Culture and Entertainment

Neuralink, the brain technology startup founded by Elon Musk, announced that it has received approval to launch a new feasibility study using its experimental brain implant and robotic arm technology. This initiative, called FIRST studywill evaluate the safety and functionality of the company's wireless brain-computer interface (BCI) and its surgical robot. The study is specifically aimed at helping people with tetraplegia-a severe form of paralysis: controls external devices using only their thoughts. The announcement was made via Neuralink's social media channels, where the company described the study as a significant step toward advancing its technology. “This is the first step in our mission to restore not only digital freedom but also physical freedom,” Neuralink said. The PRIME study...

The US Supreme Court has announced that it will hear arguments on January 10, 2025 on the constitutionality of a federal law that could ban TikTok in the US unless its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, sells the platform. The case raises significant questions about free speech and national security, with implications for TikTok's 170 million U.S. users and its content creators. The law, passed in April with bipartisan support and signed by President Joe Biden, set a Jan. 19 deadline for ByteDance to divest TikTok or face a nationwide ban. TikTok has argued that the law violates the First Amendment by unduly restricting free expression. Supreme Court intervention and timing The Supreme Court's decision to hear the case marks a critical moment. While the timing of the final ruling remains u...

Apple is accused of illegally surveilling the personal devices and iCloud accounts of its employees, particularly when they discuss pay and workplace conditions. A new complaint, filed by Domingo Amar Bhakta in a California state court, accuses the tech giant of requiring employees to install software on personal devices used for work. This software supposedly grants Apple access to sensitive personal data, including emails, photo archives, health information, and even data from “smart home” devices. Bhakta, who works in Apple's digital advertising division and has been with the company since 2020, claims that Apple has strict privacy policies that prevent employees from openly discussing their working conditions. These policies supposedly include restrictions on speaking to the media and ...

JYP Entertainment, the powerhouse behind K-pop sensations like TWICE and Stray Kids, has been on a remarkable upward trajectory. On Friday, November 22, its shares closed at 66,100 won ($47.06), reflecting an 11.3% increase for the week and reaching the highest closing level since May 10. The surge appears to have been fueled by the announcement on Monday 18 November. of Stray Kids' upcoming 2025 stadium tour. This highly anticipated tour, which will hit North America, Latin America and Europe, has created considerable interest in the industry. However, JYP's stock rally has been gaining momentum for weeks, with the company's shares rising 35.6% over the past three weeks. The rise of JYP Entertainment was not an isolated event. Other K-pop companies also reported substantial gains this wee...

Penske Entertainment has officially acquired the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach, marking a significant milestone for the IndyCar series. This organization, responsible for the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, has been a cornerstone of American motor sport, hosting the longest-running street circuit race in North America. As the event approaches its 50th anniversary, Penske's involvement signals a commitment to substantial investments aimed at improving the future of the race. This acquisition is seen as a strategic move to further embed the NTT INDYCAR SERIES into Southern California's vibrant motorsports culture. Known for its enthusiastic fan base and deep-rooted automotive passion, this region will benefit greatly from the planned improvements and increased visibility. The planned ...

Emerging country music artist Sadie Bass is poised for a significant career boost, having recently landed a global publishing deal with Sony Music Publishing and a development deal with One4 Entertainment. This alliance combines the strengths of a major publishing powerhouse with a boutique entertainment company known for nurturing emerging talent. The partnership signals a strong belief in Bass' artistic potential and lays the foundation for him to reach a broader audience. For Bass this represents a crucial moment. The music industry is a complex and competitive landscape, and securing support from established players like Sony and One4 provides invaluable resources and guidance. Sony Music Publishing, with its extensive catalog and industry connections, provides a platform for Bass' mus...

Hollywood icon Mitzi Gaynor, celebrated for her captivating performance as Nellie Forbush in the film adaptation of "South Pacific," has died at the age of 93. Her radiant presence, both on screen and on stage, has left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment, captivating audiences for decades with her vibrant talent and undeniable charm. Gaynor's portrayal of Nellie Forbush in the 1958 film adaptation of Rodgers and Hammerstein's "South Pacific" cemented her star status. As a naive Navy nurse stationed on a South Pacific island during World War II, Nellie's journey of love and self-discovery resonated with audiences. Gaynor's performance, full of infectious energy and heartfelt emotion, brought the character to life, making her performance a timeless classic. His musical numbers, ...