🤖 Google Halo brings agentic AI to Android phones

Google is introducing a feature called Halo to bring agentic capabilities to Android systems. This technology will allow users to manage AI tasks hands-free without needing constant interaction on the phone. The underlying system is Google Spark, which runs AI agents on remote virtual machines. Halo acts as the interface to monitor these remote operations while users are doing other things. An early version might launch with the Pixel 11 in August, aiming to give users more time away from their screens.

🦇 Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust is coming back to US theaters

Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust is getting a North American theatrical and home video re-release via GKIDS. The plan kicks off with select preview screenings in fall 2026, leading to a wider run throughout 2027. Notably, the Japanese-language version with English subtitles will be shown in theaters for the first time in North America. The film, directed by Yoshiaki Kawajiri, will use a new HD master based on the 2025 Japanese Blu-ray restoration. This comeback aligns with other releases, including Vampire Hunter D: Fortress of Blood in December 2026.

🌃 Cyberpunk: Edgerunners II date confirmed

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners II has officially been set for release on October 20. The second season will premiere exclusively on Netflix, similar to its first season. This new series features ten episodes and is completely independent of the previous season and the video game. The production team includes Kai Ikarashi as director, while Bartosz Sztybor, Ichigo Kkano, and Masahiko Otsuka handle other key roles. The show will shift its tone to resemble 90s films like Pulp Fiction.

⚠️ Microsoft 365 glitch hits on August 24, 2026

Microsoft 365 is reportedly facing service issues on August 24, 2026, with users reporting problems accessing certain features. The disruptions are mainly affecting users in various locations, as tracked by outage monitors. Specific issues include unexpected activation prompts in Word and PowerPoint, along with slow Exchange access and calendar glitches. Microsoft's official status page shows services as operational, but user reports suggest isolated problems persist. Users should likely wait for backend stabilization rather than reinstalling applications for now.

📱 Infinix Hot 70 Pro 5G India Launch Details Out

Infinix has officially revealed the launch date and key specifications for the Hot 70 Pro 5G in India. The device will be made available on September 15, 2024, across major retail platforms. Key features confirmed include a powerful chipset and a large battery capacity. This new phone aims to capture a significant share of the budget 5G smartphone market. Updates regarding pricing and pre-order details are expected soon.

📢 Rahul Gandhi's new protest game is hitting streets

Rahul Gandhi is deploying a persistent new political strategy involving surprise street protests and youth outreach. This latest move happened on August 21 in New Delhi, when he demanded an FIR for Sahil Lohchab. The incident involved a six-hour sit-in protest outside the police station, leading to the registration of an FIR. This shift shows he is moving beyond just raising issues to physically engaging with them. His tactics follow an earlier surprise protest during the NEET student protests on July 21. 🧐

😔 Farmer dies after SC/ST Act threat and ₹5 Lakh demand

A farmer tragically ended his life following severe threats related to the SC/ST Act. This incident occurred in a specific location, though not detailed in the provided text. The demand made against the farmer was a hefty sum of Rs. 5 lakh. The threat was reportedly linked to false accusations under the SC/ST Act. Authorities are expected to investigate this serious case further.

💻 Women face digital finance hurdles in platform economy

Despite improved basic bank account ownership, women in India are significantly lagging in digital financial capability needed for platform work. This gap was highlighted by an ILO-NCAER policy brief released on Monday concerning the growing platform economy. As platform workers rise to 12 million in FY25, women are severely underrepresented due to digital literacy issues and limited financial access. Only 25.2% of women could perform online banking transactions in 2022-23, compared to 47.1% of men. The report stresses that financial inclusion requires more than just loans, needing capital and security tools for women workers.

💰 Infosys hands out 70% average bonus; salary hike updates coming

Infosys reportedly gave its eligible employees an average performance bonus of 70% for the April-June quarter. This payout was distributed to employees across the company in India. The bonus varied from 65% to 80% depending on job levels and performance categories. This comes amid weaker discretionary spending and AI disruptions in the tech industry. Employees are now waiting for annual salary revision details, which might happen in two stages. 💰

💔 Ishaan Khatter and Chandni Bainz split amicably

Actor Ishaan Khatter and model Chandni Bainz have reportedly parted ways after rumours of dating for over a year. The split was confirmed by a source, stating they decided to move on amicably. Ishaan, aged 30, is currently focusing on his career and is set to shoot Season 2 of The Royals in September. Furthermore, he has Jugaadu in his upcoming film schedule, marking his lead role. This marks a new phase for Ishaan as he moves forward solo.

😠 Kharge claims BJP is indirectly banning jobs via reservations

M Kharge has accused the BJP of implementing an indirect ban on jobs through reservation policies. This accusation was made by Kharge in a political statement regarding recent hiring trends. The specific numbers or dates related to the jobs or policies were not provided in the source material. Kharge's statement suggests that the current system is creating adverse effects on employment opportunities. Further political developments on this issue are anticipated in the coming weeks.