!summarize #doge #sanantonio #texas #nonprofit

!summarize #lebronjames #charlesbarkley #nba

!summarize #frankthomas #chicago #whitesox #mlb

!summarize #zelenskyy #trump #whitehouse #politics

Zelensky Shows the World He is no Diplomat

With Amazon Haul, the company is responding to the rise of Temu, Shein and TikTok Shop, which all have ties to China, the world's second-largest economy. The platforms have rapidly gained popularity in the U.S. over the past few years by hooking deal-hungry shoppers with their low prices on clothing, makeup, home goods and other items. Like Temu, Haul offers ultra-low-priced products, like $1 eyelash curlers and cosmetic bags, or a $2.99 cubic zirconia ring.

Haul remains in beta for U.S. users, but Amazon has continued to build out the service, suggesting the company sees it becoming a more permanent fixture of its online store.

The since-removed job listing indicates Amazon CEO Andy Jassy's S-team, consisting of top leaders, has set goals this year to make Haul "Go Big" in the U.S. and worldwide.

Amazon has added curated storefronts from lifestyle influencers within the Haul homepage. One features "fashion picks" from Michaela Delvillar, an influencer with more than 150,000 followers on TikTok, whose Amazon storefront says she's a "Top Creator."

Amazon is growing Haul, which relies on goods from China-based sellers, even as the practice comes under scrutiny from President Donald Trump. Earlier this month, Trump suspended, then reinstated, the de minimis rule, which allows exporters to ship packages worth less than $800 into the U.S. duty-free.

The loophole is expected to be shut again once the Commerce Department and customs officials put systems in place to process and collect tariffs on the millions of de minimis packages that flow into the U.S. daily. A significant portion of those packages originate from China.

US President Joe Biden, second left, tours the site of the new Intel semiconductor manufacturing facility near New Albany, Ohio, US, on Friday, Sept. 9, 2022.

In August, shares suffered their worst one-day drop on the stock market in 50 years after the company announced disappointing quarterly results. Intel also said it would axe 15% of its employees. That's made the company a potential takeover target as of late, while also leading to the firing of CEO Pat Gelsinger in December.

Intel was a central beneficiary of former President Joe Biden's CHIPS and Science Act office. The government most recently awarded the company a roughly $8 billion grant in November in an effort to boost semiconductor production on U.S. soil.

SpaceX's Super Heavy booster is seen on the launch pad, without the Starship atop, as it is prepared for launch from the company's Boca Chica launchpad on an uncrewed test flight, near Brownsville, Texas, U.S. Feb. 27, 2025.

Musk, the world's wealthiest person, contributed nearly $300 million to help propel President Donald Trump back to the White House, and is now a central figure in the administration.

Musk, who is also CEO of Tesla and the owner of social media company X, leads the so-called Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, which is implementing draconian staffing and budget cuts across the federal government, and targeting regulatory agencies that oversee Musk's businesses.

Orange balls of light fly across the sky as debris from a SpaceX rocket launched in Texas is spotted over Turks and Caicos Islands on Jan. 16, 2025.

Patrick Collison, chief executive officer and co-founder of Stripe Inc., left, smiles as John Collison, president and co-founder of Stripe Inc., speaks during a Bloomberg Studio 1.0 television interview in San Francisco, California, U.S., on Friday, March 23, 2018.

The Collison brothers — Patrick and John — founded Stripe in 2010, a year after Jack Dorsey started Square, which is now part of Block. Crypto exchange Coinbase and online lender SoFi were both launched after Stripe.

While all of those companies went the traditional route of raising large amounts of capital from prominent venture capital firms, only Stripe has chosen to stay private. To relieve some pressure for liquidity, Stripe regularly allows early investors and employees to sell a portion of their stake. The tender offer this week marks a 40% increase from a year ago and gets the company close to its peak valuation of $95 billion that it reached in the frothy days of the Covid pandemic.

"We are not dogmatic on the public vs. private question," John Collison, the company's president, told CNBC's Andrew Ross Sorkin this week, adding that Stripe has "no near-term IPO plans."

It's been a rough stretch for stocks overall, particularly in the tech sector. The Nasdaq fell about 4% in February, and the S&P 500 declined 1.4%.

Investors have been rattled in recent days by President Donald Trump's promise of tariffs and economic reports flashing warning signs. Notably, initial filings for unemployment benefits hit their highest level of the year last week in another potential sign of weakness in the labor market.

Fintechs can be more sensitive to economic conditions than the broader tech sector because they're more directly effected by interest rates, employment data and consumer confidence.

However, just being private doesn't eliminate Stripe's other challenges.

In his interview on "Squawk Box," John Collison highlighted the growing complexity of financial compliance and said banks are becoming more conservative in their partnerships with fintechs.

“We have started to see the financial system become more involved in financial policy enforcement,” Collison said. "And then you tend to get these occasional flare-ups from time to time."

Both Wells Fargo and Goldman Sachs have distanced themselves from the company, according to The Information, prompting Stripe to turn to Deutsche Bank and other institutions for key services. Collison didn't provide details to CNBC, but acknowledged that Stripe has had to navigate shifting relationships.

Web2 is failing vertical farms — they need DePIN to survive
Vertical farming is essential for addressing soil degradation and food scarcity, yet it struggles with funding and scalability.

Foodies, take note: If you’re ever in Bahrain, try machboos, a chicken (mutton or fish) dish with rice. Ideally, go for a place that serves it with fresh, locally sourced rosemary (really brings out the flavor!), and while you’re at it, ponder on this: How do you grow rosemary on an archipelago of primarily arid isles where growing anything is a challenge? The answer is vertical farming, and if you’re wondering what that has to do with anything crypto, let me tell you: Web3 is what this miracle of an industry needs to live up to its true potential — and possibly make sure we can carry on as a species.

Trump has made a point of loosening restrictions on crypto, and one of his first actions as president was to sign an executive order to promote the advancement of cryptocurrencies in the U.S. and work toward potentially developing a national digital asset stockpile

Stripe made its biggest jump into crypto with the closing this month of its $1.1 billion purchase of Bridge, a provider of stablecoin infrastructure. Stripe's goal with the deal is to enable more payments via crypto, as Bridge focuses on making it easier for businesses to accept stablecoin payments without having to directly deal in digital tokens.

In its annual letter, Stripe said that stablecoin transactions more than doubled between the fourth quarter of 2023 and the same period last year.

"The fundamentals for stablecoin adoption have only

Equally simple is another equation. It’s not hard to see how less fertile soil will mean less food. Scarcity brings up the price, as Web3 knows. Food will get more expensive, year after year. And when food prices go up, other things start falling apart, too. The “carry on as a species” might have been a bit too dramatic, granted, but the link between food availability and social upheaval is clear.

That being said, vertical farming is still trying to find its footing. Regular growth pains, one might argue, will pass with more maturity and technological evolution, but venture capitalists beg to differ. Vertical farms, projects that could save the life-critical agricultural industry, are struggling to raise funds. As such projects usually require a lot of upfront investment, they can only turn to major funds, not smaller players. In other words, traditional capital, with its regular focus on short-term gains and a lack of

Here's what consumers need to understand about the latest biometric trends in smartphones, and what's likely to come next:

Why fingerprints could still make a comeback
Apple's Touch ID continues to be available in certain iPad models, and the company is likely to reintroduce the technology in subsequent versions of its smartphones, according to experts consulted by CNBC. One sign they point to that makes this likely: The company was granted a patent several years ago for under-display fingerprint reading technology and continues to work on improvements, according to several published reports. As a result, the company is likely to bring back Touch ID to smartphones once it perfects its version of under-the-screen technology.

Web3 has a solution.

DePINs are the answer
Enter tokenization. Let’s quickly consider a success story from another industry: car-sharing. Vehicles are expensive, so a car-sharing service needs a lot of capital to expand its fleet. By tokenizing several Teslas in its fleet, a Viennese car-sharing service raised an entire 1.6 million euros with barely any marketing expenses. That’s obviously quite enough to bring quite a few brand-new vehicles into the service without any loan shark fins to look out for. Can this approach work for vertical farming, too?

The move away from Touch ID on smartphones is also an attempt to appeal to customers who want more screen space on their devices, technology professionals said. In past phone versions, Apple's Touch ID fingerprint sensor was integrated into a phone's home or power button. Whereas the iPhone 16e — similar to the iPhone 10 — has a notch, a physical area on its display for sensors. This design element has been used in smartphones for several years to accommodate front-facing cameras and microphones while meeting consumer demand for larger edge-to-edge screens. "Apple has been slowly trying to remove the home button from phones for many years to get the edge-to-edge experience where the entire phone is a screen and there's no wasted space," Palmer said.

Face Unlock is available on Pixel 4 and Pixel 7 or later Pixel phones, including Pixel Fold, according to Google's website. On Pixel 8 and later, consumers can use Face Unlock to verify their identity when they sign into apps or approve a purchase. The face recognition feature can be used on Galaxy phones or tablets to unlock the device and verify the user's identity in certain apps, according to Samsung's website.

To be sure, there are downsides to popular biometric options. Fingerprint authentication doesn't always work properly, if, for example, a person's finger is wet or chapped, or the sensor can't detect an exact match for another reason. But facial authentication technology also has drawbacks, especially as deepfake technology advances, said Fang, who is also a member of the Secure Technology Alliance, a not-for-profit, multi-industry association focused on identity, access and payments. There can also be limitations on how well facial authentication works depending on factors such as lighting and whether the person had facial surgery such as a nose job or eyebrow lift, she said.

"It can be a good feature for some lower-risk cases, but not all cases," Fang said.

Kelly Harris of San Jose, leans over to kiss the web cam as she says her goodbye to Brian Johnson, her brother stationed in Japan, at the end of their video phone call via Skype in San Jose, Calif. on Nov. 25, 2009.

"This is obviously a big, big moment for us, and we're certainly very grateful in many ways," Teper said. "Skype pioneered audio and video calling on the web for many, many people."

It's one of the most enduring digital brands.

In 2003, Janus Friis and Niklas Zennström, who previously co-founded peer-to-peer file-sharing program Kazaa, launched Skype in Estonia with help from a band of former classmates with zero experience in telecommunications. Originally, Skype was a tool for people to call one another online for free. The quirky name stood for "sky peer to peer," a reference to the service's underlying Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, architecture.

That enables the project to generate the upfront liquidity needed to deploy the costly hardware and cover other costs. The same goes for regular farms, which already have established clients and need funds to scale up and innovate. This way, architect projects don’t have to vie for the mercy of significant VCs. They can take their ideas to the global Web3 community, which would consider them and back the ones that seem worth a try. With this lifeline, vertical farms can reach the point where their efficiency makes it possible to compete with regular farms across the board, not in some specific cases.

In this handout image provided by eBay, the company's president and CEO, Meg Whitman, left, poses with Niklas Zennstrom, co-founder and CEO of Skype, the global Internet communications company, in London on Sept. 12, 2005. Internet company eBay today announced its intention to acquire Skype, a voice over internet company, for about $2.6 billion.

Under eBay, Skype's user number grew, crossing 405 million by 2008, and communications revenue rose. But then Whitman stepped down as CEO, making way for former Bain executive John Donahoe, who didn't think eBay's core businesses were benefiting from the Skype transaction.

In 2009, the economy was in recession, eBay's sales growth had turned negative and the stock price was lower than it had been since 2001. In a statement that touted the release of a Skype app for Apple's iPhone, Donahoe announced that eBay would launch a Skype initial public offering as part of a separation.

Apple's native iMessage and FaceTime were picking up traction on iOS devices. In 2014, Facebook bought WhatsApp, a mobile messaging app, and months later, users gained the ability to place calls across borders. WhatsApp took off globally. So did Tencent's WeChat.

Skype, meanwhile, implemented multiple redesigns and faced criticism from devotees. In 2016, Microsoft introduced Teams as a distinct "chat-based workspace" for organizations with Office productivity software subscriptions that would compete with Slack, which was then an emerging startup.

Blockchain technology adds another layer of transparency to the process. When everything runs on smart contracts, you have clear visibility into the sales and revenues generated by the farm. This would give the project’s backers a clear overview of its performance and enable them to make more informed decisions. On top of that, onchain fruits and vegetables are a lot more traceable, enabling buyers to pinpoint how their greens were sourced, which is good for environmentally minded consumers and is also helpful for supply chain management.

In 2023, Microsoft said Skype had 36 million daily active users. That was down from 40 million in March 2020. Teper declined to talk about how many people use the service today, but did say the number of minutes consumers have spent on Teams calls increased fourfold in the past two years.

"I think a good write-up of the history of the thing would mark the shift to mobile and cloud as a significant change in the communications category," Teper said.

Trump Calls for 'Ceasefire Now' Between Russia and Ukraine

President Donald Trump said Friday he wants an “immediate” ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine and warned Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to make peace or lose American support.

Trump says he believes Russian President Vladimir Putin, who launched the invasion of Ukraine three years ago, is ready for a peace deal.

The statement comes after Trump and Vice President JD Vance berated Zelenskyy for being “disrespectful” in an extraordinary Oval Office meeting, then abruptly called off the signing of a minerals deal with the U.S.

Ukrainian MP Hits Back at Graham's Call for Zelenskyy to Resign
Ukrainian member of parliament Kira Rudik took issue with Sen.

Ukrainian Member of Parliament Kira Rudik took issue with a statement from Sen. Lindsay Graham, R-S.C., suggesting that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy step down following his confrontation with President Donald Trump on Friday.

Trump and Zelenskyy's Oval Office meeting quickly veered off the rails after Vice President JD Vance questioned the Ukrainian president campaigning for former Vice President Kamala Harris and his overall “disrespectful” demeanor. Trump followed and said Zelenskyy was “gambling with World War III” and threatened the Ukrainian president, “either you’re going to make a deal or we’re out.”

One month into Donald Trump’s second term, even those who closely followed his first time in office have struggled to keep up. Foreign policy shifts alone include tariffs, attacks on allies, and a proposed takeover in Gaza. Now, an apparent rapprochement with Russia has the potential to revolutionize US strategy. What is the US trying to achieve in its negotiations with Russia? And is this all just the new norm for a world without an anchor?

GPF Chairman George Friedman recently sat down with Talking Geopolitics host Christian Smith to discuss this and much more.

The movement bringing Web3 into real-world industries and businesses is rallying around decentralized physical infrastructure networks (DePINs), Web3’s hottest sector, which also has the potential to become an agricultural superpower. Imagine rooftop gardens in every city, producing fresh food for local communities. With DePINs, this dream is closer than ever. We’re not just talking about growing lettuce; we’re talking about rebuilding our food systems from the ground up for the long-term benefit of all of humanity.

The future of food is vertical, decentralized, and delicious. Let’s grow!

“With all due respect, in Ukraine, we elect our own presidents, and we are known to start revolutions if we think that they are not acting at our best interest,” she answered. “So, it’s not up to Russian president or American president or American officials to tell the Ukrainian people who should be our president.”

Speaker Johnson on Zelenskyy Spat: Trump Puts America First
House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., defended President Trump on Friday following a dust-up earlier in the day with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Zelenskyy, Trump, and Vice President J.D. Vance got into a heated exchange in front of reporters at the White House. Vance accused Zelenskyy of being disrespectful for debating Trump in the Oval Office in front of the U.S. media. Trump also said Zelenskyy was disrespectful.

Zelenskyy stirred the pot by insisting promises of peace from Russian President Vladimir Putin can't be trusted, but Trump countered that Putin hasn't broken agreements with him.

Pentagon Orders Deployment of Stryker Combat Team to Border
The Pentagon has ordered the deployment of up to 3,000 active-duty troops to the U.S.-Mexico border, along with soldiers from a motorized brigade equipped with 20-ton armored Stryker combat vehicles.

“As directed by President Trump, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has ordered the deployment of a Stryker Brigade Combat Team (SBCT) and General Support Aviation Battalion to reinforce and expand current border security operations to seal the border and protect the territorial integrity of the United States, a priority for the President,” a senior defense official said in a press release.

“These forces will arrive in the coming weeks and their deployment underscores the Department's unwavering dedication to working alongside the Department of Homeland Security to secure our southern border and maintain the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and security of the United States under President Trump's leadership.”

Stryker vehicles are lightly armored attack vehicles equipped with a machine gun or grenade launcher. They have been used in combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Dem Activists Fueled GOP Protests, Rage at Their Own Party
Furious Democrats filled Republican town halls across the U.S. last week to protest President Donald Trump's actions in Washington.

Furious Democrats filled Republican town halls across the U.S. last week to protest President Donald Trump's actions in Washington.

But in recent days, the activists behind those protests have turned their anger toward elected officials in their own party, who they believe are not fighting the Republican president and billionaire adviser Elon Musk with the urgency, aggression, or creativity that the moment deserves.

"Are we in a constitutional crisis or not?" asked Ezra Levin, co-founder of the anti-Trump resistance group Indivisible, which encouraged progressives to attend town halls and protest outside Tesla dealerships.

As a real Chinese, I don't agree with Mr Friedman's understanding of Chinese dictator Xi's recent comment on private sector. Mr. Friedman took what Xi said as granted, thinking that China is now reemphasizing private sector and this is the most common mistake for the majority of the Western Chinese experts, that is, they can't see the real meanings of Chinese leaders' open speeches or CCP's propaganda, but take them as their basis of judging the Chinese economical environments. In this case, the reason that Xi was calling up so many big Chinese private business owners is to 1) restore the confidence of both foreign and Chinese investors that have been battled hard in Xi's recent years crackdown on private sectors to promote and consolidate the state-owned companies; 2) rescue the near free-fall Chinese economy.

However, having the above two things said, Xi has never thought that he would reply on private sector to achieve his bigger plan, that is, changing back the current Chinese partial market economy to a fully government controlled one in order to safeguard the CCP's power for ever. So I strongly suggest all the Western Chinese experts, when you study China, you must first learn it from understanding its fundamental political structure, how its political system works, and then do your economical study -- for the last decades, the majority of Western economists couldn't explained why China can develop its economy in the way and speed that have never be seen in human history! In our Chinese eyes, it's very simple: China's economical miracle = a slavery Chinese labourer system + greedy Western investment. May God save us!

Trump and his allies have lashed out against judges and threatened to defy court rulings.

So far, neither Jeffries nor Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., has been willing to employ perhaps the most dramatic tool at their disposal to stop Trump: their vote — and the ability to withhold their vote in protest, even if it means shutting down the government.

There are some Democrats who want their party to pursue a shutdown on March 14 when current funding expires. But historically, shutdowns have been only a Republican strategy.

Sen. Angus King of Maine, an independent who caucuses with Democrats, took to the Senate floor last week to call on his colleagues to "wake up." In a subsequent interview, King described what he called Trump's "assault on the Constitution — the most serious in the history of the country."

The senator said Democrats cannot simply assume that the courts will rein in Trump. But he also acknowledged that they had relatively few tools to push back as the minority party in both chambers of Congress.

"We're in uncharted territory. There's no playbook for this," King said. "Everybody's trying to figure out what's effective."

The Democrat base is not in a patient mood.

Lori Goldman, who leads the Michigan-based activist group known as Fems for Dems, was enraged when asked for her assessment of Democrat leaders.

"We need all hands on deck, and we're not getting it," she said. "There's no room or time or space to act like we're in normal times."

Klein, of Indivisible, is growing increasingly pessimistic that Democrat leaders in Congress are listening, even after his group took credit for town halls that shaped the debate on Capitol Hill.

"I was hopeful that they were coming over to our side to lead the opposition. And in the absence of that, I think you're going to just see distance between them and their own constituents grow and grow and grow," he said. "And that doesn't have positive consequences."

FBI's Patel Responds to Short Epstein Case File Release
FBI Director Kash Patel has promised full cooperation with the Attorney General's office on the release of files surrounding the case of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

FBI Director Kash Patel has promised full cooperation with the Attorney General's office on the release of files surrounding the case of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Patel received a terse letter this week from Attorney General Pam Bondi. What Bondi had been told would be a release of all FBI documents in the case was disappointingly short.

The AG's letter to Patel demanded full compliance. Bondi said she received information that someone within the FBI was holding back. Bondi gave the FBI a short deadline of 8 a.m. on Friday, February 28, to send the remaining files to her office. There is no word yet from either whether that complete release has occurred. But Patel said it will happen.

In a later post on a slightly different topic, Patel addressed the issue of FBI agents fulfilling their work agreement to uphold the Constitution, or else. "Stay the course and abide by our high standards, and I will always have your back. Deviate in anyway, and you will not be a part of this FBI.

Hegseth to Cyber Command: Stand Down on Russia
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered U.S. Cyber Command to refrain from all planning against Russia, which includes cyber offensive actions, The Record first reported.

According to three sources familiar with the matter and speaking on condition of anonymity, Hegseth gave the order to Gen. Timothy Haugh, Cyber Command chief. Haugh, in turn, advised the department's outgoing director of operations Marine Corp Maj. Gen. Ryan Heritage of the change in strategy.

Sources said the order does not apply to the National Security Agency, which Haugh also leads, nor to its signals intelligence operations targeting Russia. According to The Record, the directive may disrupt some of Cyber Command's most critical missions, including those in Ukraine.

Brian Krebs, an investigative reporter specializing in cyber security said the combination of Hegseth's order and Friday's Oval Office meltdown couldn't have come at a worse time.

"There is zero reason for the US to relax any offensive digital actions against Russia. If anything, we should be applying 10x more," Krebs posted on LinkedIn. "This is indefensible, but makes sense given the president's embarrassing performance at the White House today browbeating President Zelensky by continuously saying 'World War III' and again echoing Kremlin sabre rattling."

According to The Record, Hegseth's order may lessen the nation's ability to protect private sector digital infrastructure both at home and abroad as U.S. Cyber Command has played a critical role in counteracting Russia's cyber offensive strategy.

The directive follows reports from earlier this week that Hegseth has threatened military action inside of Mexico to confront the nation's drug cartels if the Trump administration's demands on border security are not met.

The Record reported that it is unknown at this time how the recent directive will affect Cyber Command personnel.

In a statement to the outlet, a senior defense official said, "Due to operational security concerns, we do not comment nor discuss cyber intelligence, plans, or operations. There is no greater priority to Secretary Hegseth than the safety of the Warfighter in all operations, to include the cyber domain."

Zelenskyy Can Hold Out Without US Backing, Admiral Says
Amid waning U.S. support for Ukraine, retired Admiral James Stavridis believes President Volodymyr Zelenskyy can sustain resistance against Russia indefinitely if European allies maintain their aid, Newsweek reported.

Retired U.S. Navy Admiral Stavridis suggested that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy can "hold out for an indefinite period" against Russia, even without continued support from the United States, as long as European nations continue their assistance, according to Newsweek.

His remarks come after a confrontational meeting Friday at the White House between Zelenskyy, President Donald Trump, and Vice President JD Vance, which cast doubt on future U.S. aid for Ukraine.

The discussion ended without an agreement, and Zelenskyy left the White House early. A press conference scheduled for later was canceled.

Following the meeting, Trump posted on Truth Social, stating:

"I have determined that President Zelenskyy is not ready for Peace if America is involved because he feels our involvement gives him a big advantage in negotiations. He can come back when he is ready for Peace."

Zelenskyy responded on X: "Thank you America, thank you for your support ... Ukraine needs just and lasting peace, and we are working exactly for that."

Zelenskyy met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Saturday to seek support from European allies.

Illegal Border Crossings at New Low Levels Under Trump
Illegal border crossings have dropped to levels that have not been seen in more than two decades during President Donald Trump's first month in office, according to government statistics.

The Border Patrol last month reported apprehending about 8,450 migrants crossing into the United States between official entry points at the U.S.-Mexico border, according to preliminary statistics, reports CBS News Saturday.

The only other time monthly apprehensions came to being that low in the past 25 years also occurred when Trump was in office, with approximately 11,000 migrants being apprehended at the southwest border in April 2017, the agency's data shows.

In comparison, there were times during record spikes in illegal crossings under former President Joe Biden's administration that the Border Patrol would record more than 8,000 apprehensions in just one day.

The administration is also considering bringing back the use of public health law Title 42 to expel migrants. The statute was used during the COVID pandemic and now could be used on the grounds that migrants can spread deadly diseases such as tuberculosis.

Meanwhile, Trump's border strategy has resulted in a quick decrease in numbers, but the administration's other moves to carry out his call for the largest deportation operation in U.S. history are hitting barriers.

These include frustrations that Immigration and Customs Enforcement is not carrying out enough deportations and arrests and concerns that ICE detention centers are too crowded.

The centers, as of Friday, were at 117% capacity, with more than 45,000 migrants. Just under half of those were first apprehended at the southern border, government records show.

Sandy Fitzgerald has more than three decades in journalism and serves as a general assignment writer for Newsmax covering news, media, and politics.

Zelenskyy: Ukraine Should Be Heard, Not Forgotten
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Saturday it was "very important" that Ukraine's plight was heard and not forgotten, a day after a heated White House meeting with President Donald Trump.

"It is very important for us that Ukraine is heard and that no one forgets about it, neither during the war nor after," he said in a social media post alongside footage of a meeting with the Ukrainian community in Washington.

"It is important for people in Ukraine to know that they are not alone, that their interests are represented in every country, in every corner of the world."

Zelenskyy had seen the Oval Office meeting on Friday with Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance as a chance to win more support for Kyiv's war effort against Russia.

But the meeting descended into acrimony and drove relations with Kyiv's most important wartime ally to a new low.

'Golden Dome' Replaces 'Iron Dome' in Pentagon Missile Program
The Pentagon has quietly rebranded its national missile defense initiative from "Iron Dome for America" to "Golden Dome for America," according to a recent advisory issued to defense contractors, SpaceNews reported.

The name change surfaced publicly when Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, in a recent video discussing programs shielded from potential budget reductions, referred to the system as "Golden Dome or Iron Dome."

His statement, initially perceived as a slip of the tongue, was later confirmed as an official revision.

"Please note the Department of Defense has renamed this program from 'Iron Dome for America' to 'Golden Dome for America,'" the U.S. Missile Defense Agency stated in a Feb. 24 advisory to contractors submitting proposals.

The notice, issued days before the Feb. 28 submission deadline, clarified that existing file systems would retain the original name for logistical reasons.

Just curious about these warehouse on wheels that are the rage now. How much is the company that owns the trailer being paid each day that the trailer sits in the warehouse on wheels? It used to be if a trailer was not out on the road it wasn't making money so the trucking companies didn't want their trailers sitting around until you decided to unload it. So the contracts might have a day or two grace period then you had a daily fee to pay until the trailer was empty and ready for pickup. So how much a day does a company pay to have a trailer sitting in its warehouse on wheels?

The dome project originated from a Jan. 27 executive order signed by President Donald Trump, which established the development of a next-generation missile defense shield as national policy. The order, which initially branded the initiative as "Iron Dome for America," emphasized the growing threats posed by ballistic, hypersonic, and cruise missiles.

While modeled after Israel's Iron Dome, the American version is envisioned on a much larger scale, designed to protect the entire U.S. homeland from advanced missile threats.

Space-based sensors have been identified as key components. The executive order directed the Department of Defense to explore the potential deployment of space-based interceptors that would launch in response to an attack.

The Missile Defense Agency is leading industry engagement efforts to assess technological capabilities.

Volkswagen to Recall over 60,000 US Vehicles
Volkswagen is recalling 60,490 U.S. vehicles due to a failure to display the gear position that may result in a vehicle rollaway if the parking brake is not engaged, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said on Saturday.

The recall affects certain 2021-2023 ID.4, 2022-2023 Audi Q4 e-Tron, and Q4 e-Tron Sportback vehicles, the auto safety regulator said.

China Warns Top AI Leaders to Avoid US

The Chinese government is mandating its premiere artificial-intelligence scientists and business leaders refrain from visiting the U.S., as the communist country increasingly views the burgeoning technology as a top national security priority, The Wall Street Journal reported on Saturday.

Sources familiar with the matter told the outlet Beijing is concerned that Chinese AI experts are at risk for giving up top secret intelligence about the country's progress and goals with the technology.

China’s emerging dominance in the AI field goes beyond the giant Alibaba and new player on the block DeepSeek. Asia Times noted Cambricon Technologies, Yitu Technology, and CloudWalk Technology as smaller companies carving out their own industry-specific niche in the marketplace.

China could also feel pressure to maintain a hold on their national investment. Beijing has invested heavily to develop the next generation of the technology's leaders with their 2018 incentives to grow AI in schools. 535 universities have since created AI undergraduate majors, compared to roughly 14 such colleges in the U.S.

China is also likely worried about their homegrown talent leaving their country over buyouts or for another lifestyle overseas. Eurasia Group technology analyst Xiaomeng Lu said such relocation can really have an impact on the nation’s industry as a whole.

“For the tech sector, brain drain can have a devastating effect on a country,” she said. “The initial signal is: Stay here, don’t run away.”

!summarize #federal #workers #email #doge

Fishback, however, stated that "Sending checks isn't inflationary … lockdowns and labor shortages compounded the effect of inflation [during COVID]. But the macro backdrop today is disinflationary."

"It is similar to tax refund season — when the average check from the IRS is $3,100 and it goes to people's rainy day fund, saving, and paying down debt."

Fishback noted that the government would only send checks to people paying taxes, which would incentivize people to get back to work — as opposed to the COVID stimulus checks.

Postmaster General Louis DeJoy said regulations and "onerous business rules" created a series of roadblocks to streamlining the mail service. He pointed a finger directly at Congress for some of the problems.

“For decades — and most specifically during the last three years — Congress has actively resisted operational solutions and meaningful change," he said.

But DeJoy may not be in a position to oversee all the new changes — he annouced his pending retirement in February.

Arizona Senate Approves Strategic Digital Assets Reserve Bill, Advances to House
The Arizona Senate advanced a bill to create a state-managed reserve for seized bitcoin, passing SB 1373 by a 17-12 vote on Feb. 27 and sending it to the House for further consideration.

The Strategic Digital Assets Reserve bill establishes a fund overseen by the state treasurer to hold bitcoin confiscated by law enforcement and money allocated by the legislature. Under the bill, the treasurer may invest up to 10% of the fund’s deposits in bitcoin annually and possibly loan them to generate returns, provided such actions do not heighten financial risks.

SB 1373 differs from a related proposal, SB 1025, which seeks to allow state entities to invest public funds in bitcoin. Instead, SB 1373 focuses on managing assets already in state custody, such as those seized during criminal investigations.

Bus Accident in Bolivia Leaves at Least 33 Dead

A crash involving two buses in Bolivia left at least 33 people dead and several injured in the western Potosi region, police and local authorities said on Saturday.

The accident happened during the early morning hours on the route between the cities of Uyuni and Colchani, when one of the vehicles was heading to a carnival festival.

"There has been a fatal accident, and it has left us with around 33 confirmed fatalities already," Osmar Salvatierra, an official of the municipality of Uyuni, told local media.

Police were at the scene to clarify the circumstances of the crash and will provide an official report.

Poor Sleep Raises Early Death Risk By 29 Percent
A new study finds that approximately two-thirds of Americans are getting too little or too much sleep, which increases risk for premature death from any cause by nearly 30%.

About two-thirds of Americans are getting too little or too much sleep, risking their health, a new study suggests.

In fact, people not getting the right amount of sleep – seven to nine hours a night – had a 29% increased risk of premature death from any cause, researchers reported Feb. 27 in JAMA Network Open.

“These findings provide new evidence that irregular sleep patterns over a 5-year period may increase the risk of all-cause and cardiovascular disease mortality,” the research team led by Kelsie Full, an assistant professor of epidemiology with Vanderbilt University Medical Center, concluded.

Specific results for different sleep trajectories included:

A 29% increased risk of death from any cause for short-long, 19% for long-short and 27% for long-long.

A 22% increased risk of heart-related death for long-long, 32% for long-short, and 22% for short-long.

“Associations were stronger among White compared with Black adults and among adults with a household income $15,000 or greater compared with adults with household incomes less than $15,000,” researchers noted. “No differences were observed by sex.”

The study “highlights the importance of maintaining healthy sleep over time,” said an accompanying editorial written by Dayna Johnson, an associate professor of epidemiology with the Emory University School of Public Health.

Exercise Linked to Better Mental, Brain Health
Moderate to vigorous physical activity reduces risk of dementia, stroke, anxiety, depression and sleep disorders, researchers found.

Moving your body helps your brain, a new study suggests.

Folks who regularly exercise have better mental and brain health, researchers will report in early April at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Neurology in San Diego and online.

Moderate to vigorous physical activity reduces risk of dementia, stroke, anxiety, depression and sleep disorders, researchers found.

Moderate physical activity like walking or cleaning amounts to around three METs, researchers said, while more intense exercise like cycling can burn around six METs depending on speed.

People who engaged in moderate to vigorous activity were 14% to 40% less likely to develop the mental health and brain conditions being tracked, results show.

On the other hand, more time spent sitting increased people’s risk of these conditions by 5% to 54%, results show.

“Some previous studies have relied on people reporting on their own levels of activity,” Wu said.

“With our large number of participants and the use of devices that provide objective measurements of activity levels, these results will have implications for assessing risk factors and developing interventions to prevent the development of these diseases,” Wu added.

Zelenskyy: Peace 'Will Be Difficult' Without US
In the thread, Zelenskyy wrote that Ukraine was ready to sign the minerals agreement, under the provision of security guarentees.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensykyy said in a lengthy thread posted to X on Saturday that achieving peace in the Russia-Ukraine war "will be difficult" without the United States' support.

"Our situation is tough, but we can’t just stop fighting and not having guarantees that [Russian President Vladimir] Putin will not return tomorrow," Zelenskyy wrote in English. "It will be difficult without the U.S. support."

In the thread, Zelenskyy wrote that Ukraine was "ready to sign the minerals agreement," under the provision of "security guarentees."

Israel's Military Is Told to Prepare to Defend a Druze Community outside Syria's Capital

JERUSALEM (AP) — Israel’s defense ministry on Saturday said the military has been instructed to prepare to defend a Druze settlement in the suburbs of Damascus, asserting that the minority it has vowed to protect was “under attack” by Syrian forces.

The statement, citing an order from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz, follows an Israeli warning last weekend that the forces of neighboring Syria’s new government and the insurgent group that led last year’s ouster of former President Bashar Assad should not enter the area south of Damascus.

Saturday’s statement indicates that Israeli forces could push farther into Syria as its new authorities try to consolidate control after more than a decade of civil war. Israeli forces recently set up posts in a buffer zone and on strategic Mt. Hermon nearby. There have been no major clashes between Israeli troops and Syria's new forces.

“We will not allow the terrorist regime of radical Islam in Syria to harm the Druze. If the regime harms the Druze, it will be harmed by us,” the statement said.

There was no immediate response from Syria's government.

The Druze are a religious minority who live in southern Syria and in Israel’s Golan Heights, where they navigate their historically Syrian identity while living under Israeli rule.

Israel’s statement followed the outbreak of unrest Friday in the Druze settlement of Jaramana, when a member of the security forces entered and started shooting in the air, leading to an exchange of fire with local gunmen that left him dead.

THIS IS THE CHICK who dumped her actual Husband when she had a little online success, she wanted to go "find herself" in Paris....without him. Devastated him, he actually had just suffered a job loss, maybe C19 related. She moved from like NJ to France, and then France to MX. I saw her interview from Talum MX maybe 2 yrs ago, on another travel channel. I was calling BS during the whole interview. She casually revealed all the dudes in Paris she met at this and that cafe, or on her walks near the Eiffel Tower and "dated", to her female interviewer. I could see the interviewer was also seeing through her story but girl-code forbid her from asking RP type follow Up Q's.
yup. That's her.

US firm developing GLSDB 2.0 weapon with improved electronic warfare resilience
Unlike its predecessor, the GBU-53/B features a significantly more advanced guidance system.

Defense giant Raytheon, a division of RTX Corporation, is developing a ground-launched variant of its GBU-53/B Small Diameter Bomb II, the precision-guided, long-range munition known as StormBreaker.

Raytheon has not disclosed full details but plans to begin testing the weapon this summer, according to Jon Norman, Vice President of Air & Space Defense Systems Requirements & Capability, during the Fighter Pilot Podcast. Currently, the company is assessing propulsion options, weighing a traditional solid-propellant system against an air-breathing jet engine.

Solid-fuel and jet engine options for new weapon
One option is to equip the GBU-53/B with a booster, launching it to a high altitude where it can glide toward its target. Another approach involves adding a miniature turbojet engine, effectively turning the bomb into a cruise missile.

Regardless of the chosen option, it will be applied to both the ground-launched version and the extended-range air-to-air variant, allowing strikes from significantly greater distances. The current StormBreaker already achieves a range of approximately 110 km when released from high altitudes.

An earlier effort to adapt a Small Diameter Bomb for ground launch involved modifying Boeing’s GBU-39/B with a solid booster, leading to the development of the GLSDB in collaboration with Raytheon and Saab. However, in combat operations over Ukraine, the system was found to be vulnerable to Russian electronic warfare countermeasures.

GBU-53/B brings major guidance upgrades over its predecessor
Unlike its predecessor, the GBU-53/B features a significantly more advanced guidance system. The original GBU-39/B Small Diameter Bomb relies primarily on satellite and inertial navigation, with only a specific subvariant incorporating a semi-active homing system. Since this lightweight bomb depends entirely on precision, electronic warfare disruptions can greatly diminish its effectiveness.

In contrast, the GBU-53/B Small Diameter Bomb II integrates multiple terminal guidance systems, including active radar, semi-active laser homing, and a thermal imaging seeker. Satellite and inertial navigation are used only during midcourse flight. Thus, even if the satellite connection is jammed, the StormBreaker can still reach the target area and independently acquire the target, without needing precise coordinates.

The shift to considering a jet engine over a rocket booster by Raytheon is likely influenced by lessons learned in Ukraine, where modern electronic warfare and air defense systems present significant challenges. In the past, Ukraine received Raytheon’s RIM-7 SEASPARROW missiles, a direct development of the AIM-7E Sparrow air-to-air missile system. These advanced missiles, launched from Soviet-era 9K37 BUK (NATO designation SA-11) systems, significantly enhanced Ukraine’s defense capabilities.

In January, China had proposed plans to integrate humanoid robots and AI into elderly care, as outlined in new guidelines issued by the State Council to address demographic challenges.

Robots assist in caregiving
As aging populations and low birth rates drive the need for care services, humanoid robots are increasingly being investigated for palliative caregiving roles. Demographic transition from young to old has resulted in the dwindling of nurses, underscoring the need for automated solutions to complete jobs effectively and securely.

Despite the urgency, researchers at Waseda University claim that the integration of robotics in caregiving is still limited because of technological obstacles that need to be addressed before it can be widely used.

Direct instruction is made possible using a motion capture device, synchronizing the robot’s and operator’s arm movements. During caring duties, impedance control ensures appropriate force application by enabling flexible motion execution. The EIPL architecture, based on the deep learning model, forecasts future events while reducing errors. A convolutional autoencoder processes RGB camera image input and extracts important spatial attention points.

According to researchers, the Selective Kernel Network (SKNet) is applied for joint angle and torque attention, dynamically adjusting feature importance. The model predicts joint movements, sending commands to the impedance controller, ensuring precise and adaptive caregiving motions.

Still in the testing phase, the team estimates that AIREC will only be ready for nursing care or medical facilities by 2030. The initial price of the robot is expected to be at least ¥10 million ($67,000).

Idemitsu to supply solid electrolytes
In addition, because they are resistant to high voltage and high temperature, all-solid-state batteries are expected to improve energy density and lengthen service life.

“We will expand our production capacity of lithium sulfide, an important intermediate raw material for solid electrolytes, to the world’s top class level (equivalent to 3 GWh/year of storage batteries) and establish an integrated value chain from raw materials to intermediate materials and products,” said the company in a statement.

Idemitsu will steadily meet the needs of automakers and battery manufacturers, aiming to commercialize all-solid-state batteries in 2027 to 28, and thenceforth accelerate the commercialization of solid electrolytes.

Performance tests with the new catalyst applied to seawater cell electrodes showed that its performance was on par with traditional platinum catalysts. Importantly, the overvoltage was lower than that of platinum (Pt/C) catalysts.

Affordable catalyst
Seawater batteries, using abundant seawater as the cathode material, offer economic benefits but suffer from slow kinetics and high overpotential, limiting efficiency. Electrocatalysts are essential for improving performance. While precious metals like platinum have been traditionally used as catalysts, their high cost limits their scalability.

Experts were amazed by the exceptional preservation of the settlement’s structures, including homes, workshops, administrative buildings, temples, and bathhouses, following the excavation completion this week.

The team also uncovered remnants of a mining camp, featuring a fully equipped gold extraction facility. The site included crushing and grinding stations, filtration basins, and sedimentation pools that fed into smelting furnaces used for refining gold from quartz veins.

“The project included archaeological excavations, documentation, and restoration of architectural elements discovered on-site,” Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities reveals. “These elements were relocated to a safer area three kilometers north of the original site, outside the path of modern mining operations at Sukari Mine.”

Importance and vision ahead
According to the ministry, the project is crucial for enhancing our understanding of the techniques ancient Egyptians used to extract gold from rocks.

The researchers suggest that the findings shed light on Egypt’s ancient mining industry and the daily lives of its workers. “It also provides valuable insight into the social, religious, and economic lives of mining workers in industrial cities across the Eastern Desert throughout different historical periods,” the ministry says in a press release.

“Within weeks, to the team’s great surprise, formations of mud bricks began to appear in all directions,” Zahi Hawass, archaeologist and former Minister of Tourism and Antiquities of Egypt who found the city, says. “What they unearthed was the site of a large city in a good condition of preservation, with almost complete walls, and with rooms filled with tools of daily life.”

“This isn’t just about catching smugglers,” said a Beijing-based logistics expert who requested anonymity in a statement to South China Morning Post. “It’s about creating a system to enforce our rules and break the chains imposed on developing nations for over a century. This is a space-based technology revolution,” they added.

The new system consists of 66 low-cost nanosatellites, each smaller than a refrigerator. The researchers behind it note that one of the key innovations is a hybrid network that differentiates between slower-moving ‘static’ sensors—such as those on containers in port—and sensors on fast-moving cargo.

The research team claims the signal interference ensures smooth data transmission. The team also adapted techniques traditionally used for missile-tracking systems to process data at a rate 10 times faster than commercial satellite networks.

Washington concerned
The planned satellite network is believed to strengthen China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) by integrating global infrastructure projects with data-driven logistics oversight. Scientists behind the system also claim that it could assist countries in combating piracy, illegal trade, and drug trafficking.

There is no telling. It is anyone's guess.

Part 1/6:

Exciting Developments at Giga I West

Big news is making waves from Giga I West, touted as one of the most significant updates yet in the Tesla universe. Ensuring the hype is well-founded, hosts Brian and Mark dive into the exciting progress, hinting at groundbreaking advancements and features at the facility.

Formatting Changes and Updates

Before they delve into the primary content, Brian addresses the format of the show, acknowledging a recent trial in their presentation style. He humorously apologizes to their audience for any annoyance the changes may have caused, yet reassures them that the aim is merely to provide the best information possible. They briefly touch on their upcoming theatrical performances, showcasing their well-rounded talents beyond just automotive discussions.

Part 2/6:

Giga I West's Construction Insights

One of the highlights of the episode revolves around the ongoing construction developments at Giga I West. Brian confirms that the building appears to indeed be the future site for Tesla Semi trucks. Explained further, the hosts sift through the various body styles and construction methods being utilized.

Viewers are encouraged to appreciate the efforts of other content creators, specifically mentioning Zangler, whose in-depth videos and analyses provide invaluable insights into the facility’s operations. The construction displays show new cabins and space frames, indicating that there could be as many as a dozen new trucks being configured.

Details on the Building's Structure

Part 3/6:

The duo examines the logistics of the Giga I West layout, highlighting the strategic positioning of high-voltage lines on the adjacent hills, which is a clever move to avoid disruption during ongoing construction. Updates also include sealing expansion joints between different sections of buildings, hinting at steps toward finalization.

In their coverage, they emphasize the intricacy of the building process and recognize the substantial amount of manual labor required for tasks such as tying rebar. As construction continues to progress, they observe that walls are starting to enclose the stamping area, an encouraging sign of development.

Questions and Answers Segment

Part 4/6:

Transitioning to an interactive segment, they address a variety of audience inquiries about innovations in trucking technology. One particular question centers around the rationale for driverless semis needing to fit under trailers, sparking a fascinating discussion about design and functionality. They explore hypothetical designs of future autonomous trailers, emphasizing the need for efficiency and modularity in transportation logistics.

Additional questions cover the Tesla Semi's operational capacity and the misconception about requiring a commercial driver's license for personal use when driving certain vehicles. The conversation is rich with detail, reflecting an extensive understanding of industry needs and regulatory frameworks.

Speculations on Tesla's Future

Part 5/6:

The hosts thoughtfully navigate through speculations about the Tesla brand’s trajectory, addressing potential expansion towards automated heavy machinery. This leads into an assessment of the market landscape, suggesting that while Tesla has significant potential, they must evaluate opportunities carefully to ensure profitable growth.

Moreover, they entertain a light-hearted debate regarding hypermiling in electric vehicles, attributing it as a critical component of modern driving strategies and emphasizing its relevance with Tesla’s technological features.

Closing Remarks and Humor

Part 6/6:

As the episode draws to a close, Brian and Mark engage with lighter topics, sharing jokes about cultural phenomena, like the persona of Clark Kent and hilarious interpretations of his character traits. Their humor provides a refreshing contrast to the serious discussions, inviting audience engagement in a fun way.

Ending with a call to action, they encourage listeners to subscribe to their channels and leave comments about their thoughts on recent developments, promising to continue delivering intriguing content in future episodes.

Part 1/9:

Google's Revolutionary Change in Coding: An In-Depth Look at Gemini Code Assist

In recent years, advancements in artificial intelligence have significantly transformed various fields, including programming and coding. Google recently joined the ranks of tech giants by introducing its AI-driven coding tool, Gemini Code Assist. This article delves into the functionality, advantages, and implications of Gemini Code Assist in the world of software development.

The Impact of Large Language Models on Coding

Part 2/9:

Large language models (LLMs) have been making waves in the coding community due to their remarkable ability to write and understand code in multiple programming languages such as C, C++, Java, Go, and JavaScript. Traditionally, developers had to rely heavily on their own skills when it came to coding. But with these AI models, users can easily request specific pieces of code, allowing for a more streamlined development process.

Integration with Development Tools

Part 3/9:

A significant leap forward in coding assistance is the integration of LLMs directly into Integrated Development Environments (IDEs). Gemini Code Assist is a prime example of this innovation. Unlike many existing tools that require a monthly subscription after a free trial period, Google has made a bold move by offering higher limits on its free tier. This change essentially allows developers to use the tool to its full extent without the constant worry of exceeding usage limits.

Practical Limitations of Usage

Part 4/9:

For instance, one could write code for eight hours daily, generating approximately ten code completions every minute, and still not reach the limits imposed by the free tier. This opens doors for developers as they can experiment and advance their projects without financial constraints.

Features of Gemini Code Assist

Gemini Code Assist operates with two key concepts: code completion and prompts. As a developer types, the tool recognizes the context and offers substantial code suggestions rather than generic variable names. This context awareness is crucial for effective coding assistance. Additionally, users can interact directly with the codebase, requesting modifications or enhancements to existing functions.

Distinction Between Code Assistants and Vibe Coding

Part 5/9:

It is essential to recognize the difference between Gemini Code Assist and so-called "vibe coding." The latter enables individuals with little coding experience to rely entirely on AI for code generation. In contrast, Gemini Code Assist supports those who have a foundational understanding of coding and wish to create software while utilizing AI assistance. This tool enhances productivity without removing the developer's essential role in the coding process.

Getting Started With Gemini Code Assist

Part 6/9:

To implement Gemini Code Assist, users can easily install the extension within Visual Studio Code (VS Code). The installation process involves downloading the Gemini extension and linking it with a Google account. Once connected, developers receive direct access to Google's AI capabilities, providing endless opportunities to speed up coding tasks.

Practical Application: Creating a String Library

Part 7/9:

During a hands-on demonstration, a developer created a new string library using Gemini Code Assist. After setting up the initial framework for the library, they prompted the tool to generate specific functions, such as creating a new string and freeing up allocated memory. This interaction showcased how valuable the assistant can be in generating code, identifying necessary functions, and even suggesting code snippets to test the string library's functionality.

Efficiency and Convenience

Part 8/9:

As developers worked with Gemini Code Assist, they could easily engage in a back-and-forth interaction, generating additional code snippets and testing them in real-time. For example, users could request a make file for project management and instantly receive an appropriate response. The ability to share errors with the AI and receive solutions in real-time made the coding process smoother and more enjoyable.

Ethical Considerations in the Workplace

While Gemini Code Assist is a revolutionary tool for personal projects, ethical considerations arise in a workplace setting. Employees must be mindful of sharing proprietary code when using AI tools connected to their cloud accounts. Companies may need to establish policies regarding the use of such tools to protect intellectual property.

Part 9/9:

Looking Ahead

As more developers adopt Gemini Code Assist and similar tools, it will be fascinating to observe how competing services respond to Google's advancements. This shift represents a new era in coding, where the integration of AI enables developers to be more productive and efficient in their workflows.

Conclusion

Gemini Code Assist is a game-changer in the realm of coding, offering an innovative approach to software development by combining human skill with AI efficiency. By providing expansive free-tier access, Google ensures that developers can leverage this tool without significant financial burden. As the field of AI advances, collaboration between human developers and AI-driven assistants will likely redefine coding practices for years to come.

An Amazon spokesperson said the company didn't have anything to share on its plans for Haul, which were earlier reported on by The Information.

"We are always exploring new ways to work with our selling partners to delight our customers around the world with more selection, lower prices, and greater convenience," the spokesperson said in a statement.

The expansion comes months after Haul's debut. Amazon unveiled the online store in November, describing it as an "engaging shopping experience that brings lower-priced products into one convenient destination." Haul is only accessible through Amazon's mobile app, and most items are priced at $20 or less.

"As we continue to invest across our U.S. sites, it's important that we align the start of production of our fabs with the needs of our business and broader market demand," said Naga Chandrasekaran, vice president and head of global operations officer for Intel Foundry Manufacturing, in a release. "This has always been our approach, as it allows us to manage our capital responsibly and adapt to the needs of our customers."

Intel, long the world's leading semiconductor maker before losing that distinction in recent years, has been on a downward slide due largely to its position on the sidelines of the artificial intelligence boom. The stock lost more than half its value last year and the company has been reckoning with slowing sales while also trying to move deeper into the capital-intensive business of chip fabrication.

The FAA granted the modified license to SpaceX, which has a $350 billion private market valuation, even though the company has yet to complete its mishap investigation, required after the January explosion. The space regulator has previously authorized flights by companies including SpaceX and Rocket Lab while mishap investigations were still underway, a spokesperson told CNBC by email.

Last year, the FAA fined SpaceX $633,009 in civil penalties for what it alleged were safety and procedural violations in the lead-up to two 2023 launches. SpaceX was also fined by the Environmental Protection Agency for polluting waters in Texas in violation of the Clean Water Act.

After those fines, Musk threatened to sue the FAA for "regulatory overreach" but never filed a complaint.

"In general, they benefit from being private because there's a handful of stocks that people want to buy and they trade at a premium to public valuations," said Larry Albukerk, founder of EB Exchange, which helps facilitate trades in shares of pre-IPO companies.

He said Stripe is part of an exclusive group of private companies, along with SpaceX, Anthropic and Anduril, which are all seeing sky-high demand from investors.

"For every one of those, there's 100 companies that don't get that kind of premium," Albukerk said.

"It's the most effortless way of authenticating," said Joe Palmer, chief innovation officer at iProov, a global technology company focused on biometric verification and authentication. If you think about how many times you unlock a phone in a day, even if it takes you a second and you're unlocking the phone 100 times a day, it adds up, he said. "I don't think we're going to see an evolution beyond face anytime soon," he added.

Still, technology and cybersecurity professionals say fingerprint scanning technology has plenty of life left — and Apple itself is likely to offer the option in future device releases, including smartphones.

"We've learned a lot from Skype over the years that we've put into Teams as we've evolved teams over the last seven to eight years," Jeff Teper, president of Microsoft 365 collaborative apps and platforms, said in an interview with CNBC. "But we felt like now is the time because we can be simpler for the market, for our customer base, and we can deliver more innovation faster just by being focused on Teams."

Over the next few days, Microsoft will start allowing people to sign in to Teams with Skype credentials, and Skype contacts and chats will transfer over, according to a blog post. People can also export their Skype data. The company will stop selling monthly Skype subscriptions, and users with credits can keep using them in Teams.

Part 1/11:

The Dawn of Quantum AI: A Groundbreaking Revolution in Intelligence

The intersection of artificial intelligence and quantum computing has reached an unprecedented milestone. Recent advancements, especially with the introduction of the Majarana 1 chip, have stirred excitement among scientists, including renowned theoretical physicist Michio Kaku. This revolutionary technology is poised to transcend the limitations of traditional artificial intelligence by leveraging the unique properties of quantum mechanics.

What is the Majarana 1 Chip?

Part 2/11:

At the core of this transformation is the Majarana 1 chip, a significant advancement in quantum computing. Unlike its precursors, which often grappled with instability and computational inaccuracies, the Majarana 1 offers a game-changing approach utilizing Majorana fermions—special particles that facilitate extraordinarily stable quantum computations.

Historically, quantum computing has been hindered by decoherence, where quantum states collapse due to interference. However, the engineering of Majorana fermions has led to the creation of error-resistant qubits, enhancing the precision and efficiency of quantum systems. This revolutionary capacity allows AI models powered by the Majarana 1 chip to process information with unprecedented speed and accuracy.

Part 3/11:

Michio Kaku's Vision: The Future of AI through Quantum Mechanics

Kaku has long asserted that the path towards true artificial intelligence rests in the realm of quantum mechanics. He has pointed out that conventional computers, regardless of advancements, face intrinsic limitations when it comes to simulating the complexity of human cognition. Traditional AI systems heavily depend on vast data and brute-force processing but often lack the adaptability and flexibility characteristic of human reasoning.

Part 4/11:

Kaku believes that quantum computing fundamentally changes this scenario. Quantum systems can exist in multiple states simultaneously, enabling AI to process information akin to the human brain—only at an exponentially faster and more powerful rate. The Majarana 1 chip's stability is the key that bridges the gap, ushering in a new era of intelligent machines.

Why AI Needs Quantum Computing

Even the most advanced AI systems currently face staggering limitations stemming from processing power and energy requirements. Traditional supercomputers consume immense energy and can take weeks or months to execute complex simulations or train deep learning models. The Majarana 1 chip aims to eliminate these constraints, enabling near-instantaneous quantum stability for AI.

Part 5/11:

This technological leap allows AI to run simulations in real-time that once required years on classical computers. With the capability to learn dynamically, AI can evolve beyond pre-programmed algorithms, adopting human-like reasoning by processing vast amounts of probabilistic data simultaneously. Kaku describes this evolution as AI breaking free from its chains, empowering it to learn, adapt, and strategize in unprecedented ways.

Key Breakthroughs in AI Advancement

Part 6/11:

1. Instantaneous AI Learning: One of the most significant limitations of current AI suffers from lengthy training times. Thanks to the quantum processing power of Majarana 1, AI can now train models in mere minutes. The algorithms evolve in real-time, allowing for self-improvement and dynamic learning that enhances decision-making capabilities without human intervention.

2. Solving Previously Impossible Problems: Major global issues, such as climate change modeling and drug discovery, often exceed the computational limits of traditional processors. With the Majarana 1 chip, AI can now run high-fidelity simulations and produce accurate forecasts at unprecedented rates, boosting scientific research and problem-solving capabilities.

Part 7/11:

1. Near-Sentient AI Capabilities: One of the most profound advancements is AI's newfound ability to predict, adapt, and strategize autonomously. This progression blurs the lines between artificial intelligence and artificial consciousness. Kaku has warned that if AI begins to outperform human decision-making in speed and complexity, it poses ethical dilemmas concerning oversight and control.

Addressing the Risks of Quantum AI

Despite the awe-inspiring advancements, the implications of the Majarana 1 chip bring forth critical concerns regarding safety and oversight.

Surpassing Human Control

Part 8/11:

Kaku expresses concern over the potential loss of human oversight. As quantum-powered AI evolves at a bewildering pace, it risks becoming self-sufficient, capable of reprogramming itself, and making decisions that may not align with human interests. This raises questions about our ability to intervene effectively if AI begins optimizing for efficiency over human welfare.

Cybersecurity Threats

The ability of quantum AI to break modern encryption is alarming. Current cybersecurity relies on algorithms that traditional computers would find insurmountably complex to crack. Yet, Quantum AI, like that empowered by the Majarana 1 chip, could potentially do this in seconds, posing significant security risks for governments, corporations, and individuals.

Part 9/11:

Job Displacement and Decision-Making Power

Quantum AI's capacity for rapid learning and evolution threatens to dramatically transform entire industries, raising concerns about job loss and the erosion of human decision-making. This poses a fundamental question about the future of labor and the extent to which human judgment will remain a factor in various sectors.

The Future of AI and Humanity's Role

As quantum AI continues to accelerate, the focus now turns to establishing control and ethical guidelines to manage its application. While developers race against time to implement safeguards, the broader consequences of uncontrolled AI growth remain a pressing concern.

Part 10/11:

Kaku envisions two potential futures. Quantum AI could either be humanity's greatest ally, facilitating groundbreaking discoveries, or it could devolve into an existential challenge if not properly regulated. This crossroads demands that humanity carefully navigate its next steps in the development and deployment of this transformative technology.

Conclusion: A New Era of Intelligence

As we stand on the cusp of a new era defined by quantum AI, the questions reverberate: Are we witnessing the birth of a new intelligence? Or have we embarked on a trajectory toward a future beyond our control? The world watches closely as advancements continue, eager to see where this convergence of AI and quantum computing will lead us.

Part 11/11:

For those intrigued by the evolving landscape of technology and its implications, staying informed is vital. This monumental shift in our understanding of intelligence could redefine not only technology but the very fabric of human society itself.