## The Devil Wears Prada Is Back — And Critics Have Thoughts

Nearly twenty years after the original film captivated audiences and cemented itself as a defining pop culture moment, *The Devil Wears Prada 2* is finally arriving in theaters. The long-awaited sequel brings back the full powerhouse cast — Anne Hathaway, Meryl Streep, Stanley Tucci, and Emily Blunt — each stepping back into the roles that made them unforgettable.

## A New Era for a Beloved Story

The sequel doesn't simply rehash the magic of the 2006 original. Instead, it plants itself firmly in the modern media landscape, exploring what happens when the world of high fashion collides with the fast-moving, algorithm-driven digital age. The story picks up with characters who have evolved alongside the industry itself — a fitting choice given how dramatically the fashion and publishing worlds have transformed over the past two decades.

## The Cast Returns in Full Force

Seeing Streep, Hathaway, Blunt, and Tucci share the screen again is, by all accounts, a major draw for both longtime fans and newcomers. Each actor brings the weight of their careers to roles that audiences have never quite forgotten. The chemistry that made the original so compelling appears to be very much intact.

## Worth the Wait?

With the film hitting theaters this Friday, early buzz suggests that *The Devil Wears Prada 2* is poised to make a serious cultural impact — much like its predecessor did all those years ago. Whether it lives up to the legacy of the original remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: fashion, drama, and a killer cast are back in full style.

The Devil Wears Prada 2 is here. Anne Hathaway, Meryl Streep, and the full cast return in a sequel set in the modern digital fashion world.

The Devil Wears Prada 2: Reviews & What Critics Say

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The Devil Wears Prada 2: Early Reviews and What to Expect

## Jane Street Achieves Record $40 Billion in Annual Revenue

Quantitative trading firm Jane Street has reached a remarkable financial milestone, doubling its annual revenues to an extraordinary $40 billion. This record-breaking performance places the firm ahead of many established investment banks that have long dominated Wall Street — a significant shift in the financial landscape.

## A New Era for Trading Firms

The staggering revenue figure represents more than just corporate growth. It signals a broader transformation within the global financial industry, where algorithmic and quantitative trading firms are steadily eclipsing legacy institutions that once held unchallenged authority over capital markets.

Jane Street, known for its highly sophisticated trading strategies and data-driven approach, has quietly built itself into one of the most profitable financial entities on the planet. Its latest figures underscore just how dominant technology-first trading houses have become in modern markets.

## Surpassing Traditional Investment Banking Powerhouses

Historically, investment banks commanded the top positions in Wall Street revenue rankings. Jane Street's $40 billion haul challenges that long-standing hierarchy, raising important questions about where financial power now truly resides.

The firm's ability to generate such extraordinary returns reflects its deep expertise in market-making, arbitrage, and high-frequency trading across global asset classes — capabilities that have proven exceptionally lucrative in today's volatile and fast-moving markets.

## What This Means for the Financial Industry

Jane Street's meteoric rise serves as a clear indicator that the future of finance is being shaped by quantitative intelligence, technological infrastructure, and algorithmic precision rather than traditional relationship-driven banking models. As these firms continue to grow, the competitive dynamics of global finance are fundamentally evolving.

Jane Street trading firm doubles annual revenues to $40 billion, surpassing major Wall Street investment banks in a record-breaking financial performance.

Jane Street Doubles Revenue to $40 Billion in Record Year

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Jane Street Doubles Revenue to $40 Billion, Outpacing Wall Street Giants

## VMax New VX4 Electric Scooter Review: Power, Performance, and a Hidden Secret

The VMax New VX4 electric scooter arrives with more than meets the eye. Beneath its polished exterior lies a hidden menu that unlocks the scooter's full top speed and activates cruise control — a feature that immediately sets it apart from the competition.

### Quick Pros and Cons

**What We Love:**
- Impressive top speed
- Wide, stable riding platform
- Abundant power and torque
- Reliable suspension system
- Confident stability at high speeds
- Strong battery range
- Built-in cruise control
- Bright, vibrant TFT display

**Worth Noting:**
- On the heavier side
- Torque may feel overwhelming for beginners
- No horn included

---

## Getting Started: Setup Is a Breeze

One of the VX4's strongest first impressions is how effortlessly it comes together out of the box. Inside the packaging, you'll find the scooter itself, handlebar screws, a hex wrench, and the necessary charging cables. Simply slide the handlebars into the stem, tighten the screws, and you're ready to hit the road. From unboxing to riding took less than five minutes — though mastering the scooter's full performance potential required a bit more time.

---

## A Display Worth Talking About

Initially, the absence of a phone mount on the handlebars felt like an oversight. However, that frustration quickly faded once it became clear that every feature and customization option is accessible directly through the onboard display. Rather than fumbling with your phone mid-ride, the VX4 encourages you to simply enjoy the journey.

The TFT display is a genuine standout. Sharp, colorful, and perfectly legible even under direct sunlight, it outclasses the basic dot-matrix screens found on many competing scooters. The interface is intuitive, and the physical buttons respond with satisfying precision, making on-the-fly adjustments completely stress-free.

---

## App Integration: Functional but Minimal

The companion app offers a straightforward experience — nothing flashy, but it gets the job done. More importantly, the app is entirely optional. VMax does not require user registration, and there's no dependency on a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection to operate the scooter. This hands-off approach means fewer technical headaches and a more seamless riding experience overall.

---

## Power and Torque: Exciting but Demanding

The VX4 delivers a thrilling ride, but its aggressive torque deserves a mention for riders who prefer a gentler learning curve. The lack of an adjustable acceleration setting is a minor drawback — even experienced riders may need a few attempts to properly manage their weight distribution when launching from a standstill.

To help ease riders into the experience, VMax offers two thoughtful alternatives. The **Eco mode** dials back the power output for a more relaxed ride, while the **roll-start option** requires the rider to get the scooter moving before the throttle fully engages. This rolling start noticeably smooths out the initial surge, making the power delivery far less abrupt without sacrificing the scooter's overall performance character.

---

## Final Verdict

The VMax New VX4 is a bold, well-engineered electric scooter that delivers on nearly every front. Its combination of high top speed, excellent range, intuitive display, and hidden performance features make it a compelling choice for serious riders. A few minor drawbacks — namely the weight, the intense torque, and the missing horn — keep it from being perfect, but they do little to diminish what is otherwise an outstanding urban mobility machine.

Read our full VMax New VX4 electric scooter review covering top speed, torque, cruise control, display quality, range, and hidden performance features.

VMax New VX4 Electric Scooter Review: Speed & Power

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VMax New VX4 Electric Scooter Review: Power, Performance, and a Hidden Secret

## Design Within Reach Promo Codes: Your Guide to Saving Big on Designer Furniture

Design Within Reach has long been the destination for those who want high-end, iconic furniture without paying full retail prices. Whether you're refreshing a living room, outfitting a home office, or hunting for standout outdoor pieces, the brand's rotating promotions and discount codes make premium design genuinely accessible.

## Score 15% Off Your First Order — Just by Signing Up

One of the simplest ways to unlock immediate savings at Design Within Reach is by joining their email list. New subscribers receive **15% off their first purchase** automatically — a meaningful discount when you're investing in quality furniture. Beyond the welcome offer, email members get early access to flash sale events and exclusive promo codes delivered directly to their inbox, so you're never the last to know about a great deal.

## Outdoor Furniture Sale: Up to 30% Off

Summer entertaining calls for serious outdoor upgrades. Design Within Reach's outdoor sale event brings discounts of up to **30% off** a wide selection of patio essentials, including:

- Outdoor sectionals
- Chaise lounge chairs
- Garden benches
- Dining and accent tables

Stack these markdowns with sitewide promo codes for even deeper savings. If you've had your eye on iconic pieces like the **Eames Lounge Chair**, **Herman Miller Aeron Chair**, or the **Noguchi Table**, seasonal promotions can shave over **$1,500** off the regular price — making now the ideal time to invest.

## Flos Lighting: 20% Off for a Limited Time

Known for their seamless blend of form and function, **Flos lamps** are currently available at **20% off**. The collection includes colorful table lamps starting at $255, alongside wall sconces, pendant lights, and more — perfect for adding a designer touch to any room without breaking the budget.

## Free Shipping on Orders Over $2,000

Design Within Reach makes it easier to justify larger purchases with their **Quick-Ship free shipping** offer. Spend $2,000 or more and enjoy complimentary delivery sitewide — saving you up to **$699** in shipping fees. The Quick-Ship program covers a wide range of popular items including sofas, storage pieces, coffee tables, and other signature furniture.

## New to Sale: Fresh Markdowns Worth Exploring

Browsing the Sale section regularly pays off at Design Within Reach. Their **New to Sale** deals frequently feature:

- **40% off** select bar stools
- **20% off** sectional sofas
- **50% off** decorative accessories and decor

End-of-season clearance events are particularly rewarding, often featuring both longtime favorites and surprising new arrivals at reduced prices. Use the built-in filter tool to sort by category, designer, brand, or price range to find exactly what you need faster.

## Up to 50% Off Clearance Deals

For the most aggressive discounts, Design Within Reach's **clearance sale** is where serious shoppers head first. These last-chance markdowns reach up to **50% off** across all home categories, covering:

- Light fixtures
- Dining and accent tables
- Ottomans and seating
- Furniture cushions and accessories

Clearance items are priced at their absolute lowest before selling out for good, so acting quickly is essential when you spot something you love.

## The DWR Trade Program: Exclusive Savings for Professionals

Design Within Reach also supports **small business owners and interior design professionals** through their free **DWR Trade Program**. Approved members enjoy:

- Everyday sitewide discounts
- A dedicated Account Executive
- Members-only promotions and pricing
- Access to discounted rates across more than **200 premium design brands**

For design industry professionals looking to furnish client spaces at scale, the Trade Program is an invaluable resource.

## Editor-Recommended Picks from Design Within Reach

Design Within Reach carries an impressive roster of beloved brands and designers. Among the standout offerings are **Herman Miller office chairs** — widely considered some of the best ergonomic seating on the market — as well as **Courant wireless chargers**, stylish sofas from **HAY**, and textile designs from **Dusen Dusen**. Whether you're optimizing a home office or redesigning your entire living space, the brand's catalog delivers quality and style in equal measure.

Find the best Design Within Reach promo codes for 2026. Save up to 50% on iconic designer furniture, outdoor pieces, lighting, and more.

Design Within Reach Promo Codes: Save Up to 50% Off

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Design Within Reach Promo Codes: Save Up to 50% on Premium Furniture

## SpaceX Blindsides Investors With a Last-Minute $60 Billion Offer for Cursor

In a dramatic turn of events that sent shockwaves through the venture capital world, SpaceX stepped in with a massive $60 billion acquisition proposal for Cursor — the company behind one of the most popular AI-powered coding platforms — effectively derailing a funding round that was just days away from closing.

According to a source with direct knowledge of the situation, Cursor had been on the verge of finalizing a $2 billion private investment round that would have placed its valuation at $50 billion. That deal was expected to close within the week. Instead, SpaceX arrived with an offer that gave it the option to acquire Cursor outright later this year, or alternatively funnel $10 billion into the company as part of a structured AI collaboration agreement.

## A Dual-Track Strategy: Fundraising and Acquisition Talks Simultaneously

What makes this story particularly compelling is that Cursor was reportedly pursuing both paths at the same time — quietly engaging in acquisition discussions with SpaceX while simultaneously locking down its funding round with a marquee group of investors. That roster included prominent names such as Andreessen Horowitz, Thrive Capital, Nvidia, and Battery Ventures.

This kind of parallel process is not unheard of in the startup world. Many founders keep acquisition conversations open as a hedge while continuing to court private investors. However, the sheer scale of SpaceX's offer and the timing — mere hours before the round would have been finalized — makes this case extraordinary.

The source also noted that even the $2 billion raise would not have been sufficient to carry Cursor to cash-flow breakeven, meaning the company would have inevitably returned to the capital markets for another substantial round in the not-too-distant future.

## Why SpaceX Wants Cursor

SpaceX, which recently completed a merger with xAI, has been aggressively working to strengthen its artificial intelligence capabilities. The company is eager to establish itself as a serious contender in the AI space, where it currently lags behind industry frontrunners like Anthropic and OpenAI.

Acquiring Cursor would give Elon Musk's company an immediate foothold in AI-assisted coding — currently one of the most commercially valuable applications of artificial intelligence. Unlike Google's acquisition of Windsurf, which was structured primarily as an acqui-hire targeting select key personnel, SpaceX intends to retain Cursor's entire team. This is significant given that SpaceX presently lacks a substantial AI workforce or a well-established AI product division.

Additionally, SpaceX operates large-scale data centers in Mississippi and Tennessee, and the company could potentially offer Cursor access to that computing infrastructure — possibly as a substitute for a portion of the promised $10 billion collaboration payment.

## The IPO Factor: Why the Acquisition Is Being Delayed

Despite the scale of the deal, SpaceX is not moving to acquire Cursor immediately. The company has indicated it will delay the potential purchase until after its anticipated IPO this summer. The reasoning is straightforward: completing such a large transaction before going public would require updating confidential financial filings, a process the company wants to avoid. Furthermore, once SpaceX is publicly traded, it can use its newly listed stock to help finance the $60 billion price tag — a far more practical approach.

The delay also serves a strategic narrative purpose. By announcing the deal now, SpaceX signals to prospective public investors that it is not merely a space exploration and satellite communications business. Positioning itself as an AI company could allow SpaceX to command the significantly higher valuation multiples that Wall Street currently assigns to artificial intelligence firms.

## What Cursor Gains From the Arrangement

For Cursor, the arrangement offers meaningful protection in an increasingly competitive landscape. The company is facing intensifying pressure from rivals including Anthropic's Claude Code and OpenAI's Codex, both of which are backed by enormous resources and established user bases.

Even if SpaceX ultimately decides not to proceed with the acquisition, Cursor is guaranteed a $10 billion capital infusion distributed over time — a financial lifeline that reduces the company's dependency on private fundraising rounds and gives it the runway to scale its infrastructure and product capabilities.

The proposed deal, if it comes to fruition, appears to serve both parties well: Cursor secures its financial future and gains access to vast computing resources, while SpaceX accelerates its AI ambitions and enhances its appeal to public market investors ahead of one of the most anticipated tech IPOs in recent memory.

SpaceX blindsided investors with a $60B acquisition bid for AI coding startup Cursor, derailing a nearly closed $2B funding round just hours before it finalized

SpaceX's $60B Cursor Offer Upended a $2B Funding Round

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SpaceX's $60 Billion Cursor Bid Derailed a Nearly Closed $2 Billion Funding Round

## SpaceX Eyes $60 Billion Cursor Acquisition in Major AI Coding Play

SpaceX has announced a landmark partnership with Cursor, the rapidly growing AI-powered software development platform, and has secured an option to acquire the company outright for $60 billion before the end of the year. The deal signals an aggressive push by Elon Musk's aerospace and technology conglomerate into the increasingly competitive AI developer tools market.

## What the Deal Actually Involves

According to SpaceX, the collaboration is focused on building a next-generation AI system designed for coding and knowledge work. The partnership will combine Cursor's established presence and distribution among professional software engineers with SpaceX's formidable Colossus supercomputer — a machine the company claims delivers computing power equivalent to one million Nvidia H100 chips.

Under the terms of the agreement, SpaceX has committed to either paying Cursor $10 billion for its contributions to the project or acquiring the startup entirely for $60 billion at an unspecified date later this year. Notably, the announcement did not clarify whether either transaction would involve SpaceX stock or cash.

## Cursor's Meteoric Valuation Rise

The $60 billion acquisition price tag underscores just how dramatically Cursor's perceived value has surged in a remarkably short period. The company was valued at $2.5 billion as recently as January of last year. By May of the same year, that figure had climbed to $9 billion. When Cursor closed a $2.3 billion Series D funding round in November, its post-money valuation reached $29.3 billion. Just last week, reports indicated the company was targeting a $50 billion valuation in an upcoming private fundraising round — making SpaceX's $60 billion offer appear both timely and strategically calculated.

## The Strategic Logic — and the Vulnerabilities It Exposes

While the deal carries clear strategic appeal for both parties, it also shines a light on the weaknesses each company is working to address. Neither Cursor nor xAI, Musk's artificial intelligence venture, currently possesses proprietary AI models capable of matching the performance of leading offerings from Anthropic or OpenAI. This gap is particularly significant given that both of those companies are now launching their own developer-focused coding tools, placing them in direct competition with Cursor.

For now, Cursor continues to rely on and sell access to Anthropic's Claude and OpenAI's GPT models — an increasingly awkward position as those same companies move to capture the developer audience Cursor has carefully cultivated. The SpaceX partnership appears designed, at least in part, to provide a long-term pathway out of that dependency.

## Earlier Signals Pointed to a Closer Relationship

The announcement did not come entirely out of nowhere. Industry observers had already noted several signs of deepening ties between Cursor and the broader Musk ecosystem. Just last week, it was revealed that xAI would begin leasing computing capacity from its data centers to Cursor, with the coding startup set to use tens of thousands of xAI chips to train its newest AI model.

Additionally, two of Cursor's most senior engineering leaders — Andrew Milich and Jason Ginsberg — recently departed the company to join xAI, where both now report directly to Musk. These moves, viewed together, suggested a consolidation of interests well before the formal partnership was made public.

## IPO Ambitions Add Another Layer

The timing of this deal is also difficult to separate from SpaceX's much-anticipated initial public offering. Analysts and investors watching the company's trajectory are likely to view the Cursor partnership as yet another mechanism for enhancing the value of what has become an expansive and diverse technology conglomerate under Musk's leadership.

That said, SpaceX faces real financial pressures. The company is widely reported to be operating at a loss following its acquisitions of xAI and the social media platform X, while simultaneously planning significant capital investments. Whether the Cursor deal ultimately concludes as a full acquisition or a project payment, it will represent a substantial financial commitment.

SpaceX has partnered with AI coding platform Cursor and holds an option to acquire it for $60 billion, signaling a major push into AI developer tools.

SpaceX and Cursor Partner With $60B Acquisition Option

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SpaceX Partners With Cursor and Eyes $60 Billion Acquisition in Bold AI Push

## OpenAI vs. Anthropic: The Rivalry Heats Up

The ongoing tension between two of Silicon Valley's most prominent AI companies escalated this week when OpenAI CEO Sam Altman took a pointed jab at rival Anthropic during a podcast appearance. His target: Anthropic's newly unveiled cybersecurity model, Mythos — and the marketing strategy surrounding it.

## What Is Mythos and Why Is It Controversial?

Earlier this month, Anthropic introduced Mythos, a specialized AI model designed for cybersecurity applications. Rather than making it broadly available, the company chose to release it exclusively to a select group of enterprise clients. Anthropic's reasoning? The model is allegedly too capable and too dangerous to place in the hands of the general public, citing concerns that bad actors could exploit it for malicious purposes.

However, this justification has not gone unchallenged. Several critics have pushed back against what they describe as exaggerated and sensationalized claims about the model's potential for harm.

## Altman's Sharp Criticism

Appearing on the podcast *Core Memory*, Altman wasted no time in calling out what he labeled as "fear-based marketing." He suggested that Anthropic's approach conveniently serves those who have long preferred to keep advanced AI technology concentrated among a privileged few.

"There are people in the world who, for a long time, have wanted to keep AI in the hands of a smaller group of people," Altman stated. "You can justify that in a lot of different ways."

He then deployed a colorful analogy to drive his point home: "It is clearly incredible marketing to say, 'We have built a bomb, we are about to drop it on your head. We will sell you a bomb shelter for $100 million.'" The implication was clear — Altman believes Anthropic is manufacturing fear to boost the perceived value of its product while simultaneously limiting access to it.

## The Pot Calling the Kettle Black?

While Altman's critique landed with force, it is worth noting that fear-driven narratives are hardly unique to Anthropic. The broader AI industry has a well-documented history of leveraging hyperbole and apocalyptic rhetoric to amplify the perceived importance of its products.

Perhaps most notably, Altman himself has not been immune to such messaging. He has previously spoken publicly about the existential risks posed by artificial intelligence — the very type of doomsday framing he now criticizes in his competitor. This irony has not been lost on industry observers, who point out that stoking fear about AI's potential dangers has been a recurring theme across the entire sector, not just within Anthropic's boardroom.

## A Broader Pattern in AI Marketing

The exchange between Altman and Anthropic reflects a broader tension within the AI industry: the balance between responsible communication about genuine risks and the temptation to weaponize those risks for competitive advantage. As AI companies race to capture enterprise clients and public mindshare, the line between legitimate safety warnings and strategic fearmongering continues to blur.

Whether Anthropic's caution around Mythos is genuinely warranted or primarily a calculated marketing move remains a matter of debate. What is clear, however, is that as AI capabilities grow, so too will the battle over how those capabilities are framed — and who gets to control the narrative.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman criticized Anthropic's Mythos cybersecurity AI model, calling its restricted release strategy a calculated fear-based marketing move.

Sam Altman Calls Anthropic's Mythos 'Fear-Based Marketing'

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Sam Altman Slams Anthropic's Mythos as 'Fear-Based Marketing' in Heated AI Rivalry

## FAA Grounds New Glenn Rocket After Upper Stage Mishap

Blue Origin's ambitious launch schedule has hit a significant roadblock after the Federal Aviation Administration ordered the company to conduct a formal investigation into the apparent failure of the upper stage of its New Glenn rocket. Until that investigation is completed, the rocket will remain grounded — a setback that could seriously impact the company's plan to execute up to 12 additional New Glenn missions in 2025.

## What Went Wrong During the Third Launch?

The incident unfolded during New Glenn's third flight over the weekend. The mission started on a high note — Blue Origin successfully reused a New Glenn booster for the very first time, recovering it on an ocean-based drone ship after launch. That milestone marked a major step forward for the company, placing it alongside SpaceX as one of the only players in the industry capable of rocket reusability.

However, the mission's primary objective told a different story. New Glenn was tasked with delivering a communications satellite into orbit for paying customer AST SpaceMobile. While the rocket's second stage cleanly separated from the booster, something went wrong shortly afterward. According to AST SpaceMobile, the satellite was placed in an orbit significantly lower than intended — so far off target that the company has written off the satellite entirely, allowing it to re-enter and burn up in Earth's atmosphere.

### Engine Failure Identified as Likely Cause

In a statement issued Monday, Blue Origin CEO Dave Limp acknowledged the problem, stating the company believes one of the upper stage engines "didn't produce sufficient thrust to reach our target orbit." The admission points to a propulsion issue that will need to be thoroughly examined before the rocket can fly again.

## Financial and Operational Impact on AST SpaceMobile

AST SpaceMobile confirmed it carries insurance coverage for the lost satellite, meaning the financial blow will be partially absorbed. The company also noted that several new satellites are nearing completion and could be ready for launch within weeks. AST SpaceMobile additionally holds contracts with other launch service providers, offering some flexibility going forward. Despite these assurances, the company's stock dropped more than 10% on Monday morning before staging a partial recovery.

## Broader Consequences for Blue Origin

The upper stage failure carries implications well beyond the loss of a single commercial payload. Blue Origin is currently developing a lunar lander and is positioning itself as a key partner in NASA and the Trump administration's efforts to return astronauts to the Moon. A prolonged grounding of New Glenn could slow progress on those ambitions considerably.

Additionally, the company is in the process of seeking certification from the U.S. Space Force to carry national security payloads — a lucrative and strategically vital segment of the launch market. The Space Force had not issued a comment at the time of reporting.

### A Critical Moment for Blue Origin's Competitive Standing

Despite the setback, the successful booster recovery demonstrated that Blue Origin is making genuine strides toward reusability — a capability that has been central to SpaceX's dominance in commercial spaceflight. How quickly and effectively Blue Origin resolves the upper stage issue will determine whether the company can maintain momentum in an increasingly competitive industry.

The FAA has ordered Blue Origin to investigate a New Glenn upper stage failure that stranded a customer satellite in the wrong orbit, grounding the rocket indef

FAA Investigates Blue Origin New Glenn Upper Stage Failure

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FAA Orders Blue Origin to Investigate New Glenn Upper Stage Failure

## A Quiet Revolution in Physics Could Change Computing Forever

A remarkable discovery in physics may be about to rewrite the rules of modern computing. Scientists have demonstrated that microscopic atomic vibrations — known as chiral phonons — can directly transfer motion to electrons, enabling them to carry information without the need for magnets, batteries, or electrical current. The finding opens up an entirely new discipline called **orbitronics**, where data is processed through the orbital movement of electrons rather than conventional electrical charge or spin.

## Why the World Needs a Smarter Way to Compute

As global demand for data processing continues to climb, researchers are turning to the quantum realm in search of more efficient solutions. Orbitronics has emerged as one of the most promising frontiers in this search. The concept revolves around harnessing the **orbital angular momentum** of electrons — essentially, the way electrons orbit an atom's nucleus — to store and transmit information more efficiently than current methods allow.

The problem, until now, has been control. Influencing electron orbital motion has traditionally depended on magnetic materials like iron, which are heavy, expensive, and difficult to integrate into small-scale devices. A new study published in the journal *Nature Physics* has changed that picture dramatically.

## The Role of Chiral Phonons

### What Makes a Material Chiral?

To understand the breakthrough, it helps to understand chirality. Most solid materials have symmetrical atomic structures — their mirror image looks identical to the original. Chiral materials are fundamentally different. In substances like quartz, atoms are arranged in a spiral pattern, much like the threading of a screw. This twisted structure can be either left- or right-handed, and crucially, it cannot be overlaid on its own mirror image. Human hands offer a familiar everyday example of this property.

Atoms inside solids are never completely still — they vibrate constantly. In symmetrical materials, this vibration is generally a simple back-and-forth motion. In chiral materials, however, the spiral atomic arrangement causes atoms to move in circular or spiral paths instead.

### How Phonons Carry Angular Momentum

When these circular vibrations travel through a material as collective waves, they form what scientists call **chiral phonons**. A useful analogy is the ripple effect at a concert, where one person begins swaying and the movement gradually spreads through the crowd.

Because the atoms trace circular paths, they carry angular momentum. The researchers proved that this momentum can be transferred directly to electrons — giving electrons orbital angular momentum without any involvement from magnets or external electrical sources.

## The Breakthrough: Orbital Seebeck Effect

The research team, led by North Carolina State University in collaboration with the University of Utah and several other institutions, used **α-quartz** — a crystal with a naturally chiral structure — to test their theory.

Under normal conditions, chiral phonons in a material exist in a mix of left- and right-handed states. By briefly applying a magnetic field, the team was able to align these phonons. Once a sufficient number were aligned, their collective rotational motion transferred to the electrons — and this transfer persisted even after the external magnetic field was switched off.

The researchers named this phenomenon the **orbital Seebeck effect**, drawing a deliberate parallel to the spin Seebeck effect, which describes a related process involving electron spin. To measure the effect, they layered metals — specifically tungsten and titanium — on top of the quartz crystal. This setup converted the orbital motion of electrons into a detectable electrical signal.

For the first time, scientists at the University of Utah also directly measured the internal magnetism generated by chiral phonons in quartz, using specialized equipment at the National High Magnetic Field Lab in Florida. By firing lasers through the material and analyzing changes in the reflected light, they confirmed that chiral phonons produce a meaningful magnetic field — even in a material that is not itself magnetic.

## What Scientists Are Saying

"The generation of orbital currents traditionally necessitates the injection of charge current into specific transition metals, and many of these elements are now classified as critical materials," said **Dali Sun**, physicist at North Carolina State University and co-author of the study. "There are other ways to generate orbital angular momentum, but this method allows for the use of cheaper, more abundant materials."

**Valy Vardeny**, distinguished professor in the Department of Physics & Astronomy at the University of Utah, put it even more directly: "We don't need a magnet. We don't need a battery. We don't need to use voltage. We just need a material with chiral phonons. Before, it was unimaginable. Now, we've invented a new field, so to speak."

Doctoral candidate **Rikard Bodin** of the University of Utah added a broader perspective on the discovery's long-term potential: "When we talk about discovering things like the orbital Seebeck effect — I can't tell you that your TV is going to run on it, but it's creating more levers that we can pull on to do new things. Now that it's here, someone else can push it forward, and before you know it, it's ubiquitous. That's how technology is."

## Beyond Quartz: A Versatile Platform

One of the most significant aspects of the discovery is that it is not limited to quartz alone. The same principles can be applied to a range of other chiral materials, including **tellurium**, **selenium**, and **hybrid organic-inorganic perovskites**. Compared to existing orbitronics approaches, this method requires fewer raw materials, involves simpler processes, and allows orbital motion to persist for considerably longer periods.

This combination of accessibility, efficiency, and scalability positions the technology as a genuinely viable path toward next-generation computing devices that are faster, smaller, and far less energy-hungry.

## A Wide Collaborative Effort

The study was the product of an extensive multi-institutional collaboration involving researchers from North Carolina State University, the University of Utah, Nanjing Normal University, the Air Force Research Laboratory, the University of Washington, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, the University of South Carolina, and Pennsylvania State University.

The full findings were published in the journal *Nature Physics*.

Researchers discover chiral phonons can transfer orbital motion to electrons — a magnet-free breakthrough that could revolutionize computing technology.

Scientists Control Electrons Without Magnets or Power

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No Magnets, No Battery: Scientists Discover a New Way to Control Electrons

## The Complete Guide to Cleaning Vinyl Records in 2026

Whether you're a seasoned audiophile or just getting into vinyl, keeping your records clean is essential for optimal sound quality and long-term preservation. This guide covers everything you need to know — from budget-friendly DIY setups to professional-grade ultrasonic machines.

---

## Why Standard Cleaning Products Fall Short

A quick search online reveals dozens of record-cleaning sprays, pads, and wipe-down kits. While these products are widely marketed, they share a fundamental flaw: vinyl grooves are microscopically narrow, and no cloth fiber can reach deep enough inside them to lift debris effectively.

You might succeed in getting cleaning fluid into the grooves, but extracting it again is another challenge entirely. The result? Most traditional spin-and-wipe devices simply redistribute dirt further into the grooves rather than removing it. For a truly clean record, you need a method that physically pulls contaminants out — not just shuffles them around.

---

## The Two Best Methods for Cleaning Vinyl Records

### 1. Vacuum Suction Cleaning

Vacuum-based record cleaning machines work by using suction to physically draw cleaning solution — along with all the dust, oils, and grime dissolved in it — directly out of the grooves. Professional all-in-one units, such as the Pro-Ject record cleaner (around $450), include a motorized platter that rotates the record in both directions while a built-in vacuum system extracts the fluid.

If that price point feels steep, a cost-effective alternative is the Vinyl Vac attachment (approximately $30), which connects directly to any standard wet-dry vacuum hose. Paired with a quality record-cleaning solution (around $35) and an inexpensive paintbrush (about $7) for even fluid distribution, this DIY setup delivers impressive results at a fraction of the cost.

To complete your setup, you'll want something that slowly rotates the record while you vacuum — an old or non-functional turntable works perfectly for this purpose. Thrift stores are a great place to find one cheaply, since you only need the spinning platter, not a working audio system. Many collectors are genuinely surprised by how dramatically this simple approach can revive even the dirtiest records.

### 2. Ultrasonic Cleaning

Ultrasonic cleaners represent the gold standard in vinyl record maintenance, making them particularly well-suited for large collections. These machines use high-frequency sound waves to agitate the cleaning solution at an extremely rapid rate, causing embedded grit, oils, and debris to literally shake loose from the grooves and sink to the bottom of the cleaning basin.

A reliable mid-tier ultrasonic cleaner runs approximately $425, while premium models can cost twice as much — though they perform essentially the same function. Most units are fully automated, featuring a motor that keeps records rotating in temperature-controlled fluid throughout the cleaning cycle.

One major advantage of ultrasonic machines is their capacity: most models can accommodate up to eight LPs or 7-inch singles simultaneously. Once the cleaning cycle is complete, simply transfer your records to the included drying rack.

---

## Step-by-Step Cleaning Instructions

### Using the Vacuum Method

1. Apply cleaning solution to the record surface while slowly rotating it, ensuring the fluid reaches every groove.
2. Use a soft paintbrush with minimal pressure to distribute the solution evenly.
3. Allow the solution to sit on the record for 10 to 20 seconds.
4. Run the vacuum nozzle over the surface while continuing to rotate the record, extracting as much liquid as possible before any residue evaporates.

### Using the Ultrasonic Method

1. Place your records into the machine's cleaning basket and fill the basin with diluted cleaning solution.
2. Run the cleaning cycle — the machine handles everything automatically.
3. Once complete, transfer records to the drying rack.
4. Empty and rinse the basin between uses, as collected debris settles at the bottom.

### Tips for Both Methods

- For particularly grimy records, run two consecutive cleaning cycles using progressively fresh fluid.
- Keep a clean microfiber cloth (around $5) on hand to ensure records are completely dry before returning them to their sleeves.
- Some collectors prefer a final rinse with distilled water after cleaning to remove any remaining solution residue — simply dry thoroughly before storage.

---

## How Often Should You Clean Your Records?

The short answer: whenever they need it. For most collectors, a thorough initial cleaning of the entire collection followed by maintenance cleaning every 20 to 30 plays is a solid routine. An annual deep-clean session works well for others.

It's also worth noting that brand-new records aren't necessarily clean. Manufacturing oils used during the pressing process can remain on the surface, causing new records to accumulate grime faster than previously cleaned ones. Make new additions to your collection part of your regular cleaning rotation.

---

## Proper Handling to Protect Your Records

Cleaning extends the life of your vinyl, but so does careful handling. You don't need to wear white gloves every time you touch a record, but you should always minimize contact with the playing surface. Hold records by their edges or by gripping the edge and the center label — never place your fingers directly on the grooves.

Before each play, clean your stylus using a gel-based cleaner (typically around $16) and brush the record surface to remove any loose dust. A dusty needle grinding into a dirty record is the leading cause of those frustrating pops and crackles during playback. With consistent care, a well-maintained vinyl collection can last for many decades.

---

## Storing Your Records the Right Way

Cleaning can only do so much — improper storage is one of the fastest ways to damage a collection. No cleaning method can repair scratches or fix warped records, so prevention is everything.

### Storage Best Practices

- **Store records upright** — stacking them horizontally or leaning them at angles places uneven pressure on the vinyl, leading to warping over time.
- **Maintain a stable temperature** — avoid rooms that experience significant temperature fluctuations or extreme heat and cold, as thermal stress degrades vinyl.
- **Keep records out of direct sunlight** — UV exposure and heat from sunny rooms can permanently warp and discolor vinyl.
- **Use protective sleeves** — clear outer jacket covers (around $31 for 100) and inner disc sleeves (around $28 for 50) provide an extra layer of protection against dust, moisture, and handling wear.

### Buying Used Records

When shopping for secondhand vinyl, always inspect records carefully before purchasing. Use a bright flashlight or your smartphone's light to check for surface scratches, and examine the disc from multiple angles to confirm it lies completely flat. Most record store staff will cut the tape on sealed bags so you can inspect the disc — don't hesitate to ask.

---

## Final Thoughts

Vinyl record care doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. Whether you invest in a professional ultrasonic cleaner or build a capable DIY vacuum system for under $75, the results speak for themselves. Combine regular cleaning with proper storage habits and careful handling, and your records will reward you with rich, clear sound for generations to come.

Learn the best methods to clean vinyl records in 2026, from vacuum suction to ultrasonic machines. Keep your collection sounding perfect for decades.

How to Clean Vinyl Records in 2026: Full Guide

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The Complete Guide to Cleaning Vinyl Records in 2026: Vacuum, Ultrasonic, and More

## The Complete Guide to Cleaning Vinyl Records in 2026

Keeping your vinyl collection in top condition isn't just about aesthetics — it directly affects sound quality, needle longevity, and the long-term value of your records. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just getting started, understanding the right cleaning techniques makes all the difference.

---

## Why Standard Wipe-Down Methods Fall Short

A quick search online turns up dozens of record-cleaning sprays paired with cloths, pads, or spin-clean devices. While these products are widely available and aggressively marketed, they share a fundamental flaw: vinyl grooves are microscopic, and the fibers of any cloth simply cannot penetrate deep enough to remove embedded dirt.

You might succeed in getting cleaning fluid into the grooves, but pulling it back out is another matter entirely. The result? Most of these wipe-and-spin products don't actually clean your records — they redistribute the grime already trapped inside the grooves. That's not cleaning; that's just rearranging the problem.

---

## The Two Methods That Actually Work

### 1. Vacuum Suction Cleaning

Vacuum-based record cleaners physically extract cleaning solution — along with all the dirt, dust, and oil it has loosened — directly from the grooves. High-end all-in-one machines, such as the Pro-Ject record cleaner (around $450), feature a motorized platter that spins the record in both directions while a built-in vacuum system draws out every drop of solution.

For those who prefer a more budget-conscious approach, a DIY setup works just as effectively. A Vinyl Vac attachment (approximately $30) connects directly to any standard wet-dry vacuum hose and transforms it into a capable record-cleaning tool. Pair it with a quality cleaning solution (around $35) and a soft paintbrush (about $7) for even solution distribution, and you have a highly functional system at a fraction of the cost.

One useful addition to this setup is an old turntable or spinning platter — not one that needs to play music, just one that physically rotates. Thrift stores are an excellent source for these. The ability to slowly spin the record while vacuuming the solution out of the grooves makes the entire process far more efficient. The results from this DIY approach can be genuinely remarkable, transforming grimy, neglected records into clean, vibrant-sounding discs in just a few minutes.

### 2. Ultrasonic Cleaning

Ultrasonic cleaners represent the most technologically advanced approach to vinyl care. These machines use high-frequency sound waves to agitate the cleaning solution at a molecular level, causing embedded debris, oils, and contaminants to literally shake free from the grooves and fall into the cleaning basin below.

A reliable mid-tier ultrasonic cleaner runs approximately $425. Premium models exist at double the price but deliver essentially identical results — making the mid-range option the smarter purchase for most collectors. These machines operate automatically, with a motor that keeps records rotating through a temperature-controlled solution throughout the cleaning cycle.

The biggest advantage of ultrasonic cleaning is efficiency: most machines accommodate up to eight LPs or 7-inch singles simultaneously, making this method ideal for collectors with large libraries. Once the cleaning cycle completes, records go directly onto an included drying rack.

---

## Step-by-Step Cleaning Instructions

### Using the Vacuum Method

1. Place the record on a spinning surface and apply cleaning solution evenly across the playing area.
2. Use a soft paintbrush with minimal pressure to work the solution into every groove.
3. Allow the solution to sit on the record for 10 to 20 seconds.
4. While slowly rotating the record, use the vacuum nozzle to extract as much liquid as possible.
5. Remove residual moisture before it has a chance to evaporate back into the grooves.

### Using the Ultrasonic Machine

1. Prepare the machine with diluted cleaning solution at the recommended concentration.
2. Load up to eight records onto the machine's spindle.
3. Run the cleaning cycle — the machine handles everything automatically.
4. Transfer records to the drying rack once the cycle is complete.
5. Empty and rinse the basin between uses to prevent recontamination.

### For Heavily Soiled Records

For especially dirty records, run two consecutive cleaning cycles using progressively cleaner fluid. With the ultrasonic method, clean all records once, then drain the basin, refill with fresh solution, and repeat. Always finish with a clean microfiber cloth (around $5) to ensure records are completely dry before returning them to their sleeves.

Some collectors also rinse their records in distilled water after the final cleaning cycle to remove any lingering solution residue. If you choose this step, dry the records thoroughly before storage.

---

## How Often Should You Clean Your Records?

Clean your records whenever they sound noticeably degraded — but a practical maintenance schedule for most collectors involves a thorough initial cleaning of the entire collection, followed by cleaning every 20 to 30 plays thereafter. An annual deep-clean session works well for casual listeners.

Don't overlook brand-new records either. Fresh pressings often carry residual mold-release oils from the manufacturing process, which cause surface buildup faster than previously cleaned records. A single cleaning before the first play goes a long way.

---

## Proper Handling Habits

You don't need to go full white-glove protocol, but thoughtful handling habits significantly extend the life of your records. Always grip discs by their edges or by the edge and center label — never touch the playing surface with your fingers. Skin oils transfer easily and attract dust.

Before each listening session, clean your stylus using a gel-based needle cleaner (quality options start around $16), and use a record brush to sweep away surface dust. Dust ground into grooves by the stylus is responsible for the majority of pops and crackles you hear during playback. With consistent care, your records should remain in excellent condition for many decades.

---

## Storing Your Vinyl Collection the Right Way

Cleaning methods, no matter how advanced, cannot repair physical scratches or correct warped records. Prevention is the only solution, and that starts with proper storage.

**Key storage principles:**

- **Store records vertically** — never stack them horizontally or at an angle. Diagonal or flat stacking causes warping under the weight of the records themselves.
- **Maintain a stable temperature** — avoid locations prone to heat, cold, or dramatic temperature swings, all of which degrade vinyl over time.
- **Keep records away from direct sunlight** — UV exposure and heat from sunny windows are particularly damaging.
- **Choose a dry environment** — moisture encourages mold growth on both the records and their sleeves.

For sleeve protection, clear outer jacket covers (around $31 for a pack of 100) and inner anti-static disc sleeves (approximately $28 for 50) are worthwhile investments. The inner sleeves that come with records have a habit of disappearing, so keeping a supply on hand is practical.

---

## Buying Used Records: What to Look For

When shopping for used vinyl, knowing how to distinguish a dirty record from a damaged one saves you money and frustration. Use a bright flashlight or your smartphone's light to inspect the playing surface closely before purchasing. Tilt the record at different angles to check for flatness — warped records are identifiable by visible curves or waves across the surface.

Most record stores will allow you to unseal a polyvinyl-bagged record for inspection before purchase. Don't hesitate to ask — it's standard practice, and any reputable shop will accommodate the request.

---

## Final Thoughts

Vinyl records are both a passion and an investment. A consistent cleaning routine, combined with smart storage habits and careful handling, ensures your collection delivers exceptional sound quality for years to come. Whether you go the DIY vacuum route or invest in an ultrasonic machine, the effort pays off every time the needle drops.

Learn the best methods to clean vinyl records in 2026, from DIY vacuum setups to ultrasonic machines. Keep your collection sounding perfect for decades.

How to Clean Vinyl Records in 2026: The Complete Guide

The Complete Guide to Cleaning Vinyl Records in 2026: Vacuum, Ultrasonic, and Beyond

## Anthropic Edges Closer to the Trump Administration Amid Ongoing Pentagon Tensions

Despite facing a damaging supply-chain risk label from the Pentagon, Anthropic appears to be rebuilding bridges with the broader Trump administration — and high-level conversations are already underway.

### Early Signals of a Thaw

The first hints of a warming relationship emerged when reports surfaced that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell had been encouraging the heads of major financial institutions to explore Anthropic's latest AI model, Mythos. This suggested that not every corner of the administration was aligned with the Pentagon's hardline stance toward the company.

Adding further weight to these reports, Anthropic co-founder Jack Clark publicly characterized the ongoing Pentagon dispute as a "narrow contracting dispute," emphasizing that it would not prevent the company from continuing to brief government officials on its newest AI developments.

### CEO Dario Amodei Meets with Senior White House Officials

The relationship took a more formal turn when Axios reported that Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei sat down with Treasury Secretary Bessent and White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles. The White House described the gathering as an "introductory meeting" that was both "productive and constructive."

"We discussed opportunities for collaboration, as well as shared approaches and protocols to address the challenges associated with scaling this technology," the White House said in an official statement.

Anthropic echoed that sentiment, confirming that Amodei had engaged in a "productive discussion" with senior administration officials covering key areas of mutual interest, including cybersecurity, maintaining America's competitive edge in the global AI race, and ensuring responsible AI safety practices. The company signaled its intent to keep the dialogue going, stating it looks "forward to continuing these discussions."

## How the Pentagon Dispute Began

The friction between Anthropic and the Department of Defense reportedly stems from failed contract negotiations over military use of the company's AI models. Anthropic sought to retain ethical safeguards — specifically around the deployment of its technology in fully autonomous weapons systems and large-scale domestic surveillance operations.

When those talks broke down, the Pentagon responded by classifying Anthropic as a supply-chain risk — a designation typically reserved for foreign adversaries and one that could significantly restrict government agencies from using the company's technology. Anthropic is currently contesting that label through the courts.

The situation drew additional attention when OpenAI swiftly announced its own military partnership in the wake of the Anthropic dispute, a move that generated notable consumer backlash.

## A Divided Administration

What's becoming increasingly clear is that the Pentagon's position does not reflect the administration's consensus. According to a source cited by Axios, virtually every federal agency — with the exception of the Department of Defense — is eager to integrate Anthropic's technology into their operations.

This internal divide suggests that while the legal battle with the Pentagon continues, Anthropic may still find a viable path to a meaningful partnership with the U.S. government — one built on shared priorities around AI innovation, national security, and responsible technological development.

Anthropic's CEO meets White House officials in a productive discussion on AI collaboration, even as the company battles a Pentagon supply-chain risk designation

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