FCC Approves Verizon's $20 Billion Acquisition of Frontier Following Commitment to End DEI Practices
The FCC has approved Verizon's $20 billion acquisition of Frontier, with Verizon committing to end DEI-related practices as part of the deal. The merger will boost fiber internet expansion, targeting 1 million new homes annually, including rural areas. Verizon plans to remove DEI-focused policies and references from its operations. This move follows FCC warnings against companies maintaining DEI policies for deal approvals and marks Verizon's strategic reclaiming of fiber assets previously sold to Frontier.
US State Department Allegedly Pressured African Nations to Accelerate Starlink Adoption to Counter Chinese Tech Influence
The US State Department has been reported to push African countries to speed up licensing for Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet service as a strategy to reduce Chinese technological influence. Diplomatic efforts included meetings and warnings about potential budget cuts through a government agency associated with Musk. This move reflects geopolitical tech competition and US foreign policy tactics.
HBO's 'Mountainhead' Trailer Critiques Billionaire Tech CEOs and Their Impact
The HBO film Mountainhead, created by Jesse Armstrong, critiques billionaire tech CEOs whose AI-driven platform is linked to societal harm. The story explores their denial and entitlement, reflecting current tech controversies and offering a dramatic look at wealth and power. Premieres May 31st.
MSNBC Appoints Sudeep Reddy as Bureau Chief for New D.C. Office
Sudeep Reddy has been appointed as the bureau chief for MSNBC's new Washington, D.C. office, which is set to become operational soon. He will oversee the bureau's activities and leadership in the capital.
CNN to Broadcast Live Performance of George Clooney's Tony-Nominated Play 'Good Night, and Good Luck'
CNN is set to broadcast the live penultimate performance of the Tony-nominated play 'Good Night, and Good Luck,' linked to George Clooney. This event brings theater to a wider audience through live television.
Dick's Sporting Goods to Acquire Foot Locker for $2.4 Billion
Dick's Sporting Goods plans to acquire Foot Locker for $2.4 billion. Despite the acquisition, Foot Locker will remain a standalone entity, maintaining its various brands including Foot Locker Kids, WSS, Champs Sports, and Atmos.
Netflix Regains Top Streaming Spot with Two Shows Surpassing One Billion Minutes Viewed
Netflix returned to the top of streaming rankings for the week of April 14, driven by two of its shows, including Black Mirror, each surpassing one billion minutes viewed. This achievement highlights Netflix's strong content performance and viewer engagement.
Harvard Continues to Lead as a Startup Powerhouse
Harvard University, with its rich history and academic prestige, continues to excel in the startup ecosystem. It ranks high in metrics related to academic and alumni success, reinforcing its role as a leader in entrepreneurship and innovation.
Dmitry Bukhman Tops UK’s 40 Under 40 Rich List as Leading Tech Entrepreneur
Dmitry Bukhman, founder of mobile gaming company Playrix, is named the richest UK individual under 40, with a net worth of £12.54bn, dominating the tech-focused Sunday Times 40 Under 40 Rich List. His wealth has nearly doubled since last year, marking a significant achievement in the tech industry.
Jeff Bezos Partners with Saudi AI Firm Amid Controversy Over Jamal Khashoggi Murder
Jeff Bezos' Amazon is collaborating with Saudi Arabia's AI firm Humain on a $5 billion project, raising ethical concerns due to Saudi involvement in the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018. This partnership highlights the complex relationship between tech investments and moral issues related to authoritarian regimes.
Coinbase Investigates Data Theft Involving Corrupt Support Agents
Coinbase disclosed that corrupt support agents helped criminals steal personal data of certain users and extort money through deception. The company rejected ransom demands, is collaborating with law enforcement, terminated the involved staff, and will pursue legal action. The breach did not compromise account access credentials. Coinbase plans to reimburse affected customers and offers a reward for information leading to arrests while warning users about potential scam attempts.
How Trump’s Tariffs Prompted Me to Replace My iPhone Battery
Due to tariffs introduced during Donald Trump's administration, the cost of new phones rose, pushing the author to replace their iPhone 12 Mini's battery instead of buying a new device. The phone’s battery performance had degraded to 80%, making daily use challenging. The case illustrates how tariffs can influence consumer choices and raise questions about the design and longevity of modern smartphones.
Tuesday, May 13 Cable News Ratings: The Briefing with Jen Psaki Holds 4th Place on MSNBC
On Tuesday, May 13, The Briefing with Jen Psaki ranked 4th place on MSNBC's evening cable news lineup, finishing the broadcast with under one million viewers.
Increased Scrutiny on US Tech Visa Applications Under Trump Administration
The Trump administration has increased scrutiny on tech visa applications from Silicon Valley, leading to more requests for documentation and complicating the process for applicants.
Proofpoint to Acquire Hornetsecurity for Approximately $1 Billion
Proofpoint is set to acquire Hornetsecurity, a security provider focusing on Microsoft 365 tools, in a deal valued at around $1 billion, expanding its cybersecurity capabilities.
NBCU Ad Chief Mark Marshall Reflects on Front Row Moments and Jimmy Kimmel's Roast
Mark Marshall, NBCU's advertising chief, revealed that being seen in the rafters at Radio City Music Hall for the upfront event was an unexpected moment and not part of his advertising pitch, also mentioning his experience being roasted by Jimmy Kimmel.
Revitalizing Venture Capital: The Promise of Secondary Markets
The venture capital sector faces a crucial issue with limited exit options impacting its viability. Dan Gray explains how secondary markets are emerging as a strategic solution to this problem, offering increased liquidity and a path forward for sustaining investments in the industry.
Telehealth Startups Shift to Older Diabetes Drug After FDA Blocks Off-Brand Ozempic Sales
Telehealth startups have switched to offering liraglutide, an older GLP-1 medication with daily injections, after the FDA stopped sales of Ozempic and Zepbound copycats. This shift highlights regulatory impacts on drug availability and telemedicine treatment options.
Trump Administration Proposes Rollback of Drinking Water Protections Against Forever Chemicals
The Trump administration aims to roll back EPA rules protecting drinking water from harmful 'forever chemicals' by excluding some substances, delaying compliance deadlines, and allowing more exemptions. Advocates warn this could increase health risks as these persistent chemicals contaminate much of the US water supply. The EPA plans to finalize changes by 2026.
Netflix Revives 'Star Search' as a Live Talent Competition Show
Netflix is reviving the classic talent show 'Star Search' as a live, bi-weekly streaming event where viewers vote in four categories. Led by America's Got Talent showrunner Jason Raff, this move is part of Netflix's broader push into live programming, joining WWE, sports, and other live events on the platform.