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A surge in AI data center construction is consuming global supplies of memory chips, driving up prices and squeezing budget smartphone makers out of the market. As manufacturers prioritize higher-margin devices, the cheapest handsets are vanishing from shelves, raising concerns that low-income consumers worldwide will be cut off from affordable internet access and left further behind in the digital divide.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Harry and Meghan, made an appearance at a mental health festival where the crowd reportedly remained silent, described as a shocking turn for the couple. Commentary online focuses on the muted reception, with reactions divided over how the audience responded to their continued public advocacy on mental health issues.

Actors Adjoa Andoh, Rosie O'Donnell and Julie Hesmondhalgh are set to appear in a new stage play about the Gisele Pelicot case, the French woman whose mass rape trial shocked the world after her husband drugged her and invited dozens of men to abuse her. The casting of three high-profile performers signals the case's continuing cultural resonance, with the production expected to draw strong interest from theatre audiences.

NASA is wrestling with a difficult decision involving SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft, according to Ars Technica, which reports that none of the available options look good. Dragon is the only US vehicle currently flying crews to the International Space Station, so any problem with its future use leaves the agency with unattractive alternatives.

A new video promoting the second season of a comedy TV show tied to Dakota Johnson's appearance with Jimmy Fallon has been released. The news, reported by ComingSoon.net, highlights fresh footage of Johnson's comedic turn on the late-night host's program as the show returns for another season.

Skywatchers are counting down to a total solar eclipse expected in roughly 300 days, when the Moon will completely cover the Sun for more than six minutes. The event, one of the longest in years, is expected to be visible from parts of the Northern Hemisphere, and astronomy outlets are already urging people to plan travel and safe viewing arrangements.

UK regulators are examining Instagram's 'Instants' feature, which lets users send disappearing photos, over concerns that ephemeral images could enable harassment or abuse of children and other vulnerable users. The probe focuses on whether automatically vanishing content undermines safety safeguards and reporting. The story has drawn attention in technology and photography circles, with discussion centring on privacy, platform accountability and child safety online.

The Wall Street Journal reports that El Niño, the periodic warming of Pacific Ocean waters, has effectively neutralized the Atlantic hurricane season, with strong wind shear tearing storms apart before they can develop. The season has been unusually quiet despite forecasts of above-normal activity, prompting discussion about the accuracy of seasonal outlooks and how climate patterns shape hurricane risk.

A theatre essay argues that Shakespeare's Antonio, in invoking the line "It is in pardoning that we are pardoned," turns the playhouse into a kind of testimony of salvation. The piece reads the Merchant of Venice character's words as a meditation on mercy and redemption, presenting drama itself as a vehicle for spiritual reflection and forgiveness rather than mere entertainment.

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung said artificial intelligence appears to have been used in recent bank hacking incidents, according to Reuters. The remarks point to growing official concern that AI tools are being deployed in cyberattacks on financial institutions. The statement is drawing attention as governments worldwide debate how to counter AI-enabled security threats.

Glenn Close is set to appear as King Herod in the West End production of Jesus Christ Superstar, according to the Evening Standard. The casting of the seven-time Oscar-nominated actress in the Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber musical has drawn attention, with the show's London run also featuring names such as Simon Russell Beale and Matt Bomer. Theatre fans are discussing the unusual choice of a major Hollywood star taking on the comedic Herod role.

Chinese-made weapons are increasingly showing up in the conflicts in Sudan and Ethiopia, according to reporting by the China-Global South Project. The findings point to a growing presence of Chinese arms among the various forces fighting in both countries, raising questions about how these weapons are being transferred and who is ultimately using them on the ground.

China's reusable space plane appears to have released an unidentified object into orbit, according to space tracking observations. The purpose of the object is unknown, fueling speculation about surveillance tests, servicing demonstrations, or calibration targets. The vehicle has previously released objects during earlier missions without explanation, keeping Western analysts watching its maneuvers closely.

Users are warning others about phishing emails disguised as invites from Paperless Post, the online invitation service. One recipient reported receiving a suspicious invite and avoided clicking the link, urging caution. The warning is spreading as a reminder to verify the sender before opening invitation links, especially those prompting logins or personal details.

A new Season 2 video has been released for the comedy TV show featuring Dakota Johnson's appearance with Jimmy Fallon. The release marks the show's return for a second season, with Johnson's segment being highlighted in the promotional material. Further details about the show's format, premiere date, and reception have not been provided.