OpenAI To Design Its Own AI Chip

OpenAI is nearing completion of its long-rumored custom AI processor, aiming to reduce dependence on Nvidia hardware. The company plans to send its design to Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. for fabrication within the next few months. However, no official announcement has been made yet. Similar strategies have been employed by other tech giants like Microsoft, … Read more

McDonald’s Q4 Earnings Disappoint, Yet Sales Beat Expectations

McDonald’s Corporation reported weaker-than-expected fourth-quarter earnings and revenue early Monday. Despite this, the company’s global same-store sales exceeded expectations. As a result, McDonald’s stock rose, clearing an early buy point. For the fourth quarter of 2024, McDonald’s reported a decline in earnings per share (EPS) by 4% compared to the same period last year, standing … Read more

Measles Outbreaks on the Rise, What’s Next?

The future of measles is concerning, with outbreaks occurring in many parts of the world. According to recent data, measles cases have been increasing globally, sparking concerns about vaccine hesitancy and inadequate healthcare infrastructure. Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can cause serious health complications, including deafness, blindness, and even death. The virus … Read more

Northern Lights Visible Tonight in US States

A moderate solar storm is bringing a spectacular display of the northern lights to several US states, particularly those in North Central and Northwestern regions. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center has rated the magnitude of this storm as a 5 out of 9 for Sunday and Monday, making Idaho, … Read more

Super Bowl Commercials: Winners and Snoozers Revealed by Seattle Agency

This year’s Super Bowl ads had audiences hooked, with quirky to eye-catching commercials featuring celebrities. DNA&STONE, a national advertising agency based in Seattle, weighed in on the best and worst of the commercial spots. The agency’s founders, Michael “Chuk” Boychuk and Matt McCain, watched the big game despite being underwhelmed by the actual football game. … Read more

176 WWII-era Bombs Uncovered in English Park

A bomb disposal squad has uncovered 176 World War II-era bombs at Scotts Park in Wooler, Northumberland, England. The discovery was made during construction work on the park’s expansion project. According to reports, construction workers found a “metallic object” during excavation and notified police. A team from Catterick Barracks confirmed it was a training device, … Read more

Generative AI Use Linked to Decline in Critical Thinking Skills

Researchers at Microsoft and Carnegie Mellon University have found that increasing reliance on generative AI in work can lead to less critical thinking. The study, which involved 319 knowledge workers, showed that users who relied more on AI confidence reported using fewer critical thinking skills. When users had less confidence in the AI’s output, they … Read more

Apple Warns of Sophisticated Attack on iThings, Releases Patches

Apple has issued a warning that some iPhones and iPads may have been targeted by an “extremely sophisticated attack” that exploits a flaw in its USB Restricted Mode feature. The patches fix the issue, which was identified by Bill Marczak, a senior researcher at the Citizen Lab. The problem arises when a physical attacker can … Read more

Cholesterol Paradox: ‘Good’ HDL Linked to Glaucoma Risk

A large observational study has challenged conventional beliefs about the relationship between cholesterol levels and eye health, revealing a paradoxical link between high “good” (HDL) cholesterol and an increased risk of glaucoma in individuals over 55. In contrast, high “bad” (LDL) cholesterol may be associated with a lower risk. The study, published in the British … Read more

Central Virginians Prepare for Second Snowfall of 2025, Celebrate Black History Month

Residents in Charlottesville and Albemarle County are bracing themselves for the second snowfall of 2025. Meanwhile, the cities are celebrating Black History Month with various events and festivities. In related news, Tony Bennett returned to John Paul Jones Arena on Saturday, February 8, to be honored for his coaching success as part of the University … Read more