A federal judge has ruled that The New York Times and other newspapers can proceed with a copyright lawsuit against OpenAI and Microsoft seeking to end the practice of using their stories to train artificial intelligence chatbots. U.S. District Judge Sidney Stein of New York on Wednesday dismissed some of the claims made by media organizations but allowed the bulk of the case to continue, possibly to a jury trial. “We appreciate Judge Stein’s careful consideration of these issues," New York Times attorney Ian Crosby said in a statement. “As the order indicates, all of our copyright claims will continue against Microsoft and Open AI for their widespread theft of millions of The Times’s works, and we look forward to continuing to pursue them.” The judge's ruling also pleased Frank Pine, executive editor of MediaNews Group and Tribune Publishing, owners of some of the newspapers that are part of a consolidated lawsuit in a Manhattan court. European startup scrubs first test flight of Orbital Rocket “The claims the court has dismissed do not undermine the main thrust of our case, which is that these companies have stolen our work and violated our copyright in a way that fundamentally damages our business,” Pine said a statement. Stein didn't explain the reasons for his ruling, saying that would come “expeditiously.” OpenAI said in a statement it welcomed “the court’s dismissal of many of these claims and look forward to making it clear that we build our AI models using publicly available data, in a manner grounded in fair use, and supportive of innovation.” Microsoft declined to comment. The Times has said OpenAI and its business partner Microsoft have threatened its livelihood by effectively stealing billions of dollars worth of work by its journalists, in some cases spitting out Times’ material verbatim to people who seek answers from generative artificial intelligence like OpenAI’s ChatGPT.

Content creator and AI enthusiast RobinRafan has successfully completed his first-ever AI Masterclass for Content Creators, drawing overwhelming participation from around the world. The online workshop attracted creators from Bangladesh, the USA, UK, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, marking a significant milestone in promoting the use of AI tools in digital storytelling and content creation. With over 500 registrations and 400+ live attendees, the masterclass highlighted the growing interest among creators in leveraging artificial intelligence to elevate their creative work. The online workshop focused on integrating AI into content creation, with a particular emphasis on tools and techniques to enhance digital storytelling. The masterclass covered a range of AI-driven topics, including generating realistic AI content through prompt engineering, transforming images into videos, converting text into video, image-to-anime techniques, and creating original music for content. RobinRafan provided insights into how AI can streamline the content creation process, making it more efficient and engaging. As soon as registration opened, over 500 content creators enrolled in the workshop, leading to early closure of admissions. The live session saw the participation of more than 400 creators, while some were unable to attend due to scheduling conflicts. However, those who missed the session will receive a recorded version via Zoom to ensure they do not miss out on the learning experience. Reflecting on the event, RobinRafan shared, “This was the first time I conducted an online workshop of this scale. It was a challenge, but the response from participants has been overwhelmingly positive.” Following the success of the first season, RobinRafan has announced the second season of his AI Masterclass for Content Creators. Already, more than 300 content creators have enrolled in the online workshop. Scheduled for April 14, 2025, Season 2 aims to provide an even more in-depth exploration of AI applications in content creation, helping creators enhance their skills and stay ahead in the evolving digital landscape. Over 500 content creators enrolled in the workshop, leading to early closure of admissions. The success of this AI masterclass highlights the growing interest among content creators in utilizing AI tools to enhance their creative processes.

Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus has directed the relevant authorities to ensure the commercial launch of Starlink’s satellite broadband internet service in Bangladesh within 90 days. According to officials, during trial broadcasts in the country, Starlink operated using its foreign satellite broadband gateway. But for commercial operations, the company must comply with the Non-Geostationary Satellite Orbit (NGSO) policy, which mandates the use of a local broadband gateway or International Internet Gateway (IIG). Starlink, a subsidiary of Elon Musk’s SpaceX, has been in discussions with Bangladesh’s regulatory authorities regarding the licensing process. The government has emphasised the importance of adhering to national regulations, including spectrum allocation and security requirements, before granting full operational approval. Bangladeshi firms join hands with US telecom giant Starlink Dr Yunus has also formally invited Elon Musk to visit Bangladesh for the official launch of the service. The initiative aims to address the recurring instances of internet shutdowns that have disrupted freelance and business activities. Starlink’s entry into the market is seen as a significant breakthrough in ensuring uninterrupted connectivity, particularly benefiting remote communities and local entrepreneurs. Bangladeshi companies are already collaborating with Starlink to establish ground stations, facilitating the integration of satellite connectivity. Starlink's entry ensures uninterrupted internet in Bangladesh: CA’s Press Secretary Dr Yunus stressed that the new service would complement national efforts spearheaded by entities like Grameen Bank and Grameenphone.

A private European aerospace company called off its maiden attempt to launch an orbital rocket on Monday due to unfavorable wind conditions. Munich-based Isar Aerospace had planned to launch its Spectrum rocket from Andøya, an island in northern Norway. However, the company cited weather, safety, and range infrastructure concerns for the postponement. A new launch date has not yet been set, though a rescheduled attempt could take place later this week. The 28-meter (91-foot) Spectrum is a two-stage launch vehicle designed for small and medium-sized satellites. While the startup has acknowledged that achieving orbit on the first test flight is unlikely, it considers even a 30-second flight a success, as the primary goal is to gather data on the rocket's integrated systems. Science, tradition combine to restore relics in Beijing Isar Aerospace, which has secured more than €400 million ($435 million) in funding, aims to eventually produce up to 40 launch vehicles per year at its facility near Munich. These rockets will primarily be used to deploy satellites into orbit. The company operates independently from the European Space Agency (ESA), which has long conducted satellite launches, mainly from French Guiana and Cape Canaveral, Florida. Source: With input from agency  

In the ever-expanding world of social media wellness content, influencers promote a variety of treatments and products, claiming to aid weight loss, boost energy, or improve overall health. While some of these recommendations may have merit, many are based on trends with little scientific backing, experts warn. Some influencers urge their followers to avoid certain foods, such as seed oils, while others promote restrictive diets, like the meat-heavy carnivore diet. Social media is flooded with endorsements for berberine—dubbed “nature’s Ozempic”—and non-medical IV vitamin therapy, marketed as a cure for hangovers or fatigue. The Rise of Dubious Health ClaimsAlternative health remedies have existed long before the internet, but the sheer volume of online advice today has raised concerns about misinformation, even as some ideas gain mainstream traction. For instance, U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. had his Instagram account suspended in 2021 for spreading misinformation about vaccine safety and COVID-19. Yet, his views still have a significant following. Dr. Mehmet Oz, a former talk show host criticized for making misleading health claims, is now former President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. U.S. regulators recall nearly all Tesla Cybertrucks over safety issue Netflix recently released a documentary on Belle Gibson, an Australian wellness influencer who falsely claimed to have cured her terminal brain cancer with diet and alternative medicine. In 2015, she admitted to fabricating her illness, and an Australian court later fined her for failing to donate money she had pledged from her cookbook and app sales. With personal wellness remaining a trending topic, experts suggest the following strategies to evaluate online health advice: 1. Be Wary of Product PromotionsMost influencers have financial ties to companies, earning money by promoting products through sponsored posts or affiliate links. While this doesn’t necessarily mean they don’t believe in what they’re selling, it does create a conflict of interest. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association last month analyzed around 980 Instagram and TikTok posts about five popular medical tests. Researchers found that many posts were misleading and failed to mention risks, such as overdiagnosis from full-body MRIs or early cancer screenings. Moreover, most of these posts came from users with financial incentives to promote the tests. Timothy Caulfield, a health policy and law professor at the University of Alberta, said supplement promotion is a major source of misinformation, fueling a multibillion-dollar industry. “If someone is selling a supplement, it’s a red flag,” he warned. 2. Check for ExpertiseNot all health influencers have medical credentials. Some may use bold claims to boost engagement, even if their advice lacks scientific backing. “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is,” said Cedric Bryant, CEO of the American Council on Exercise. Before following health advice, check the influencer’s qualifications. In fitness, for example, accredited certification can be verified through the U.S. Registry of Exercise Professionals. The American Medical Association and the American Board of Medical Specialties also offer searchable databases for verifying doctors’ credentials. Even if a qualified expert is promoting a product, consider whether financial ties may influence their recommendations. While Federal Trade Commission (FTC) guidelines require influencers to disclose sponsorships, many fail to do so. In 2023, the FTC warned several influencers, including registered dietitians, for not properly disclosing paid promotions of sugar-containing products and the artificial sweetener aspartame. 3. Compare Claims to Medical ConsensusIf an influencer cites scientific studies, verify whether their claims align with the broader medical consensus. Chinese LiDAR maker Hesai denies U.S. military links amid legal battle “Just because someone has an ‘M.D.’ after their name doesn’t make them entirely trustworthy,” said Stanford psychiatrist Elias Aboujaoude, who studies psychology and technology. He recommends cross-checking claims with reputable sources like major academic institutions or government health agencies. Also, examine whether cited studies are published in peer-reviewed journals. Katherine Zeratsky, a registered dietitian at the Mayo Clinic, cautioned that some health trends emerge from preliminary studies that have not yet been replicated. “One study might show a benefit, but that doesn’t mean it’s been proven effective,” she said. Final ThoughtWith so much health advice circulating online, skepticism is key. While some wellness trends may hold promise, many lack scientific validation. Before making health decisions based on social media posts, verify claims with credible sources and watch for hidden financial motives. Source: With input from agency 

The Trevi Fountain, one of the world’s most iconic landmarks, has captivated audiences in films from Fellini’s La Dolce Vita to Netflix’s Emily in Paris. Every year, millions of tourists navigate Rome’s narrow streets to marvel at the grand Titan god Oceanus, surrounded by cascading waterfalls that flow into the fountain’s striking turquoise basin. Yet, few ever get a glimpse behind the magnificent baroque structure to see the intricate system that keeps the water flowing. Tucked away behind wooden doors on a nearby street lies the control chamber managing the fountain’s water supply, fed by the ancient Aqua Virgo aqueduct, which stretches 16 kilometers (10 miles) to reach the city. Two electric pumps recycle 126 liters (33 gallons) of water per second, with Rome’s water management company, ACEA, overseeing the flow 24/7 to ensure its precision. The delicate balance of water movement is crucial for the fountain’s visual effect, explained Davide D’Alonzo, ACEA’s regional manager. Even the slightest deviation in water levels could disrupt the display. Inside the modern control chamber, metal tanks and illuminated panels manage the system, while the original arched chamber houses a rushing water pipe and an 18th-century hydrometer still used to measure water levels. A large, weathered spreadsheet on the wall lists the names of affluent Roman families who once received water from this chamber—along with records of when their supply was cut off due to unpaid dues. From the grated windows of the chamber, one can peer out at the bustling crowd gathered around the fountain, unaware of the hidden mechanics that sustain its beauty. Visitors eagerly toss coins over their shoulders into the water, following the legend that doing so will ensure their return to the Eternal City.

U.S. safety regulators on Thursday issued a recall affecting nearly all Tesla Cybertrucks on the road, marking the eighth recall since deliveries began in late 2023. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recalled 46,096 Cybertrucks from the 2024 and 2025 model years due to concerns that an exterior panel along the windshield could detach while driving, posing a road hazard and increasing the risk of crashes. Tesla will replace the panel free of charge, and owner notification letters are expected to be mailed by May 19, 2025. The issue involves a stainless steel cant rail assembly that was initially attached using structural adhesive, which regulators found could become brittle under environmental stress. The fix includes stronger adhesive and additional reinforcements. Videos of Cybertruck panels being pulled off by hand have gone viral on social media, drawing further scrutiny to Tesla’s futuristic electric pickup. Trump announces plans to buy a Tesla as sales decline A Troubled Launch for CybertruckThe recall adds to Tesla’s growing list of safety issues, including past recalls for: Faulty electric inverters causing drive wheels to lose power.Stuck acceleration pedals due to interior trim interference.Windshield wiper failures and display screen malfunctions. Tesla, owned by Elon Musk, has faced increasing challenges in 2025, including heightened competition from Chinese EV makers and declining sales. The company’s stock has dropped 42% this year amid growing investor skepticism. Attacks on Tesla Vehicles and Facilities Beyond its business struggles, Tesla has also been the target of attacks on showrooms, charging stations, and private vehicles in recent weeks: In Colorado, a woman was charged for vandalizing Tesla dealerships, throwing Molotov cocktails and spray-painting “Nazi cars” on a building. In South Carolina, federal agents arrested a man accused of setting fire to Tesla charging stations near Charleston. Investigators found anti-government writings in his belongings.Recall Contact Information Musk's embrace of right-wing politics risks turning off car buyers and sinking Tesla's stock Cybertruck owners can contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236, or visit nhtsa.gov for more details. Source: With input from agency 

China’s leading LiDAR manufacturer, Hesai Technology, has denied allegations of links to the Chinese military following a report from short-seller Blue Orca Capital. The company is currently challenging the U.S. Defense Department’s decision to list it as a supplier to China’s military. Hesai, the global leader in LiDAR technology, supplies laser sensors to major Chinese automakers, including BYD. Its Nasdaq-listed shares dropped about 10% on Tuesday after Blue Orca Capital released a report claiming the company misled investors about its military connections. “We strongly disagree with the allegations in the Blue Orca report and are of the view that they are without merit,” Hesai said in a statement. The company insists it has no ties to China’s military and is committed to ethical business practices. Hesai sued the U.S. government last year after being placed on the Pentagon’s list of companies with alleged military connections. A hearing for its case was scheduled for Thursday in the District Court of the District of Columbia. Google agrees to pay $28m in racial bias lawsuit The Blue Orca report includes images of Chinese military tanks appearing to use Hesai’s LiDAR technology, citing footage from state-run media and defense industry exhibitions. It also referenced concerns from former U.S. President Donald Trump about Chinese tech firms with military ties posing national security risks. Hesai CEO David Li rejected the accusations, saying the Defense Department “falsely accuses us of associating with the Chinese military.” He added that the Pentagon had not claimed Hesai was owned or controlled by the military or directly sold products to military bodies but cited concerns over China’s “military-civil fusion” strategy. Hesai supplies LiDAR to Amazon’s Zoox robotaxi service and previously worked with General Motors' Cruise unit before GM scaled back its autonomous vehicle ambitions last year. Google Cloud to Acquire Wiz for Enhanced Cybersecurity Despite the controversy, Hesai recently reported a 14 million yuan ($1.9 million) profit for 2024, reversing a 241 million yuan loss in 2023. Source: With input from agency 

Amazon is discontinuing a little-used privacy feature that allowed some Echo users to keep their voice recordings from being sent to the company’s cloud. Starting March 28, the “Do Not Send Voice Recordings” option will no longer be available, Amazon informed affected users via email. The feature, which allowed voice commands to be processed locally on devices instead of Amazon's servers, was only available on three Echo models—the 4th generation Echo Dot, Echo Show 10, and Echo Show 15—limited to U.S. users with English settings. Less than 0.03% of customers used it, Amazon said. FTC withdraws request to delay Amazon trial, says it has sufficient resources The company cited the expansion of Alexa’s generative AI capabilities, which require cloud processing, as the reason for discontinuing the feature. However, users can still prevent Alexa from saving their voice recordings. Those who had opted into the “Do Not Send” setting will be automatically switched to the “Don’t save recordings” option. Amazon emphasized its commitment to privacy, stating: “The Alexa experience is designed to protect our customers’ privacy and keep their data secure. We’re focusing on the privacy tools and controls that our customers use most and work well with generative AI experiences.” Source: With input from agency 

Google has agreed to pay $28m (£21.5m) to settle a lawsuit that claimed white and Asian employees were given better pay and career opportunities than workers from other ethnic backgrounds, a law firm representing claimants says. The technology giant confirmed it had "reached a resolution" but rejected the allegations made against it, reports BBC. The case filed in 2021 by former Google employee, Ana Cantu, said workers from Hispanic, Latino, Native American and other backgrounds started on lower salaries and job levels than their white and Asian counterparts. The settlement has been given preliminary approval by Judge Charles Adams of the Santa Clara County Superior Court in California. The case brought by Ms Cantu against Google relied on a leaked internal document, which allegedly showed that employees from some ethnic backgrounds reported lower compensation for similar work. The practice of basing starting pay and job level on prior salaries reinforced historical race and ethnicity-based disparities, according to Ms Cantu's lawyers. The class action lawsuit was filed for at least 6,632 people who were employed by Google between 15 February 2018 and 31 December 2024, according to Reuters news agency. Google Cloud to Acquire Wiz for Enhanced Cybersecurity Cathy Coble, one of the lawyers representing them, praised the "bravery of both the diverse and ally Googlers who self-reported their pay and leaked that data to the media". "Suspected pay inequity is too easily concealed without this kind of collective action from employees," Ms Coble added. The technology giant denied that it had discriminated against any of its employees. "We reached a resolution, but continue to disagree with the allegations that we treated anyone differently, and remain committed to paying, hiring, and levelling all employees fairly," a Google spokesperson told the BBC. Earlier this year, Google joined a growing list of US firms that are abandoning commitments to principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in their recruitment policies. Meta, Amazon, Pepsi, McDonald's, Walmart and others have also rolled back their DEI programmes. It comes as US President Donald Trump and his allies have regularly attacked DEI policies. Since his return to the White House, Trump has ordered government agencies and their contractors to eliminate such initiatives.