Belarus Considers State-Level Bitcoin Mining

**UBS analysis reveals Apple's AI features aren't motivating iPhone upgrades** A new UBS report indicates that Apple Intelligence is not serving as a significant catalyst for iPhone upgrade demand. This finding aligns with earlier user sentiment data from late 2024, when 9to5Mac reported that most iPhone owners saw minimal value in Apple's AI capabilities. The lack of AI-driven upgrade momentum suggests Apple may need to reconsider its strategy for positioning artificial intelligence as a key selling point for new iPhone models. This could have implications for the company's near-term revenue projections and product roadmap. **Key takeaway:** Despite heavy investment in AI features, consumer interest remains tepid, potentially impacting Apple's upgrade cycle expectations.

Hong Kong authorities are under fire after releasing an AI-generated anti-drug video that critics say had the opposite effect - making drugs look appealing rather than deterring use. The incident marks another AI misstep for Hong Kong law enforcement. In 2024, police arrested 27 individuals running an AI deepfake crypto scam operation from a 4,000-square-foot industrial facility. **Key Points:** - AI-generated content intended to discourage drug use - Public backlash over unintended messaging - Raises questions about AI oversight in government campaigns The controversy highlights the challenges authorities face when deploying AI tools without proper review processes.

OpenAI has reportedly entered discussions about granting the U.S. government a 5% ownership stake in the company. This potential arrangement would mark a significant shift in the relationship between the AI leader and federal authorities. **Key Details:** - Prediction markets currently place the likelihood of this deal at 57% - The stake would represent direct government equity in one of the world's most valuable AI companies - No official confirmation has been provided by OpenAI or government representatives The discussions come amid ongoing debates about AI regulation and national security concerns. A government stake could provide federal oversight while potentially influencing the company's strategic direction. This development raises questions about the future of private AI development and the role of government in emerging technologies.

**Business aviation takes major hit during regional tensions** Business jet departures in the Middle East have fallen by 30% during the ongoing Iran conflict, marking a significant disruption to private aviation in the region. **Key developments:** - 30% drop in business jet departures across Middle East - Follows earlier disruption where 41% of scheduled commercial flights were cancelled in March - Reflects broader impact of regional conflict on aviation sector The decline in private jet activity indicates how geopolitical tensions are affecting not just commercial aviation but also high-net-worth travel patterns in the region. Business aviation typically serves as a barometer for economic activity and executive mobility.

The UN Human Rights Council is calling an urgent meeting to address the escalating crisis in Sudan, where approximately 500,000 civilians face imminent risk of mass atrocities. **Key Context:** - Sudan's ongoing conflict has evolved into what observers call the world's largest humanitarian disaster - Previous reporting highlighted the resilience of Sudanese people despite the devastating war conditions - The emergency session signals international concern over the rapidly deteriorating security situation **What's at Stake:** The half-million figure represents a significant portion of Sudan's population now in immediate danger, prompting this rare urgent convening of the Human Rights Council. Such emergency sessions are typically reserved for situations requiring immediate international attention and potential intervention. The meeting will likely focus on protection measures for civilians and potential accountability mechanisms for those responsible for atrocities.