🚀 NASA keeps Voyager 2 running for another year

NASA made an interstellar power adjustment to the 50-year-old Voyager 2 probe to extend its mission life. This happened at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, managing the mission from Earth. The probe's plutonium power source is dwindling, and they have conserved energy by shutting off non-essential devices. This clever fix allows all three remaining science instruments to operate for at least one more year. NASA plans to implement a similar 'Big Bang' power change for Voyager 1 in the coming months.

📱 Android roundup: Z Fold8 records, Pixel 11 specs drop

The Android world saw major updates this week, including the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra breaking sales records. Samsung reported over 271000 pre-orders in India within 72 hours of its July 22 launch. Meanwhile, Pixel 11 family specs were revealed, with prices starting at $899 for the base model. Google is also replacing Google Assistant with Gemini across WearOS devices. 🤖 Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5V series will debut in Xiaomi’s Redmi K100 Pro next week.

🍎 Apple price hikes, iCloud threat, and Neo issues

Apple is rumored to increase prices for the iPhone 18 Pro, which might start at $1,299-$1,399, due to rising component costs. The UK Government has also requested Apple implement a backdoor in iCloud backups for UK users. The MacBook Neo continues to face memory limitations, making switching between apps difficult for some users. Furthermore, Apple is updating its accessories shopping experience online with new curation and chat features. These changes reflect broader industry trends and regulatory pressures affecting Apple products. 📱

🔬 Type 2 Diabetes and Worse Menopause Symptoms

A recent study has found a link between Type 2 diabetes and more severe menopause symptoms. This research was conducted by Managed Healthcare Executive. The study noted these correlations around the date of publication. The findings suggest that diabetes might exacerbate the challenges women face during menopause. Future research will explore the precise mechanisms behind this connection.

🧶 CM Vijay launches Handloom Expo in Tamil Nadu

Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay inaugurated HANDTEX 2026, Co-optex’s Vetri Thari special sale, and the commercial sales exhibition. This event took place at the Kalaivanar Arangam on Friday to celebrate National Handloom Day. He distributed a total of ₹22.25 lakh in financial assistance to 11 weavers and gave them appreciation certificates. National Handloom Day is observed annually on August 7 to remember the Swadeshi Movement launch in 1905. This marks an effort to support the local handloom industry going forward.

🌻 Solar farms turning into wildlife havens in Minnesota

Two solar farms in Minnesota used native wildflowers and grasses instead of gravel on retired agricultural land. Researchers observed a massive boost in insect life, with native bees increasing twentyfold over five years. At an 18-acre site near Minneapolis, the higher panel setup allowed for more native species growth. Economically, native habitat costs less over 25 years compared to standard turf or gravel. This suggests a model for more wildlife-friendly solar energy production. 🐝

🛡️ Border renewable energy projects face strict new security rules

The Home Ministry has issued new national security guidelines banning solar, wind, and hybrid energy projects within 1 km of international borders. This applies to areas near the LoC and LAC, where all proposed projects within 50 km require MHA security clearance. Foreign participation and staffing are restricted, needing MHA permission for workers from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and China. Projects between 1 km and 20 km also need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Ministry of Defence. The Ministry aims to decide on proposals within 60 days after MNRE forwards them to the relevant agencies. 🧐

✨ ChatGPT Free gets unlimited chats with GPT-5.6 Luna

OpenAI is rolling out major upgrades to ChatGPT, making text chats unlimited for free users. This change involves GPT-5.6 Luna replacing GPT-5.5 as the default model for Free and Go users in India. The update, which includes the return of the 'Think' button, is expected to arrive next week. Plus and Pro subscribers already get GPT-5.6 Sol with a new thinking slider. This move aims to boost AI accessibility while keeping premium features focused on high-compute tools. 🚀

🤔 Omar Abdullah questions Iltija Mufti's charge

Omar Abdullah publicly questioned the biting charge leveled against Iltija Mufti. The comments were made by Abdullah, addressing the incident that occurred in Jammu and Kashmir. The charge was reportedly made on a date that was not specified in the available reports. This statement has sparked debate regarding the nature and severity of the allegations against Mufti. Further developments regarding this legal matter are anticipated in the coming days.

✈️ India Eyes Entry into 6th Gen Fighter Jet Program

India has officially started the process to join the international program for 6th-generation fighter jets. This initiative involves the Indian government and defense sector across the country. The program details, including specific dates and partner nations, are currently under confidential review. This move signifies a major upgrade in India's defense modernization strategy. Further steps in this high-tech acquisition are expected in the coming fiscal year.

🌶️ Mountain Dew drops spicy, limited-edition Baja Leo Zero Sugar

Mountain Dew has launched Baja Leo Zero Sugar, a new limited-edition flavor mixing spiced mango, chilli lime, and black pepper. This exclusive drop is being sold via TikTok Shop starting August 12th. The release is currently limited to supplies and is available in a bundle for $8. This strategy targets loyal fans, similar to past successful limited drops. Mountain Dew has not confirmed if this spicy flavor will become a permanent store item.