🎧 Spotify lets you add notes to playlists

Spotify has introduced a new feature called 'Playlist Notes' for both editors and regular listeners. This update allows users to add text notes to tracks, podcast episodes, or audiobooks within any playlist. For now, editor notes are visible to users over 16 in specific countries on major playlists like 'Today's Top Hits'. Meanwhile, user notes are being rolled out in over 100 countries across the mobile app. Importantly, this feature generates a massive, free dataset that Spotify can use to train its recommendation AI models.

💖 Amanda Seyfried on dealing with haters

Amanda Seyfried shared advice about ignoring mean girls during Comic-Con in San Diego in 2011. She noted that these people often feel insecure about themselves internally. Seyfried has over 80 acting credits across her 25+ year entertainment career. She explained that cruelty often stems from personal issues, not the target's fault. The key is realizing insults are about the bully, allowing one to maintain self-confidence.

🚀 Frenchwoman to lead first spacewalk from ISS

Sophie Adenot is set to conduct the first spacewalk by a Frenchwoman outside the International Space Station. She will be accompanied by American astronaut Anil Menon during this mission. The spacewalk is scheduled to begin at 1235 GMT and last for six and a half hours. This EVA aims to replace a crucial space-to-ground antenna on the orbital complex. Adenot, 44, is the second European woman to perform this activity. 🛰️

⚖️ Karnataka HC orders KPSC Chairman's reinstatement

The Karnataka High Court overturned the Governor's July 10 order suspending KPSC Chairman Shiva Shankarappa S Sahukar. This decision was made in the Karnataka High Court on Tuesday, where Justice Suraj Govindaraj presided over the case. The court directed that Sahukar must be reinstated within 7 days, ensuring he receives all associated benefits. The suspension stemmed from allegations that he helped his daughters get government jobs using false income details. Fresh action can only be taken against him based on the prior advice of the Council of Ministers. ⚖️

🏥 Bengal teen in ponds gets Mumbai treatment

A teenager from West Bengal, Iqbal, who spent time in ponds due to a mysterious condition, has been brought to Mumbai. Reliance Industries Executive Director Anant Ambani intervened, leading to his transfer to Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital. The teen had been in ponds for extended periods, complaining of burning sensations and feeling possessed. Medical experts warned that prolonged water immersion can cause skin maceration and infections. Doctors are now assessing his condition to determine the necessary specialized treatment. 🏥

🤔 Dhruv Jurel's low catch sparks major debate in Test match

A low catch by Dhruv Jurel to dismiss Lahiru Udara caused a big controversy during the first Test between India and Sri Lanka. This incident occurred on Day 4 of the match, specifically in the 22nd over of Sri Lanka's second innings. The dismissal happened when Sri Lanka was at 84/4, with the match currently moving towards a potential victory for India. While replays showed close calls, the third umpire ultimately ruled in India's favour on Tuesday. The outcome has led to the social media being split over the validity of the catch.

🚢 Ship hit by projectile in Hormuz Strait amid US-Iran tension 🚢

An unidentified projectile struck a ship sailing out of the Strait of Hormuz early Tuesday, damaging its engine room and causing a crew casualty. This incident occurred off the coast of Oman, as Iran continues to throttle shipping traffic in the critical waterway. The strike highlights the danger amid ongoing tensions between the US and Iran over regional issues. Iran's official reiterated that the strait will remain closed until the US meets specific conditions. Authorities are investigating the attack, while the US currently maintains a blockade on Iranian shipping.

🚨 CBI alleges family pressure over abortion in Twisha Sharma case

The CBI has alleged that Giribala Singh pressured Twisha Sharma regarding her menstrual cycle and tried to stop a medical abortion. This incident occurred at the in-laws' residence in Bhopal, with Twisha found dead on May 12th. The chargesheet details that Twisha, 33, from Greater Noida, was subjected to cruelty before her passing. Both Giribala and Samarth are currently in judicial custody at the Bhopal Central Jail. The investigation continues as the CBI faces queries from Twisha's legal counsel. 😥

🏦 Banks hustle for FCNR(B) deposits before RBI deadline 💰

Private banks are aggressively pushing FCNR(B) deposits as the RBI's swap window closes on August 31. Axis Bank and Federal Bank, located across India, have hiked their interest rates to 6.4 per cent. As of August 13, over $52 billion had been mobilized under this scheme. This accelerated closure suggests the RBI feels its goal of stable dollar inflows has largely been met. Banks are now in a fast-paced race to gather more funds before the deadline.

🏸 Golden point heartbreak for Surya-Pramuthesh

Ashith Surya and Amrutha Pramuthesh lost their quarter-final match in the mixed doubles draw at the BWF World Championships in New Delhi. They were called up as reserves after withdrawals at the tournament, making a 1,800-kilometre journey to compete. The match on Day 2 against Turkey lasted 73 minutes, with the Turkish team winning 16-21, 30-29, 24-22. The game featured the first golden point incident at the championships, which came into effect during the second set. Pramuthesh noted they need to play safer when holding match points moving forward. 😥

🔄 17 top IPS officers transferred in Bihar

The Bihar government announced a major reshuffle, transferring 17 senior IPS officers on Tuesday, August 18, 2026. This move includes the transfer of Siwan SP Pooran Kumar Jha and Bhojpur SP Raj, amidst controversial police actions. Mr. Jha is placed on the waiting list following an alleged AK-47 use during a July 25 student protest. Hriday Kant will now be the SP of Nalanda, and Bharat Soni takes over as Siwan SP. Awadesh Dikshit has been appointed as the new SP for the Bhojpur district.