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Concise news summaries
Concise news summaries
The UK creative industries are taking a bold stand to protect their future by urging an amendment to force AI companies to share the copyrighted works behind their models. Backed by big names like Paul McCartney and Dua Lipa, the signatories argue that sharing creative data could erode their influence and harm the UK's position as a global leader in tech and arts. Though the UK government initially opposed it, the amendment passed in the House of Lords could now be rolled back. The campaign aims to ensure AI development aligns with national interests and cultural values while safeguarding economic stability for creative industries.
The Qwen3 models also significantly expand multilingual support, now covering 119 languages and dialects across major language families. Model training and architectureIn terms of model training, Qwen3 represents a substantial step up from its predecessor, Qwen2.5. The data sources include web crawls, PDF-like document extractions, and synthetic content generated using previous Qwen models focused on math and coding. The training improvements allow the dense base models of Qwen3 to match or exceed the performance of much larger Qwen2.5 models. Users can integrate Qwen3 models using frameworks such as SGLang and vLLM, both of which offer OpenAI-compatible endpoints.
Jackson Irvine's foot surgery has thrown a wrench into the Australian Socceroos' plans to qualify for next year's World Cup, as their coach Tony Popovic faces challenges managing key absences, including influential midfielder Harry Souttar and Japan's Jordan Bos. The injury adds pressure for the team aiming to overcome Japan and Saudi Arabia in crucial qualifiers while also leaving a void for St Pauli, who are nearing relegation in German football. Popovic will need to juggle an already demanding schedule, particularly struggling to retain faith in midfield players like Massimo Luongo, whose recent injuries have forced changes.
As Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba prepares for U.S.-led trade negotiations, his team has sought advice from opposition leaders on how to counter Trump's demands, including tariffs, emphasizing the need to either match them or avoid escalating tensions. With looming elections, opposition parties like the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan and the Democratic Party for the People are urging caution ahead of a potential shift in power, while also stressing Japan’s commitment to multilateral trade agreements over bilateral ones to ensure global stability.
The Las Culturitas Culture Awards, hosted by Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers, will air live in Los Angeles on July 17 before being broadcast on Bravo August 5 at 9 p.m. ET and Peacock the next day. The ceremony redefines cultural celebration by honoring pop culture icons alongside traditional moments, breaking free from an intellectual focus to bring back love and recognition of significant cultural achievements.
Skid Row's dogs are facing severe neglect, exploitation through fentanyl overdoses, and mistreatment due to a lack of regulation and accountability. Animal rights advocate Joey Tuccio highlights the concerning conditions, noting that while people aren't typically down on their luck, they're using some animals as guinea pigs for profit. Despite calls for action from authorities, politicians, and cops alike, little seems to be changing—no pun intended.
"Kim Williams has faced backlash over his alleged interventions to secure radio interviews for a comedian whose real name was Sandy Gutman, including five instances ahead of regional New South Wales events. His chair, Hugh Marks, clarified that Williams' actions were distressing but emphasized his commitment to governing effectively and maintaining the ABC's reputation. Peter Dutton criticized the ABC as 'hate media,' sparking further tensions over potential audience shifts and cuts to the network."
Iranian officials are urging the United States to agree to a nuclear deal but warned that negotiations could stall due to Trump administration opposition, which demands zero uranium enrichment. President Pezeshkian emphasized Iran’s commitment to peaceful nuclear uses without compromising its sovereignty or facing U.S.-imposed sanctions. However, concerns over differing positions on uranium levels and potential divisions within the administration could further complicate efforts to broker a deal.
Nvidia Unveils Latest Tech to Boost AI Growth. CEO Jensen Huang highlighted updates around their accelerator chips and emphasized expanding product reach and eliminating barriers for AI adoption across industries and countries during Computex in Taiwan. The aim is to strengthen Nvidia's position amid investor uncertainty about datacenter spending sustainability and industry shifts from Trump administration tariffs.
Podcast subscription platform Podimo has appointed Georgia Brown as its chief content officer, a move that brings her extensive experience in content strategy across Europe to drive growth and innovation in original programming and expansion into English-language content. Her leadership at Podimo Studios will create new revenue streams for creators, positioning the company strategically for premium storytelling.
Anthrone-filled Anfield was electric as Liverpool secured their 20th Premier League title under manager Arne Schouten. Mohamed Salah made history by becoming the club’s 28th goal scorer in a single season, while celebrations began long before the final whistle as fans marked an era of triumph since their last victory in 1990. The match was a thrilling spectacle, with Liverpool’s attacking brilliance overshadowing their rivals and delivering unforgettable moments that will be etched into history.
Samsung's 2025 OLED TV lineup introduces Nvidia G-Sync compatibility, delivering smooth gameplay, low latency, and enhanced responsiveness for a seamless gaming experience. The new TVs also support AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), Samsung Gaming Hub, and AI Auto Game Mode, ensuring optimal performance across various games. Additionally, they feature advanced specs like Motion Xcelerator 165Hz and Samsung Vision AI, combining cinematic visuals with immersive sound. The lineup includes the S95F series, known for its AI-optimized features, high contrast, and dynamic colors, along with deep discounts available now.
The author reflects on their outdoor reading experience during summer, noting how distractions like birds and bees actually helped maintain focus while reading a memoir. They discuss Bekah Waalkes' perspective on the benefits of outdoor reading despite its challenges, then highlight two books: Nettie Jones' "Fish Tales," a cultural masterpiece about life in 1970s Detroit, and Andrew Fedorov's exploration of hitchhiking as a way to connect with others.
Chinese leader Xi Jinping didn’t mention President Donald Trump once during his three-nation tour of Southeast Asia this month. As China and the United States prepare for what’s expected to be a long and painful trade war, Southeast Asia is emerging as a first major battleground. Trump’s steep tariffs on goods from countries in Southeast Asia have sent officials in the region scrambling to negotiate relief with the White House. U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods are now as high as 245 percent and Chinese tariffs on U.S. exports are at least 125 percent — duties so high they amount to an embargo. Malaysia is exploring whether Beijing would consider implementing export restraints or halting the devaluation of the yuan, which would make Chinese goods cheaper.
The first chapter of Season 2 of *Star Wars: Andor* delves deeply into the personal struggles and motivations of key Rebellion members, particularly Cassian and Bix. Cassian's journey from a cautious smuggler to a revolutionary figure is compelling, challenging traditional notions of loyalty and authenticity through his interactions with Dr. Gorst. Meanwhile, Bix's internal conflict between her role as a spy and her personal desires is relatable and emotionally resonant, culminating in a satisfying moment of revenge. Mon Mothma's emotional toll on the Rebellion adds depth to her character, making her a tragic yet relatable leader.
The Italian top flight, Serie A, has rescheduled three of its upcoming fixtures until Sunday to accommodate Pope Francis' funeral in Rome, affecting previously planned matches including Inter Milan vs. AS Roma. Other postponed games include Lazio vs Parma on Monday and Como vs Genoa on Sunday, as the league also suspends all Saturday events in Italy following the pope's death.
Spotify has finally made buying audiobooks on its iPhone app more seamless by allowing users to purchase directly within the app and access additional listening hours for Premium members. This update comes after the company previously removed audiobook purchases from its iOS app in 2022 due to concerns over Apple’s App Store rules, which restricted Spotify from collecting fees on purchases made outside the store. The ruling that ended Apple’s control over cross-app purchases enabled Spotify and others like Kindle, Patreon, and Delta to expand their reach beyond the App Store while maintaining fair competition.
Wednesday saw media giants Starz and Disney post strong performance, with both companies outperforming expectations. After eight years under the same ownership, Starz successfully split from Lionsgate and listed on the Nasdaq, seeing its stock surge 40% to close at $11.20. Meanwhile, Disney climbed nearly 11%, marking its first gain above $100 in over five months, as it revealed progress toward a new Abu Dhabi theme park and beating quarterly earnings forecasts. However, broader market conditions remain shaky due to ongoing tariffs and geopolitical tensions, with tech stocks like Alphabet struggling amid potential regulatory shifts.
Pressure is building on US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth as reports of a second Signal chatroom used for sensitive military discussions emerge, alongside criticism from a former top Pentagon spokesperson who accuses the department of chaos under his leadership. John Ullyot, who resigned last week, described the situation as a "full-blown meltdown" that could cost Hegseth his job, while Donald Trump Jr dismissed Ullyot as an exiled critic of the administration. Meanwhile, senators have condemned Hegseth's alleged mishandling of classified information, calling it a threat to national security and urging his resignation amid growing dysfunction at the Pentagon.
Cesar Cadenas/ZDNETThe 12th-Gen ThinkPad X1 Carbon is back on sale. Case in point: the 12th-generation ThinkPad X1 Carbon. The 12th-Gen ThinkPad X1 Carbon has a 14-inch 2.8K resolution (2,880 x 1,800 pixels) OLED display outfitted with image-enhancing software. On battery saver, the ThinkPad X1 Carbon lasted around five hours before dying. ZDNET's buying adviceI would recommend the 12th-generation ThinkPad X1 Carbon to just about everyone: casual users, professionals, programmers, and creators.
The viral Pennsylvania incident involving Christina Solometo, who allegedly pooped on a car in a road rage dispute, has escalated both legally and emotionally. Her lawyer hopes the case can be resolved before trial but hasn't been offered a plea deal yet. The court added more serious charges, including lewdness, which complicates her situation further. Now facing mounting threats and having hired a private security guard for her court appearances, Solometo's path forward remains uncertain as her legal troubles deepen.
The Madrid Group, led by Spain, convened in Spain's capital to pressure Israel to halt the Gaza assault, with nations imposing sanctions and an arms embargo against Israel. The EU is reviewing its trade agreement with Israel, while other countries like the UK, Canada, and France are threatening punitive measures. Questions remain about the timing of these actions and whether they address real ground changes needed for Palestinian rights.
"Coco Gauff aims for her third straight French Open final after losing to top opponents Aryna Sabalenka and Jasmine Paolini on clay. The World No. 3, now ranked No. 2, hopes her recent performances in previous finals can translate into success this time around. Despite struggling with unforced errors in key matches, Gauff remains confident that improved play could lead to a memorable showing at the French Open."
In Ghent in 2020, journalist Bieke Depoorter encountered Henk, a man who spent hours gazing at the moon through a telescope, sparking her curiosity about why he held such a deep connection to the cosmos. Her new book, *Blinked Myself Awake*, weaves memoir and imagery to explore astronomy's history, stargazing practices—both amateur and professional—and how photography reflects objectivity while capturing moments of human wonder. Depoorter is particularly drawn to people observing the sky, as it mirrors their inward reflection in an age dominated by screens. Her work highlights the intimate link between gazing at the stars and inward thought.
Before Israel's 2023 invasion, Gaza enjoyed free, quality education supported by government and international organizations. However, after the Nakba and conflicts, schools and basic infrastructure were destroyed, leaving many families struggling to survive while children now work to earn meager wages. The emotional toll is immense, with children who once eagerly attended school now beg or exploit profiteers. Despite this trauma, Gaza's people remain resolute in their commitment to rebuilding equality and justice.
Android 16 is bringing a new era of multitasking with its ability to run desktop-style interfaces on external displays, thanks to collaboration between Google and Samsung. This feature, built on Samsung's DeX, allows for resizable windows and app dockings, promising enhanced productivity. While the feature may initially support tablets, full adoption will depend on device manufacturers enabling it and developers ensuring compatibility with desktop-like experiences.
States try to revive Medicaid work requirements, worrying some low-income Americanstoggle caption Evan Vucci/APMore than 70 million Americans who are low-income or disabled have health insurance paid for by the state and federal government called Medicaid. While Republicans introduced a bill to create a national work requirement, states have a lot of flexibility to add their own rules. Thanks to Arkansas' Medicaid, Neal is able to afford her essential doctor visits and medications. 'Just another way to cut Medicaid'Proponents of work requirements argue that the policy will help lift low-income individuals out of poverty by motivating them to get jobs. States with limited Medicaid coverage have double the rate of people without insurance, compared with states that have expanded Medicaid coverage.
GOG is preserving Star Wars classics like *Dark Forces* and *X-Wing Special Edition*, among others, as part of its preservation program. With over 162 DRM-free games available on modern systems, including popular titles like *Breath of Fire IV* and *Diablo*, GOG ensures older games remain playable long-term with technical support for future issues.
A Wisconsin judge is on trial for helping an undocumented immigrant evade deportation by interacting with immigration enforcement agents and concealing his presence in court. Charged with conspiracy to conceal and obstruction of justice, she could face six years in prison if convicted on both counts. Protests outside the court included chants about due process rights, while her lawyer entered a not guilty plea, with the case set for trial on July 22.
With just under a month remaining until the June 22 Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly election, municipalities have begun installing large poster boards in neighborhoods to accommodate an expected surge in candidates. Some areas now feature up to 70 slots, a move also aimed to prepare for the subsequent House of Councilors election later this year.
Mohsen Mahdawi, a Columbia University student and Palestinian green-card holder detained by the Trump administration despite no crime charge, was released after a Vermont judge ruled he wasn’t a flight risk or threat to his community. The government used an obscure statute targeting those seen as threats to foreign policy, with no legitimate interest in his continued confinement. Mahdawi expressed hope for justice and the fight for Palestinian rights, while others facing similar detentions remain detained under similar charges.
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.
An Indonesian father of an infant with special needs, who was detained by federal agents at his hospital workplace in Minnesota after his student visa was secretly revoked, will remain in custody after an immigration judge ruled Thursday that his case can proceed. Harsono, 33, was arrested four days after his visa was revoked without notice. Gad said that Harsono was detained without clear explanation and interrogated for hours. Harsono was brought to the Kandiyohi County Jail, where he is still detained, according to the Ice detainee locator. Harsono’s case comes amid a wave of reports of student visas being revoked under the Trump administration’s new executive policy.
Jennifer Lawrence and Robert Pattinson made a strong impression at the Cannes red carpet for their debut film *Die My Love*, directed by Lynne Ramsay, which explores postpartum depression through the story of a woman spiraling into mental disintegration. Damon Wise praised the film's direction, while Lawrence received widespread acclaim, with critics noting her stellar performance and its potential for Oscar recognition.
Kidbash: Super Legend, inspired by Mega Man but with its own flair, combines the best of platforming and roguelike gameplay into a vibrant experience. The game's stunning visuals, dynamic characters, and lifelike environments make it a joy to play, while its creative power-ups let you build your own unique team. A must-play for fans of Mega Man and any gamer who loves to explore and create in the wild west of action.
Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of modernizing the Catholic Church and championing the marginalized. His efforts to address corruption and clergy abuse resonate deeply with millions worldwide. The Washington Post invites readers to share their reflections on his impact through an online submission form.
Stephen A. Smith explodes with anger over Abdul Carter's desire to wear Lawrence Taylor's retired No. 56 during the draft. Lawrence Taylor flatly refused the request, but Hall of Fame legend Phil Simms offered to unretire his No. 11 for Carter or Jaxson Dart, a fellow Giants pick. However, Simms' idea was ultimately rejected after being outvoted by his family, leaving Carter with just his last name on his jersey—a humorous jab at the situation.
With streaming costs going up and services switching platforms without warning, now is an excellent time to own your favorite movies and shows on physical formats like 4K UHD or Blu-ray. This ensures you can always access them regardless of streaming service changes. Keep an eye out for major releases this year, including the upcoming 4K editions of popular films in May such as Lilo & Stitch ahead of its live-action version, and notable TV shows like Longlegs, The Monkey, and A Working Man later this month. For a full list of release dates and details, check our mega-post on upcoming home media releases.
Rebecca Hendin, the Sunday anchor of "Sunday Politics" on BBC1, sheds light on Nigel Farage's re-emergence just in time for local elections. The timing is apparently captured humorously in a cartoon, while his political resurgence gains attention as voters gear up to cast their ballots.
Pierre Poilievre and Peter Dutton, once leading in national elections, found themselves out of government after losing seats they held for decades. Both parties struggled despite initial strong polling, with voters gravitating toward centre-left options. Experts disagree over whether Donald Trump’s influence was significant or merely a distraction during the election campaigns.
Florence Pugh, a beloved actor, surprisingly chose not to share the exact date of her daring stunt in Marvel’s Thunderbolts* film—a decision she made to avoid causing unnecessary worry. She revealed that only two of her closest family members—her sister and best friend—knew when she would jump off the second tallest building in Kuala Lumpur. The actor recalled how she felt during those moments, confident yet calm, as she witnessed the event with loved ones.
An Israeli village nestled between Jews and Palestinians under an 80% tax on foreign donations faces a dire threat to its survival as it relies on international cooperatives like Wahat Salam/Neve Shalom, which depend almost entirely on funding from groups such as the Co-operative Group. The community, home to 300 residents split evenly between the two faiths, is at risk of shutting down key initiatives if a proposed tax law passes, with settler attacks and losing critical international support threatening its peaceful coexistence.
Hamas' lead negotiator indicated readiness for new talks to end the ceasefire in Gaza, but many Gazans will miss Eid al-Adha this year due to severe food shortages caused by Israeli airstrikes.
Get ready for a whimsical and cooperative adventure with *Out of Words*, a new title from Epic Games brought to life by WiredFly and Kong Orange. Players control two endearing figures whose mouths are stolen, creating an intriguing mystery tied into the game's world. The unique combo of stop-motion animation and playful gameplay is inspired by the mind of acclaimed poet Morten Søndergaard. Featuring inversion gravity as a key mechanic alongside other creative traversal powers, *Out of Words* promises to transport players into a world that’s cozy yet fantastical. Launched in 2026 on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and the Epic Games Store, this charming cooperative journey is just around the corner!
Jillian Lauren, the wife of Weezer bassist Scott Shriner and a bestselling author, pleaded not guilty to felony charges related to a Los Angeles Police Department officer-involved shooting where she was seen pointing a gun toward a fence while officers stood behind it. She faces up to 19 years in prison if convicted. Lauren, who released two memoirs reaching the New York Times bestseller list, is due back in court on June 18 for a preliminary hearing after being booked on suspicion of attempted murder.
The shocking death of Cassius Turvey, an Indigenous teenager in Perth, has left the community in grief after a jury convicted two men of murder, one of manslaughter, and acquitted a woman. The case involved complex events over two days, including car window breakings and retributions by school-aged kids, leading to Cassius's fatal injuries from a metal pole. All defendants faced multiple charges, with only Cassius's murder charge remaining unresolved.
Accountability is a top priority for Europe as it seeks to hold Russia legally responsible for the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The EU foreign ministers in Lviv agreed to create a special tribunal, known as the "Lviv statement," to bring Russian President Vladimir Putin and other leaders to justice. However, Russia has rejected the creation of this tribunal, claiming no one should be spared from punishment for its aggression. Meanwhile, the EU is exploring additional legal measures, such as freezing assets, while France announced plans to use frozen Russian funds to maintain weapons for Ukraine, signaling its support despite the conflict.
Game Freak shocked fans by revealing Beast of Reincarnation, an action-adventure game set in a post-apocalyptic Japan following Emma the Sealer and her dog Koo as they fight to save humanity from spreading corruption. Produced by Game Director Kota Furushima and developed by the legendary Game Freak team, the game will launch on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Game Pass on January 18, 2026. Now under Fictions publisher after leaving Take-Two's Private Division label, the game is set to showcase stunning visuals and intense combat.
The ROG Flow Z13 is a sleek, high-performance tablet designed to bridge the gap between gaming laptops and portable workstations. With its compact design, customizable button, and impressive performance in gaming titles like Cyberpunk 2077 at 93 FPS, it offers a versatile experience for both productivity and entertainment. However, its flimsy keyboard, limited portability on uneven surfaces, and higher price compared to similar laptops make it a niche choice suited primarily for creative work rather than prolonged gaming sessions.