Dismissed as a joke, UK's first rice crop ripe for picking after hot summer

Harrods Ltd., the iconic luxury department store in London, has alerted its customers about a serious data theft incident, marking yet another cyberattack affecting major UK businesses this year. This breach raises significant concerns about the security of personal information and highlights the growing threat of cybercrime, making it crucial for consumers to stay vigilant and for companies to enhance their cybersecurity measures.

As summer winds down, it's the perfect time to tackle some essential gardening tasks that can enhance your outdoor space. From planting late-season flowers to preparing your garden for the cooler months, these ten jobs will help ensure your garden remains vibrant and healthy. Not only do these tasks keep your garden looking its best, but they also set the stage for a successful spring. So grab your tools and make the most of the remaining weeks of summer!

CNET has unveiled its top picks for the best grills of 2025, showcasing high-performance options that are perfect for summer barbecues. This guide is essential for anyone looking to elevate their outdoor cooking experience, ensuring you and your friends enjoy delicious meals all season long.

Facebook and Instagram have launched ad-free subscription options for users in the UK, priced at about half the cost compared to their EU counterparts. This move is significant as it provides UK residents with a more enjoyable social media experience, free from advertisements, while also catering to the growing demand for premium services that enhance user satisfaction.

In the UK, a petition to halt the introduction of mandatory digital ID cards has gained over one million signatures, reflecting widespread public concern over privacy and potential mass surveillance. This backlash highlights the tension between government initiatives aimed at modernization and citizens' rights to privacy, making it a significant issue in the ongoing debate about digital identity and personal freedoms.

Facebook and Instagram are introducing a new option for UK users to pay for an ad-free experience, but many are skeptical about the value of this subscription. While some may appreciate the chance to avoid ads, the move raises questions about the platform's reliance on advertising revenue and whether users should have to pay to enjoy a basic browsing experience. This change could set a concerning precedent for social media monetization.

Meta has announced the introduction of paid subscriptions for both Instagram and Facebook in the UK, marking a significant shift in how users can access premium features on these platforms. This move is important as it reflects the company's strategy to diversify its revenue streams and offer users more personalized experiences. With the rise of subscription models in social media, this could set a precedent for other platforms and change the way users engage with content.

The UK government has announced plans to introduce digital ID cards, aiming to streamline identification processes for citizens. This initiative is significant as it promises to enhance security and convenience, allowing individuals to verify their identity easily while also addressing privacy concerns. The move is seen as a step towards modernizing public services and could potentially improve access to various government services.

Virgin Media has rolled out a significant update for its TV 360 and Stream devices in the UK, enhancing user experience with new features. This update is important as it reflects Virgin Media's commitment to improving its services and keeping up with customer expectations in a competitive market.

Facebook and Instagram are set to introduce an ad-free subscription option for UK users at £3.99 a month. This move by Meta, led by Mark Zuckerberg, comes in response to regulatory concerns regarding the use of personal data for targeted advertising. By offering this service, Meta aims to provide users with more control over their online experience, potentially enhancing user satisfaction and loyalty.

The UK has officially launched its digital ID scheme, a significant step towards modernizing identification processes for citizens. This initiative aims to streamline access to services while enhancing security and privacy. By adopting digital IDs, the government hopes to reduce fraud and improve efficiency in various sectors, making life easier for everyone. This rollout is particularly important as it reflects a growing trend towards digital solutions in governance, which could set a precedent for other countries.

The article explores the potential for cultural integration of artificial intelligence in the UK, focusing on whether leaders can bridge the existing trust gap. This is significant as establishing AI as a trusted collaborator could enhance its acceptance and effectiveness in various sectors, ultimately shaping the future of technology and society.

Exciting news for retro computing enthusiasts! IEEE Spectrum has teamed up with local science and technology museums to offer a unique opportunity to build your own Commodore 64 cartridge. This initiative not only allows fans to dive deeper into the nostalgia of classic computing but also promotes hands-on learning and engagement with technology. It's a fantastic way to connect with the past while inspiring future generations to explore the world of computing.

In this edition of the Technology newsletter, we explore various intriguing topics including Peter Thiel's controversial views, the ongoing rivalry between Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk, and the challenges surrounding AI's spending habits. These discussions are significant as they highlight the evolving landscape of technology and its implications for the future.

OpenAI is facing backlash from ChatGPT subscribers who are upset about recent changes to the platform. Users have accused the company of secretly switching to inferior models, leading to a decline in performance. This situation is significant as it highlights the growing concerns over transparency and user trust in AI technologies, which are crucial for their continued adoption and success.

Recording phone calls on an iPhone can be a useful feature for various reasons, such as keeping track of important conversations or interviews. While Apple does not provide a built-in call recording option due to privacy concerns, there are several third-party apps and methods available that can help users achieve this. Understanding how to navigate these options is important for anyone looking to utilize this feature responsibly and legally.

Apple's internal ChatGPT-style chatbot app is generating buzz, and many believe it should be released to the public. This move could enhance the credibility of Apple's revamped AI system, showcasing its capabilities to a wider audience. Additionally, there's excitement around new MacBooks and external monitors, alongside discussions about the iPhone 17 Pro's 'scratchgate' controversy and Tim Cook's recent memo to employees. This news matters as it highlights Apple's ongoing innovation and the potential impact of its AI developments on the tech landscape.

In an age where privacy is increasingly at risk, using a burner phone can be your best defense against invasive border searches. Even locked devices can be accessed by border patrol, making it crucial to understand the limitations of your personal technology. A burner phone offers a simple, effective solution to protect your sensitive information while traveling, ensuring that your data remains secure and private.