Are the ‘Blue Ticks’ free now?
Following Elon Musk’s announcement, X is granting complimentary Premium and Premium Plus memberships to accounts boasting a significant number of verified followers. Several X users noted the appearance of the “Verified” checkmark next to their handles, despite not subscribing to either paid X tier. Musk specified that X accounts with over 2,500 “verified subscriber followers” would receive a free Premium membership, while those with over 5,000 would receive a free Premium Plus membership.
Is new American Privacy Rights Act on the anvil?
US Congress appears to be nearing the passage of a comprehensive data privacy framework, House and Senate committees introduced a new bipartisan proposal on Sunday. Named the American Privacy Rights Act (APRA), the proposal aims to restrict the types of consumer data companies can collect, retain, and utilise solely for operational purposes. Additionally, users would have the option to opt out of targeted advertising and access features allowing them to view, correct, delete, and download their data from online services. The legislation also proposes the establishment of a national registry of data brokers and mandates that these companies provide users with the option to opt out of having their data sold.
How tiny magnets have proved key to hi-tech surgery?
The delicate metal jaws, resembling tweezers, can hold a patient’s gall bladder. Remarkably, the grasping device seemed to be floating within the body, detached from any physical connection. In reality, it was remotely controlled by a robotic arm wielding a special magnet. This advanced technology enabled the creation of critical structures such as blood vessels, facilitating the safe removal of the troublesome gall bladder. Around two dozen successful surgeries completed in recent months using this high-tech system.
