United News of Bangladesh

Microsoft has abruptly pulled out of the digital movie and TV business, ceasing all sales and rentals through its Movies & TV app without prior notice. As of Friday, users can no longer buy or rent films and shows via Microsoft.com, the Microsoft Store on Windows, or the Xbox platform. A support notice on the company’s website states, “Important: Microsoft no longer offers new entertainment content for purchase, including movies and TV shows, on Microsoft.com, Microsoft Store on Windows, and the Microsoft Store on Xbox.” A similar message also appears on Xbox’s support page. Nvidia to resume AI chip sales to China with U.S. approval No reason was provided for the sudden decision, according to Variety. Users who have previously purchased digital content can still access it on Windows and Xbox devices. However, Microsoft will not issue refunds. As per the Microsoft Store Terms of Sale, “Movies and TV shows are ineligible for refunds.” Microsoft’s venture into digital entertainment began in 2006 with its Zune media player. This later evolved into Xbox Video in 2012, before rebranding as Microsoft Movies & TV in 2015.

Although travelers are hopeful that restrictions on carrying liquids through airport security may soon be eased, many U.S. airports still haven’t upgraded to advanced scanners capable of reliably detecting liquid explosives. While it’s a common frustration to dispose of drinks or limit toiletries before boarding, the real challenge lies in distinguishing between benign substances and potentially dangerous ones. The importance of this became clear after a 2006 terror plot in the UK involving liquid explosives disguised in sports drink bottles. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem recently suggested that changes to current liquid restrictions may be coming, stating, “The liquids, I’m questioning. So that may be the next big announcement.” However, officials say no immediate changes are planned. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) confirmed it is constantly evaluating ways to enhance security while improving passenger experience. Earlier this month, TSA lifted the rule requiring passengers to remove shoes—originally implemented after the 2001 “shoe bomber” plot. The current liquid limits, set after the 2006 UK plot, cap carry-on liquids at 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) due to concerns over X-ray machines' inability to detect liquid explosives. While some countries like the UK have considered relaxing this limit, the move has been delayed by the slow rollout of new computed tomography (CT) scanners. Starlink officially launched in Bangladesh These advanced machines provide high-resolution, 3D images that allow screeners to better identify threats. TSA official Johnny Jones said the technology “eliminates the guesswork” and significantly improves detection capabilities. Yet, only 255 of the 432 U.S. airports currently have these machines, and full deployment may not be completed until 2043 due to high costs and the need for structural modifications at checkpoints. Experts warn that rolling out new liquid rules at only select airports could confuse travelers. Meanwhile, some aviation security professionals argue it's premature to lift restrictions without broader scanner coverage. Despite past reports highlighting TSA screening gaps, agency officials emphasize that no aircraft has been lost due to missed threats since its creation in 2002. Source: Agency 

Netflix has confirmed that it used generative artificial intelligence (AI) to create visual effects in one of its original series for the first time. Co-CEO Ted Sarandos revealed that the technology was employed to generate a scene depicting a building collapse in The Eternaut, a science fiction drama from Argentina. Sarandos explained that generative AI, which can produce videos and images from text prompts, enabled the production team to complete complex sequences faster and at significantly lower costs. He noted that traditional methods would have made such scenes financially unfeasible for a series with a modest budget. "This is the first time final generative AI footage has appeared on screen in a Netflix original," said Sarandos, adding that the show's creators were delighted with the results. Advisory board urges continued nonprofit oversight of OpenAI Netflix’s announcement coincided with its latest financial report, which showed a 16% year-on-year revenue increase to $11 billion for the second quarter, with profits rising from $2.1 billion to $3.1 billion. The success of Squid Game: The Challenge, the final season of the hit South Korean thriller, played a key role in the platform’s strong performance, drawing 122 million views so far. Despite the technological innovation, the use of AI in the entertainment industry remains a contentious issue. Critics argue that generative AI may exploit existing creative works without consent and could lead to job losses. These concerns were central to the 2023 Hollywood strikes, where actors and writers demanded clearer regulations on AI usage. Filmmaker Tyler Perry even paused an $800 million expansion of his Atlanta studio in 2024, citing fears over AI’s potential impact on employment in the industry. The release of advanced tools like OpenAI’s Sora, capable of generating high-quality footage from text prompts, further fueled both excitement and anxiety across the creative sector. Industry professionals, however, see AI as a new addition to the creative toolkit. Davier Yoon, co-founder of Singapore-based animation studio CraveFX, said Netflix’s move reflects a broader industry shift. “Generative AI allows smaller studios to create visuals that rival big-budget productions,” he said. “At the end of the day, it's the artist—not AI—who shapes the final image.” #With inputs from BBC

Starlink, the satellite internet service operated by US-based private space operator SpaceX, has officially launched in Bangladesh. Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser of the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications, made the announcement at a press conference held at the boardroom of Hotel InterContinental in Dhaka at 5:30 pm on Friday (18 July). A high-level delegation from Starlink was present at the event, led by Lauren Dreyer, Vice President of Business Operations, and Richard Griffiths, Director of International Strategy and Government Relations. Faiz Ahmed Taiyeb said that Starlink has begun providing services in Bangladesh under the direct guidance and initiative of Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus. “This is not only a technological achievement but also a groundbreaking step in strengthening the country’s digital infrastructure,” he said. During her speech, Lauren Dreyer commended the Government of Bangladesh for its bold, visionary leadership in bringing next-generation connectivity to its people. “While many nations deliberate, Bangladesh acted,” Dreyer said. “By embracing connectivity as a foundation for human potential, you have positioned your nation as a model for others to follow.” She highlighted the speed and decisiveness of the Government of Bangladesh, noting that within just a few months of initial dialogue, Starlink service had moved from discussion to deployment. Approvals were finalized by May 2025, and the first Bangladeshi customers were online shortly thereafter. “This is not just about satellites,” Dreyer said. “We are launching opportunities—opportunities for remote learning, telemedicine, digital entrepreneurship, and inclusive growth.” She also acknowledged the role of local partners including Felicity IDC and Bangladesh Satellite Company Limited, emphasizing that long-term success depends on collaboration between global innovators and national stakeholders. In a time when digital inclusion is synonymous with economic resilience, the launch of Starlink reaffirms the Government of Bangladesh’s commitment to ensuring connectivity as a right—not a privilege. “The future we are building together,” Dreyer concluded, “belongs to every person in Bangladesh who will now have access to the boundless opportunities that connectivity provides.” Following approximately three months of trial operations, Starlink formally started service on Friday. The company has been granted a 10-year 'Satellite Operator Licence' and 'Radio Communication Operators Licence' by the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC). Installation Cost and Service Packages To access Starlink’s services, customers will need to purchase a setup kit priced at Tk 42,000. The kit includes a satellite receiver dish, router, power supply, and other necessary components. Starlink is initially offering two subscription packages: Starlink Residential: Priced at Tk 6,000 per month, this package offers unlimited internet access with speeds of up to 300 Mbps. Starlink Lite: Priced at Tk 4,200 per month, this lower-cost package also provides uninterrupted internet access, albeit at comparatively lower speeds.  

The two-day International Conference on Data Science, AI and Applications (ICDSAIA 2025) commenced on Friday at the EATL Innovation Hub, located in Kaliakoir Hi-Tech City, Gazipur. The event brings together renowned researchers, academicians, policymakers, and technology experts from Bangladesh and around the globe to explore the transformative potential of data science and artificial intelligence (AI) across various sectors. The primary objective of the conference is to promote innovative applications of data science and AI, and to define future directions in education, healthcare, industry, and public policy through these emerging technologies. The inaugural session was graced by Salehuddin Ahmed, finance adviser, as the chief guest. Special guests included Professor Niaz Ahmad Khan, vice-chancellor of the University of Dhaka, and Mohammad Ali, Professor Mohammad Abu Yousu, vice-chancellor, Digital University, Managing Director of Pubali Bank PLC. The welcome address was delivered by M. A. Mubin Khan, managing director of EATL Innovation Hub, while Md. Abdul Karim, Chairman of EATL Innovation Hub and former principal secretary to the hovernment, presided over the session. The conference is jointly organised by EATL Innovation Hub Bangladesh’s first private innovation centre and the University of Salford, a prestigious public university in the United Kingdom with over a century of academic excellence. This year’s technical programme received 218 full paper submissions from across the world. The Technical Programme Committee is chaired by Professor Mo Saraee, Head of Computer Science and Software Engineering at the University of Salford. Walton Hi-Tech’s MD S M Mahbubul Alam wins ‘MD of the Year’ award On the opening day, the keynote address was delivered by Dr. Latifur Khan, IEEE Fellow and Director of the Big Data Analytics and Management Lab at the University of Texas, Dallas. On the second day, Professor Sushmita Mitra of the Indian Statistical Institute will present a keynote on advancements in machine intelligence. The closing session will feature a welcome speech by Nancy Cooke, Director of International Development at the University of Salford while the Chief Guest will be Shish Haider Chowdhury, Secretary of the ICT Division.Professor Dr. A. S. M. Amanullah, Vice-Chancellor of the National University of Bangladesh; Professor Mo Saraee from the University of Salford; and M. A. Mubin Khan, Managing Director of EATL Innovation Hub. Dr. Shivkumar Palaniappan will conduct a workshop on emerging trends in artificial intelligence. A second workshop will focus on the applications of AI in the healthcare sector, with participation from leading physicians and policymakers in the country. Throughout the two-day event, there will be workshops, panel discussions, poster exhibitions, and the presentation of 16 research papers across four thematic tracks. Walton participates 7th CIIE fair in China to showcase hi-tech appliances M. A. Mubin Khan remarked, “This conference will open new frontiers in technology and research. We are proud to host such a prestigious international event in Bangladesh.” For registration and further details, please visit: www.icdsaia.org

OpenAI must remain under nonprofit control due to the far-reaching impact of the artificial intelligence it is developing, according to a new report by an independent advisory commission released Thursday. The commission, formed to provide recommendations on OpenAI’s nonprofit governance, emphasized that AI is “too consequential” to be managed solely by corporate interests. Daniel Zingale, chair of the advisory body and a former adviser to three California governors, said the nonprofit structure enables broader public involvement. “We believe this work is too important to leave to the private or even government sectors alone,” Zingale said. “The nonprofit model creates a space for democratic participation.” While non-binding, the recommendations lay out a framework for how OpenAI could be held accountable in the future. The group, which includes renowned labor organizer Dolores Huerta, advocated for greater public involvement in how AI systems are developed and governed—especially for communities already affected by the technology. OpenAI, founded in 2015 as a nonprofit research lab, has since transitioned to a for-profit model and now carries a $300 billion valuation. The move has faced scrutiny following the brief ouster of CEO Sam Altman in late 2023 and legal challenges from regulatory bodies and Elon Musk, an early backer of the company. OpenAI pauses operations for a week amid Meta’s billion-dollar talent battle OpenAI recently proposed converting its for-profit arm into a public benefit corporation. While the nonprofit will hold shares in the new entity, details remain unclear. The commission called on OpenAI to allocate significant funding to the nonprofit to support public interest projects, including AI education, cultural programs, and economic opportunity initiatives. It also proposed creating a rapid-response fund and ensuring that the nonprofit remains led by a human being—symbolic of the current era's challenges. “There’s a strong desire among the public to better understand AI and who’s making the decisions,” said Zingale. “OpenAI should be known, seen, and shaped by the people it claims to serve.” Source: Agency 

Smartphones, laptops, headphones, and other electronic gadgets have become essential tools for both work and entertainment in our daily routines. However, frequent use—whether through typing, scrolling, or listening—leads to the gradual buildup of dirt and grime on these devices. While cleaning your tech might not be top of mind, it's more important than many realize, according to computer accessories manufacturer Logitech. “Keeping your devices clean through regular maintenance not only helps maintain their appearance and hygiene, but also improves performance and extends their lifespan,” the company notes. Logitech also warns that neglecting cleanliness—especially in products like earbuds—can result in a buildup of bacteria and debris, potentially leading to discomfort or even health issues. Here are some pointers on cleaning your tech: Computers and laptops When using a computer, the keyboard and mouse are the parts that are touched most often and therefore need the most frequent cleaning. And all those crevices between a keyboard's keys are sure to catch crumbs. To remove any loose debris, iFixit's official in-house cleaning guide recommends using a can of compressed air. Run the spray back and forth across the keys to blow out any bits. If possible, hold the keyboard upside down so the debris falls out. If you don’t have compressed air, Logitech suggests using a hair dryer on the cold air setting. Some social media users also recommend a handheld balloon pump. Private spaceflight ends with Pacific splashdown for astronauts from India, Poland and Hungary Next, dampen a cleaning cloth with water and gently wipe down the keyboard and mouse. Logitech says you can also use rubbing alcohol but recommends you test it first on an inconspicuous spot to make sure it doesn't cause discoloration or scrub the lettering off the keys. Anti-bacterial baby wipes can also work on devices like a mouse, Diaz-Kokaisl said. “There shouldn’t be enough liquid to seep through cracks in the shell, and their residue typically evaporates faster than just using soap and water,” he said. For laptop screens or external monitors, use a dry microfiber cloth to gently wipe away fingerprint smudges. If there are more stubborn spots — like food stains or sneezy spatters — dampen the cloth with distilled water or a 50/50 solution of distilled water and vinegar. Computer maker Lenovo says the “gentle acidity of vinegar can help break down oils and fingerprints.” Avoid using household glass cleaners, which can contain ammonia that could damage the screen. The same goes for paper towels, which can scratch the screen. HP also warns against using rubbing alcohol. AirPods and earphones A lot of people listen to music or podcasts through their earbuds, but that also means they'll need regular cleaning to remove any earwax, natural skin oils or other grungy buildup. If the earbuds have silicon tips, remove them. Cleaning procedures vary depending on your brand and model. Logitech and Bose recommend using soapy water. But Sony warns against water or wet wipes because they can speed deterioration, and, instead, advises using a dry cloth. Use a cotton swab to wipe the earbud nozzles clean. Owners of Apple AirPods need to follow a much more elaborate procedure to clean the mesh. You'll need a child's toothbrush, two small cups, a paper towel, distilled water, as well as micellar water — typically used as a facial cleanser. Pour some micellar water into a cup, dip the toothbrush, brush the AirPod's various mesh parts, and then blot them dry with the paper. Repeat twice. Then repeat that procedure but using the distilled water to rinse off the micellar water. Finally, let the AirPods dry for at least two hours. To clean the rest of the AirPod's body, use a damp cloth. And don't forget about the charging case. Apple recommends brushing out any debris and then wiping with a dry cloth. If needed, dampen it with isopropyl alcohol. What about over-the-ear headphones? Bose says you should wipe them down at least once a week, especially after working out, to remove any dirt and bacteria hiding in the nooks and crannies. Remove the pads and use a cloth dampened with soapy water to clean them. Smartphones Apple has issued specific instructions on its website for cleaning various iPhone models. Samsung has posted similar guidelines for its Galaxy lineup. They both advise using a soft, lint-free cloth, such as a lens cleaning cloth, to gently wipe the outside of the phone. Apple warns against using any cleaning products, which could erode the oil-repellent coating that most iPhones come with. Both companies say it’s OK to use disinfectants such as rubbing alcohol to gently clean the exterior, but avoid bleach or hydrogen peroxide.  

A historic private space mission carrying astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary concluded Tuesday with a splashdown in the Pacific Ocean, marking the end of their nearly three-week journey in space. The SpaceX Dragon capsule, chartered by Houston-based Axiom Space, undocked from the International Space Station (ISS) on Monday and safely parachuted into waters off the coast of Southern California early Tuesday morning. The mission featured the first astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary to travel to space in more than four decades, with each country paying over $65 million for their participation. The last time astronauts from these nations flew was during joint missions with the former Soviet Union in the 1970s and 1980s. Commanding the mission was Axiom’s Peggy Whitson, the most seasoned U.S. astronaut, who now holds a cumulative spaceflight record of 695 days across five missions — more than any other American or woman. “Thanks for the great ride and safe trip,” she radioed after splashdown. Whitson was joined by India’s Shubhanshu Shukla, Poland’s Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski, and Hungary’s Tibor Kapu. The astronauts conducted numerous scientific experiments aboard the ISS and celebrated their national identities during their time in orbit. They appeared in good spirits as they exited the capsule one by one in the pre-dawn hours, waving and smiling. This was Axiom Space’s fourth crewed mission to the ISS since 2022, part of NASA’s broader push to commercialize low-Earth orbit and expand access to space. Axiom is among several private companies working to build new space stations, as NASA plans to retire the ISS by 2030 after more than three decades of operation.  

Pebblebee, a leader in smart tracking technology, has unveiled a major personal safety upgrade to its Clip device with the launch of ‘Alert’ — a built-in emergency feature now standard in all current and future versions of the Clip Universal. Originally designed to help users track items like keys and bags, the Clip now also serves as a discreet safety device. With a simple rapid press, users can trigger a loud siren, a flashing strobe light, and send emergency notifications to selected contacts via the Pebblebee app — even if their phone is not immediately accessible. Perfectly timed for the back-to-campus season, the upgraded Clip offers both tracking and personal protection, giving students and their families added peace of mind. Users can create a Safety Circle, allowing pre-selected contacts to receive instant alerts during emergencies. “After over a decade of helping people locate their most important belongings, we wanted to go further,” said Daniel Daoura, CEO and founder of Pebblebee. “As a father, I didn’t just want to know where things are — I wanted a built-in layer of personal safety that’s always there. That’s how Alert was born.” Meet Aiman: World’s first AI chef to run Dubai restaurant soon Designed for inclusivity and daily convenience, Alert is compact and discreet, unlike many bulky or niche safety devices. It works for a wide range of users — from students walking alone at night to commuters and travelers with children — offering reliable protection without extra hardware or subscriptions. Pebblebee Clip Universal is priced at $34.99 and available at Pebblebee.com, Amazon, and select retail outlets. The Alert feature is included free of charge for all users, and existing customers can activate it through a free app update starting today. Source: Agency 

Dubai is set to introduce the world’s first artificial intelligence chef at an upcoming restaurant near the iconic Burj Khalifa. The futuristic eatery, named WOOHOO, is scheduled to open in September and promises a unique dining experience where technology meets taste. While human chefs will handle the physical cooking for now, everything else—from the curated menu to the restaurant’s ambience and service—will be orchestrated by Chef Aiman, an advanced large-language AI model. Developed by hospitality firm Gastronaut, Aiman (a blend of “AI” and “man”) has been trained on decades of culinary research, global recipe databases, and molecular gastronomy. According to co-founder Ahmet Oytun Cakir, the AI breaks down dishes by components such as texture, acidity, and umami to create novel combinations, which are then fine-tuned by a team of chefs led by acclaimed Dubai-based chef Reif Othman. Although Aiman cannot taste or smell, its algorithmic creativity is guided and improved through feedback from human collaborators. “Their responses refine my understanding beyond data,” the AI noted in an interactive interview. Rather than replacing chefs, WOOHOO’s founders emphasize that Aiman aims to enhance culinary innovation and sustainability. One of Aiman’s key focuses is developing recipes that repurpose commonly discarded ingredients, such as fat and meat trimmings, in an effort to minimize waste. Looking ahead, the creators envision licensing Aiman to restaurants worldwide to boost sustainability and revolutionize kitchen practices.