Todd Howard on AI: It’s Just a Tool, Not the Artist
Bethesda’s Todd Howard shared his views on AI in game development during a Fallout TV show event. He sees it as a tool for efficiency but insists creative intention must remain human.
Category: Software
Apple’s Slow AI Play Is Suddenly Looking Pretty Smart
After a rough first half of 2025 where Apple’s stock tumbled 18%, the script has flipped. While Meta and Microsoft falter, Apple shares have rocketed 35% since July, turning its AI hesitancy into a perceived strength.
A New Script Promises to Rip All the AI Out of Windows 11
A developer on GitHub has released a script that claims to remove every trace of Microsoft’s AI from Windows 11, including hidden components. It aims to block future reinstalls, but its effectiveness on new Copilot+ PCs is still unproven.
Meta Dodges a Huge EU Fine With New Ad Choice
Meta has finally received EU approval for its alternative ad model, escaping the threat of massive daily fines. Starting in 2026, users will get a new choice over their data. But is this a real win for privacy or just regulatory theater?
Linux’s F2FS Gets a Tune-Up for 6.19
The upcoming Linux 6.19 kernel is set to receive a batch of updates for the F2FS flash-friendly file system. The changes focus on performance optimizations and fixing several corner-case bugs. This is a maintenance update that should improve stability and efficiency for users on SSDs and zoned stora
Trump’s AI Order Could Upend Mental Health Tech Rules
President Trump signaled an executive order to override state-specific AI regulations. This could dismantle new laws in Illinois, Utah, and Nevada governing AI mental health advice, creating a regulatory scramble.
AI is Hunting “Forever Chemicals” in Your Supply Chain
New PFAS rules from the EPA and EU are forcing companies to map thousands of chemicals deep into their supply chains. Manual checks are failing, leading to a new wave of AI tools that automate compliance. The stakes are fines, recalls, and business continuity.
IBM Bets $11 Billion on Confluent to Catch the AI Wave
In a major move to capitalize on AI demand, IBM is acquiring data infrastructure company Confluent for $11 billion. The deal aims to give IBM a critical real-time data platform for enterprise AI applications.
Ulta’s Digital Bet Pays Off with Double-Digit E-Commerce Growth
Ulta Beauty just posted strong third-quarter results, with net sales hitting $2.9 billion. A big driver? Their digital strategy, which includes a supercharged app and new AI tools, is showing clear results on the top line.
Why Apple Pay is Stuck in Australia
Apple Pay’s rollout in Australia is stalled, limited only to American Express cards. The political opposition is now accusing the major banks of anti-competitive behavior for blocking the service.