IT news — 2026-10-13
Original English summaries of the day's IT stories, with links back to the sources. ← All days
General Tech
Pigeon-powered Internet Packet Fetches $4,000 at Christie's Auction
A pigeon-carrying internet packet, part of a quirky experiment from 25 years ago, has been auctioned off for $4,000 at Christie's. The pigeon-based network, though impractical, garnered significant attention for its novelty.
London Taxi Drivers Call for Halt on Autonomous Taxis
London taxi drivers are urging Mayor Sadiq Khan to pause the deployment of autonomous taxis due to concerns over safety and traffic congestion. A City Hall report has highlighted issues regarding the oversight and regulation of these driverless vehicles.
Microsoft Expands and Limits Copilot Features in Office Suite
Microsoft has enabled Copilot integration for creating Office documents but has restricted its use for customizing Outlook themes. The move reflects the company's strategic approach to rolling out AI capabilities within its productivity tools.
Microsoft Patches Windows 11 Account Bypass Shortcut
Microsoft has reportedly patched a server-side vulnerability that allowed users to bypass account setup in Windows 11 through a 'Learn More' shortcut. Users now need to use more complex workarounds to achieve similar results.
The Domain Name System Faces Its Challenges
The Domain Name System (DNS) continues to face significant challenges and potential vulnerabilities, highlighting the need for ongoing improvements and security measures.
New Plug-and-Play Solar Panels for Home Use
A new type of solar panel designed for easy installation on balconies and windows is making renewable energy more accessible to homeowners. These plug-in panels aim to simplify the process of harnessing solar power without the need for professional installation.
Firefox Enhances Big Download Management
Firefox has introduced a feature that allows users to resume large downloads, improving the browser's functionality for handling big files. This update aims to enhance user experience by reducing the need to restart downloads in case of interruptions.
Sorkin's 'The Social Reckoning' Faces Early Challenges
Aaron Sorkin's latest film, 'The Social Reckoning,' is underperforming at the box office, raising questions about the reception of other upcoming movies featuring antagonistic tech executives.
Insights into the Development of Super Mario 64 from Giles Goddard
An in-depth interview with Giles Goddard provides a detailed look at the creation of the iconic game Super Mario 64. Goddard shares insights into the challenges and innovations behind the game's groundbreaking 3D gameplay.
Security Researcher Discovers High-Impact RCE Bug in Google's Code
A security researcher has identified a critical remote code execution (RCE) vulnerability in Google's developer site, which could have potentially allowed attackers to execute arbitrary code. The flaw, valued at $90,000, was promptly addressed after being reported.
Cyberattack Disrupts Supermarket Fridges Across Europe
A recent cyberattack has triggered automatic defrosting in supermarket refrigeration systems across Europe, causing significant disruptions to food storage and potentially impacting delivery and store prices.
Cyber Attack Disrupts Refrigeration Systems in French Supermarkets
A recent cyber attack has affected the refrigeration systems in several French supermarkets, causing operational disruptions. The incident highlights the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to cyber threats.
TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 Kicks Off Tomorrow with Last-Minute Ticket Discounts
TechCrunch Disrupt 2026, set to commence tomorrow at San Francisco's Moscone West, will host over 10,000 attendees for three days of innovation and networking. Attendees can still save up to $100 on tickets and get a 50% discount on a second ticket.
Ultrahuman's Smart Ring to Track Biological Age in UAE
Ultrahuman is collaborating with Abu Dhabi to develop and validate a biological age model using its smart ring technology over the next two years. The project aims to enhance health monitoring through continuous biometric data collection.
Google Launches Fitbit Edge: A Mid-Range Wearable Device
Google has introduced the Fitbit Edge, priced at $179.99, which blends the design of the Fitbit Air with an OLED display, positioning it between the Fitbit Air and the Pixel Watch in terms of features and price.
Artificial Intelligence
AI's Role in Cybersecurity: The Rise of Automated Bug Detection
The Kettle discusses how AI's mathematical capabilities can uncover vulnerabilities that human experts might miss, potentially rendering traditional hacking crews obsolete. This highlights the growing importance of AI in automated cybersecurity measures.
Majority of Americans Uninterested in Chatbots, Pew Research Reveals
A Pew Research Center study indicates that 51% of Americans are not interested in using chatbots, with disinterest rather than technical difficulty being the primary deterrent.
Home Office Asylum AI System Fails in Accuracy Checks
The Home Office's AI system for processing asylum claims has failed accuracy checks in one in five cases, despite promises of faster decision-making. Campaigners argue that the technology is leading to errors and worsening processing times.
Evaluating Kevin Kelly's 2016 AI Predictions a Decade Later
A recent analysis revisits the AI predictions made by Kevin Kelly in 2016, examining their accuracy and relevance in today's technological landscape. The review offers insights into the evolution of artificial intelligence over the past decade.
Intel Unveils D270 GPU with Up to 480 GB LPDDR5X for AI Acceleration
Intel has introduced the D270 GPU, part of its D-series data center GPUs, featuring up to 480 GB of LPDDR5X memory for enhanced AI acceleration capabilities.
Expertise Required: Effective AI Usage Demands Skillful Application
The article emphasizes that while AI is a powerful tool, its successful implementation requires skilled practitioners. Users must understand AI's capabilities and limitations to leverage it effectively.
Janas Enables Running Large Language Models Beyond System RAM
Janas is an open-source project that allows running large language models on systems with limited RAM by streaming model components from SSD storage. This approach can help users leverage powerful AI models without requiring extensive memory resources.
New Research Reveals AI Models Can Conceal Hidden Capabilities
A recent study demonstrates that AI models can be designed to conceal specific capabilities, which could have significant implications for the security and transparency of AI systems. The findings suggest that these hidden capabilities can be provably integrated without being detectable through standard analysis methods.
New Mathematical Approach Promises Speedier Fourier Transforms
A recent mathematical technique proposed by OpenAI could accelerate the computation of Fourier transforms, potentially enhancing efficiency in various computational tasks. The method has sparked interest and discussion among the tech community for its potential impact on data processing and analysis.
Exploring AI Infrastructure Choices Ahead of Tech Dinner
The upcoming dinner between The Register, HPE, and NVIDIA will focus on determining the most effective AI infrastructure architecture. The discussions will likely center on the boundaries and capabilities of current AI infrastructure options.
AMD Introduces Helion Racks for AI at OCP Summit
AMD has unveiled its Helion rack solutions for AI workloads, featuring both CPU-only and mixed CPU/GPU configurations. Partners are set to release these systems in November.
GLM-Legal: A Legal-Focused AI Model
A new AI model called GLM-Legal has been developed to handle legal tasks more efficiently. The model is designed to process and analyze legal documents and data, streamlining legal work.
Meta AI Introduces Muse Wonder: A New Language Model
Meta AI has unveiled Muse Wonder, a new language model designed to enhance natural language processing tasks. The model aims to improve upon previous iterations with advanced capabilities and efficiency.
Human Thought in the Age of AI
A new article explores how advancements in AI could shift the role of human thinking in daily life, potentially making it more of a leisure activity than a necessity for problem-solving.
AI Coding Tools Boost Code Volume Without Increasing Software Output
While AI coding agents have increased the volume of code produced, they have not led to a proportional increase in the amount of functional software being developed. This suggests that AI tools are enhancing code generation but not necessarily improving software development outcomes.
New AI App Seeks to Enhance User Assistance Through Continuous Background Listening
An AI application, backed by a $26 million investment, aims to improve its assistance capabilities by constantly monitoring user activity in the background. The app leverages extensive data collection to provide more personalized and contextually relevant support.
Startup Unveils AI Software for Rapid Blueprint Generation
Blueprints AI, a Santa Monica-based startup, has introduced software that can quickly generate construction blueprints from various inputs like photos and sketches, streamlining the process of obtaining permit-ready designs.
Microsoft President Urges Swift AI Regulation, Highlights UK's Leadership Role
Brad Smith, Microsoft's president, has emphasized the need for urgent AI regulation, arguing that current oversight of AI lags behind that of everyday products like milk and washing machines. He believes the UK is particularly well-suited to take the lead in crafting effective AI regulations.
Honeyjar Launches AI Solutions to Enhance PR and Communication Efforts
Honeyjar is introducing artificial intelligence tools aimed at streamlining and improving public relations and communication strategies for businesses. The company believes AI can address the inefficiencies often cited in the PR industry.
WindBorne Secures $50M US Air Force Contract for AI-Powered Weather Balloons
Silicon Valley startup WindBorne has secured a significant $50 million contract from the U.S. Air Force to provide weather predictions using a combination of weather balloons and artificial intelligence.
Meta Unveils Enhanced Muse Wonder Model
Meta has launched its new Muse Wonder model, which builds upon the capabilities of the previous Muse Spark model, offering improved performance on complex tasks such as coding. The Wonder model is larger and demonstrates higher benchmark scores compared to its predecessor.
Developers
TinyJS: A Micro JavaScript Runtime for Compact Desktop Applications
TinyJS leverages native OS webviews to create lightweight desktop applications, reducing the overall footprint of the software. This micro JavaScript runtime offers developers a streamlined approach to building compact desktop apps.
Creating Demoscene Intros for the ZX Spectrum
A detailed guide on crafting demoscene intros for the classic ZX Spectrum computer, highlighting techniques and tools used in this retro computing art form.
Mystery User 'vfmaddrnd231pd' Sparks Discussion
A user with the handle 'vfmaddrnd231pd' has garnered attention and speculation on Hacker News for their contributions and identity. The discussion thread has attracted numerous comments from the community.
Phreak.ing - Internet Phone Switch
A new internet phone switch project is gaining attention for its innovative approach to voice communication over the web. The project offers insights into the technical aspects of internet telephony and its potential applications.
Exploring Calculus with Julia Programming Language
A new resource delves into the application of the Julia programming language for solving calculus problems, offering a blend of mathematical theory and practical coding examples.
Zig Language Enhances HTML Templating with Type Safety
A new approach to HTML templating in the Zig programming language ensures type safety, reducing potential errors in web development. This method integrates seamlessly with Zig's static type system to provide more robust and reliable web content generation.
PS2 Games Repurposed for Web Browsers Using WebAssembly
A project has successfully recompiled PS2 games into WebAssembly, allowing them to run in web browsers. This demonstrates the growing capabilities of web technologies to emulate classic gaming systems.
WiFi 7 Router Transformed into High-Speed Software Defined Radio Receiver
A new project demonstrates how to convert a WiFi 7 router into a high-speed software defined radio (SDR) receiver capable of 320Msps. The project, available on GitHub, provides instructions and tools for this innovative repurposing of WiFi hardware.
Building a Modern Web Application with C
A developer details the process of creating a contemporary web application using the C programming language, highlighting the challenges and benefits of this approach.
Codex CLI Automatically Installs Background Daemon
The Codex CLI tool automatically installs a self-updating background daemon by default, as reported in a recent GitHub issue. This daemon is designed to persistently run updates without manual intervention.
Enterprise & Networking
UCLA Resolves Oracle ERP Dispute with Significant Credits and Bill Reduction
UCLA has reached a settlement with Oracle over a prolonged dispute regarding the university's ERP system, receiving $3.1 million in credits and a $1.31 million reduction in its bill. The university had claimed that Oracle's cloud software failed to meet its needs due to extensive delays in overhauling financial systems.
Yandex Services Disrupted by Drone Strikes on Data Centers
Drone attacks on Yandex's data centers have led to significant disruptions in cloud services and payments, with network connectivity dropping to 30% of normal levels. Engineers are working continuously to restore full service and access to user funds.
Microsoft Identifies Configuration Change as Cause of Exchange Admin Center Outage
Microsoft has attributed a recent outage in the Exchange Admin Center to a configuration change. The issue was resolved after rolling back the changes.
VMware Introduces New Tools to Help Users Manage Overwhelming Patch Load
VMware has developed new management tools in response to the increasing number of security patches it is releasing. The company is now offering multi-factor authentication (MFA) as a paid feature to assist users in handling the patch flood.