivers an address at CES 2025, showcasing the companys latest innovations in Las Vegas.Image Credits:Artur Widak/Anadolu via Getty Images / Getty ImagesAutomakers have been swept into the generative AI hype mix a trend that started last year. Even the casual observer likely noticed the term genAI chatgpt or LLMs throughout the vehicle technology section of the LVCC.It was everywhere and nowhere, if you catch our drift. In some cases, there were real partnerships and plans behind the words.Take BMW and its partnership with Amazon. BMW used CES 2025 to showcase its new in-car user interface, which will debut in its Neue Klasse sedan later this year and ultimately spreading to all models.BMW said it will use Amazons Alexa custom assistant technology in these future vehicles as well as those on the road today. This isnt the Alexa app drivers might be used to. This is a white label product that will integrate Amazons large language models. Use of this technology will focus initially on navigation, in an effort to let customers give more extensive spoken commands using natural language.BMW and Amazon will start rolling out LLM-powered capabilities as part of a beta in select vehicles and countries.Meanwhile, Qualcomm came to CES with improvements to its Snapdragon Digital Chassis (its suite of cloud-connected platforms for automakers) and Cockpit (its digital cockpit and infotainment system). And it wouldnt be CES 2025 if some of those updates didnt include generative AI.The chipmaker said a range of automotive suppliers like Alps Alpine, Panasonic, and Garmin as well as Indian automaker Mahindra, plan to integrate Qualcomm technology into their experiences. Generative AI features now come with the territory for intelligent and personalized in-cabin experiences.Some features that are powered by Metas Llama and OpenAIs Whisper Small could look like real-time detection of distracted or drowsy driving; biometric identification to automatically adjust seat positions, mirror angles, etc.; navigation recommendations based on the drivers state, like to a coffee shop if they look tired.Other potential use cases for Qualcomms generative AI offerings could be multimodal AI that identifies points of interest en route, using models like Llama, open-source LlaVa, and Fast Stable Diffusion, or even custom content generation to deliver personalized, on-demand entertainment to passengers.Micromobility exists!Image Credits:Kirsten KorosecFinally, there has been lots of talk and evidence that micromobility is dead. But thats not quite right.Sure, the shared scooter and ebike businesses have largely struggled, or shut down. But walking through the North Hall, we were struck by how many ebike and scooter brands (many of which were Chinese brands) were exhibiting.Vmax released six new scooters for its 2025 lineup, Aima Technology Group revealed several new ebikes, and Heybikes released a mid-drive fat tire model. Segment leader Segwey also launched two new ebikes that are equipped with the companys suite of smart tech and features called Intelligent Ride System.Verge Motorcycles subsidiary Donut Lab also got into the mix and released an electric motor that can be integrated directly into the tire.

Blogging has become one of the most versatile ways to share your thoughts, connect and monetize.gettyBlogging has become one of the most versatile ways to share your thoughts, connect with others and make a profit online. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned blogger, making sure youve chosen the best blogging platform is crucial. Deciding which site you will host your blog on can be overwhelming with so many platforms being readily available, but for any level of writer, there is a blogging platform that offers the features you need at a reasonable cost.Blogging WebsitesAs a blogger, you can generate income in many ways, from affiliate marketing to ad revenue for hosting ads on your site. Writers can also monetize through subscriptions, selling products or offering exclusive content. Whether you're starting with a free platform or investing in a premium one, your choice will depend on your goals and technical experience.1. BloggerOne of the simplest and most well-known blogging platforms is Blogger. Its perfect for casual writers or those just starting as its a no-frills, user-friendly option. Blogger is owned by Google and is completely free to use, with optional costs for connecting your own custom domain. Starting your blog on Blogger is as simple as logging into your Google account. While it doesnt offer the extensive design customization of other platforms, it provides all the essential tools to create and maintain a blog.2. WixWix is a beginner-friendly platform that combines a drag-and-drop website builder with blogging capabilities. It offers both free and paid plans, with premium subscriptions starting at $17 per month. Signing up is simple, and users can quickly create and publish their first blog post without prior experience. The platforms intuitive interface makes designing a visually appealing blog easy, even for those with no design or technical skills. Wix is best suited for bloggers who prioritize simplicity and aesthetics, offering a seamless setup process that requires minimal effort while still delivering professional-looking results.3. WordPress.comWhether you are a beginner or a more advanced writer, Wordpress.com can cater to the needs of writers at any level. With simple free plans or premium options starting at $4 per month, its easy to create your blog on Wordpress.com. For those who are more advanced, they also scalability for those who want to grow their blogs over time.MORE FOR YOUIts important to note that WordPress.com and Wordpress.org are different blogging options. Wordpress.org is a self-hosted platform that offers complete control, customization, and flexibility for building a website, but requires separate hosting and domain purchases. WordPress.com, on the other hand, is a managed, hosted solution with fewer customization options, making it easier for beginners but with limitations on monetization and ownership.4. SubstackSubstack is an innovative platform that focuses on email-based blogging and subscription models. It is free to use, with the platform taking a percentage of any paid subscriptions. Writers can create an account and start publishing immediately, bypassing the need for a traditional website. Substack is perfect for those who want to focus entirely on writing and building a direct relationship with their audience. With minimal setup required, its an excellent choice for content creators looking to monetize their blogs through paid newsletters or exclusive content.5. MediumIf you are looking for a content-first blogging platform designed for writers who want to reach a built-in audience, look no further than Medium. Its simple to create an account, and theres no need to worry about website design with Medium. You can get straight into publishing your content. Medium is particularly appealing to those who want their content to stand out, as the platforms clean layout puts the focus squarely on the writing. Its a great choice for bloggers who want exposure and dont need advanced customization.6. SquarespaceFor design-forward bloggers, Squarespace will give you all the stunning templates and robust customization features that you crave. With paid plans starting at $16 per month after your 14-day free trial, Squarespace is ideal for bloggers who prioritize aesthetics and want their site to look polished and professional. Squarespace makes it easy to customize your site, thanks to its drag-and-drop editor, though customizing your site for a unique look may take some time. With built-in SEO tools and e-commerce options, its a great option for those looking to grow their blogs into a business.7. GhostFor the more advanced blogger, Ghost is a top-rated choice. With plans start at $9 per month and dependent on how many members you have, you can focus on content creation thanks to the platforms distraction-free interface. The intuitive tools make getting started straightforward and publishing content quick and easy. Ghosts emphasis on speed and simplicity makes it a great fit for writers who want to monetize their blogs through memberships or subscriptions.Tips For Starting A BlogIf you want to start with a blog for the first time, its best to start with a clear goal. Consider your audience, niche, and how you plan to monetize your blog. Choose a platform that matches your technical skills and priorities. Consistency is key, so plan a posting schedule you can maintain. Lastly, dont underestimate the importance of designits the first impression for readers.Bottom LineChoosing the right blogging platform depends on your goals and skill level. From beginner-friendly tools like Wix to advanced platforms like WordPress.org, theres an option for every writer. Start small, experiment and grow as your skills improve.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)What Are Good Free Blog Sites?Free blog sites include Blogger, WordPress.com and Medium. While they offer essential tools to get started, free plans may have limitations. Many paid blogging sites start around $9 per month.What Is The Difference Between A Personal And Professional Blog?Personal blogs focus on sharing experiences or hobbies, while professional blogs aim to establish expertise or promote a business. For professional blogs, platforms like WordPress.com or Squarespace offer better customization and monetization tools.What Are Good Blog Sites For Beginners?Beginner-friendly sites include Wix, Blogger, and WordPress.com. These platforms offer simple setups, templates and no need for technical skills, making them perfect for first-time bloggers.Can A Free Blog Make Money?Yes, free blogs can make money through affiliate marketing, ad revenue or sponsorships. However, upgrading to a premium plan often unlocks more monetization options and professional tools like membership subscriptions.

Understanding the intricate mechanisms of shark olfaction not only deepens our appreciation for ... [+] these remarkable predators but also opens the door to innovative applications in conservation, marine management, and human-shark coexistence.Universal Images Group via Getty ImagesChemical communication is a fundamental survival tool in the ocean. Both predators and prey use chemical signals to navigate their environment, locate food, find mates, and avoid danger. But olfaction is particularly intriguing in its dual role as both an asset and vulnerability. For example, barnacles secrete glycoproteins as a mechanical defense against predation. However, predators like sea stars and snails have evolved olfactory receptors specifically tuned to detect these compounds, turning the barnacles defensive mechanism into a homing beacon. And this dynamic chemical interplay is not unique to barnacles! The California sea hare (Aplysia californica) uses ink as a defense mechanism against spiny lobsters, utilizing a strategy that combines sensory disruption and mimicry. The ink confuses the predators sense of smell, allowing the sea hare to escape.Nature is an evolutionary arms race driven by olfactory communication, where adaptation and counter-adaptation play out in the chemical realm.Olfaction operates through specialized proteins known as olfactory receptors, which are part of the G-protein coupled receptor, or GPCR, family. These receptors, embedded in the cell membranes of nasal epithelium in vertebrates, detect specific molecules in the environment. When a molecule binds to a receptor, it triggers a signaling cascade that the brain interprets as smell. Vertebrate olfactory systems are typically classified into four receptor families: odorant receptors, trace amine-associated receptors, class A olfactory receptors, and vomeronasal type 2 receptors. These receptor systems, first characterized in mammals, have since been identified across a variety of vertebrates, including birds, amphibians, and even sharks.Sharks are often described as swimming noses due to their well-developed olfactory bulbs, which contribute to their reputation for an acute sense of smell. Yet, recent genetic studies challenge this assumption. Despite their iconic status as olfactory specialists, sharks possess fewer olfactory receptor genes than other vertebrates! While ray-finned fish average over 200 such genes and mammals about 850, sharks have an average a measly 43. This apparent paradox suggests that the olfactory capabilities of sharks are not merely about the number of receptors but their functionality and ecological specialization.Cuttlefish have evolved a sophisticated defense strategy involving ink, which acts as more than just ... [+] a visual smokescreen.AFP via Getty ImagesEnter a fascinating predator-prey relationship involving olfaction between sharks and cephalopods (like cuttlefish). Cuttlefish have evolved a sophisticated defense strategy involving ink. The ink, a dark mixture rich in melanin and amino acids such as taurine, acts as more than just a visual smokescreen. For predators like sharks, which rely heavily on smell, the ink can interfere with olfactory receptors, disrupting their ability to detect prey effectively! By modeling the three-dimensional structures of shark olfactory receptors, researchers examined how various chemical compoundsincluding those in cuttlefish inkbind to these receptors. The results reveal that components like taurine and melanin can engage multiple olfactory receptor types, overwhelming the sharks sensory system. Interestingly, compounds like pavoninin-4 (a natural shark repellent) and cadaverine (associated with decomposition) also showed high binding affinities. Pavoninin-4s effectiveness as a natural deterrent suggests it may potentially help prey species evade shark predation; meanwhile, cadaverines strong response may be tied to its role in signaling the presence of carrion, a potential food source, or it might act as a warning signal to avoid spoiled or dangerous areas.MORE FOR YOUThese findings emphasize the nuanced role of olfaction in predator-prey dynamics. Sharks, with their limited but highly specialized olfactory gene repertoire, have evolved to interpret a complex chemical landscape, balancing cues related to hunting, avoiding danger, and navigating their ecosystems. At the same time, prey species like cuttlefish have developed chemical defenses that exploit this reliance. Thus, understanding the molecular basis of these interactions has broader implications. Studying olfactory adaptations in marine species can inform us about the evolutionary trade-offs between sensory specialization and ecological versatility. Similarly, it can lead to scientists developing shark repellents based on natural odorants which could aid in reducing bycatch in fisheries.Understanding the intricate mechanisms of shark olfaction not only deepens our appreciation for these remarkable predators but also opens the door to innovative applications in conservation, marine management, and human-shark coexistence.

Google is reportedly bringing back a Google Photos feature it removed only a few months agoSOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty ImagesGoogle is reportedly bringing back an important Google Photos sharing feature after suddenly removing it without warning last year. This removal has left some users frustrated at the inability to easily share certain photos and videos using Partner Sharing, especially images taken with external cameras or created in other apps.Jan 12 Update below: Google is working on two additional updates to Google Photos that will bring greater user control over automatic functions.However, according to a new report, the latest version of the Google Photos Android app contains new code that will restore the ability to use Partner Sharing to share photos and videos stored in third-party apps.According to discoveries made by the well-known app teardown specialist Assemble Debug, a new option, currently under test, adds a toggle switch in the app settings labeled Include content from other Android apps.Users will presumably be able to turn on this feature to restore Partner Sharing to the functionality it originally had before Google removed this capability last year.MORE FOR YOUWhat is Partner Sharing in Google Photos?Partner Sharing is a powerful Google Photos feature that makes it easier to share photos and videos with one invited person, typically your partner, by sending the pictures automatically without manual intervention.You can choose to share all photos or just photos of specific people. You can also, and probably should, restrict the automatic sharing by datethey may not want to receive all your old photos of your ex, for example.How Did Google Photos Change Partner Sharing?Toward the end of 2024, Google made an important change to Partner Sharing that prevents it from automatically sharing images from other apps. Google hasnt clearly specified which photos are affected by the change, but users have noticed that screenshots are no longer automatically shared with Partner Sharing. Another noticed a similar issue with photos captured with their DJI fly app.Google previously turned this feature off to better align with most users expectations. " However, some users suddenly found themselves unable to share content such as screenshots or video captured in third-party camera apps with Partner Sharing. The new toggle, which will remain turned off by default, should allow users to resume sharing these types of content with their partners. At the same time, the app continues to align with the expectations of the majority of users, who might not want screenshots and other such files shared automatically.As is always the case with these discoveries, we dont know when or even if Google will enable the feature or whether users will be alerted when it becomes available. If youre currently inconvenienced by not being able to share images from third-party apps via Partner Sharing, I advise you to check your Partner Sharing settings periodically to see whether you have the new toggle switch.Google previously blocked Partner Sharing from sharing photos from apps outside of Google Photos.GOOGLEThe change is detailed in an official Google Support forum announcement. Here, Google suggests manually sharing the photos as a workaround (which defeats the whole purpose of Partner Sharing). However, others have noted that moving photos or videos to the locked folder and back out again makes them become eligible for Partner Sharing in Google Photos even if they are stored in a third-party app.Jan 12 Update: Google tests further Google Photos updates.In other Google Photos news: Google is reportedly testing two new ways to offer users more control over how they organize and declutter their content, and also which the content they want to see in automatically-generated Google Photos Memories.The first is a powerful upgrade to the Photo Stacks feature that will give users greater control over how their photos are organized. This upgrade will allow users to create photo stacks manually rather than having to rely on Googles AI-powered automatic selections.Google is also reportedly continuing work on a significant upgrade to Memories, the Google Photos feature that automatically surfaces your best and most important pictures and videos in timely, short, automatically generated video clips and slide shows. According to the report, it will soon be easier to make Memories show more photos and videos of the people youre most interested in.Follow @paul_monckton on Instagram.

In a nutshell: Developers are always pushing for more realism in sim racing, but it's not just about bigger displays or higher resolutions. Sure, accessories like steering wheels and gear shifters can sell the illusion of being behind the wheel. But sometimes immersion comes from nailing the tiny details like feeling the rumble of tires pounding the pavement or catching that rush of wind if you're cruising in an open-cockpit racer. That's likely what accessory maker Nitro Concepts had in mind when it decided to modify its E-Racer simulator setup. The company added a set of blowers on either side of the racing wheel to generate directional airflow during drives. It then showcased the setup at CES 2025, where the folks at PC Gamer stumbled upon it and delivered an illuminating hands-on impression. Initially, they were skeptical that small fans could convincingly simulate the sensation of speed. However, once they started tearing around tracks like Spa-Francorchamps in a racing game, those doubts disappeared."Something in my inner brain is better tricked into feeling like I'm traveling at high speed with the 'wind' hitting my face," noted Jacob Ridley from the publication gleefully. Contributing to that feeling of realism was the fact that the fans intelligently ramped up and down their intensity to match the on-screen vehicle's velocity.The sense of speed is a much-discussed factor in racing games. It's why driving along the open roads of Los Santos in GTA V can feel exhilaratingly fast, even though most vehicles are capped at just 125 mph. As it turns out, replicating that thrilling sensation comes down to several elements: field of view, motion blur, sound effects, and camera shake.Now, it seems we can add wind to the equation, too.PC Gamer noted that while wind simulation might not be entirely realistic for closed-cockpit cars, it still heightened the sense of direction and enhanced the overall experience. // Related StoriesBeyond immersion, the report suggested that wind could also help reduce nausea for VR racers. The directional airflow may trick the brain into more accurately registering perceived motion, alleviating the disconnect that often causes motion sickness. Oh, and let's not forget one of the most practical benefits those fans should help ensure you don't end up smelling like you haven't showered in days after a racing marathon.If you're eager to get your hands on one of these wind sims, you might have to wait. Details on its availability are still under wraps. However, Nitro Concepts' LED controller and haptic cushions are already available on the company's website for $50 and $1,000, respectively.When the rig does hit the market, maybe pairing it with GameScent automated scent atomizer will really seal the deal bringing the aroma of burning rubber or exhaust fumes along.

The scale of global mining required as part of the energy transition has staggering environmental implications.

Meta announced big changes to kick off the new year, including ending third-party fact-checking and DEI programs.The moves illustrate the latest evolution in Mark Zuckerberg's leadership.You might call it Zuckerberg 3.0 and it comes as Donald Trump takes power.Mark Zuckerberg has shown himself to be the ultimate Silicon Valley shapeshifter, and in the first couple weeks of 2025, we got our best look yet at the latest version of the Meta CEO.To kick off the new year, Zuckerberg made some big changes at his company, includingditching third-party fact-checking and slashing DEI initiatives.He appears to be remaking Meta, which did not respond to a request for comment from Business Insider, at least partly in the image of Donald Trump and Elon Musk. And he doesn't seem too concerned about the backlash he's facing in some quarters, including from the same people who villainized him during the Cambridge Analytica scandal and the 2016 election, or even his own Meta employees many of whom have reacted negatively to his latest decision to roll back DEI efforts.His recent moves hint that he's entering a new era, one in which his leadership increasingly reflects Trump's tastes.Zuckerberg's transformationFor years, Zuckerberg was known as an almost robotic presence in Silicon Valley. Some people criticized him for copying ideas rather than innovating, and others held onto his image as a wunderkind wearing hoodies or too much sunscreen.By the end of 2023, though, the Meta CEO had undergone a substantial makeover and was garnering praise in business and cultural circles.Zuck got shredded and was winning jiu-jitsu competitions. He went on popular podcasts, like Joe Rogan's, to discuss his workouts and make fun of himself.As a business leader, he acted as the adult in the room and led Meta's "year of efficiency," which turned the company's stock around.In 2024, he continued his transformation: He ditched his uniform jeans and hoodie uniform for designer T-shirts and gold chains. And his adoration for his wife Priscilla Chan as evidenced through gifts like a statue of her, a custom Porsche minivan, and his very own version of "Get Low" won him fans.His newfound swagger grew into a new kind of boldness.In the fall of last year, he said his biggest regret in his two decades of running Meta was taking responsibility and apologizing for problems that he believed weren't Meta's fault.Zuck's next era comes as Trump takes powerCut to 2025. Zuckerberg now appears to embrace some of the "anti-woke" ideas favored by some political billionaires like Musk, Peter Thiel, and, of course, Trump.While Zuckerberg didn't endorse Trump or Harris in the 2024 election, he and other tech CEOs were quick to congratulate Trump on his victory. Zuck met with Trump at Mar-a-Lago weeks after the election and, through Meta, donated $1 million to his inaugural committee.Now, he's taking what he calls "masculine energy" and putting it into action at Meta."Masculine energy, I think, is good, and obviously society has plenty of that, but I think that corporate culture was really trying to get away from it," he said in an interview on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast that aired on Friday. "It's like you want feminine energy, you want masculine energy.""But I do think the corporate culture sort of had swung toward being this somewhat more neutered thing," he added.He started the new year by putting Dana White, the UFC CEO and Trump's longtime ally, on Meta's board and replacing the company's head of policy, liberal Nick Clegg, with former GOP lobbyist Joel Kaplan. Meta CTO Mark Zuckerberg cheers at a UFC fight. Sean M. Haffey Then, heended third-party fact-checkingon Meta platforms, which some conservatives have criticized, in favor of a more hands-off approach. Like X, Meta will now use "community notes" to allow users to police each other."The recent elections feel like a cultural tipping point towards, once again, prioritizing speech," Zuckerberg said while announcing the changes, implying that the choice was, at least in part, a response to the political landscape.Meta's CMO, Alex Schultz, also toldThe decision has come under scrutiny, with some saying the lack of content moderation opens the door to hate speech.Under the policy, Meta users can say that members of the LGBTQ+ community are mentally ill for being gay or transgender, for example.Dozens of fact-checking organizations have signed a letter calling it "a step backward for those who want to see an internet that prioritizes accurate and trustworthy information."Still, others, including Musk and Trump, lauded the change."Honestly, I think they have come a long way, Meta, Facebook," the president-elect said on Tuesday.In the recent Rogan interview, Zuckerberg said while some may see the timing of the content changes as "purely a political thing," it's something he has been thinking about for a while."I feel like I just have a much greater command now of what I think the policy should be and like, this is how it's going to be going forward," Zuckerberg said.Zuckerberg's recent decision to cut Meta's DEI initiatives could also placate conservatives, who have criticized such policies.While Trump has not commented on the DEI decision, he has criticized DEI policies in the past.On Friday, Meta's vice president of human resources, Janelle Gale, said in an internal memo that the company would no longer have a team focused on DEI or consider diversity in hiring or supplier decisions."The legal and policy landscape surrounding diversity, equity and inclusion efforts in the United States is changing," she said in a memo.The decision sparked a backlash among some. Internally, nearly 400 employees reacted with a teary-eyed emoji to the announcement; one called it "disappointing," and another said it was a "step backward," BI reported on Friday."Wow, we really capitulated on a lot of our supposed values this week," another employee commented, seemingly referring to both the DEI and fact-checking moves.Others, though, did seem to support the move: 139 employees "liked" the post, and 57 responded with a heart emoji.

A luxury Pacific Palisades mansion once featured in "Succession" has been destroyed by the LA fires, the Daily Mail reported.The San Onofre estate was purchased by tech CEO Austin Russell in 2021 for $83 million, per Realtor.comThe Palisades Fire has now burned through more than 23,000 acres.A luxury Pacific Palisades mansion once featured in the television drama "Succession" has been destroyed by the wildfires ravaging the Los Angeles area, the Daily Mail reported.Photos published by the Mail seemingly show the house reduced to charred beams and rubble.The mansion was purchased by the founder and CEO of the lidar manufacturer Luminar Technologies, Austin Russell, for $83 million in 2021, per Realtor.com.The 20,000-square-foot house, known as the San Onofre estate, featured six bedrooms and 18 bathrooms and had been available to rent for $450,000 a month.The house had previously featured in the season four premiere of the Emmy Award-winning HBO series "Succession" in 2023.A representative for Russell did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider, which was sent outside regular working hours. Claudette Barius/HBO The Palisades Fire in the Pacific Palisades area north of Santa Monica is one of a number of blazes raging through the Los Angeles area this week.The Palisades Fire has burned through over 23,000 acres and is 11% contained as of Sunday, according to Cal Fire.The blaze, which began on Tuesday, has so far damaged or destroyed over 5,000 structures.The Pacific Palisades area is home to a number of celebrities, many of whom have now lost their homes to the fire. Those affected include Paris Hilton, Billy Crystal, and Milo Ventimiglia.The Palisades Charter High School used as a set for movies like "Carrie" and 2003's "Freaky Friday" has also been damaged in the fires.Meanwhile, a Spanish Colonial revival mansion in Altadena that was featured in "Hacks" and the Marvel series "Runaways" was destroyed in the Eaton Fire, per The Hollywood Reporter.Other Los Angeles landmarks related to the industry have also been lost, including the Will Rogers Ranch house.The LA County Medical Examiner has reported 16 deaths related to the wildfires so far, with five linked to the Palisades Fire.