What the Xbox Game Pass price hike says about the rising cost of playing games

Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has taken on a role as a paid adviser for Microsoft and an AI firm, marking a significant move in his post-political career. However, he has been instructed by the appointments watchdog not to engage in lobbying activities with the UK government. This development is noteworthy as it highlights the ongoing intersection of politics and the tech industry, raising questions about the influence of former officials in private sectors.

Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has taken on a role as a paid adviser for Microsoft and an AI firm, marking a significant move in his post-political career. However, he has been instructed by the appointments watchdog not to engage in lobbying activities with the UK government. This development is noteworthy as it highlights the ongoing intersection of politics and the tech industry, raising questions about the influence of former officials in private sectors.

Rishi Sunak, the former UK prime minister, has taken on advisory roles with Microsoft and AI firm Anthropic, as confirmed by the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments. This move is significant as it highlights the growing intersection between politics and technology, especially in the realm of artificial intelligence. Sunak's experience could provide valuable insights to these companies, while also raising questions about the influence of former leaders in the tech industry.

Rishi Sunak, the former UK prime minister, has taken on advisory roles with Microsoft and AI firm Anthropic, as confirmed by the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments. This move is significant as it highlights the growing intersection between politics and technology, especially in the realm of artificial intelligence. Sunak's experience could provide valuable insights to these companies, while also raising questions about the influence of former leaders in the tech industry.

Disney+ has launched its coverage of the Women's Champions League, bringing a fresh look and a lineup of top experts to the tournament. While the opening week had some technical issues, the five-year deal marks a significant shift in how the tournament is presented, now behind a paywall. Fans are eager to see if Disney can deliver the excitement and quality expected from such a prestigious event, making this a pivotal moment for both the platform and women's football.

A new initiative supported by artists like Coldplay and Katy Perry aims to fund small music venues through contributions from larger gigs. These grassroots venues are crucial for nurturing emerging talent and providing intimate concert experiences. However, venue owners express concerns that without the involvement of Live Nation, a major player in the industry, the plan may struggle to succeed. This initiative is important as it highlights the need to support local music scenes, which are vital for the overall health of the music industry.

A recent survey reveals that about 5 million users in the UK are at risk of cyber-attacks as Microsoft prepares to end updates for Windows 10. Despite warnings from consumer advocates, one in four users plan to continue using the outdated system, exposing themselves to increased threats from viruses and malware. This situation is concerning as it highlights the potential vulnerabilities that many individuals may face, making it crucial for users to consider upgrading their systems to ensure their online safety.

A recent survey reveals that about 5 million users in the UK are at risk of cyber-attacks as Microsoft prepares to end updates for Windows 10. Despite warnings from consumer advocates, one in four users plan to continue using the outdated system, exposing themselves to increased threats from viruses and malware. This situation is concerning as it highlights the potential vulnerabilities that many individuals may face, making it crucial for users to consider upgrading their systems to ensure their online safety.

In a surprising turn of events, Venezuelan politician Maria Corina Machado has been awarded the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize, leaving US President Donald Trump without the recognition many expected. This decision highlights the ongoing political tensions and the global focus on Venezuela's situation. It matters because it reflects the shifting dynamics in international politics and the recognition of leaders who advocate for peace in challenging environments.

Israel has announced that a cease-fire has begun, allowing troops to start withdrawing from parts of Gaza. This development is significant as it paves the way for the release of remaining hostages and facilitates the delivery of much-needed humanitarian aid to the region, highlighting a potential shift towards peace and stability.

Power has been restored to 270,000 consumers in Kyiv following a massive overnight attack by Russia that targeted Ukraine's energy infrastructure. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that over 450 drones and 30 missiles were used in the assault, which left many residents without electricity. The swift restoration of power is crucial for the city's residents, highlighting the resilience of Ukraine's energy sector amidst ongoing conflict.

Former President Donald Trump is intensifying his feud with New York Attorney General Letitia James, who previously sued him for fraud. In a retaliatory move, Trump is launching investigations against James, accusing her of her own fraudulent activities. This ongoing conflict highlights the contentious relationship between Trump and state officials, raising questions about the motivations behind such investigations and their implications for legal accountability.

A ceasefire in Gaza has officially taken effect, as confirmed by the Israeli military. Troops have retreated to the agreed deployment lines, marking a significant step towards reducing hostilities in the region. This development is crucial as it opens the door for potential peace talks and humanitarian efforts, providing much-needed relief to civilians affected by the ongoing conflict.

Google is facing potential changes to its search engine in the UK after being granted 'strategic market status' by the regulator. This designation allows for what the regulator describes as 'proportionate interventions,' which could impact how Google operates in the region. This development is significant as it may lead to increased scrutiny and adjustments in Google's practices, affecting users and competitors alike.