MERNIZ

WhatsApp has responded to the Indian Government's call to send notice to the Meta's messaging platform regarding an increase in international scam calls. Promising to safeguard user's privacy and security, WhatsApp says it provides options like 'Block' and 'Report' for users to avoid any unwanted calls or messages. It also ensured to have ramped up its AI and ML system, which is expected to bring down the current calling rate by at least 50 percent. "Our users are at the heart of everything we do and we are fully aligned with the Government's goal of keeping users safe. WhatsApp is a leader among end-to-end encrypted services in protecting user safety," stated WhatsApp spokesperson in response to report regarding IT Ministry's decision to send a notice. "We have quickly ramped up our AI & ML systems to bring down such incidents significantly. Our new enforcement will reduce the current calling rate by at least 50 percent and we expect to be able to control the current incidence effectively," the statement added. Earlier in the day, Minister of State for IT Rajeev Chandrasekhar said that the IT Ministry will send a notice to WhatsApp on the issue of spam calls from unknown international numbers, in order to ensure privacy of users on digital platforms. He added that all the digital platforms are responsible and accountable for ensuring the safety of 'digital nagriks'. Alleged misuse or alleged breach of users' privacy on any such platform will receive appropriate response from the. government. The incidence has come to light as WhatsApp users in India have reported to have received incoming international spam calls over the past few days. Users took it to Twitter to complain that these spam calls had country codes belonging to Indonesia (+62), Vietnam (+84), Malaysia (+60), Kenya (+254) and Ethiopia (+251). Smartphone companies have launched many compelling devices over the first quarter of 2023. What are some of the best phones launched in 2023 you can buy today? We discuss this on Orbital, the Gadgets 360 podcast. Orbital is available on Spotify, Gaana, JioSaavn, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music and wherever you get your podcasts. https://www.gadgets360.com/apps/news/whatsapp-responds-it-ministry-notice-call-spam-international-calls-4026809

Wix(opens in new tab) has decided to take its website building services a step further by opening its backend to work outside the Wix platform, with the launch of a new offering designed for developers. Wix Headless hopes to revolutionize the way developers use composable application programming interfaces (APIs) and software development kits (SDK). The reportedly never-been-done-before offering allows developers to implement Wix’s business solutions with any tech stack across different platforms and devices. Wix Headless marks the first time the company is opening the backend to work outside the Wix platform. Website builder for developers Developers can use a variety of Wix Business Solutions that can all be accessed from the SDK and managed from within Wix’s management platform. The APIs can be used out of the box with Wix's additional solutions such as contacts and checkout. This means that web developers can create custom solutions that integrate with Wix even if their delivery layer, website or app is not on Wix. Other features of Wix Headless include multiple lines of business from one dashboard, the ability to connect additional sites or apps to existing projects on Wix, and the opportunity to take advantage of a global payments infrastructure. Through Wix’s providers platform, developers can also connect to payment providers located in South America, North America, and Europe, without integrating multiple payment gateways. "Wix Headless enables developers to use Wix in ways that weren't previously possible, from scaling their online presences to managing multiple complex projects in one place,“ said Shahar Talmi, GM Developer Platform at Wix. “We’re constantly advancing our business solutions on Wix, and by providing developers access to these APIs, with the ability to incorporate them into projects built on other platforms, we’re accelerating the endless possibilities presented in the web development industry.” Interestingly, the tool also lets web developers maximize the ways customers can interact with a business by connecting multiple clients to a single Wix back-end. For example, multiple websites, a mobile app, and a smartwatch app can all offer services on behalf of the same Wix backend business. Wix Headless opens the door for using Wix Business Solutions with web frameworks, including React, Vue, Svelte, Qwik, amongst others. The most efficient way to create a site is to use the best website builder service coupled with the best web hosting(opens in new tab) provider https://www.techradar.com/news/wix-is-opening-up-its-services-to-boost-websites-everywhere

Sabrent normally sells the Rocket 2230 1TB for $159.99. However, for a limited time, this small and fast SSD can be yours for just $109.99(opens in new tab), saving you a nice $50 off the regular price. Thus far, the discount only applies to purchases from Sabrent’s online store. Admittedly, there aren’t many M.2 2230 SSD options on the current market. Although the SSDs are used inside po[CENSORED]r devices, such as the ultrabooks or the Steam Deck, manufacturers haven’t given the form factor much attention. That doesn’t take away the fact that the Rocket 2230 is one of the best SSDs even if there’s little to no competition in the category. The Rocket 2230 1TB is the flagship SKU of Sabrent’s M.2 2230 lineup. Sadly, the vendor doesn’t offer a 2TB option, which would have been great since modern games are only getting bigger. The Rocket 2230 is a PCIe 4.0 SSD and delivers performance that does justice to its credentials. The tiny SSD offers sequential read and write speeds up to 4,750 MB/s and 4,300 MB/s, respectively. With performance figures like that, the Rocket 2230 is faster than the default drives in the Steam Deck and some of the OEM drives on the market. Performance isn’t the Rocket 2230’s only selling point. The SSD has been demonstrated to be extraordinarily power efficient in our tests. It’s an important aspect when choosing an M.2 2230 SSD since its primary target is mobile devices, like ultra-thin notebooks and handheld gaming consoles. The Rocket 2230 also has a generous warranty, which is another point in its favor. True, there are cheaper OEM options out there but those don’t typically come with a warranty. It’s a tremendous risk since the OEM can fail in a few weeks or months. Maybe you’ll get lucky, and it lasts for a few years. But it’s a lottery. The Rocket 2230, on the other hand, comes with a five-year warranty with registration. Valve doesn’t plan to release a Steam Deck 2 “for a few years”. But when the company does and if the new device retains the same form factor SSD, you’re already set with the Rocket 2230 1TB. https://www.tomshardware.com/news/get-dollar50-off-this-m2-2230-1tb-ssd-for-your-steam-deck

A few days before the opening of the World Hard Enduro season, Husqvarna presented the first images of the 2021 world champion's mount. A 300 TEi which foreshadows the future 2024 two-stroke enduro models. Shall we go around? New frame, swingarm, trim, tank, seat, everything is new. But always this sober and classic touch in the decor. Simple, effective... Obviously Billy Bolt's motorcycle receives WP Pro suspensions, specific triple trees, a seat cover, numerous protections (front disc, reinforced chain guide, etc.) which will not be on chain-extracted motorcycles. © HVA As with the 2023 cross two-strokes, the injection system behind the carbon cover should be the TBI, with injectors fixed in the Keihin injection body. And no longer in the cylinder. © HVA Dressing and tank kept a familiar line. But we are clearly on the 2024 pre-series, with series machines that will soon be presented to the press and in dealerships before the summer. © HVA After an empty season last year due to an injury, the Englishman Billy Bolt is going back to attacking the Hard Enduro world championship as the ultra favourite. © HVA Billy Bolt:“The 2023 season is going well for me so far. I ended the SuperEnduro season with another win, and even if that doesn't translate directly to hardenduro, it's still good to start the year dominating like that. I'm super excited to get back on the hard enduro scene now and show what I can do. I won the world title in 2021 and to be honest that was the last time I did the full championship. My 2022 season was cut short by injury so if anything it just gives me more motivation to get the win in 2023. I think when you've won a title in the past if you come into that championship with another objective than to win, then there is definitely something wrong. The bike for 2023 looks amazing and really suits my style. As soon as I jumped on it I felt comfortable and it's really good for my confidence ahead of the 2023 Hard Enduro World Championship. I also couldn't do what I do without such a strong team. around me. Every championship I've won is the result of a huge team effort. It's helped me get to where I am and even though there's a lot of hard work ahead this year, I think together we can get there and finish the season on top. » Every championship I've won is the result of a huge team effort. It's helped me get to where I am and even though there's a lot of hard work ahead this year, I think together we can get there and finish the season on top. » Every championship I've won is the result of a huge team effort. It's helped me get to where I am and even though there's a lot of hard work ahead this year, I think together we can get there and finish the season on top. » ays as radical in his driving, Bolt should give Manuel Lettenbichler and Mario Roman a hard time in 2023. Start of the season on May 18-20 with the Xross in Serbia. https://moto-station.com/moto-verte/actu/lhusqvarna-300-tei-de-billy-bolt-devoilee/640317

When Sen. Joe Manchin upbraided EPA on Wednesday for requiring power plants to reduce their carbon emissions, he didn’t mention that the agency’s rules could threaten his personal income. The West Virginia Democrat vowed to oppose President Joe Biden’s EPA nominees because the agency’s rules being proposed Thursday could push coal- and gas-fired power plants “out of existence,” he said. The risk to one plant, in particular, could jeapordize a lucrative source of money for Manchin. His family business Enersystems Inc. delivers waste coal to the Grant Town power plant, a financially struggling coal facility near Manchin’s hometown that he has spent much of his political career protecting. The Grant Town plant has repeatedly threatened to shut down. Now, with the release of EPA rules that are expected to push many power plants into installing expensive technology to capture their carbon emissions before the pollution escapes into the sky, the plant faces an increasingly troubled future. Many coal plants might shut down rather than comply with the stringent new climate rules. “This is going to make it harder for them to stay around. You won’t find written anywhere in the rule that this is supposed to be putting coal plants out of business, but just do the math,” said Brian Murray, director of the Nicholas Institute for Energy, Environment & Sustainability at Duke University. Last year, Manchin earned $537,000 from Enersystems, according to financial disclosure records he filed with the Senate. He has been paid more than $5 million by the company since being elected to the Senate in 2010. The Grant Town plant is the main facility to receive coal from Manchin’s family business. Enersystems is now run by Manchin’s son, Joe Manchin IV. Spokespeople for Manchin and Grant Town did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Manchin, who faces a strong Republican challenger with deep connections to the coal industry in next year’s election, expressed outrage in a 221-word statement released Wednesday against the Biden administration’s “extreme ideology” for targeting fossil fuel carbon emissions. POLITICO’s Energy Summit on May 18 will discuss the new energy world order with Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm, White House national climate adviser Ali Zaidi, New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, members of Congress and industry executives. Register here. “This Administration is determined to advance its radical climate agenda and has made it clear they are hellbent on doing everything in their power to regulate coal and gas-fueled power plants out of existence, no matter the cost to energy security and reliability,” Manchin said. The Grant Town plant generates 80 megawatts of power, making it one of the smaller plants in West Virginia and the only one that continues to burn waste coal, a mix of mud and minerals that is often found discarded near old mines. Waste coal is a high-carbon fuel. Environmental regulations have long threatened the Grant Town plant. In 2021, Richard Halloran, the president of the plant’s operator, Grant Town Holdings Corp., said in state testimony that he planned to use the facility to power cryptocurrency mining as a way to diversify its income stream. He noted that the plan, which he described as a financial lifeline for the struggling plant, carried inherent risks because of the freewheeling nature of cryptocurrency. “This will give us less protection against the anti fossil fuel (coal) sentiment and legislation and taxation, but we will try to fight this battle as hard as possible,” Halloran said. West Virginia, which still gets about 90 percent of its power from coal, is an outlier in the United States. Many states, including New York, have moved beyond coal entirely, replacing it with natural gas and renewables. A version of this report first ran in E&E News’ Climatewire. Get access to more comprehensive and in-depth reporting on the energy transition, natural resources, climate change and more in E&E News. https://www.politico.com/news/2023/05/11/manchin-epa-new-rules-biden-00096320

Animal rights campaigners are calling on the UK government to ban testing ingredients used for make-up on animals. Testing cosmetic products and ingredients on animals remains banned in the UK, the government insists. But the Home Office has issued licenses that allow testing of ingredients that might affect worker safety. The High Court said that the government was acting legally after a case was brought by animal rights activists. Animal tests for makeup ingredients allowed Which animals are used in UK experiments? Nars boycotts over China animal testing Testing on animals in the UK had only been allowed if the benefits gained from the research outweighed any animal suffering, for example for medicines. However, in 2020 the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), an EU agency which oversees chemical regulation, ruled that companies needed to test some ingredients used in cosmetics on animals to ensure they were safe for workers manufacturing the ingredients. 'Regrettable' Last week it emerged that since 2019 the government has been issuing licences for animal testing of cosmetic ingredients in line with EU chemical rules, which it retained despite leaving the EU in 2020. It is not known how many such licences have been issued or to whom. The issuing of licences was revealed in a High Court case brought by animal rights campaigners. Mr Justice Linden ruled in favour of the government, saying that the licenses were not in conflict with the government's ban on cosmetics testing. But he said it was "regrettable" the public had not been informed about the change in policy. When asked if the government is restarting animal testing, the Prime Minister's Official Spokesperson said: "No absolutely not. The ban on using animals to test cosmetic products or ingredients for the consumer will remain completely in force and there are absolutely no plans to change that. "It also remains the case that it is unlawful for any business to sell cosmetic products or their ingredients that have been tested for the consumer on animals. "Any change in EU law on this will not impact our position and we will take the necessary steps to ensure this is the case. There will be no weakening on our position on animal testing." PM 'misinformed' In response, Campaign group Cruelty Free International said: "Unfortunately, the prime minister is misinformed about the government's position on animal testing for cosmetics. "A policy banning such tests was first introduced in 1998. However, in a letter to Cruelty Free International in August 2021, the Home Office admitted that the policy had 'changed' (i.e. been abandoned), to bring the UK into line with an EU ruling in a case called Symrise. "When Cruelty Free International challenged the new approach in a recent judicial review, the Home Office disclosed that it had been secretly granting licences to test for cosmetics since February 2019. "A High Court judge ruled that legally it was entitled to, based on his interpretation of EU general chemicals legislation known as REACH and its relationship with the EU Cosmetics Regulation." The campaign group added: "The government also said separately that the policy applied to worker safety testing. The prime minister's statement refers to tests 'for the consumer'. "Whether labelled as consumer or worker safety, the animal tests are identical. The government is now unquestionably once more allowing cosmetics testing on animals for the benefit of consumers." 'Horrified' The Body Shop, a global beauty company, has said they share the concerns of Cruelty Free International that the ban was effectively lifted. They are also calling on the government to reinstate the ban immediately. Dr Penny Hawkins, head of the RSPCA's animals in science department, said: "We've long been concerned about the UK government's decision to allow animal testing to satisfy chemical safety legislation even when a substance may go on to be used exclusively in a cosmetics product. "This is in conflict with the ban on the use of animals to test cosmetic products or their ingredients. It also flies in the face of deeply-held and legitimate concerns about this use of animals, held by the RSPCA and the public - many of whom will be horrified that cosmetic ingredients could again be tested on animals. "The RSPCA wants to see a global commitment to replacing the use of animals in science, with an immediate end to the use of animal testing for consumer products." A new chemicals strategy is expected to be published this year outlining the government's position on the use and testing of chemicals in the UK - which may include further guidance to cosmetic companies. https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-65562354

Inter Milan logically dominated AC Milan at the San Siro stadium (0-2) on Wednesday. The Nerazzuri smothered the Rossoneri in the first half, before AC Milan tried to come back in the second half – but were unsuccessful. The Interistes take an option for qualification for the Champions League final before the return match next week. It was a European derby that promised to be boiling at the San Siro stadium on Wednesday May 10. For this semi-final first leg of the Champions League , Inter Milan dominated AC Milan (0-2) and took a serious option for qualification in the final before the second leg. At the start of the match, the Rossoneri of Stefano Pioli evolve in 4-2-3-1 with Olivier Giroud at the forefront. Rafael Leao, doubtful due to a strained right thigh last weekend, is out. Simone Inzaghi's Nerazzuri start the match in 3-5-2. Up front, Lautaro Martinez pairs with Edin Dzeko, and Romelu Lukaku starts on the bench. There is a lot of commitment from the start of the match, like this sole of Theo Hernandez on Dumfries in midfield (1st). Both teams are in place and no one leaves space for the opponent... until Inter lights the first fuse: after a distant free kick from Dimarco deflects for a corner, Calhanoglu fires the kick set foot beautifully volleyed by Dzeko who gives the advantage to his team (0-1, 8th). AC Milan did not have time to recover from their match as Inter doubled the lead. On a loss of the ball in midfield, Dimarco off center sends a pass in the axis at the entrance to the surface on Mkhitaryan who adjusts Maignan at close range (0-2, 11th). Inter pull off the perfect start to the game. The Nerazzuri are also not far from tripling the lead a few minutes later: Calhanoglu's shot finally crashes into the post. In the aftermath, Maignan works to repel a new attempt by Mkhitaryan (16th). The Rossoneri are suffocated by their opponent's tactical system and fail to create chances... Conversely, the few interist incursions constantly create danger and have already hit the mark twice. Inter maintains the same pressure on his opponent, who fails to get his head above water. AC Milan even fails to sink when Martinez gets a penalty on a foul from Kjaer (31st). But the referee, after having recourse to the VAR, reconsiders his decision and cancels the set piece. In the process, Martinez again appears at the entrance to the surface of AC Milan and arms a sudden rebound shot. Maignan is surprised and does not move, but the ball barely escapes the frame (34th). AC Milan tries a reaction at the end of the first period, but its attempts lack precision like this discount on Giroud which does not alert Onana (45th + 2). After four minutes of added time, it's half-time in this one-sided European derby. Inter Milan logically dominates AC Milan, he even had opportunities to make the mark worse. The Rossoneri will have to change things to exist in the second half. AC Milan try to get back in the game but Inter control their subject The second half resumes. AC Milan did not make any player changes at half-time, but seem to be coming back from the locker room with better intentions like this action (49th): Diaz recovers the ball and pierces the interist axis before arm a curling shot that grazes Onana's post. This is the first clear chance for the Rossoneri. In the process, Tonali brilliantly shifts Messias who arms an off-center shot to deceive Onana, but his ball escapes the target (51st). AC Milan seems to be recovering, but Inter are still playing. On a new occasion, Dzeko finds himself alone in the Milan area, but he fails to score a double because of a solid save from Maignan (53rd). The Milan goalkeeper keeps his teammates in the game. AC Milan seems to suffer less from the match than in the first period, but struggles to create danger in the opposing area. The Rossoneri may need more freshness to return to this European derby. Thiaw replaces Kjaer and Origi replaces Saelemekers (59th). Origi, just entered, is illustrated quickly and creates a gap which leads Tonali to strike in the axis of a strike from the outside... Outgoing post, Onana was deceived (63rd). AC Milan finally rebalances the match, but it is Inter who lead the scoreboard. The Interistes are also a little in the management – without losing quality – like the two changes of Dzeko and Dimarco (70th), two strong men of the evening replaced by Lukaku and De Vrij. Then Simone Inzaghi brings out two other artisans of the good interist match: Calhanoglu and Martinez, replaced by Gagliardini and Correa (78th). Inter, which no longer has control over the match as in the first act, remains despite everything well in place and on the lookout for the slightest counter. Failing to stifle their opponents now, the Nerazzuri temporize the inclinations of the Rossoneri, who no longer manage to create danger. Messias still tries a shot, but it is deflected by an interist defender, then Onana grabs it without difficulty on the ground (81st). Inter then waste an opportunity that could have ended better at the feet of Gaglardini (83rd). AC Milan also lacks precision, like this free kick from Theo Hernandez which passes well above Onana's cage (85th). Onana is also put to use on a strike without great danger (90th + 1). Whether in attack or defense, Inter is ultimately the big winner of this first European derby. See you in a week for the rematch. https://www.france24.com/fr/sports/20230510-ligue-des-champions-l-inter-remporte-la-première-manche-du-derby-face-à-l-ac-milan

Re “A moment that changed me” (10 May), Alison Hitchcock’s letters to her friend Brian after he’d been diagnosed with cancer mirror my own experience. In 2016, I wrote to my cousin Shirley, 82, an English graduate who was in hospital, hoping that her daughter would read my letter out to her. Shirley recovered and began to reply. I continued to write fortnightly and am now approaching letter number 195. This correspondence has given us both a great deal of pleasure – and has certainly improved my grammar. Tom Whitehead Kendal, Cumbria The “feudal” system of leaseholds is not to be abolished, announces Downing Street (Report, 10 May) – five days after the coronation of a major landlord. Coincidence, obviously. David Duell Durham Re pet names (Letters, 10 May), my parents had friends whose cat was named Caldybus. Odd to hear them calling this name when the bus to Caldy, a village along the road from where we lived in the Wirral peninsula, would sail past hourly. Alison Leighton Stony Stratford, Buckinghamshire Letterboxes are positioned near the floor (Letters, 10 May) so that even the tiniest pooch can join in the exciting game of waiting in silence, ready to leap forward in snarling fury as unsuspecting fingers attempt to push a pamphlet through the opening. Peter Waterson Bishopbriggs, East Dunbartonshire Breakfast pie (Letters, 10 May) has been sold by Gay’s Creamery in Dawlish for at least 25 years. Brian Hirst Exeter Have an opinion on anything you’ve read in the Guardian today? Please email us your letter and it will be considered for publication in our letters section. The free press is under attack from multiple forces. Media outlets are closing their doors, victims to a broken business model. In much of the world, journalism is morphing into propaganda, as governments dictate what can and can’t be printed. In the last year alone, hundreds of reporters have been killed or imprisoned for doing their jobs. The UN reports that 85% of the world’s po[CENSORED]tion experienced a decline in press freedom in their country in recent years. Last week marked the 30th annual World Press Freedom Day, a day for everyone to reflect on the importance of free expression as fundamental for all other rights. It is also an opportunity to pledge support for independent media – because without a robust and free press, a healthy democracy is impossible. As you’re joining us today from Algeria, we hope you will consider marking this day by supporting the Guardian. Despite the financial challenges plaguing the media industry, we’ve decided to keep our journalism paywall-free, because we deeply believe everyone has the right to access high-quality, fact-checked reporting. And we maintain our independence thanks to generosity from readers all over the world, who understand that supporting the free press is an investment in an informed and empowered public. Unlike many others, we have no billionaire owner – this helps us maintain the freedom to fearlessly chase the truth and report it with integrity. Your support will allow us to continue to work with trademark determination and passion to bring you journalism that’s always free from commercial or political interference. https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2023/may/11/for-the-pleasure-of-writing-to-a-friend

The US envoy to South Africa has accused the country of supplying weapons to Russia despite its professed neutrality in the war in Ukraine. Ambassador Reuben Brigety told local media he was "confident" that a Russian ship was loaded with ammunition and weapons in Cape Town last December. South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa said his government was looking into the claims. The country has maintained claims of neutrality in the invasion of Ukraine. Mr Brigety said at a media briefing in Pretoria on Thursday that Washington had concerns about the country's stated non-aligned stance on the conflict. He referred to the docking of a cargo ship in the Simon's Town naval base between 6 and 8 December last year which he was "confident" uploaded weapons and ammunition "as it made its way back to Russia". The presence of the ship, the Lady R, had seemed curious at the time and raised questions from some local politicians. "The arming of the Russians is extremely serious, and we do not consider this issue to be resolved," Mr Brigety said, in a damning accusation that seems to have caught South Africa's officials off guard. In the wake of the allegations, the South African government announced the establishment of an independent inquiry led by a retired judge, a spokesman for the president's office said. The US has been critical for months about South Africa's continued cosy relationship with Russia. It also expressed concerns about South Africa's participation in military exercises with Russia and China during the anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine. The naval exercises took place over 10 days in February and were criticised by opposition figures as an endorsement of the Russian invasion. The South African authorities denied the war games were provocatively timed to coincide with the one-year anniversary and said the country routinely hosts similar drills with other nations, including France and the US. South Africa previously abstained from a UN vote condemning the invasion. It also refused to join the US and Europe in imposing sanctions on Russia. In response to a question raised by the leader of the opposition John Steenhuisen, Mr Ramaphosa told parliament on Thursday that the comments made by the US ambassador would be looked into. The president asked opposition parties to allow for the process to be completed, adding that "in time we will be able to speak about it". The US State Department has not yet commented on the claims. If they are true, they not only weaken South Africa's claim of neutrality, but some may even go as far as saying the country is complicit in the ongoing aggression of Russia in Ukraine. "If South African bullets are found on Ukraine bodies, that is not a position we would want to be in," one expert in international relations said. The details around the arms cache are still thin. It is not clear if the weapons would have been acquired from a state-owned arms company, or a weapons company based in South Africa. But either way, this does not bode well for South Africa's international ties, especially with the US, one of its largest trade allies. At the heart of the issue for South Africa now, off the back of these claims, will be the impression this could create that the country is not only non-aligned but has in fact chosen to be a "soft ally" to Russia, at a time when some Western countries see Russia as an aggressor guilty of human rights violations. Why Russia's invasion of Ukraine still divides Africa South Africa has modern-day ties with Russia because they are members of the Brics alliance, a group which represents some of the world's leading emerging economies, including China, Brazil and India. The country's governing African National Congress (ANC) also has long-standing ties with Russia. South Africa was faced with a diplomatic dilemma in March after the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant against Russian President Vladimir Putin. He is accused of being responsible for war crimes in Ukraine, including the unlawful deportation of children. Mr Putin was due to attend an upcoming Brics summit in South Africa in August but the warrant meant that Pretoria would have to detain him on arrival. In response, last month Mr Ramaphosa said the ANC had decided that South Africa should quit the ICC, before backtracking hours later citing what his office called a communications "error". Historically, South Africa had a thriving arms industry, selling weapons to countries across the continent. The scale of that arms power to date is currently not known. South Africa's authorities have been less than pleased with the accusation from the US ambassador, saying the matter should have been handled through proper diplomatic channels. It is not enough for the envoy to simply claim the existence of the intelligence and there will be an expectation from many in South Africa for the US to provide evidence of its claim. This is a hang-up of claims once made by the US of weapons of mass destruction, which led to the invasion of Iraq some years ago. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-65563027

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Your Nickname:Merniz Your Problem: There is a glitch with fps is 60 I increased nvidia panel but nothing Screenshot : https://ibb.co/zNpg7fw

Microsoft will not raise salaries for full-time employees this year and is reducing budget for bonuses and stock awards, Insider reported on Wednesday, citing an internal email by CEO Satya Nadella. The tech giant did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. "Last year, we made a significant investment in compensation driven by market conditions and company performance, nearly doubling our global merit budget...this year the economic conditions are very different across many dimensions" the report quoted Nadella saying. In January, Microsoft said it would let go of 10,000 workers, adding to the tens of thousands layoffs announced before that across the technology sector as it deals with slowing growth in a turbulent economy. Microsoft has now squarely placed its focus on generative AI, an area the industry sees as a bright spot. In collaboration with ChatGPT maker OpenAI, which also has received billions of dollars in funding from Microsoft, the tech giant has been infusing the AI tech into its Office products as well as search engine Bing. Last week, Microsoft expanded public access to its generative artificial intelligence programs, despite fears that tech firms are rushing ahead too quickly with potentially dangerous technology. In March this year, it was reported that Microsoft-owned GitHub laid off 142 people in India, including the entire staff in its engineering division. Those affected by the decision were deployed across the company's offices in Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Delhi. A GitHub spokesperson termed the decision as a part of the company's reorganisation plan. https://www.gadgets360.com/internet/news/microsoft-salaried-staff-no-raise-2023-reveals-leaked-mail-ceo-satya-nadella-report-4023362

New leaked images suggest Google Photos will soon be optimized for tablets as the app is slated to make better use of a device’s screen while in landscape view. This batch of information comes from industry tipster Nail Sadykov who runs the Google News Telegram channel(opens in new tab), which is not affiliated with the company itself. Looking at the images Sadykov provides, the redesigned Photos app looks quite similar to how Adobe Lightroom appears on tablets: a side-by-side view with the image on the left and a variety of editing tools across six sections on the right. It doesn’t appear there will be any changes to those editing tools, since users will still be able to adjust the shadows in a photo or tweak the aspect ratio, for example. The goal with the redesign, it seems, is to help people make more precise edits since the app will better fit the screen. Portrait mode, however, will be staying exactly the same, according to Sadykov on Twitter(opens in new tab). At the time of this writing, Google Photos on tablets is essentially the mobile version just stretched out. The narrower interface is fine for smartphones, but on bigger screens, you end up with a lot of wasted space in landscape mode. It’s unknown when the redesign will roll out, if at all. Sadykov claims you can enable the changes in the “latest version of the Google Photos app,” although it is currently “hidden from users.” So, it’s possible the software is going through some internal testing at the moment. Updating the old It is worth pointing out the changes follow a trajectory that Google has been on since Google I/O 2022 where the company revealed it would be rolling out tablet-optimized versions of old apps(opens in new tab). One of the earlier waves(opens in new tab) updated multiple Google Workspace apps like Google Drive, Docs, and Sheets to better fit large Android screens. The update even added new features like the ability to drag and drop files. Optimization continues to this day as Google Drive recently obtained “several modernizations” back in March(opens in new tab) that make it easier to see file details on screen, among other things. Speaking of Google I/O, the 2023 event is happening tomorrow, Wednesday, May 10. During the event, the world will see the debut of the company’s first foldable phone, the aptly named Google Pixel Fold. We also hope to hear about the official launch date of the long awaited Pixel Tablet, so be sure to follow our coverage of Google I/O 2023 as it happens. And while we have your attention, check out TechRadar’s list of the best Google Photos alternatives for the year. https://www.techradar.com/news/google-photos-is-about-to-get-a-lot-better-on-your-tablet-with-upcoming-redesign

It's on the high-end for a gaming laptop, with top-of-the-line hardware and a large high refresh rate screen for great gaming performance. This Lenovo Legion Pro 7i laptop holds within its belly a 16 GB Nvidia RTX 4090 laptop GPU and also an Intel Core i9-13900HX processor. Originally priced at $3,599, you can get $540 off this laptop if you use code GAMINGOFFERS at checkout. That means you can get the Legion Pro 7i Gen 8 for only $3,059(opens in new tab). Also using the latest 40-series GPU is the new Dell XPS 17 gaming laptop that's been reduced to $2,999 (opens in new tab)from $3,499. This gaming laptop features the Nvidia Geforce RTX 4070 laptop GPU and a 13th Generation Intel Core i9-13900H processor. Another standout feature of this machine is the large 17-inch 4K touchscreen which will allow you to view content and play games with incredible detail. A much more affordable option and using the last generation of hardware, this laptop could easily be included in a list of the best laptops under $1000. The Acer Predator Triton 300 SE comes in at $999(opens in new tab) - saving $600 off of its original markup price. With an Intel Core i7-12700H CPU and RTX 3060 GPU, this is a very capable hardware setup for playing the latest and greatest gaming titles See below for more laptop Real Deals. https://www-tomshardware-com.translate.goog/news/save-dollar540-off-an-rtx-4090-gaming-laptop-real-deals?_x_tr_sl=en&_x_tr_tl=ar&_x_tr_hl=ar&_x_tr_pto=sc

The government has ditched its plan for thousands of EU-era laws to expire automatically at the end of the year. The plan - dubbed a post-Brexit bonfire - would see laws that were copied over to the UK after Brexit vanish, unless specifically kept or replaced. Critics of the bill had voiced concern that it could lead to important legislation falling away by accident. But the climbdown is likely to trigger anger from Brexit-backing Conservative MPs. Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch said the cut-off point would be replaced with a list of 600 laws the government wants to replace by the end of the year. In a statement, she said the change would be made through an amendment when the Retained EU Law Bill returns to Parliament next week. MPs push back against timeline to scrap EU laws Senedd votes against plan to scrap EU-era laws Plan to scrap EU laws undermines NI deal - report Tory Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg, who introduced the bill when he was in government, called the move an "admission of administrative failure". It showed an "inability of Whitehall to do the necessary work and an incapability of ministers to push this through their own departments," he added. He said the move to ditch the deadline represented the triumph of "the blob" - a term used by some Tory MPs to describe the Whitehall establishment. The UK incorporated an estimated 4,000 EU laws into UK law to minimise disruption to businesses when the UK officially left the EU in 2020. Since September 2021, it has been reviewing this body of legislation to identify opportunities to give British firms an edge over European competitors. The Retained EU Law Bill, which began its journey through Parliament during Liz Truss's premiership, would have introduced a 31 December cut-off date for most of these laws to expire, unless ministers replaced or decided to retain them. 'Humiliating u-turn' However opposition parties, trade unions and campaign groups cast doubt on whether the deadline was realistic, given the huge workload in reviewing the legislation. In a statement on Wednesday, Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch acknowledged the deadline had created "legal uncertainty" for businesses. She added that the "growing volume" of EU laws identified during an ongoing audit of laws carried out by civil servants meant the process had started to prioritise reducing legal risk over "meaningful reform". Labour called the move a "humiliating u-turn," accusing ministers of trying to "rescue this sinking ship of a bill". "After wasting months of parliamentary time, the Tories have conceded that this universally unpo[CENSORED]r bill will damage the economy," said Jenny Chapman, Labour's shadow Cabinet Office minister. Liberal Democrat peer Lord Fox said the Conservatives had "dug themselves into a hole" with the bill, adding: "While they may have stopped digging, they're still in the hole". The bill was passed by MPs in January, but was expected to run into significant opposition when it faces further scrutiny in the House of Lords. Peers were meant to start debating the bill last month, but the government was reported to have put it on hold until last week's local elections in England were over. The government is still expected to face opposition from peers over new powers for ministers to amend or replace EU laws using secondary legislation, a fast-track process that attracts less scrutiny in Parliament. Some Conservative MPs say this would rob Parliament of a meaningful say over what is changed. EU laws covering financial services had been exempted from the deadline as they have been carved out into another bill making its way through the Commons. The same is expected for EU legislation affecting VAT and customs. Environmental laws However, the footprint of EU-era legislation is particularly large when it comes to environmental regulation. Campaign groups have warned about a loss of rights and legal protections in areas including water quality, air pollution standards and protections for wildlife. However, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak had faced pressure from some Brexiteers not to change the end-of-year deadline. He promised during his unsuccessful leadership campaign last summer to publish a list of which EU laws would be retained or scrapped within 100 days of taking office. However, he did not keep the pledge after taking office in October after he was chosen to replace Liz Truss as prime minister by Conservative MPs. https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-65546319

Wild sheep on St Kilda have been left to starve to death, say island vets. They have raised a petition urging action from the Scottish government and the National Trust for Scotland (NTS) - which helps to manage the uninhabited archipelago off the west of Scotland. The two vets said the number of animals outstripped the available grazing. NTS said the animals were related to ancient wild sheep and were treated as feral, so there was a presumption against intervention. And the Scottish government said St Kilda's sheep were similar to wild deer in that they were unowned and unmanaged. Evidence St Kilda was inhabited 2,000 years ago The last families who lived on St Kilda St Kilda sheep study 30 years old But Western Isles-based vets David Buckland and Graham Charlesworth argue the animals were managed in some way for thousands of years until the last islanders abandoned St Kilda in 1930. Mr Buckland, who has worked in Uist and Barra for more than 40 years, described the sheep as domestic animals left to live in a "wild state". He said: "It is the manner of their dying that vets are concerned with. I think starvation is a very bad death." Mr Buckland said scientific monitoring of po[CENSORED]tions on St Kilda's islands of Hirta, Boreray and Soay suggested sheep had been dying from starvation on a regular basis for years. He added: "For the last six years we have been trying to persuade NTS and Scottish government to take measures to reduce the starvation and improve welfare of sheep, but have got nowhere." NTS said it took its responsibilities relating to animal welfare seriously and always followed relevant legislation. A spokeswoman said: "The Soay sheep are an important part of the St Kilda archipelago's heritage, and originate from the po[CENSORED]tion on the island of Soay where they were treated as a wild po[CENSORED]tion for hundreds of years, unmanaged save for periodic hunting by the archipelago's inhabitants. "The sheep will continue to be treated as feral animals with a presumption against intervention, except in exceptional circumstances, such as a serious outbreak of disease that threatens the sheep po[CENSORED]tions." NTS said it had been in long-running communication with the vets regarding the management and welfare of the sheep. The spokeswoman added: "We will continue to comply with Scottish government legislation relating to St Kilda's sheep po[CENSORED]tions and are happy to contribute to any review it decides to undertake." The Scottish government said the history of the sheep meant they were not considered to be a species that was commonly domesticated within the British Islands. A spokesman said: "This means that provisions contained within the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2006 would not apply. This has been the consistent position of the Scottish government for many years." He added: "We recognise that within any wild po[CENSORED]tion of animals in Scotland there will be different challenges from year to year which may impact po[CENSORED]tion numbers. "For the St Kilda sheep the harsher climatic conditions of the winter months can unfortunately lead to increased natural deaths among the po[CENSORED]tion." The St Kilda Soay Sheep project, which has been studying the animals since 1985 said the sheep had been evolving to their environment for hundreds of years. It said the deaths over winter were potentially comparable with other wildlife in Scotland. A spokesman said: "There is no evidence whatsoever Soay sheep on St Kilda suffer more or differently than other wild po[CENSORED]tions experiencing harsh Hebridean winters." St Kilda is a group of small islands and rocky sea stacks more than 40 miles (64km) west of the Western Isles. The main island of Hirta is inhabited but only on a temporary basis by visiting NTS workers, scientists and also contractors who work at small Ministry of Defence site. https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-highlands-islands-65532834

As the Paris Olympic Games are fast approaching (July 26 – August 11, 2024), the issue of sanctions against Russian and Belarusian athletes continues to be dealt with on a case-by-case basis by the federations. The IOC assures that it will decide "in due time", even if it means allowing absurd situations to develop. Should Russian and Belarusian athletes be admitted to Paris-2024 as war continues to rage in Ukraine? Fourteen months before the Olympics , the debate is far from settled. The greatest vagueness reigns around the participation of Russians and Belarusians : the international federations deal on a case-by-case basis with the lifting of sanctions in the light of their interpretation of the recommendations of the International Olympic Committee ( IOC ). Their presence, or not, at the Games (July 26 – August 11, 2024), has yet to be decided by the IOC, which will do so "in good time", without having set a deadline. In the meantime, the International Federations are divided between those having opened the door to their return and others having closed it. Athletics, for example, maintained its exclusion measures. Badminton too –: the secretary general of its International Federation (BWF), Thomas Lund, however explained “to be in good dialogue with the IOC to obtain more clarity on the ways forward”, in a statement sent to AFP . "Clarity" is the key term because the sports, more and more numerous, having endorsed the end of generalized sanctions - this is the case of fencing, table tennis or canoeing - are groping. The conditions recommended by the IOC, under a neutral banner and on an individual basis, are interpreted differently. Playing doubles ok, team judo no Russian and Belarusian athletes "can only compete as neutral individual athletes", indicates the body chaired by Thomas Bach in its recommendations. These clearly exclude "teams", therefore collective sports, without removing any ambiguity on the collective events of individual disciplines. "The definition of team sports or team events is established in accordance with the corresponding regulations of the IFs (International Federations, editor's note)", evacuates the IOC in a note. Thus, table tennis prepares the return of eligible athletes in singles tournaments, but also in doubles. If by chance, their participation in the 2024 Olympics was authorized, Russian and Belarusian table tennis players could try to win a medal in mixed doubles. But not in the team event, mixing four singles and a double. More surprisingly, four fencers from these two countries could not shoot in teams, in the current state of the decisions of their International Fencing Federation (FIE). But four ceists (for canoeing) or kayakers of these same two nationalities could paddle in the Vaires-sur-Marne basin, since their International Federation, the ICF, is moving towards authorizing crews of two to four. Neutrality survey Several International Federations such as those of judo (IJF) or that of fencing (FIE) have recourse to private companies, specialized in e-reputation, to ensure that athletes comply with the principle of neutrality recommended by the IOC. Namely that they are not "athletes who actively support the war". It is a question of scrutinizing the media and social networks to ensure the absence of "public declarations" or "wearing of a symbol", "for example the symbol Z", in favor of the war, cites the example of the movement Olympic. Not all the Federations use these services, but all those who have lifted the generalized sanctions have announced the creation of an independent committee to decide on a case-by-case basis. "There will be outside and inside people so as to both retain knowledge of the sport and have legal and human rights expertise", describes the vice-president of the International Federation of Modern Pentathlon, Joël Bouzou, "from so as to avoid conflicts of interest". A major challenge in the reduced biotope of certain sports. A pressing question as qualifying begins Except in judo, where nineteen “neutral individual athletes” are currently participating in the Worlds in Doha, the sports that have lifted the suspensions have not yet recorded a return to competition of Russian or Belarusian athletes. However, the qualification period for the Olympics has begun for several of them, particularly in fencing. Thus, the Russian swordsmen and swordswomen could not shoot at the Seoul Grand Prix (April 27-29), "due to a bureaucratic mess and the slowness of the International Federation", criticized the president of the Federation Russian to the Russian news agency Tass. The latter, Ilgar Mamedov, therefore asked that "all the qualifying points for this tournament be canceled". However, the Olympic movement has given its position on this scenario: the IOC "will not ask international federations to retroactively adapt their qualification systems". All eyes are therefore on the European Games, in Krakow, from June 21 to July 2, because they weigh heavily in qualifying in several sports, for example archery or fencing, among those reinstating Russians and Belarusians . Could these be there? Last month, a fencing World Cup stop in Poznan, Poland, was canceled due to the Russian return. Not to mention that some European confederations – a continent where rejection weighs heavier than on a global scale – are considering excluding Russians and Belarusians. They would then be deprived of the Continental Championship and therefore precious points in the eventual race for the Olympics. https://www.france24.com/fr/sports/20230510-jeux-olympiques-le-cio-dans-le-flou-artistique-concernant-les-sportifs-russes-et-biélorusses

Re dog names (The pet I’ll never forget, 8 May), I remember, some 30 years ago, a dog running down our village street, its owners in hot pursuit calling out its name: “Tiptoe! Tiptoe!” It didn’t. Joy Webb Penistone, South Yorkshire When we got a cairn terrier puppy, he had already been named Achilles. I could always spot English speakers in the park by their reaction to my urgent shouts as I tried to train him to walk just behind me. Charles Osborne Prague, the Czech Republic I agree that we have an unhealthy obsession with sleep (Our obsession with sleep is doing more harm than good – and ignores the real problem, 9 May). But if the “sleepalyser” – blood tests for drivers after a road accident to determine whether they are under the “sleep limit” – is to be introduced, surely the police should be similarly tested to check that they’re fresh enough to carry out the test? Stan Labovitch Windsor, Berkshire Re the “enigma wrapped in pastry” (Breakfast pie: the British delicacy that doesn’t exist – but absolutely should, 8 May), breakfast pie is on the menu at the tea rooms in the Antiques Village in Levenshulme, Manchester. Carole Ludlow Mooney Bacup, Lancashire Mary Burgess (Letters, 9 May) wonders why we have letterboxes at ground level. My European friends wonder why we cut holes in our doors at all. Val Seddon York Is anyone who cycles to a demonstration carrying a D-lock or a bike chain now breaking the law? Prof Jonathan Bard Oxford The free press is under attack from multiple forces. Media outlets are closing their doors, victims to a broken business model. In much of the world, journalism is morphing into propaganda, as governments dictate what can and can’t be printed. In the last year alone, hundreds of reporters have been killed or imprisoned for doing their jobs. The UN reports that 85% of the world’s po[CENSORED]tion experienced a decline in press freedom in their country in recent years. Last week marked the 30th annual World Press Freedom Day, a day for everyone to reflect on the importance of free expression as fundamental for all other rights. It is also an opportunity to pledge support for independent media – because without a robust and free press, a healthy democracy is impossible. As you’re joining us today from Algeria, we hope you will consider marking this day by supporting the Guardian. Despite the financial challenges plaguing the media industry, we’ve decided to keep our journalism paywall-free, because we deeply believe everyone has the right to access high-quality, fact-checked reporting. And we maintain our independence thanks to generosity from readers all over the world, who understand that supporting the free press is an investment in an informed and empowered public. Unlike many others, we have no billionaire owner – this helps us maintain the freedom to fearlessly chase the truth and report it with integrity. Your support will allow us to continue to work with trademark determination and passion to bring you journalism that’s always free from commercial or political interference. https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2023/may/10/talk-about-giving-a-dog-a-bad-name

Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan has pleaded not guilty to corruption charges a day after his arrest sparked nationwide protests. Eight people have died nationwide in the protests and about 1,000 have been arrested, police say. The army is being deployed in some areas, and has issued a stern warning after crowds attacked its properties. Mr Khan's arrest dramatically escalated tensions between Mr Khan and the military at a time of economic crisis. Conviction would disqualify the former cricket star - prime minister from 2018 to 2022 - from standing for office, possibly for life. Elections are due later this year. Dramatic footage showed dozens of security officers forcibly removing the 70-year-old from court on Tuesday, then bundling him into a police vehicle. There is tight security at the police guesthouse where he is being detained, which is also serving as a courtroom. On Wednesday Mr Khan was indicted on charges that he unlawfully sold state gifts during his premiership, in a case brought by the Election Commission. He denies the allegations and says he fulfilled all legal requirements. It was the first of dozens of cases against him in which he has been formally charged. For months he had avoided arrest, with his supporters at times fighting pitched battles with police to keep him out of custody. Tuesday's arrest was based on a new warrant for a separate corruption case, connected to the alleged transfer of land for Al-Qadir University, near Islamabad. The judge remanded Mr Khan in custody for eight days in this case. One of his lawyers, Sher Afzal Marwat, said his client was faring well and relayed a message to supporters not to give up: "You have to stand your ground for Rule of Law," Mr Khan said. His Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party said it would challenge the legality of his arrest in court. The action by Pakistan's anti-corruption body has led to violent protests across the country. The government has called the army in to maintain order in several regions of the country, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, Balochistan, and Islamabad. Extraordinary scenes on Tuesday evening showed Mr Khan's supporters ransacking the corps commander's residence in Lahore, smashing chandeliers and making away with peacocks - among other things - which they said were bought with "citizen's money". Pakistan's army described 9 May as a "dark day" and warned protesters of an "extreme reaction" if properties of the state were attacked again. Police in Islamabad used shipping containers to try to block routes to the compound where Imran Khan was appearing before a judge. The BBC witnessed clashes between protesters and the police in the middle of one of Islamabad's main motorways. Protesters began gathering after midday, some carrying with them PTI flags or wearing Imran Khan face masks. Canisters of tear gas were fired into the crowd soon after they began to gather. The protesters attempted to hit the metal casings away using their sticks. There were no arrests during the 90 minutes the BBC were present. "We came to do a peaceful protest, but these police are shelling us," one man, who was holding stones and a stick and wearing a surgical mask, told the BBC. "Until our death we will continue this protest or until they free Imran. Otherwise we will shut the whole country." Mr Khan was ousted last April, less than four years into his term as prime minister. In November, he was shot in the leg while campaigning among crowds in the city of Wazirabad. He has accused a senior intelligence official of carrying out the attack - an accusation strongly denied by the military. A day before his arrest, the military had warned Mr Khan against repeating the allegation. Mr Khan's party says he faces more than 100 court cases, which he says are politically motivated. His supporters argue that the current government wants to bar him from contesting general elections due in October. Dr Shireen Mazari, the former Minister for Human Rights in Mr Khan's PTI government, told the BBC that the way Mr Khan had been detained amounted to state abduction. "We don't expect even the military to abuse the sanctity of the court in this way," she said, adding that people in Pakistan were "seething with anger" at the way he had been treated, as well as wider economic problems. However, Islamabad's High Court declared the arrest legal. "Mr Imran Khan will face the law, if innocent, [he] can contest the election. But if found guilty of corruption, he will have to face the consequence of that," Minister of Planning Ahsan Iqbal told a press conference on Wednesday. Police have arrested supporters of Mr Khan's party, including Asad Umar, its secretary-general. The cricket hero bowled out as Pakistan's PM Polarised politics are tearing Pakistan apart Mobile internet services remain heavily restricted across the country. Pakistan's telecommunication authorities said they had suspended services on instructions from the interior ministry. Schools also remain closed, some highways have been blocked and there is little traffic on roads in major cities. Many analysts believe Mr Khan's election win in 2018 happened with the help of the military. But amid a growing economic crisis, observers say he fell out of favour with the powerful military, the crucial behind-the-scenes player in nuclear-armed Pakistan. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-65541215