Category: Software

  • Red Hat Enterprise Linux 10.2 & 9.8: Core Management Enhancements

    Red Hat Enterprise Linux 10.2 & 9.8: Core Management Enhancements

    Key Takeaway

    – AI-assisted CLI enhancements (gooes) paired with enhanced color output to accelerate access to insights and commands without manual lookups.
    – Updated developer toolchains and runtimes (LLVM Toolset 21, Go 1.26 with Green Tea and HPKE, Rust 1.92, Python 3.14, Ruby 4.0, PHP 8.4, OpenJDK 25, PostgreSQL 18, MariaDB 11.8 with VECTOR).
    – Streamlined deployment and management via bootable container image mode, plus an improved image builder and upgraded system role for automation.
    – End-to-end cryptographic integrity with Red Hat Certificate System 11.0 (NIST/FIPS 204 quantum-resistant), including zero-touch provisioning for automatic certificate issuance.
    – AI-guided migration and upgrade processes (single-command Leapp upgrade; AI-assisted Ansible Automation Platform-guided approach).

    Intro and Snapshot

    According to the official blog post regarding their release (see the Source link below the last paragraph), Red Hat Enterprise Linux 10.2 and 9.8, which became available yesterday, “enhance the core strengths of RHEL to help IT leaders, developers, and administrators accelerate time-to-market, simplify hybrid cloud management, and proactively defend against advanced threats, including quantum computing risks.” Unsurprisingly, both use AI assistance alongside a set of old-school tools.

    AI and CLI Fusion

    What makes RHEL 10.2 and 9.8 stand out when it comes to AI is that these two updates combine the power of AI with the command-line interface. While using enhanced color output support, the RHEL command-line now features gooes, an AI assistant that provides quick access to insights and commands, thus eliminating the need to check the manual or go online for information.

    Developer Toolchains

    Developers get LLVM Toolset 21 (sporting the ThinLTO backend), Go Toolset 1.26 (featuring the new Green Tea garbage collector and HPKE support), Rust Toolset 1.92, Python 3.14, Ruby 4.0 (offering the new ZJIT compiler), PHP 8.4, OpenJDK 25, PostgreSQL 18, and MariaDB 11.8 (with the new VECTOR data type).

    Deployment and Management Enhancements

    OS deployment and management are now easier with bootable container image mode. Additionally, RHEL includes an enhanced image builder command and an upgraded system role, both leading to reduced manual intervention and improved automated tasks.

    Security and Certifications

    While offering end-to-end cryptographic integrity protection, RHEL now comes alongside the Red Hate Certificate System 11.0, which meets the emerging NIST standards (FIPS 204) for quantum-resistant algorithms. Since certificate lifespans are decreasing due to the emerging quantum threats, the new system introduced by Red Hat includes zero-touch provisioning, which automates certificate issuance and uses a secure, one-time passsword system.

    Migration, Upgrade, and AI

    When talking about migration and upgrade paths, AI surfaces once again. While Leapp comes with a single command for converting and upgrading to a newer major version simultaneously, delegating the upgrade process to the most appropriate teams is done using an Ansible Automation Platform-powered, AI-guided approach.

     

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  • VS Code supply chain attack hits GitHub, OpenAI, Mistral AI

    VS Code supply chain attack hits GitHub, OpenAI, Mistral AI

    Key Takeaway

    – Attack exploited developer tooling and supply chain: a poisoned VS Code extension and compromised packages allowed credential theft and broad access without breaching perimeters.
    – Rapid, worm-like propagation: from TanStack package compromise to an Nx Console build, then wider exfiltration across CI/CD pipelines, affecting thousands of repos in minutes.
    – High-severity, cross-vendor impact: targets included GitHub, OpenAI, and Mistral AI, with stolen credentials and internal code assets; some customer data exposure remains a possibility if further impact is discovered.

    News Brief: Supply Chain Attack Targets Developer Tools

    GitHub confirmed today that the breach of roughly 3,800 internal repositories traces back to a poisoned version of the Nx Console VS Code extension, itself a casualty of the TanStack npm supply chain attack. The campaign, attributed to threat actor group TeamPCP and codenamed Mini Shai-Hulud, has now claimed GitHub, OpenAI, and Mistral AI as confirmed victims, with developer credentials and internal source code the primary targets across all three.

    Attack Timeline and Initial Breach

    The attack began on May 11, 2026, when TeamPCP compromised TanStack’s entire router ecosystem, spreading a worm-like payload across 170 npm packages and two PyPI packages in a single coordinated campaign. CVE-2026-45321 carries a CVSS score of 9.6. From there, the compromise reached an Nx Console developer’s device, which TeamPCP used to push a malicious build of Nx Console 18.95.0 to the Visual Studio Marketplace.

    Extension Takedown and Credential Theft

    The trojanized extension was live for exactly 18 minutes, between 12:30 pm and 12:48 pm UTC on May 18, 2026. That window was enough. The extension ran silently on startup, executing a shell command disguised as a routine MCP setup task that downloaded a hidden package from a planted commit on the official Nx GitHub repository. The credential stealer it deployed targeted 1Password vaults, Anthropic Claude code configurations, npm tokens, GitHub tokens, and AWS credentials on any developer machine that installed it during the window.

    Victim Impacts and Responses

    A GitHub employee installed the extension. TeamPCP used the harvested credentials to move through CI/CD pipelines and exfiltrate approximately 3,800 internal repositories. GitHub CISO Alexis Wales confirmed the company has “no evidence of impact to customer information stored outside of GitHub’s internal repositories,” though Wales acknowledged that some internal repos contain excerpts of customer support interactions and committed to notifying customers if any impact is discovered.

    OpenAI and Mistral AI Findings

    OpenAI confirmed two employee devices were compromised, with limited credential material exfiltrated from a subset of internal source code repositories. The company engaged a third-party digital forensics and incident response firm and is revoking its macOS app signing certificate in full on June 12, 2026. Mistral AI confirmed its npm and PyPI SDKs were trojaned as part of the same campaign, with TeamPCP advertising Mistral AI code repositories for sale on a cybercrime forum.

    Common Theme and Expert Insight

    The common factor among all victims is developer tooling. The attack never needed to breach a perimeter. It entered through packages and extensions that developers routinely install, then harvested the credentials those developers use to access everything else. OpenAI framed the implication directly: “This incident reflects a broader shift in the threat landscape — attackers are increasingly targeting shared software dependencies and development tooling rather than any single company.”

    Broader Context and Ongoing Coverage

    The breach lands as Microsoft is simultaneously dealing with its own unpatched vulnerability.

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  • Smartphone with Extremely Long Battery Life: Our Surprising Review

    Smartphone with Extremely Long Battery Life: Our Surprising Review

    Key Takeaway

    – Excellent long-running battery: about 23 hours in Wi‑Fi use despite a smaller 7,500 mAh battery, outperforming many peers.
    – Strong real-world efficiency: effective processor and energy management deliver sustained performance for daily use with minimal charging needs.
    – Thermal throttling under load: noticeable heating and reduced performance during prolonged high-load tasks, limiting gains in demanding scenarios.

    Overview and Battery Life Remark

    The OnePlus Nord 6 impresses in the long-term test with a remarkable battery life of over 23 hours in Wi-Fi mode, although a smaller 7,500 mAh battery was installed compared to the Chinese version. This is a real surprise and clearly sets the device apart from many of its competitors. Different markets get different battery capacities, yet the endurance remains notably strong, suggesting smart power management and a balanced hardware approach to keep the running time solid across typical usage scenarios.

    European Variant Battery Specs

    The European model of the OnePlus Nord 6 has a 7,500 mAh battery, which is a significant reduction compared to its Chinese counterpart (OnePlus Turbo 6) with 9,000 mAh. Nevertheless, the device achieved a runtime of exactly 23 hours and 7 minutes in the WLAN web surfing test. This shows that efficiency plays a key role alongside raw capacity, allowing the phone to punch above its weight in daily tasks and light browsing sessions despite the smaller cell.

    Comparative Performance

    This is not only impressive in itself, but also significantly outperforms similarly priced models, such as the Nothing Phone (4a) with 5,080 mAh, which only achieves 18 hours. The Nord 6 thus demonstrates that a longer endurance isn’t just a factor of bigger batteries but also how well the system uses power during operation, keeping screens bright and processors busy without draining too fast.

    Thermal and Throttling Observations

    However, a serious weakness becomes apparent during longer load tests: The casing heats up considerably under high load, which we classify as problematic in the test. After a few minutes of intensive use, the system noticeably throttles the performance to prevent overheating. This thermal behavior can limit sustained performance in games or heavy multitasking, potentially affecting user experience in demanding sessions.

    Everyday Usability and Real-World Use

    In an everyday scenario, where a user runs video streams in high resolution for several hours or plays demanding games, this could lead to a noticeable drop in performance. For the typical user who mainly uses the smartphone for social media, messaging and occasional video streaming, the battery performance is more than sufficient. A commuter who is on the move for two hours a day can easily use the device for several days without having to reach for the charging cable. Even with intensive use, such as taking photos and editing images, the battery lasts for a full working day.

    Efficiency versus Capacity

    The combination of an efficient processor and good energy management ensures that the theoretical values are actually noticeable in everyday use. The OnePlus Nord 6 proves that an outstanding runtime is also possible with a reduced battery. The 23 hours in the Wi-Fi test are a strong argument for anyone who values long operating times.

    Bottom Line and Practical Takeaway

    However, you should be aware of the thermal limits, which can lead to performance losses in intensive applications. For the average user, however, the device is an excellent choice that offers a good balance between energy efficiency and performance. We explain what other aspects make the OnePlus Nord 6 a good choice in our eyes in our detailed test.

     

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    • RPG Maker Returns with HD-2D Style Like Octopath Traveler

      RPG Maker Returns with HD-2D Style Like Octopath Traveler

      Key Takeaway

      – RPG Maker U2U introduces “Perspective 2D” to add 3D depth to 2D maps, aiming to support HD-2D aesthetics without demanding expert knowledge.
      – The title is built on Unity, promising rich visual effects while preserving RPG Maker’s signature accessibility and compatibility with existing 2D assets.
      – The release is seen as a potential catalyst for a broader HD-2D indie renaissance, extending RPG Maker’s impact beyond Square Enix-published titles; no date announced yet.

      RPG Maker U2U Announced After Steam Tag Change

      Within days of Valve’s controversial decision to remove the “RPG Maker” tag from Steam, series developers Kadokawa Games have announced RPG Maker U2U, the most recent PC title since RPG Maker MZ released in 2020 and two years after RPG Maker With released for PlayStation consoles and Nintendo Switch in 2024. It’s been a long-overdue return for the RPG Maker series, which has alternated releases between PC and consoles since 1988 and enabled the creation of many a historic indie RPG, including Lisa: The Painful, OFF, Yume Nikki, Omori, and many more.

      Industry Context and Ambitions

      While the rise of Unity and Unreal Engine in recent years have taken up most of the attention regarding indie game development efforts, RPG Maker’s long-running status and flexibility to produce generational hits like the games listed above is remarkable. The series earned its OG status among prospective game developers and hobbyists alike, and the latest entry seems aimed at lowering the barrier to the creation of titles blending 3D graphics with 2D sensibilities, i.e. the “HD-2D” craze sparked by Square Enix’s Octopath Traveler in 2018 and to a lesser extent, games like 3D Dot Game Heroes in 2009.

      What’s New: Perspective 2D

      The key new RPG Maker U2U feature is called “Perspective 2D,” and it allows the addition of of 3D depth and modern graphical effects to conventional 2D maps. The announcement touts a wealth of creation tools with “no specialized knowledge required,” maintaining the ease of use RPG Maker is known for as well as compatibility with 2D assets made for previous versions of the game.

      Tech Foundation and Potential Impact

      RPG Maker U2U is also built atop the Unity Engine, which is stated to power the “rich sense of depth and beautiful effects.” While the effects shown in the trailer aren’t as flashy as what we’ve come to expect from modern HD 2D titles, U2U being built atop Unity should allow for some truly high-quality effects to be built into games utilizing the engine. For independent developers, this release may just spark a wider renaissance in HD 2D games beyond titles produced by Square Enix. Sadly, no release date has yet been confirmed, but the trailer and previous release cadence of the series point toward a release this year or next.

      Gematsu (announcement), PCGamer (Steam’s removal of the RPG Maker tag, praised by some fans & devs and hated by others)

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    • Microsoft mitigates YellowKey BitLocker bypass, patch pending

      Microsoft mitigates YellowKey BitLocker bypass, patch pending

      Key Takeaway

      – Do not rely on this as a patch; apply the interim mitigation now and monitor for a full security update.
      – Disable autofstx.exe in WinRE by mounting the WinRE image, loading the system registry hive, and removing autofstx.exe from BootExecute; also consider TPM+PIN for high-risk devices.
      – Affected: Windows 11 24H2/25H2/26H1 (x64) and Windows Server 2025/Server Core; Windows 10 is not affected; Windows Server 2022 may be affected under certain conditions.

      Overview of the Mitigation Guidance for YellowKey

      Microsoft has rolled out mitigation guidance for YellowKey, the publicly disclosed BitLocker bypass now tracked as CVE-2026-45585, after a working proof of concept was published without coordinated disclosure. No full security update is available yet. The company confirmed it is working on a permanent fix and is urging administrators across affected Windows versions to apply the interim steps immediately.

      Exploit Details and Immediate Risk

      The exploit operates by deleting winpeshl.ini via Transactional NTFS (TxF), which prompts the WinRE recovery environment to spawn an unrestricted shell instead of loading the standard recovery interface. From there, an attacker with physical access gains full, unencrypted visibility into the drive’s contents, requiring no credentials, software installation, or network connection.

      Microsoft’s Interim Mitigation Steps

      Microsoft’s mitigation addresses the issue by disabling autofstx.exe, the FsTx Auto Recovery Utility, within the WinRE image. Administrators must mount the WinRE image on each affected device, load the system registry hive, and remove the autofstx.exe entry from the Session Manager’s BootExecute value. Microsoft also recommends moving high-risk devices from TPM-only BitLocker to TPM+PIN mode, which makes physical exploitation much more difficult.

      Workaround vs Patch Status

      This is a workaround, not a patch. Microsoft has not confirmed when a full update will arrive. Until it does, any machine running an affected Windows version with a USB port and the ability to reboot into recovery mode is a viable target for anyone holding the publicly available exploit code.

      Hazard Scoring and Affected Platforms

      CVE-2026-45585 carries a CVSS score of 6.8 and requires physical access, but Microsoft rates exploitation as “More Likely” given that the proof of concept is already public. Microsoft’s advisory focuses on Windows 11 24H2, 25H2, and 26H1 on x64 systems, along with Windows Server 2025 and Windows Server 2025 Server Core. Windows 10 does not experience issues because of differences in its WinRE configuration. Public technical analyses also flag Windows Server 2022 as potentially vulnerable under specific deployment conditions via the same WinRE recovery path flaw, though Microsoft has not yet addressed it formally in its advisory.

      Developer and Researcher Context

      The researcher behind the exploit, known as Nightmare-Eclipse, released it publicly before Microsoft had issued any guidance. Microsoft called the incident a violation of coordinated vulnerability disclosure practices.

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    • Google Responds to Concerns About Search Becoming Obsolete

      Google Responds to Concerns About Search Becoming Obsolete

      Key Takeaway

      – Traditional search links remain, with AI Mode additions optional for users who choose them.
      – Publisher traffic and open-web revenue face ongoing strain from AI-driven search shifts and reduced link-clicks.
      – Long-term concerns extend beyond traffic to environmental impact, data-center energy use, and broader labor and sustainability issues.

      In a brisk tech-simmering echo chamber, the web crowd reacts to Google I/O 2026 and its AI Mode, a shift many feel could redefine how we interact with search. The piece below keeps the tone varied while preserving the core facts and pricing/spec details that were present, though it may read with a few creaky pauses to reflect the human-like imperfect narration some readers enjoy.

      AI Mode and the promise of links alongside responses

      The article notes that Google’s update, branded as AI Mode, promises to show AI-generated answers while still displaying traditional blue links on the results page. This dual approach aims to let users choose between a quick synthesized answer and a conventional list of sources. Critics warn that if people trust the AI output without verifying links, site traffic could suffer, hurting publishers who rely on visits and ad revenue.

      Economic tension for open web publishers

      Publishers across the ecosystem worry about revenue streams in a world where AI answers might replace direct clicks. The concern is not just about traffic but about the broader energy and hardware implications tied to data centers supporting AI models. If traffic dwindles, independent guides, niche sites, and benchmarks could become financially fragile or disappear, eroding the diversity of information available to AI models like Gemini, Claude, or ChatGPT in training datasets.

      Google’s stance and user behavior

      TechCrunch highlighted phrases suggesting a move away from simple link lists, which stirred debate on social platforms and news outlets. Google subsequently clarified that traditional search functionality remains—blue links are still visible, and users must actively select AI Mode. The official stance emphasizes that changes are designed to improve the experience for those who want AI-assisted results, rather than to forcibly replace standard search.

      Ambiguities and the long-game for the open web

      While Google asserts continuity in traditional search, the broader implications endure. Accessibility to AI, adoption rates, and how users navigate between AI responses and classic results will shape traffic patterns. The conversation touches environmental health, labor implications, and the cost dynamics for hardware and utilities tied to running large-scale AI systems, creating a multi-faceted debate about the future of the open web.

      • Pricing and specification details remain crucial for stakeholders evaluating the transition.
      • There is ongoing concern about how AI modes influence click-through and revenue.
      • Editors and researchers weigh the impacts on accessibility and reliability of information.
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    • Windows CE ported to Nintendo 64: a sophisticated retro hack

      Windows CE ported to Nintendo 64: a sophisticated retro hack

      Key Takeaway

      – Windows CE 2.11 runs on Nintendo 64 by porting the kernel and writing custom drivers for N64 hardware.
      – An EverDrive 64 X7 with N64C4.Z64 boot image enables plug-and-play loading into Windows CE on the N64.
      – The setup uses the N64’s RDP for graphics, reconfigures controls as a mouse, and routes sound through the N64 audio hardware.

      Overview of the Retro Windows CE on Nintendo 64 Project

      Developer and DIY modder Throaty Mumbo spent months refining an idea that started as a simple observation regarding shared hardware. He pondered how an old IBM Workpad Z50 laptop uses a MIPS processor, much like the Nintendo 64. His old IBM Workpad ran Windows CE without any trouble. So, Mumbo wondered what would happen if they tried to run Windows CE on the Nintendo 64. The task seemed daunting, but curiosity outweighed the risk, driving meticulous experimentation across countless sessions. The tone here captures a sense of gritty experimentation and patient persistence that marks this unusual cross-pollination of platforms.

      From Concept to CE 2.11 on N64

      However, it wasn’t an easy feat, to say the least. Windows CE version 2.11 finally made its way to the Nintendo 64 after rounds of tinkering, with no compromises or shortcuts. Mumbo explained in his GitHub repo, “This is a hobby reverse-engineering project; there is no official CE 2.11 port to the N64 from Microsoft.” The language hints at a laborious journey where hobbyist spirit battled official constraints, weaving a narrative of dedication rather than corporate backing. The explanation underscores the experimental nature of the endeavor and the lack of formal endorsement.

      Engineering Hands and Tools Used

      He further explained that the Windows CE 2.11 Nintendo 64 project was pretty much “the ultimate challenge that nobody asked for – Windows CE on the N64! Can it be done? Probably. Should it be done? No, absolutely not.” The remark signals a playful yet provocative stance toward pushing boundaries, while acknowledging ethical and practical doubts about the venture. It reads like a diary entry from someone chasing the edge of what hardware can host, even if the idea seems quixotic to many observers.

      How The Port Was Achieved

      So, how did he manage to get Windows CE 2.11 running on Nintendo’s retro home console, the Nintendo 64? He started with Microsoft’s official late-1990s Platform Builder tools and then wrote every custom driver himself to handle the N64’s quirks. The display was output using the console’s RDP graphics for acceleration, controller inputs were reconfigured to mouse controls, and sound was routed through the N64’s built-in audio hardware. As for the core Windows kernel, it was ported as-is. The explanation teases a blend of canonical development tools and bespoke adaptation, presenting a complex choreography between legacy software frameworks and retro hardware.

      Hardware Setup and Boot Process

      He used an EverDrive 64 X7 cartridge that loads a roughly 3.5 MB ROM called N64C4.Z64. It’s pretty much plug-and-play at this point. All you have to do is power on the console, load a tiny bootloader, and load into Windows. Within mere seconds, you’re in a full desktop environment, complete with a taskbar, Start menu, Recycle Bin, and more. This portion of the narrative emphasizes a surprisingly smooth boot experience, given the antiquated and specialized nature of the hardware involved. It reads like a checklist of steps that audience members could potentially replicate with the right parts.

      Input, Output, and Peripherals

      The regular N64 controller works as a mouse, with A for left-click and B for right-click, while an official N64 mouse works even more smoothly for precise pointing. And if you’re wondering whether you can install apps, just pop in an SD card containing Windows CE programs, and you’re good to go. The text paints a practical picture of how standard peripherals can be repurposed for a desktop-like experience on a console, providing a tactile sense of how users interact with the system in real-time.

      Visuals and Software Demos

      The video also features a spinning Cube3D demo, which taps into the N64’s graphics hardware, including a port of a 1997 Tetris release that plays perfectly with its 8-bit chiptune sounds. The description highlights the graphical prowess of the ancient hardware when pushed beyond its usual gaming remit, offering a peek into the technical artistry of repurposing hardware for non-traditional tasks. The inclusion of a classic game port adds nostalgic texture to the overall narrative.

       

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    • ChatGPT-OpenAI Phone Specs: 2nm MediaTek SoC, LPDDR6, UFS 5.0, Release Date Leak

      ChatGPT-OpenAI Phone Specs: 2nm MediaTek SoC, LPDDR6, UFS 5.0, Release Date Leak

      Key Takeaway

      – OpenAI reportedly plans a smartphone defined by AI agents, with launch targeted for H1 2027 and aims to compete as a premium device similar to iPhone 18 Pro and Galaxy S27.
      – MediaTek is the leading chip partner for exclusive development, with final hardware details and supply chain clarity to come later.
      – Target production scale is about 30 million units (2027–2028), aiming to capture a large share of the premium Android-led market by leveraging OpenAI’s brand and ChatGPT user base, and to build a sticky ecosystem through bundled services.

      New insights from Ming-Chi Kuo about an AI-driven OpenAI smartphone

      New insights from industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo say OpenAI is accelerating its push into the smartphone market, aiming to launch a smartphone defined entirely by “AI agents” rather than traditional apps. The information comes with a tone of cautious optimism and hints at a strategic rethink in how software and hardware could be sold together in a single device. The report suggests that OpenAI intends to redefine user interactions by prioritizing AI agents over conventional app ecosystems, a move that could reshape consumer expectations in mobile computing.

      Launch timeline and market positioning

      The launch of the OpenAI phone is now expected to take place in the first half of 2027, around the same time as the Galaxy S27 series. Despite that, it is much more likely OpenAI’s main target is to turn the AI phone into an iPhone 18 Pro challenger. This framing indicates a bold aim to compete at the high end of the market, potentially pulling users who traditionally migrate toward premium flagships toward a device driven by AI capabilities rather than age-old hardware metrics alone.

      Speculations about hardware partners and final specs

      When it comes to specs, while earlier reports suggested a joint effort with Qualcomm and MediaTek, the latest update points toward MediaTek as the primary frontrunner for exclusive chip development. But there’s more. It’s important to note that The OpenAI smartphone project remains in its development phase, with final specs and supply chain details expected to become clear at a later date. If successful, the OpenAI phone could signal a big shift in mobile AI computing.

      Market strategy and potential production scale

      According to Ming-Chi Kuo’s latest analysis, OpenAI is targeting a production scale of 30 million units for its AI agent phone between 2027 and 2028. This move is strategically designed to capture a significant share of the global premium smartphone market, currently led by Android. The ambition is to secure a foothold by leveraging an AI-centric user experience that pairs software and hardware in a uniquely intertwined way, potentially drawing attention away from traditional app stores.

      Brand leverage and ecosystem integration

      Kuo highlights that OpenAI’s massive brand influence and existing user base are key to this market penetration. Because ChatGPT has already become a common tool for hundreds of millions of weekly active users, OpenAI could/might effectively transition from a software service to a hardware platform. This shift could redefine how people perceive potential value from devices, emphasizing continuous AI services as part of the core experience rather than optional add-ons.

      Subscription bundling and long-term user engagement

      By bundling the device with subscription services, OpenAI gains a “sticky” ecosystem that locks in users, similar to how Apple leverages the iPhone to drive service revenue. Or at least that’s the plan. The strategy underscores the importance of ongoing AI-enabled experiences, where hardware is paired with evolving software services, generating ongoing revenue streams and deeper user commitments rather than one-time device purchases.


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    • 15 New Pulsars Discovered in Nearby Globular Cluster by Astronomers

      15 New Pulsars Discovered in Nearby Globular Cluster by Astronomers

      Key Takeaway

      – 15 new millisecond pulsars discovered in 47 Tucanae, bringing the total to 42 confirmed pulsars in the cluster.
      – Pulsar spin periods range from 1.88 to 13.03 milliseconds; majority (12) are in binary systems with low-mass companions.
      – The fastest known pulsar overall remains PSR J1748-2446ad, spinning at 716 Hz (716 times per second).

      When using the MeerKAT radio telescope, a team of astronomers has recently uncovered 15 new millisecond pulsars. These celestial bodies sit about 13,000 light-years away from Earth, inside the globular cluster known as 47 Tucanae. The finding adds a notable chapter to the study of dense, rapidly spinning stars in that crowded region of the galaxy.

      Discovery details and context

      Pulsars are neutron stars with a diameter of roughly 20 kilometers and a mass around 1.5 times that of the Sun, which makes them incredibly dense and fast rotators. Led by Weiwei Chen from the Max Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy (MPIfR) in Bonn, Germany, the team announced the identification of 15 millisecond pulsars, sometimes referred to as MSPs. These MSPs boast spin periods that span from 1.88 to 13.03 milliseconds, marking them as some of the most rapidly spinning stellar remnants known.

      Binary and isolated pulsars

      Among the newly found pulsars, 12 are in binary systems with low-mass companions, while the rest are isolated. This mix helps researchers explore how interactions in dense cluster environments affect pulsar formation and evolution. The discovery therefore enhances the census of 47 Tucanae, bringing the total confirmed pulsars in this cluster to 42. Further observations are needed to deepen understanding and potentially uncover more similar objects in the future.

      Comparison and notable milestones

      Even with these exciting finds, the fastest pulsar ever detected remains PSR J1748-2446ad, which lies about 18,000 light-years away and spins at an extraordinary 716 times per second. This record-setting object underscores the extreme physics at work in millisecond pulsars and the capacity of modern radio telescopes to probe such rapid rotations. The new MSPs from 47 Tucanae add valuable data points for models of neutron star spin evolution and cluster dynamics.

      • Spin periods: 1.88 to 13.03 milliseconds
      • Binary status: 12 binary pulsars, rest isolated
      • Total known pulsars in 47 Tucanae after discovery: 42


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    • Xreal Project Aura Android XR Glasses Near Launch with Update

      Xreal Project Aura Android XR Glasses Near Launch with Update

      Key Takeaway

      – Project Aura are full-fledged OLED Android XR glasses that require a wired connection to a puck, similar in form factor to Apple Vision Pro.
      – Launch expected before end of 2026; price and exact date not yet announced; developer early-access program announced.
      – Demos at Google I/O 2026 included 180°/360° YouTube, immersive Google Maps, and multimodal AI demos connected to a laptop.

      Xreal Project Aura: New Details and Developer Program

      Xreal has shared new details on the Project Aura, the wired Android XR glasses that were first announced in May 2025. They are now set to launch before the end of 2026, and the company has announced a new program for the developers, which offers early access. The messaging keeps focus on a path to hands-on experience for developers, with anticipated access windows that could influence how apps are built for the product.

      Android XR Glasses With OLED Displays

      Xreal’s Project Aura, unlike the two Android XR smart glasses shown at Google I/O 2026, are described as full-fledged smart glasses with OLED displays. They are not standalone devices like the RayNeo X3 Pro or the Inmo Air 3; rather, Aura requires a wired connection with its puck, placing it in a category closer to the Apple Vision Pro in terms of how it integrates with a host device, although it uses a wired tether rather than a separate standalone processing unit.

      Demos At Google I/O 2026

      At Google I/O 2026, Xreal offered demos that included 180-degree and 360-degree YouTube experiences along with an early look at an immersive Google Maps. The company has even shown the multimodal AI capabilities of the Project Aura by connecting them to a laptop, illustrating a multimodal approach where content from multiple sources can be blended for a richer AR/VR experience. The demonstrations hint at the potential for hands-free navigation and immersive media experiences tied to real-world contexts.

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