General Motors is phasing out Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from all its future vehicles, including gasoline models, not just electric ones. CEO Mary Barra confirmed this company-wide strategy, aiming for a more integrated, proprietary infotainment system. This move prioritises data control and potential subscription revenue over customer preference for smartphone projection.
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Patrick Mahomes will not be fined for his touchdown celebration against the Lions, despite the NFL's increased scrutiny on taunting. League officials reviewed the footage and determined his actions did not warrant a penalty. This decision comes as Brian Branch, who Mahomes interacted with, faces suspension for a separate incident.
Meta's Superintelligence Labs, recently in the news for offering $100 million AI researcher packages, has now laid off 600 employees. Chief AI officer Alexandr Wang stated the move aims for agility and impact, with affected North American staff notified. Meta insists this doesn't signal reduced investment, vowing to continue hiring top AI talent to accelerate progress towards superintelligence.
USCIS has detailed its $100,000 visa fee, requiring payment via a new portal for applicants to proceed. Notably, existing visa holders like F-1 students and L-1 professionals are exempt from this surcharge when changing status to H-1B. Exceptions are extremely rare, requiring Homeland Security's discretion for national interest cases.
The Election Commission of India will announce a pan-India Special Intensive Revision of voters' lists on October 27. This exercise, expected to cover 10-15 states including those with 2026 Assembly elections, may involve volunteers assisting Booth Level Officers in West Bengal. The revision could lead to an increase of approximately 14,000 polling booths in the state.
Norwegian scientists have engineered a process using specialized bacteria to convert industrial waste gases, carbon dioxide and hydrogen, into nearly pure methane. This biologically produced fuel, exceeding 96% purity, can be used in existing natural gas systems, offering a sustainable solution for storing renewable energy and replacing fossil fuels.
Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt advises young engineers and junior staff to disconnect from screens on weekends. He suggests dedicating a few hours to reflect on the past week and plan for the next using pen and paper. This practice, he explains, fosters accountability and clarity, leading to greater effectiveness.
President Trump praised Pakistani leaders and vowed to quickly resolve the Pakistan-Afghanistan conflict, claiming his administration has ended eight wars in eight months. He expressed confidence in his ability to mediate peace, stating he can save millions of lives. India, however, maintains no third-party mediation was involved in its ceasefire understanding with Pakistan.
Chennai and neighboring districts are bracing for heavy rainfall as the season's first cyclonic storm, potentially named Montha, takes shape over the Bay of Bengal. The IMD has issued an orange alert for October 27, forecasting significant downpours.
A 24-year-old man, reportedly distraught over a breakup, fatally stabbed his girlfriend before taking his own life in a public attack near Chinchpokli station. The woman, Manisha Yadav, is in critical condition after being pursued into a nursing home and repeatedly attacked. Police are investigating the incident, which stemmed from a suspected relationship dispute.
Scientists exploring northern Thailand's Pha Daeng Cave have discovered a new millipede species, Desmoxytes chaofa, or the Princess Dragon Millipede. This tiny, dragon-like creature, distinguished by its spiky body and delicate legs, was found in the cave's unique karst ecosystem. The discovery highlights the importance of protecting hidden cave environments and their undiscovered biodiversity.
