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Concise news summaries
The article challenges the idea that a high IQ score defines genius or superiority by highlighting how IQ tests often rely on outdated metrics like speed (from 1949) and objectivity (from 1993), which can lead to inaccurate conclusions about intelligence. It also emphasizes the subjective nature of certain assessments, such as analogies based on cultural assumptions, and argues that genius can manifest in diverse ways beyond traditional IQ scores. The piece advocates for evaluating genius through contributions and work rather than tests, suggesting true genius is multifaceted and influenced by various factors.
Pope Leo XIV met with US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Vatican City following his inaugural Mass. Vance reportedly invited Leo, despite past criticism of his immigration policies, to visit the US. The meeting aimed to strengthen ties between the Catholic Church and the U.S., with discussions likely centered on policy issues.
Inhuman Resources is a groundbreaking interactive fiction experience that reimagines storytelling as an immersive, emotionally resonant journey through a dystopian corporate world. Its layered characters and stunningly crafted narrative make every choice feel consequential, and at just $14.99 on Steam, it offers unparalleled value for fans of engaging storytelling. Take the plunge—it’s a thrilling ride you won’t want to miss.
Elon Musk, a key ally of Donald Trump, has decided to leave the administration after only 128 days in his role as a "special government employee." In a post on his social media platform X, he thanked Trump for allowing him to reduce wasteful spending and expressed hope that his efforts would become a lasting part of the government. Despite being granted just over a year for such roles, Musk faced disappointment when Trump's administration proposed significant tax breaks for the wealthy and major cuts to clean energy programs, while also increasing the federal budget.
Samsung's Summer Sale offers a massive $70 discount on the base Galaxy S25, making it available for just $800. The phone comes in seven unique colors and can be paired with other devices for additional savings. Meanwhile, Prakhar Khanna recommends the standard Galaxy S25 over the Ultra, praising its comfortable feel, vibrant display, and improved chipset. For those willing to spend more, the S25 Ultra offers significant discounts through Samsung's trade-in program but at a smaller discount rate compared to other models. The deal is set to expire on June 8, 2025, so shoppers should act quickly to secure these savings.
Excitedly, both tech enthusiasts and Gen-Z eyewear fans have embraced Meta's Ray-Ban smartglasses, which have already sold over two million pairs since launch in October 2023. The glasses deliver exceptional audio quality with a five-microphone, two-speaker system, outperforming favorite earbuds. An AI-powered translation feature offers practical convenience and surprising accuracy, while the top button provides easy access to smart assistant functions, making them user-friendly without needing to remove their phone. Stylish and functional, the design closely resembles regular Ray-Bans, though battery life could be refined further.
The United States has once again blocked a United Nations Security Council resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, marking the fifth time it has used its veto power since Israel's conflict began nearly a year ago. Despite international efforts to de-escalate tensions and achieve stability, both Israel and Hamas have continued their hostilities, raising concerns about whether permanent Security Council vetoes undermine the body's ability to enforce resolutions effectively.
Harrods, a prominent British retailer, has fallen victim to a cyberattack, raising alarms about the vulnerability of luxury businesses. The attack disrupted some purchases for customers, though their payment data remained secure. As a precautionary measure, the store restricted internet access after detecting unauthorized system access earlier this week. Meanwhile, other major British retailers like Marks & Spencer and Co-op have also experienced online breaches, with all three attacks likely connected due to the lack of clear evidence otherwise.
At a Microsoft Build conference, an employee named Joe Lopez interrupted Satya Nadella by shouting "Free Palestine" while protesting the company's collaboration with the Israeli government on projects that harm Palestinians. After confronting him, Lopez sent a public email condemning Microsoft's continued work with Israel despite ongoing humanitarian crises in Gaza. This latest incident follows his earlier protest and reflects broader concerns about the company's responsibility to address global issues through its technology.
Those features were previously only seen in demos of Project Astra, a “universal AI assistant“ that Google DeepMind is working on. Now, Google is inching toward putting Project Astra into the hands of anyone with a smartphone. But with its existing ecosystem of consumer services and billions of existing users, Google has a clear advantage. Power users wanting access to the latest versions of everything on display can now sign up for Google AI Ultra for $250 a month. But by putting AI in everything, Google is turning AI into a technology we won’t notice and may not even bother to name.
Intense rain didn’t stop thousands of Sydney voters from casting their ballots early on Monday, avoiding the chaos of election day. Mick Ragusa, a 25-year-old electrician, chose to vote ahead of his intended holiday, preferring the calm of early voting over the noise and confusion of election day. With nearly 3 million people already casting their votes in early voting, this trend is growing steadily across all federal electorates as the campaign heats up. Political analysts suggest this increase reflects changing voter preferences driven by flexible work arrangements, family responsibilities, and the convenience of avoiding crowds on election day.
Joe Lopez, a Microsoft employee, sparked controversy during the company’s Build conference by making pro-Palestinian comments about Israel’s use of Azure technology, leading him to be escorted out and subsequently issuing an explanation. Microsoft denied allegations that its cloud platform was involved in surveillance or military operations in Israel, while a worker-led group, Noaa, opposed these claims on behalf of Palestinian rights advocates. The incident highlights growing tensions over the company’s technology involvement in Israel and has prompted further protests within the organization, including firings for speaking out.
"A teenager at a French high school in Nantes has caused concern over school safety following an attack during lunch break where he stabbed four students, killing one and wounding others before being apprehended. The suspect, believed to be 15 or 16 years old, sent a message expressing views on systemic violence and social alienation, as recent knife attacks in schools have heightened sensitivity."
The recent changes to U.S. import tariffs announced by President Trump are set to increase costs for goods imported from China and Hong Kong, including electronics, toys, and clothing. The de minimis exception, which allowed low-valued items to enter the U.S. without duties, is expiring, leading businesses like Shein and Temu to raise prices as they adapt to the new rules. Trump's administration will now impose either a 30% tariff on each imported package or a flat fee of $25 (increasing to $50 starting June 1), marking an escalation in the ongoing trade war with China, which has triggered retaliatory tariffs from Beijing.
The Israeli military has been repurposing DJI drones for devastating attacks on civilians and protected targets in Gaza, including hospitals, shelters, and prisoners. These modifications involve adding explosive payloads and using different drone models suited for surveillance and combat, leading to significant civilian casualties. This misuse is unprecedented, with historical precedents during the Russia-Ukraine conflict but no prior actions against such practices by DJI in Israel or Ukraine despite warnings. Despite this, DJI has not halted sales to Israel or imposed further restrictions on drone operations over Gaza, highlighting a notable double standard.
The game was unveiled at PlayStation’s State of Play event ahead of Summer Games Fest 2025, featuring a dynamic tag fighting system inspired by iconic Marvel team-ups. With characters like Captain America, Iron Man, Spider-Man, and more, it promises over-the-top action across PS5 and PC platforms in 2026. Kazuto Sekine highlighted its potential to redefine tag combat creatively.
“I’m sorry,” the researcher interrupted, “the bunker?”“We’re definitely going to build a bunker before we release AGI,” Sutskever replied. To plug the hole, Altman reformulated OpenAI’s legal structure, creating a new “capped-profit” arm within the nonprofit to raise more capital. “I don’t think Sam is the guy who should have the finger on the button for AGI,” Sutskever said in one such meeting, according to notes I reviewed. “I don’t feel comfortable about Sam leading us to AGI,” Murati said in another, according to sources familiar with the conversation. To quell the rising concerns about generative AI’s present-day performance, Altman has trumpeted the future benefits of AGI ever louder.
TheNames by Florence Knapp explores how our names shape decisions, relationships, and life choices beyond identity, using Cora's son-naming struggle in her abusive marriage as a poignant narrative. The book delves into the profound consequences of naming Julian, Bear, or Gordon, reflecting the lasting impact of domestic abuse on lives. Knapp's empathetic storytelling weaves these choices together, highlighting how decisions ripple through our lives and leave enduring echoes of our pasts, ultimately challenging us to consider the weight of such choices.
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) and other offshore territories have failed to meet a key deadline for updating transparency laws aimed at combatting financial crime, with critics questioning their approach after launching a cartoon mascot as part of a new initiative. MPs expressed concern over delays in implementing measures that could enhance global accountability, noting that the BVI’s failure to adopt legislation risks undermining efforts to fight corruption and money laundering. The BVI government recently launched a campaign featuring a cartoon bird, Riley Right, which aims to promote transparency but has been criticized for trivializing serious financial crimes.
The Oklahoma City Thunder secured their first Game 7 victory over the Denver Nuggets, advancing them to the Western Conference finals. Key contributors included Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s impressive 35-point performance and Jalen Williams’ impactful 24 points as the Thunder outclassed the Nuggets in a hard-fought matchup. Defeating a team recently claimed an NBA title and previously defeated the Los Angeles Clippers in seven games, Oklahoma City demonstrated resilience by overcoming significant challenges while handling high-pressure situations crucial to their historic win.
"Dancing with the Stars has welcomed wildlife conservationist Robert Irwin to its Season 34 as a celebrity hoofer, following in the footsteps of his sister Bindi, who previously earned a Mirrorball Trophy. The season will also feature a full cast announcement soon. The show continues its success, ranking No. 1 among adults 18-49 and breaking records with younger audiences, including over 32 million votes for the final winner."
The 'Oscar' of food prizes honors Mariangela Hungria, a microbiologist in Brazil, for pioneering work that transformed agricultural practices by harnessing bacterial benefits to boost crop yields. Despite initial skepticism and challenges, her research led to breakthroughs in soil fertility, making farmers more efficient and reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers. Her work has not only revolutionized Brazilian agriculture but also inspired new initiatives aimed at improving sustainability and inclusivity in farming.
Mistral AI has emerged as a leader in enterprise AI coding assistants, targeting companies requiring secure and compliant solutions. By emphasizing European regulations like GDPR and the EU AI Act, Mistral addresses specific compliance needs for enterprises. Its offering includes advanced workflows beyond code completion, along with on-premise deployment and customization features while maintaining security and regulatory standards. With a focus on innovation, Mistral has hired top AI talent from companies like Meta and partners to scale efficiently without cloud overhead, positioning them as a competitive alternative in the crowded market.
Koffee, a celebrated reggae and dancehall artist, returns with her bold new single "Koffee," which nods to her professional accomplishments while asserting her identity as the "baddest thing out of Jamaica." Produced by GuiltyBeatz, the track features dynamic instrumentation led by simple percussion and groovy bass. The music video, directed by Joshua Valle, offers a visual reflection of Koffee's impactful career choices. Having won the Grammy for Best Reggae Album at 20 in 2020, Koffee continues to refine her craft with her latest release, showcasing her evolution as both an artist and a leader in her field.
Pope Leo XIII has shown a notable shift in political alignment, voting primarily for Republicans since 2010 but opting for Democrats earlier in his career, as revealed by extensive records from Chicago and Illinois. He has consistently participated in general elections over two decades, casting absentee ballots during key presidential contests while also varying his party affiliations in local primaries.
Dr. Mohammed Mustafa arrived home after weeks of service in Gaza, where he provided aid during a humanitarian crisis at the final functioning hospital. A decorated medical professional, he shared his experiences with Nour Haydar and emphasized the need for Australia to support Gaza's healthcare workers amid the global conflict. His trip underscores his commitment to saving lives and improving conditions for others in dire circumstances.
The Memorial Day weekend kickstarts summer, making it the perfect time to crank up your music. Grab the JBL Clip 5 portable Bluetooth speaker for $50 after a $30 discount—save big while enjoying tunes on the go! Boasting crystal-clear sound with booming bass and handling everything from backyard parties to beach days, this rugged device also charges for up to 12 hours of playtime plus extra battery life. Choose from vibrant colors or opt for classic black, and pair it with other speakers using Auracast for a seamless audio experience—perfect for parties!
"JOI, the growing fetish of choice for adults, is revolutionizing the adult content space. These videos feature someone guiding viewers through masturbation, blending control, seduction, and emotional connection. With U.S. sales up 186% since 2022 and Germany leading the charge at a staggering 208% spike, JOI is now a top global category. Creators embrace this format for its connection-driven appeal, allowing fans to feel desired and in control. Whether it’s a deeply immersive trance experience or a moment of permission, JOI offers both therapeutic and excitatory moments, making it more than just another fetish—it’s a movement that’s changing how we explore our sexuality."
The Baltimore Ravens have come to an end for Justin Tucker, a kicker known for his incredible career with the team, after being suspended following an investigation into sexual misconduct allegations. Tucker, who was one of the longest-tenured players on the team and played in their Super Bowl-winning roster, will be replaced by the newly selected kicker Tyler Loop in the NFL draft. The decision to release Tucker, amid his ongoing legal troubles, marks a significant chapter for both him and the Ravens as they move forward with a new beginning.
Ruben Amorim, Manchester United’s controversial coach, finds himself under mounting pressure amid a struggling Premier League campaign despite leading his side to a thrilling Europa League final in 1992. The injury-plagued season, exacerbated by cost-cutting measures and inconsistent performances, has left the club in turmoil as key players are sidelined due to injuries while Amorim struggles to maintain cohesion amidst rising frustration. Despite reaching a major European final last term, his team now faces the daunting task of turning around their form if they are to avoid further collapse.
Ruth Eleonora López, a prominent Venezuelan lawyer and former Cristosal head, has been arrested in El Salvador on embezzlement charges tied to her role as the country’s electoral court chief. Despite efforts by her legal teams, her whereabouts remain unknown, with authorities accused of violating due process. The case highlights growing concerns about heightened risks for human rights defenders in El Salvador under President Nayib Bukele, a Trump ally, who has tightened oversight over critics and civil society groups. International organizations have condemned the situation, urging the government to treat human rights defenders fairly and release López immediately.
Prepare for an unforgettable journey in *Where the Sun Always Shines*, a dark comedy-drama starring Claes Månsson and Suzanne Reuter as Tom and Petra, a couple whose peaceful life takes a wild turn after selling their Ica store. The series, shot in Mallorca, premieres on SkyShowtime Nov. 10, following Tom's 50th birthday party and the ensuing chaos as they move to the Spanish island. Joining them are familiar faces like Lisa Linnertorp and Sofia Ledarp, alongside rising stars like August Wittgenstein.
Canada's 45th Parliament marks a pivotal moment as the country grapples with political and economic challenges influenced by U.S. policies, including tariffs and trade threats. Voters prioritize addressing rising costs, preserving economic strength, and navigating societal progress while tackling citizen struggles, setting the stage for shaping future policies under a minority government led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau or his colleague Jean-Yves Champagne.
A.J. Brown announced a heartfelt proposal to his girlfriend Kelsey Riley during the Philadelphia Eagles' Super Bowl LIX victory over the Kansas City Chiefs in February, with John Legend serenading them live on camera. The romantic gesture featured the musician playing "Pride On Fire," and Brown shared a photo of the couple alongside his colleagues, including DeVonta Smith, Jahan Dotson, and Nakobe Dean. This moment marked both a professional triumph for the Eagles and a significant personal milestone for Brown.
Celebrate 10 years of Avengers: Age of Ultron, as Marvel dropped a special video honoring the film, showcasing Tony Stark in Hulkbuster armor and the birth of the Vision—moments that highlight its standout moments while hinting at how its legacy has evolved over time. The video also pays homage to Joss Whedon’s post-AV struggles and legal troubles involving a former Buffy star, reminding us that while it was groundbreaking for the MCU, it feels like an uneven predecessor to later works like *Captain America: Civil War* and *Thor: Ragnarok*.
The next two weeks will “decide the future of Poland”, its prime minister, Donald Tusk, has warned, as the country prepares for a presidential runoff vote on 1 June after a nail-bitingly close first round. Trzaskowski had long been seen as the frontrunner, whose election would allow Poland to end the months-long standoff between the centrist-led parliament and populist right presidency. Tusk and his coalition took power in 2023, promising to reverse the erosion of democratic checks and balances that had marked PiS’s eight years in government. As the closer-than-anticipated result rolled in on Sunday night, Tusk took to social media to try to galvanise voters. Everything was at stake now, he wrote, adding that “the next two weeks will decide the future” of Poland.
The Slate Truck offers a no-frills, customizable base with affordable pricing and essential safety features like Active Emergency Braking, making it an accessible and practical choice for everyday driving and hauling needs. With a starting price under $20,000 after incentives, it’s built to be user-friendly in the U.S., while Amazon plans to enhance its capabilities further. This simple yet robust electric truck stands out as a cost-effective alternative, balancing affordability with dependability for both drivers and businesses.
Essendon's leadership and stability were under scrutiny after Saturday night's defeat to Western Bulldogs, with questions about coach Brad Scott's tenability. Amid conflicting reports on media outlets, the club hinted at potential changes, including a possible appointment of former star James Hird. Despite internal discord and past mistakes, President David Barham remains committed to reforming Essendon's management style, acknowledging 20 years of subpar performance. The team is now seeking clarity amid ongoing turmoil, with coach Scott indicating willingness to navigate the next phase cautiously, as Essendon pines for its former glory days.
Walmart has launched a nationwide drone delivery service to five new cities, marking its first major expansion. The partnership with Wing ensures compliance with FAA regulations while offering ultra-fast deliveries up to six miles from stores. Walmart aims to provide this service across 100 stores in these areas soon, with potential delays of up to a year for full implementation. Already achieving over 150,000 drone deliveries in under an hour nationwide, the company highlights its commitment to enhancing speed and convenience for shoppers.
TechCrunch Sessions: AI is gearing up for a big lineup of AI experts at UC Berkeley's Zellerbach Hall on June 5th. Attendees can secure discounted tickets for the full day event, with $292 including a 50% off second ticket. Jared Kaplan, Anthropic's Chief Science Officer, will discuss hybrid reasoning models and risk-governance frameworks, sharing insights from his extensive background in physics and AI development at companies like OpenAI and Google.
Mikel Arteta is preparing forPSG in the Champions League by ensuring his star players like Bukayo Saka remain fit despite Arsenal's poor European form. The north London manager confirmed he won't restSaka, who has 25 goal contributions this season but might need to wait on a possible start against Crystal Palace due to an injury layoff. However, Arteta emphasized the importance of player fitness and availability, stating they must play if fit. Meanwhile, Jorginho's rib injury could sidelined him for a few weeks, raising concerns about his return this season.
Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey are set to announce something big during a press event in London, marking the end of their legendary careers with an exclusive Q&A session livestreamed worldwide. The project they're teasing is called "The Song Is Over," which likely hints at a farewell tour, given its title and connection to one of their most cherished songs. At 80 and 81, respectively, this could be their biggest farewell yet, following a legendary drummer whose exit was hinted at during the event. Townshend later confirmed his rehire for the tour, suggesting Zak Starkey will return if "The Song Is Over" materializes.
The world has a new pope from the United States after Pope Francis passed away. Cardinal Robert Prevost, an American cardinal, was elected as Pope Leo XIV, marking the first time a U.S.-born leader leads the Catholic Church since 1978. Born in Chicago to mixed-parents, Prevost grew up in the Midwest and studied mathematics before earning a doctorate in church law. He served as a mission architect in Peru before ascending through the ranks under Pope Francis, eventually becoming an Augustinian pope—an order inspired by St. Augustine’s teachings of love and humility—after being named after Saint Leo XIV.
Dogs are unique animals with no universal best breed; their suitability depends on lifestyle factors. For families, Labradors and Staffordshire Bul terriers are top picks for different needs. Urban residents benefit from smaller, low-maintenance breeds like Pomeranians and Pugs. Country folks should choose working breeds such as Spaniels or Border Collies. Each choice is tailored to specific requirements like exercise levels, grooming, and energy demands, ensuring a happy and healthy life for both the dog and its owner.
French studio Pathé has exited the UK film market, shifting focus to television series with Faith Penhale at the helm of their TV development arm. The decision was met with disappointment in the UK, though Pathé remains proud of its iconic films like *Slumdog Millionaire* and *Philomena*. President Ardavan Safaee hinted at a potential return this year, citing market changes post-COVID, which have enabled them to expand into globally-oriented productions in Europe and the US. Currently, Pathé continues to showcase notable titles such as *The Count of Monte Cristo* and *13 Days, 13 Nights* at Cannes.
Parents in such communities find harmony by balancing shared living spaces with personal relationships. They support each other through everyday acts of kindness, like sharing snacks or helping with caregiving tasks. Despite challenges arising from differing parenting styles, their close proximity fosters meaningful interactions, creating opportunities for bonding and strengthening connections during both routine and spontaneous moments.
The Indiana Pacers secured their second straight Eastern Conference finals berth with a thrilling 114-105 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers. Tyrese Haliburton scored 31 points and Pascal Siakam added 21, while the Pacers' resilient performance despite an early 19-point deficit in the first half saw them rally to win all three games at Rocket Arena. The Cavs were eliminated by a top-seeded opponent for the first time in years, as they lost three home games in a playoff series. The series now heads to Boston, where the Celtics swept the Pacers last year in the East finals.