Author: vitorcherulli

  • Google’s Gemini 3.5 Flash Gains Computer Control: AI Agents Can Click, Fill Forms, and Execute Tasks

    Google’s Gemini 3.5 Flash Gains Computer Control: AI Agents Can Click, Fill Forms, and Execute Tasks

    Google has unveiled a significant upgrade to its Gemini 3.5 Flash model, introducing a new ‘Computer Use’ capability that allows developers to build AI agents capable of interacting with applications and performing tasks on a computer. This move positions Gemini beyond a simple chat and text-generation platform, enabling AI agents to click buttons, fill out forms, and complete complex workflows autonomously.

    The feature, announced on June 24 via Google’s official blog, is now accessible through the Gemini API and the Gemini Enterprise Agent Platform. Previously, Gemini 3.5 Flash was available only as a standalone model. With the built-in Computer Use, developers can create custom agents that ‘see, reason, and take action across browser, mobile, and desktop environments.’ The AI mimics human decision-making by pausing to consider before clicking an option, rather than relying on rigid pre-coded prompts.

    This development marks a shift from traditional language models, which primarily handle text-based tasks. While earlier AI tools could explain how to complete a process, they could not execute it. Now, Gemini-powered agents can help with repetitive office work, software testing, scheduling, data entry, and other routine jobs, potentially saving businesses time and reducing manual effort.

    The rise of such AI agents may begin to blur the lines between chatbots and digital assistants. Virtual assistants have long followed commands; AI agents now carry out entire workflows. This could benefit workplace productivity, customer support, and individual users for scheduling and online bookings. However, experts caution that human workers will still be needed for judgment, creativity, and decision-making.

    With greater autonomy come new risks. Allowing software to control a computer raises security and privacy concerns, such as unauthorized access to sensitive files or personal data. Poorly managed permissions could lead to serious consequences, and there is also the potential for misuse by cybercriminals. Google’s latest step indicates where the industry is heading, but ensuring safe and responsible use remains a key challenge.

  • Microsoft Faces Allegations of Toxic Work Culture as Xbox Layoffs Loom, Ex-Workers Claim Retaliation

    Microsoft Faces Allegations of Toxic Work Culture as Xbox Layoffs Loom, Ex-Workers Claim Retaliation

    Microsoft’s gaming division is once again facing scrutiny as reports indicate the company is preparing another round of layoffs that could impact Xbox teams and related operations. While Microsoft has not disclosed the full scope of these cuts, former employees are speaking out about a toxic workplace culture that they say led to their departures.

    Former Employees Allege Retaliation and Toxic Management

    In recent interviews, ex-workers have shared troubling experiences. One former employee claimed they were included in a mass layoff after protesting against a manager who had humiliated team members during meetings. Others reported being placed in the company’s Performance Improvement Program (PIP) following disputes with their managers, which eventually forced them out of Microsoft.

    These allegations highlight concerns about reporting managers, human resources practices, and internal investigations. The timing is particularly sensitive as Microsoft’s gaming business is already under pressure from multiple rounds of layoffs over the past two years.

    Broader Context of Xbox Restructuring

    Microsoft has reshaped many teams and scaled back projects as part of its cost-control efforts. The latest claims renew discussion about Xbox’s public image, which has suffered from studio closures, canceled projects, and workforce reductions. However, the current controversy goes beyond job losses. Layoffs may fade from headlines, but questions about a toxic work culture can persist for years.

    For Microsoft, rebuilding its reputation is as important as releasing successful games. Whether the brand can survive this crisis depends on how the company responds to these allegations.

  • Ripple’s RLUSD Stablecoin Gains Japan Approval, First Foreign Stablecoin Under New Regulations

    Ripple’s RLUSD Stablecoin Gains Japan Approval, First Foreign Stablecoin Under New Regulations

    Ripple’s dollar-backed stablecoin RLUSD has secured approval from Japan’s Financial Services Agency (JFSA), marking the first time a foreign-issued stablecoin has entered the Japanese market under the country’s new regulatory framework. SBI VC Trade, a licensed Electronic Payment Instruments Exchange Service Provider, has begun distributing RLUSD through its VCTRADE platform to both retail and institutional users.

    Japan Opens New Path for Foreign Stablecoins

    Japan has historically maintained strict rules for foreign stablecoins. RLUSD became the first stablecoin to enter through the newly established Electronic Payment Instrument (EPI) classification under the Payment Services Act (PSA). The approval process focused on regulatory alignment rather than direct acceptance. Ripple had to demonstrate that RLUSD operates under rules in its home jurisdiction that match Japan’s standards for reserve backing and user protection.

    This achievement gives RLUSD an early position in a market that foreign stablecoin issuers have found difficult to access. It also provides an initial test case for Japan’s new regulatory structure, and its performance may shape expectations for future entrants.

    Ripple and SBI Build on a Decade of Cooperation

    Ripple leveraged its long-standing partnership with SBI Group, which dates back to 2016, to establish the launch. Ripple and SBI announced a memorandum of understanding in August 2025, and nearly ten months later, RLUSD became available to users in Japan. The timeline reflected the compliance work required to satisfy regulatory obligations.

    Jack McDonald, Ripple’s Senior Vice President of Stablecoins, stated that RLUSD will support payments, tokenization, and collateral management while connecting Japanese users to global liquidity. For the initial phase, RLUSD in Japan operates on the Ethereum network rather than the XRP Ledger.

    RLUSD Targets Payments and Institutional Use Cases

    Ripple and SBI have positioned RLUSD as infrastructure for financial services rather than a speculative asset. Business-focused applications include programmable trade settlement, collateral management for settlement and margin activities, and supply chain finance to enable faster, more transparent payments across trade networks.

    Tomohiko Kondo, Chief Executive Officer of SBI VC Trade, described the launch as a major milestone in the companies’ ongoing collaboration and digital finance initiatives.

    Since its initial launch, RLUSD has reached roughly $1.7 billion in market capitalization, with a growth pattern marked by steady increases rather than sharp speculative surges. The Japan rollout now places RLUSD inside one of the most tightly regulated digital asset markets, where its performance will help shape expectations for future foreign stablecoin entrants.

  • Xbox Faces New Layoffs as Former Staff Allege Retaliation and Toxic Work Culture at Microsoft

    Xbox Faces New Layoffs as Former Staff Allege Retaliation and Toxic Work Culture at Microsoft

    Microsoft’s gaming division is once again under scrutiny as reports indicate the company is preparing another wave of job cuts that could affect Xbox teams and related operations. While Microsoft has not disclosed the full scope of the reductions, growing concerns among employees have been fueled by recent claims from former workers.

    Ex-employees have raised alarms about workplace conduct, reporting managers, human resources practices, and participation in internal investigations. One former employee reported being included in a mass layoff after protesting against a manager who allegedly humiliated team members during meetings. Another group claimed they were placed in a Performance Improvement Program (PIP) following a dispute with their manager, eventually forcing them to leave the company.

    These allegations come at a time when Microsoft’s gaming business is already under financial pressure. Over the past two years, the company has executed multiple rounds of layoffs, reshaped teams, and scaled back projects to control costs. The latest claims have also reignited debate about Xbox’s public image, which has suffered from studio closures, canceled projects, and workforce reductions.

    While layoffs may fade from headlines, questions about toxic work culture often persist. For Microsoft, rebuilding its reputation is as critical as releasing successful games. The brand’s ability to navigate the crisis depends on how authorities and leadership respond to these serious allegations.

  • MIT Department of Athletics, Physical Education, and Recreation (DAPER) News and Highlights

    MIT Department of Athletics, Physical Education, and Recreation (DAPER) News and Highlights

    MIT’s Department of Athletics, Physical Education, and Recreation (DAPER) is a hub for student wellness, teamwork, and achievement. The department offers a wide range of programs that integrate physical activity with academic learning, helping students develop both mentally and physically.

    One recent innovation is the Exercise is Medicine class, which blends physical activity with academic coursework, allowing MIT students to stretch both minds and bodies. This experimental course rethinks the traditional separation between brains and bodies in education, bringing movement into the classroom and academics into the gym.

    DAPER also celebrates outstanding athletic accomplishments. In March 2025, the MIT women’s swimming and diving team won its first NCAA Division III National Championship, entering the event ranked as the top team in the country and securing three individual national titles along with four relay titles. Additionally, Karenna Groff ’22 was named NCAA Woman of the Year in 2023, becoming only the second MIT student-athlete ever to earn this prestigious honor.

    The department also focuses on social connection and well-being. A new course, PE.0539, supports students in meeting new people, strengthening friendships, building communities, and making MIT a more welcoming place. Meanwhile, senior Branden Spitzer discovered a passion for materials science and engineering through his love of food and cooking, illustrating how DAPER’s programs can unlock unexpected academic interests.

    DAPER is led by dedicated professionals like Julie Soriero, former MIT director of athletics and head of DAPER, who was inducted into the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics Hall of Fame in 2021 and received the NCAA President’s Pat Summitt Award in 2018 for her devotion to developing student-athletes and making a positive impact on their lives.

    MIT’s varsity athletics teams consistently perform at a high level. The Engineers finished fourth in the 2022 Division III LEARFIELD Directors’ Cup standings, posting their second-highest finish in program history after claiming 11 NEWMAC titles. Weekly sports shorts highlight achievements across men’s and women’s basketball, swimming and diving, field hockey, sailing, track and field, and baseball, with numerous student-athletes earning CoSIDA Academic All-District and All-America accolades.

    DAPER also supports cutting-edge research through programs like the MIT.nano Immersion Lab Gaming Program, which awards seed grants to advance technologies for gaming and data visualization. Through these diverse initiatives, DAPER continues to empower MIT students to excel in sports, academics, and personal growth.

  • MIT Comparative Media Studies and Writing: Exploring Media, Science, and Society

    MIT Comparative Media Studies and Writing: Exploring Media, Science, and Society

    The MIT Department of Comparative Media Studies/Writing (CMS/W) is a hub for examining how media, technology, and communication shape our world. From the ethical dimensions of artificial intelligence to the history of vaccine hesitancy, CMS/W faculty, students, and alumni are at the forefront of critical inquiry and creative expression.

    Recent highlights from the department illustrate its broad impact. A Scientific American feature showcases the role of curiosity-driven science in America’s success, spotlighting MIT researchers. Thomas Levenson’s new book delves into the long history of vaccine hesitancy, tracing arguments against vaccination back to the origins of the technology itself. The MIT Ethics of Computing Research Symposium brought together experts to examine the crucial human component in computing and AI.

    Students are also making headlines. In a collaboration with The Associated Press, MIT science writing students developed and pitched local climate stories, working alongside visual journalists. The MIT4America Calculus Project connects MIT undergraduates with high schoolers, providing tutoring in a subject that is a gateway to many STEM careers.

    The department mourns the loss of Les Perelman, a longtime faculty member and champion of writing education, who fiercely criticized automated essay grading and established an influential writing program. Meanwhile, new faculty join CMS/W and other humanities departments, and professors like T.L. Taylor (named a 2026-27 CASBS Fellow) and Justin Reich (leading efforts to help K-12 schools navigate AI) continue to push boundaries.

    Through courses that mix beats, history, and technology—such as a unique DJ’ing class—and through honors like the Knight-Hennessy Scholarship for alumnus Steven Truong, CMS/W exemplifies MIT’s commitment to integrating the arts and sciences. The department’s work underscores how studying media and writing is essential for understanding and shaping the future.

  • MIT Civil and Environmental Engineering: Pioneering Sustainable Infrastructure and Climate Solutions

    MIT Civil and Environmental Engineering: Pioneering Sustainable Infrastructure and Climate Solutions

    The MIT Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) continues to lead groundbreaking research that addresses some of the world’s most pressing challenges, from climate change to infrastructure resilience. Recent developments highlight the department’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and real-world impact.

    Building Smarter, Greener Structures

    MIT researchers have developed a computer model that could enable bridges and buildings to use less material while maintaining structural integrity. This approach bridges the gap between optimized design and practical construction, promising significant cost and environmental savings.

    Climate and Environmental Breakthroughs

    In a major advance for sustainable construction, new research reveals how injecting carbon dioxide into cement paste triggers a chemical sequence that rewires how cement sets. Using real-time Raman spectroscopy, scientists captured a fleeting intermediate reaction for the first time, opening pathways to carbon-negative building materials.

    MIT is also tackling methane emissions head-on. PhD student Audrey Parker is studying mitigation strategies for dairy farms and coal mines, targeting this potent greenhouse gas. Meanwhile, ocean bacteria have been observed teaming up to break down biodegradable plastics, offering insights into natural waste decomposition processes.

    AI and Automation Innovations

    MIT engineers have designed an AI model that generates novel proteins based on their motion and vibration patterns, not just their shape. This breakthrough could lead to dynamic biomaterials and adaptive therapeutics. Another AI system learns to keep warehouse robot traffic flowing smoothly by deciding which robots get right-of-way, reducing congestion and increasing throughput.

    A parking-aware navigation system developed at MIT minimizes the need to circle for spots, saving drivers up to 35 minutes and reducing emissions by providing realistic travel time estimates.

    Energy and Sustainability

    Active Surfaces, an award-winning startup with roots at the MIT Energy Initiative, is developing peel-and-stick solar panels that are lightweight, flexible, and high-efficiency. These films can be applied to roofs, walls, and curved surfaces, making solar energy more accessible.

    Recognition and Leadership

    MIT has once again been ranked the world’s No. 1 university by QS for 2026-27, marking the 15th consecutive year at the top. The Institute also placed first in 12 subject areas. The School of Engineering recognized faculty with tenure and awards in winter and fall 2025-2026, celebrating scholarship, service, and excellence. Desirée Plata, a CEE faculty member, was appointed associate dean of engineering to advance research and entrepreneurial initiatives.

    These achievements underscore MIT Civil and Environmental Engineering’s role as a global leader in creating sustainable, intelligent solutions for the built and natural environments.

  • MIT Chemistry Department: Breakthroughs in Atmospheric Science, Carbon Capture, and Materials Design

    MIT Chemistry Department: Breakthroughs in Atmospheric Science, Carbon Capture, and Materials Design

    The MIT Department of Chemistry continues to lead global research and education, as highlighted by recent achievements and discoveries. QS World University Rankings has named MIT the world’s No. 1 university for 2026-27, marking the 15th consecutive year at the top, with the Institute also ranking first in 12 subject areas.

    Professor Susan Solomon has been named the 2026 Tang Prize laureate for her groundbreaking work on atmospheric chemistry, which laid the foundation for the recovery of the ozone layer and demonstrated the lasting impacts of carbon emissions on Earth’s climate.

    MIT researchers are developing innovative alternatives to conventional carbon capture methods, presenting a promising new approach to efficient and flexible carbon capture and removal. In materials science, MIT chemists have designed impact-resistant plastics by introducing weaker bonds into polystyrene and rubber, helping these materials dissipate energy and resist destructive forces.

    In fundamental chemistry, MIT chemists have discovered and isolated a new boron-oxygen molecule called dioxaborirane, which could expand the chemistry of boron-based reagents and provide new tools for oxidation reactions in synthesis and materials science.

    Several MIT affiliates have been recognized with prestigious honors. Six MIT faculty and 10 alumni were elected to the National Academy of Sciences for 2026. Three students—Deeksha Kumaresh, Anna Liu, and Charlotte Myers—were named 2026 Goldwater Scholars. Six MIT affiliates received 2026 Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans, and four MIT faculty and 13 alumni were elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. Two alumnae, Mitali Chowdhury ’24 and Christina Kim ’24, were named 2026 Gates Cambridge Scholars.

    The NSF has renewed support for the MIT-led AI and physics institute (IAIFI), expanding a new model for discovery as it enters its second phase with increased funding and broader ambitions. The Haystack 37m Telescope has returned to its science and educational mission at MIT Haystack Observatory, ushering in a new era of astrophysical research.

    In cancer research, a new single-molecule tracker allows researchers to tag and follow the activity of individual proteins in real-time, illuminating the workings of cancer-related proteins. Additionally, MIT School of Engineering faculty received awards in winter 2026 for their scholarship, service, and overall excellence.

  • MIT Chemical Engineering News: Recent Breakthroughs and Department Highlights

    MIT Chemical Engineering News: Recent Breakthroughs and Department Highlights

    MIT’s Department of Chemical Engineering continues to drive innovation across multiple fields, from healthcare and energy to materials science and machine learning. Below is a roundup of the latest news and research from the department.

    • QS ranks MIT the world’s No. 1 university for 2026-27 — For the 15th consecutive year, MIT tops the QS World University Rankings, placing first in 12 subject areas. (June 17, 2026)
    • Fluorescent nanosensor enables rapid, first-of-its-kind detection of key gut health biomarker — Researchers developed an optical nanosensor to detect a key gut biomarker, enabling faster, accessible screening. (June 15, 2026)
    • Q&A with an MIT dining influencer — Michaela Brown shares stories about food and friends as an MIT Dining Ambassador, from oxtail and ackee in Jamaica to Thanksgiving dinner at New Vassar. (June 11, 2026)
    • Developing innovative alternatives to conventional carbon capture methods — MIT researchers present a promising new approach to efficient, flexible carbon capture and removal. (June 4, 2026)
    • A new vaccine adjuvant could make it easier to eradicate polio — The adjuvant helps the injectable polio vaccine induce a strong immune response in the GI tract, critical to eradicating the virus. (June 3, 2026)
    • A new sensor could enable earlier detection of bladder cancer — Using a catheter coated with carbon nanotubes, researchers detect biomarkers produced by cancer cells in the bladder. (May 28, 2026)
    • Eleven from MIT accept 2026 Fulbright awards — Over half of MIT’s Fulbright applicants won awards; current students and alumni will embark on research and teaching abroad. (May 26, 2026)
    • Building AI models that understand chemical principles — Connor Coley works at the interface of chemistry and machine learning to discover and design new drug compounds. (May 20, 2026)
    • From technical solution to systems change: Tackling the problem of plastic waste — Akorfa Dagadu, a senior in chemical engineering, learns the importance of community-engaged research through the PKG Center. (May 14, 2026)
    • A new approach to cancer vaccination yields more powerful T cells — Using immune-remodeling mRNA molecules, researchers generated T cells that slow tumor growth and, in some cases, eradicate tumors. (May 13, 2026)
    • MIT School of Engineering faculty receive awards in winter 2026 — Faculty and researchers honored for scholarship, service, and overall excellence. (May 7, 2026)
    • Study: Gene circuits reshape DNA folding and affect how genes are expressed — When genes are transcribed, they suppress or activate their neighbors, coupling expression between genes. (April 30, 2026)
    • Three from MIT named 2026 Goldwater Scholars — Rising seniors Deeksha Kumaresh, Anna Liu, and Charlotte Myers honored for academic achievements. (April 23, 2026)
    • MIT affiliates elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences for 2026 — Four MIT faculty and 13 alumni among more than 250 new members. (April 22, 2026)
    • MIT faculty, alumni receive 2025-26 American Physical Society honors — Two faculty and six alumni win top APS awards; four faculty and 12 alumni named APS Fellows. (April 15, 2026)
  • Samsung One UI 9: Galaxy AI Features, Eligible Devices, and July 2026 Release Window

    Samsung One UI 9: Galaxy AI Features, Eligible Devices, and July 2026 Release Window

    Samsung is preparing to launch One UI 9, its next major software update, which is currently in testing and reportedly built on Android 17. Rather than overhauling the design, the update focuses on refining the user experience with smoother animations, improved battery life, and stronger privacy controls. Enhanced Galaxy AI capabilities will help users streamline everyday tasks.

    Galaxy AI Upgrades in One UI 9

    Leaks suggest One UI 9 will introduce an “Ask AI” feature for the Samsung Internet browser, allowing users to quickly summarize web pages. A “Tap to Share” option is also expected, enabling seamless file transfers between devices. The update will emphasize system stability with a cleaner interface, better blur effects, and improved floating window and app scaling functionality. The Quick Panel is anticipated to become more customizable, with resizable brightness and volume sliders. Security enhancements will include stricter controls over private contacts, files, and app access.

    Eligible Samsung Galaxy Phones

    The following Samsung devices are expected to receive the One UI 9 update:

    • Galaxy S Series: S26, S25, S24, S23 series, including FE and Ultra models.
    • Galaxy Z Series: Fold 8, Flip 8, and earlier models starting from Fold 5 and Flip 5.
    • Galaxy A Series: A57, A56, A37, A36, A26, and A17.

    Release Timeline

    The beta version of One UI 9 is already available, with the stable release expected in July 2026. Samsung has not officially confirmed the date, but the update is likely to debut alongside the company’s next foldable smartphone lineup. Older devices will receive the upgrade gradually throughout the remainder of 2026.