🤖 Google Messages RCS error 3100 hits Galaxy users

Some users are experiencing a glitch with Google Messages that is breaking RCS functionality. This issue primarily affects Samsung Galaxy devices, especially those switching to a new device or network. Affected users are seeing error code “3100” on dates recently, indicating a connection problem with RCS servers. The cause is suspected to be related to number porting or corrupted cache files during device transfer. Google suggests troubleshooting steps like clearing data, but a clear fix is yet to be provided. 📱

🚀 Gemini 3.7 Flash is fastest, but price doubles Jan 1

Google dropped Gemini 3.7 Flash on August 13, three weeks after its older version. This model is the fastest measured among 186 models and shows huge jumps in coding and agentic benchmarks. Introductory rates are currently set at $0.75 for input and $3.75 for output tokens. These low prices are only valid until December 31, 2026. After that date, the costs will double to $1.50 and $7.50 respectively.

🌸 91 bodies battle it out in Kozhikode Pookalam contest

Ninety-one local self-government bodies are set to compete in the Pookkalam Competition 2026. This event is organized by the Department of Tourism in Kozhikode district, Kerala. The competition will take place on August 22, 2026, with registration closing on August 21. The goal is to showcase creativity while keeping the celebration eco-friendly by using only natural materials. The top teams stand to win cash prizes starting from ₹1 lakh. 🌸

⚽ Barça clinches Gamper Trophy against Al Ahly

Barcelona secured a 2-1 victory over Egyptian giants Al Ahly in the 2026 Joan Gamper Trophy. The match took place at Camp Nou, where Hamza Abdelkarim and Raphinha contributed goals. The game saw Barça take a 2-0 lead before Al Ahly scored to make it 2-1. Hansi Flick utilized the fixture to prepare his squad and integrate young players. This win marks a solid preseason end for the Catalans before facing Elche this weekend. ⚽

🌳 Empty field turns into dense woodland over 60 years

In 1961, a 4-hectare barley field was abandoned at Monks Wood, Cambridgeshire, allowing nature to reclaim the space. Researchers monitored this spot, known as the "Old Wilderness," alongside a second plot. After six decades, the bare farmland evolved into a dense, closed-canopy native woodland. This passive rewilding shows that biodiversity can be restored quickly without expensive human intervention. These findings support UK afforestation goals by demonstrating natural recovery potential. 🌳

🏛️ Trump's legacy etched as pressure builds

Donald Trump continues to build his legacy amidst increasing political pressures. He is currently facing mounting scrutiny across various political fronts. Recent reports highlight significant challenges, with specific dates and figures not detailed in the brief. This ongoing political climate tests his resilience and public support levels. The next phase will determine the ultimate shape of his political narrative.

🚨 College shuts down after MSF protest

NAM College at Kallikkandy in Kannur closed on Wednesday, August 19, following intense protests by Muslim Students’ Federation activists. The demonstration was to demand the withdrawal of the suspension placed on the college union chairman. This unrest escalated when the Principal was allegedly assaulted by students during the events. The conflict stemmed from objections over office-bearers collecting money for Onam cultural programmes. Academic activities were disrupted, leading to a holiday announcement on Tuesday, August 18.

🏛️ Trump Taps Ally Overton to Head FDA

Donald Trump has selected his ally, Overton, to take the reins of the FDA. This appointment is taking place amidst ongoing scrutiny of the agency's operations. The selection was announced on a specific date, though the exact timeline is pending. This move is seen as an effort to stabilize the FDA during a period of intense political debate. Further details regarding the new leadership's immediate plans are yet to be released.

⚠️ US warns about Siemens hack risks in water plants

The US has issued a warning regarding potential hacking vulnerabilities in Siemens devices. This alert specifically targets critical infrastructure like water treatment plants across the country. The concern stems from fears that Iran might be attempting to breach these essential systems. These devices are integral to maintaining the functionality of various public utilities. Officials are advising heightened security measures to prevent any malicious attacks. 🚨

🧪 Birmingham uni makes smart gel for drug delivery

Researchers at the University of Birmingham engineered a switchable smart gel that transforms between gel and liquid states. This material was created by scientists at Birmingham, utilizing synthetic molecules called 'foldamers'. The findings, published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, detail how UV light liquefies the gel, while heat reforms it. This could revolutionize pharma by allowing drugs to release only upon specific triggers like acidity changes. Future uses include smart sensors and controlled therapeutic molecule release. 🧪

❤️ Silent heart rhythm issue jacks up stroke risk fivefold

Atrial fibrillation (AFib), a common heart rhythm disorder, can significantly increase stroke risk according to experts. Prof. Dhiraj Gupta and Dr. C. Narasimhan warned that AFib often goes undetected because symptoms can be mild or absent in India. The condition can increase stroke risk by about five times and may lead to heart failure or dementia over time. Detection can involve a 12-lead ECG, but prolonged monitoring or smartwatches might be needed for intermittent cases. Treatment now includes safer options like catheter ablation, alongside managing lifestyle risks like diabetes and blood pressure.