What to read this weekend: When the world spins out of control

Elon Musk’s AI company, xAI, is working on a new app called Baby Grok designed specifically for kids. It’s part of his push into family-friendly AI tools, though details are still slim. Think of it as a playful, possibly educational spin-off of his existing Grok AI.

Editor’s Note: Musk’s ventures always grab attention, but this one’s interesting because it targets a sensitive niche: kids and AI. If done right, it could ease parents’ worries about tech exposure—or spark fresh debates over safety and screen time. Either way, it’s another sign that AI is creeping into every corner of life, even playtime.

A Sequoia Capital partner’s social media posts—specifically about Mamdani, a term tied to political debates—ended up pulling the prominent venture firm into the messy world of politics. The posts sparked backlash, raising questions about how personal views of high-profile investors can impact their firms’ reputations and relationships.

Editor’s Note: When investors wade into polarizing topics, it’s not just personal—it can drag their entire firm into the spotlight, risking backlash from clients, startups, or even regulators. In an industry built on trust and neutrality, mixing business with politics is a gamble. This isn’t just about one person’s opinions; it’s about how the tech finance world navigates an increasingly divided landscape.

If you're stuck on today's Wordle puzzle (#1492), this article offers spoiler-free hints and the full answer for July 20th—plus solutions for recent games if you missed them. It’s like having a friendly backup when your morning brain can’t crack those five-letter words.

Editor’s Note: Wordle’s daily grind is a ritual for millions, and this piece taps into that shared moment of frustration-turned-triumph. It’s not just about answers; it’s about keeping the fun alive without letting the puzzle ruin your day. For a game that thrives on community buzz, these nudges keep players engaged rather than giving up.

If you're stuck on today's bite-sized NYT Mini Crossword, don't sweat it—here's the full solution set for July 20's puzzle. Whether you're verifying a tricky clue or just curious, these answers have you covered.

Editor’s Note: Crossword fans rely on answer keys like this to check their work or get unstuck, especially with the Mini's quick but sometimes sneaky clues. It's a small but handy resource for daily solvers who want to keep their streak alive or just enjoy the satisfaction of a completed grid.

A new study suggests that erythritol, a popular sugar substitute found in many "sugar-free" or "keto-friendly" products, might be linked to brain cell damage and an increased risk of stroke. While it’s been marketed as a healthier alternative to sugar, this research raises concerns about its long-term effects on the brain and cardiovascular system.

Editor’s Note: If you’ve been reaching for erythritol-sweetened snacks thinking they’re the safer choice, this might give you pause. The findings aren’t definitive yet, but they add to growing skepticism about artificial sweeteners. It’s another reminder that "natural" or "low-calorie" doesn’t always mean harmless—especially when it comes to what we put in our bodies regularly.