Brazil’s Pix payment system reshapes how millions pay — and puts Washington on edge
Pix, Brazil's instant payment system, has revolutionized daily life by making cash nearly obsolete and integrating millions into the digital economy. Launched in 2020, it allows free, instant transactions via smartphones, with over 90% of Brazilian adults using it. Despite US concerns about its competitive advantage, Pix has expanded financial inclusion and benefits the entire financial sector.
Can dogs sense ghosts?
The only sense my pup has is when I open the bag of kibble. I swear he can hear that a mile away 😂
AWS crash causes $2,000 Smart Beds to overheat and get stuck upright
I can’t even imagine spending that much on a bed and having to connect it to the internet. What mattress needs to be connected to AWS. 🤦
NASA supercomputers calculated when life will end on Earth. Here’s our deadline
Well at least it’s not next week…
Wikipedia says traffic is falling due to AI search summaries and social video
Wikipedia's human pageviews have declined by 8%, attributed to generative AI and social media altering information-seeking habits. Despite this, the importance of Wikipedia remains, as its content continues to reach people indirectly. The decline poses risks, including reduced volunteer contributions and donations.
10 effective things citizens can do to make change in addition to attending a protest
Protesters rallied nationwide to defend democracy, highlighting the risks of democratic backsliding. Tactics like noncooperation, bolstering the rule of law, and uniting in opposition are crucial for democracies to resist autocratic takeovers.
3,500-year-old Egyptian military fortress with ancient ovens and fossilized dough discovered in Sinai Desert
Archaeologists discovered a 3,500-year-old military fortress in Egypt's Sinai Desert, likely built under Thutmose I, featuring a zigzag wall, ovens, and fossilized dough. The fortress, part of the 'Ways of Horus,' had 11 defensive towers and housed around 500 soldiers, offering insights into Egypt's early New Kingdom.
Are we living in a golden age of stupidity?
MIT Media Lab showcases innovative AI projects, but concerns arise over reliance on AI for tasks like writing, potentially reducing cognitive skills. A study found lower brain activity and memory in those using AI. As technology simplifies tasks, it may hinder learning and critical thinking, raising questions about the impact of AI on human intelligence.
Here’s What Your Browser Is Telling Everyone About You
Browser fingerprinting collects unique data from your device to track you online, even with a VPN. While not always illegal, it's often used for targeted advertising. Browsers like Brave and Firefox offer some protection, but absolute privacy requires significant compromises.
A mass exit from social media
A group in Manhattan gathered to delete social media accounts as part of the 'Time to Refuse' campaign, promoting 'appstinence' against addictive tech.
A long-lost ancient Roman artifact reappears in a New Orleans backyard
Honey, remember that stone bench we had in the back garden ……
One Year After Klamath Dam Removal, 'There's Just Fish Jumping All Over the Place
A year after the Klamath River's dam removal, scientists report remarkable ecological recovery, with improved water quality, lower temperatures, and a rapid return of salmon populations.
China confirms solar panel projects are irreversibly changing desert ecosystems
China's solar parks are not only generating clean energy but also altering desert ecosystems by cooling soils, increasing moisture, and promoting plant growth, suggesting potential environmental benefits if managed properly.
Where are the worst drivers in America?
I’m surprised to not see the large metros …. Stay safe out there
Without data centers, GDP growth was 0.1% in the first half of 2025, Harvard economist says
AI data-center investments have significantly boosted U.S. GDP growth, surpassing consumer spending. Despite broader economic sluggishness, tech giants' massive spending on data centers has driven remarkable economic expansion.

