📱 Gen Z Ditching Smartphones for Old-School Phones

A trend is emerging where Generation Z is opting for basic 'dumb phones' instead of their usual smartphones. This shift is being observed among young people in various urban settings across the country. Specific data points regarding the exact numbers and timelines of this trend have not been released yet. The move is reportedly driven by a desire to reduce digital overload and find a sense of freedom. Experts suggest this movement could signal a broader pushback against constant connectivity in the near future.

🧠 Robot surgery study tracks surgeon stress in real-time

A new study monitored surgeons during live robot-assisted procedures to track stress levels. Researchers from Chiba University, Japan, observed seven experienced urologists performing RAS operations. The team analyzed 151 stress-rated moments across the procedures, which took place on August 10, 2026. They found that brain activity, upper shoulder tension, heart rate, and heartbeat variability reliably tracked self-reported stress. This research aims to improve surgical training and enhance overall surgeon well-being in the OR. 🧑‍⚕️

♟️ Indian Teens Conquer 2026 British Chess Champs

Indian-origin teenagers Bodhana Sivanandan and Shreyas Royal clinched major titles at the 2026 British Chess Championships held in Coventry. Bodhana, aged 11, became the youngest British women’s champion after beating Trisha Kanyamarala in a playoff. Shreyas Royal, 17, won the overall championship after nine rounds, edging out experienced grandmasters. The event featured over 1,750 entries and a record prize fund of £34,000 for the open category. These wins mark significant milestones for both rising chess talents. ♟️

🛰️ Space satellite spots huge magenta-green feature in Antarctica

A space satellite managed to capture a remarkable image showing a massive magenta-green shape on the Antarctic ice. This unusual feature was observed over the vast expanse of the Antarctic region. The satellite imagery was captured recently, providing scientists with a fresh look at the continent. Experts are currently analyzing the data to understand the origin and composition of this large patch. Further studies are planned to determine the exact nature of this striking coloration. 🛰️

🛰️ Space satellite spots massive 'hummingbird' in Antarctic ice

A space satellite captured a remarkable image of a huge magenta-green hummingbird shape on the Antarctic ice. This image was taken by the NISAR joint NASA-ISRO satellite orbiting roughly 450 miles above the planet. The features seen are actually a geographical point called Nunatak Zaterjavshijsja in East Antarctica. The green lines show crevasses from glacier movement, while magenta indicates smoother ice surfaces. NASA and ISRO are now releasing NISAR's data publicly for ongoing scientific study. 🛰️

🥥 Kerala launching coconut boost project

The Kerala government is initiating a coconut rejuvenation project to increase state production. Agriculture Minister T. Siddique announced this while visiting the Agricultural Urban Wholesale Market at Vengeri on Monday, August 10, 2026. This move addresses low productivity despite Kerala having the largest coconut cultivation area nationally. Preliminary discussions for the project are scheduled for Farmers’ Day on August 17. A high-level meeting will convene in Thiruvananthapuram after receiving reports on the Vengeri market.

🐅 Drone sweep for tiger after man killed in Gudalur

The Forest Department is boosting surveillance near the site of a carnivore attack in O’Valley, Gudalur. The incident involved 58-year-old M. Balakrishnan, who was killed and partially eaten on Saturday, August 8, 2026. Initially, eight camera traps were deployed, with plans to increase this to 15 in the coming days. Officials suspect the animal might have mistaken the victim for prey while he was near a stream for water. Increased patrols and warnings for residents after dusk have also been implemented. 🐅

📱 E& UAE opens pre-orders for Samsung Z Fold8 & Flip8

E& UAE has officially started taking reservations for the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8, and Galaxy Z Flip8 series. These new foldable smartphones are available for ordering starting from August 07th in the United Arab Emirates. The standard version starts at AED 7,199, while the Ultra model begins at AED 7,999. The carrier is also offering a no-fee six-month payment plan for customers. Business monthly payment options are further available through carriers like du Shop and E& UAE.

😠 Protest clash in Jharkhand over exam irregularities

Several protesters were injured in Ranchi, Jharkhand after police used lathi-charge and fired tear gas during a march to the Assembly. The demonstration, which entered its 17th day, involved students marching from the old Assembly complex near the Vidhan Sabha. Protesters are demanding the cancellation of the 14th Jharkhand Public Service Commission Combined Preliminary Test from April 19. The government agreed to cancel three exams but refused to cancel the Graduate Level exam, proposing a judicial inquiry instead. Meanwhile, the state CID arrested former JPSC chairperson L Khiangte in connection with the alleged recruitment exam issues. 😠

🧖‍♂️ Acne before big events? Doctor explains the stress link

Experiencing acne breakouts before major events is common, and a physician explains the root cause is stress. Dr. Kunal Sood, based in Maryland, shared three ways stress impacts skin health on August 7. Stress drives inflammation, weakens the skin barrier, and disrupts necessary sleep for repair. Managing stress is therefore crucial for keeping both the body and skin healthy. 🧖‍♂️

🐛 Bootlace worm: super long and toxic slime shooter 🐛

The bootlace worm, Lineus longissimus, is a remarkable marine invertebrate known for its extreme length and elastic nature. One specimen found off St Andrews reached an incredible 55 metres, though its usual length is around 15 metres. When threatened, this blackish-brown worm releases a poisonous mucus containing alpha-nemertides. These toxins can paralyze crabs and kill cockroaches, suggesting potential for new insecticides. Scientists believe many more useful chemicals can be discovered from this overlooked creature.