Latest Episode
June 13 1200 UTC Brief
In science and tech
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University say they have built an artificial photosynthesis system that can keep making solar fuel more steadily as sunlight changes, by putting a self-regulating chemical component directly into the electrolyzer. That removes the need for a battery-powered control system, which is the sort of cost-cutting the energy transition always claims to love, right up until someone has to pay for it.
In a separate development, Xiaomi has shown a robotic arm designed to plug an electric vehicle into a home charger without the driver touching a thing. The company says it could work with smart parking, be started from a phone, and disconnect automatically when charging is done, with commercial release planned for late 2026.
Police in one case have launched a criminal investigation after an officer was accused of using AI to create evidence, and the officer has been removed from frontline duties while the inquiry continues. That is not a small technical slip, it goes to the basic integrity of the system.
In world news
Israel has carried out air strikes in Lebanon, according to Lebanese state media, while Iran’s foreign minister says a deal to end fighting with the United States is close. The two developments sit awkwardly beside each other, which is a familiar and unwelcome feature of the region’s diplomacy.
In Kinshasa, hundreds of people protested against proposed constitutional changes in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the demonstration turned violent.
In Haiti, the national team’s return to the men’s World Cup after 52 years has taken on meaning well beyond football, with the campaign being seen as a symbol of hope in a country battered by violence.
Curaçao, meanwhile, are celebrating their first World Cup qualification and becoming the smallest nation ever to reach the tournament. The journey included some decidedly unglamorous travel, which is a reminder that global sport is still powered by tiny planes, missing luggage, and unreasonable optimism.
In the U.S. and sports
During the United States’ 4-1 win over Paraguay at SoFi Stadium, a man tried to run onto the pitch and was tackled within seconds. Christian Pulisic, who came off at halftime with a calf issue, said the injury is minor and he expects to be fine in the next few days.
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