Day: November 5, 2024

Apple is allegedly developing 90Hz display technology for the iPad Air, Studio Display, and iMac.

### Apple’s Possible Transition to 90Hz Displays: What We’ve Learned So Far

A new speculation has ignited enthusiasm among Apple fans, indicating that the tech leader is in the process of creating a 90Hz display that may be incorporated in future versions of the iPad Air, 24-inch iMac, and Studio Display. This insight was revealed by an unnamed insider on the Upgrade podcast, presented by Myke Hurley and Jason Snell, and has sparked significant interest in the potential upgrades to Apple’s display technologies.

#### Existing Display Technology

Currently, the iPad Air, 24-inch iMac, and Studio Display all feature displays with a typical refresh rate of 60Hz. While this refresh rate suffices for most functions, it can result in a less seamless experience, especially during fast-moving activities like gaming or browsing through content. The adoption of a 90Hz display would represent a notable advancement, providing smoother visuals and improved interactivity.

#### Insights from the Rumor

The anonymous insider shared a comprehensive quote about the new display technology, stating:

> “I have news on screen enhancements for the next generation of the M3 iPad Air. Apple is developing a higher refresh rate LCD display with a new liquid motion panel set at around 90Hz. They’re also aiming to extend it to other models or products like a 24-inch iMac and a next-gen studio display.”

This remark implies that the 90Hz panel is set to premiere with the M3 iPad Air and may later be included in the 24-inch iMac and Studio Display.

#### Context within Apple’s Product Line

This speculation correlates with prior reports from market analysts. Significantly, Ross Young noted that the forthcoming iPhone 17 series would showcase ProMotion displays capable of refresh rates up to 120Hz. Nevertheless, this is the initial signal that Apple is investigating 90Hz technology for devices beyond the iPhone.

The expected release of the M3 iPad Air is projected for early 2025, while the timeline for updates to the Studio Display is still uncertain. The 24-inch iMac has recently seen an update, indicating that any additional improvements may not surface until late 2025 at the earliest.

#### Consequences of a 90Hz Display

The transition to a 90Hz display could carry multiple consequences for users. An increased refresh rate can yield smoother animations, diminished motion blur, and an overall more pleasurable user experience. This is especially pertinent for creative professionals who depend on accurate visuals for tasks like graphic design or video editing. Moreover, gamers would gain from the better responsiveness, creating a more immersive gameplay experience.

#### Conclusion

While the rumor regarding a 90Hz display for the iPad Air, 24-inch iMac, and Studio Display remains unverified, it underscores Apple’s persistent dedication to enhancing user experience with cutting-edge display technology. As consumers look forward to the next generation of Apple offerings, the possibility of improved refresh rates adds another layer of anticipation to the company’s future products. For those keen on staying informed, the complete conversation can be accessed on the Upgrade podcast, available on the Relay website.

As is always the case, until official announcements are made, it’s important to approach rumors with a certain level of skepticism. Yet, the potential for advanced display technology from Apple is undoubtedly an aspect to keep an eye on in the upcoming years.

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Freshly Uncovered Information Regarding the Prequel to an Acclaimed Crime Series

# The Much-Awaited Prequel to *Gomorrah*: What’s in Store

Fans of *Gomorrah*, Sky Italia’s intense and critically lauded mafia series, have something exciting to look forward to. Filming is slated to commence in early 2025 for a prequel to the cherished show, which engaged viewers for five seasons with its gripping depiction of the Neapolitan criminal scene. Named *Gomorrah — The Series. The Origins*, the prequel aims to deeply explore the backstory of one of the series’ most memorable characters, Pietro Savastano, along with the formative years of the Neapolitan mafia.

## Revisiting *Gomorrah*

For those who may not be acquainted with *Gomorrah*, the series is frequently characterized as a mix of *Breaking Bad*, *The Wire*, and *Game of Thrones* — a fast-paced crime thriller that delves into the violent and intricate realm of feuding mafia families. Set within the tower blocks of the La Vele housing estate in Scampia, near Naples, the narrative centers on the Savastano family and their adversaries. The series is renowned for its candid portrayal of brutality, shifting loyalties, and the moral deterioration of its characters.

*Gomorrah* achieved tremendous success, not only in Italy but also worldwide, eventually reaching audiences in 190 countries, including the United States, where it was made accessible on HBO Max (now Max). Its popularity was enhanced by the spinoff film *The Immortal*, which spotlighted the character Ciro Di Marzio, portrayed by Marco D’Amore. The events of the film unfold simultaneously with *Gomorrah* Season 4, enriching the intricate narrative of the series.

## The Prequel: *Gomorrah — The Series. The Origins*

The prequel, *Gomorrah — The Series. The Origins*, will chart the ascent of Pietro Savastano, the merciless mafia leader who dominated the streets and impoverished areas of Naples in the original series. Dedicated fans will recall Pietro as the head of the Savastano family, whose authoritative grip on the Secondigliano neighborhood laid the groundwork for much of the tension in *Gomorrah*.

### Key Contributors to the Prequel

The prequel will be helmed by Marco D’Amore, who not only played Ciro Di Marzio in the original series but also directed several episodes of *Gomorrah*. D’Amore is well-versed in the universe of *Gomorrah*, and his participation in the prequel is sure to thrill fans who valued his contributions both on-screen and behind the scenes.

The original series’ head writers, Leonardo Fasoli and Maddalena Ravagli, are also back on board to craft the script for the prequel. They are collaborating closely with D’Amore and Roberto Saviano, the journalist who penned the bestselling exposé on the Neapolitan mafia that served as the backbone for the original series. Saviano’s extensive understanding of Naples’ real-life criminal underworld adds a layer of authenticity, and his role in the prequel guarantees that it will uphold the gritty realism that rendered *Gomorrah* so engaging.

### A Different Narrative Perspective

While the initial *Gomorrah* was recognized for its harsh portrayals of violence and the drug trade, the prequel intends to present a somewhat altered narrative tone. The storyline will center on a younger Pietro Savastano and his formative experiences in the criminal realm, during a phase when the mafia was less engaged in hard drugs and more involved in smuggling like cigarettes. This shift in focus indicates that the prequel will examine the mafia’s progression and how it evolved from smaller operations to the harsher and more profitable drug trade illustrated in *Gomorrah*.

The prequel is anticipated to tackle themes of lost innocence and the pursuit of power, chronicling Pietro’s journey from a young man to the feared and merciless leader he ultimately becomes. The series will likely explore the psychological and moral changes that accompany his rise in the criminal domain.

### Recognizable Faces, Younger Versions

One of the most thrilling components of the prequel is the inclusion of younger renditions of numerous characters fans have grown attached to. While specific casting details remain unconfirmed, it’s reasonable to expect we’ll encounter younger versions of significant figures from the original series, encompassing members of the Savastano family and their adversaries.

The prequel will also unveil new characters, likely individuals who influenced Pietro’s ascent to power. These fresh faces will enrich the world of *Gomorrah* and deliver new insights into the criminal underbelly.

## A Multi-Season Vision

The creators of *Gomorrah — The Series. The Origins* have ambitious aspirations for the pre

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Apple Launches In-House Research Initiative to Create Smart Glasses

# Apple Investigates Smart Glasses: The Next Frontier of AR and VR

Following the highly anticipated launch of the Vision Pro last year, Apple is allegedly intensifying its focus on augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) content. Recent information suggests that the technology behemoth is seriously weighing the creation of smart glasses, an effort that seems to be gaining momentum within the organization. A Bloomberg report reveals that Apple has started an internal review, codenamed “Atlas,” intended to collect employee insights on smart glasses.

## Internal Review: Atlas

The Atlas project commenced last week, inviting Apple employees to share their opinions and experiences concerning current smart glasses available in the market. An email distributed to chosen staff highlighted the significance of user input in the product development cycle, stating, “Testing and developing products that everyone can appreciate is crucial to what we aspire to at Apple.” This methodology illustrates Apple’s strategy of maintaining confidentiality around product plans by seeking feedback from its internal workforce instead of external users.

Traditionally, Apple has utilized this approach when venturing into new product domains, showcasing a genuine dedication to the smart glasses initiative. The internal review implies that Apple is not solely pondering the concept but is actively progressing towards the creation of its own smart glasses.

## The Market Competition

This is not the first occasion rumors have emerged regarding Apple’s interest in smart glasses. Nevertheless, the current initiative seems to indicate a further advanced phase of development. Although the Vision Pro, priced at $3,499, has not reached blockbuster status, rivals such as Meta have secured a position in the market with their smart glasses developed in partnership with Ray-Ban.

Meta’s Ray-Ban glasses, despite lacking a display, provide functionalities like music playback, call handling, AI assistant engagement, and photo and video recording. This starkly contrasts with the advanced features and high price of the Vision Pro, motivating Apple to explore a more affordable, lighter alternative for consumers.

## Innovations from Rivals

The competition in the smart glasses arena is intensifying. Recently, Meta introduced its latest endeavor, named “Orion,” which incorporates Micro LED projectors embedded in the frames to project images straight into the user’s line of sight. While Orion is not yet poised for market introduction, early testers have lauded its technology, emphasizing the benefits of smart glasses over bulkier headsets.

## Looking Forward: Apple’s Vision for Smart Glasses

Despite the encouraging advancements, reports indicate that it may take years before Apple presents its smart glasses to the public. In the meantime, the company is also concentrating on developing a more budget-friendly version of the Vision Pro, in addition to a second-generation model featuring a quicker chip. This dual strategy reflects Apple’s aim to serve a wider audience while upholding its reputation for innovation.

## Conclusion

As Apple embarks on its path to create smart glasses, the tech world is observing with great interest. The Atlas initiative marks a crucial transition in Apple’s engagement with AR and VR technologies, potentially paving the way for a new product category that could transform how users interact with digital experiences. Although the journey may be lengthy, Apple’s dedication to innovation and user satisfaction hints that the future of smart glasses could be promising. As the AR and VR landscape continues to change, Apple’s entry into the smart glasses sector might have considerable ramifications for both consumers and competitors alike.

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tvOS 18.2 Brings 21:9 and More Aspect Ratio Support to Apple TV

# Apple TV Enhances Aspect Ratio Support with tvOS 18.2 Update

Apple has made strides in improving the user experience on its Apple TV platform by rolling out new features with the recent tvOS 18.2 update. Revealed at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June, this update introduces a long-awaited feature: support for various aspect ratios. This enhancement is especially relevant for users connecting their Apple TV to projectors, providing a more customized viewing experience.

## Support for Various Aspect Ratios

The beta version of tvOS 18.2, made available to developers, allows users to adjust aspect ratio settings on the Apple TV. While Apple initially focused on the 21:9 aspect ratio, the update broadens the range of options accessible to users. The following aspect ratios can now be chosen:

– **Automatic**
– **16:9**
– **21:9**
– **2.37:1**
– **2.39:1**
– **2.40:1**
– **DCI 4K**
– **32:9**

Though the most common aspect ratio for modern televisions is 16:9, the availability of various options enables users to optimize their viewing setup, particularly when using projectors with different screen sizes. Users can conveniently find these settings via the Audio and Video section in the Apple TV settings menu.

## Additional Features in tvOS 18

In addition to aspect ratio support, tvOS 18 brings a variety of new features aimed at enhancing the overall functionality and user interaction with Apple TV. A notable feature is **InSight**, which offers viewers contextual information about actors, characters, and songs within Apple TV+ content. A simple tap provides insights about the current scene, enriching the viewing experience.

The update further improves the **Enhance Dialogue** feature, making it simpler to hear dialogue clearly, and it automatically turns on subtitles when the mute button is activated. This feature is particularly beneficial for viewers who may need extra assistance in understanding dialogue during shows and movies.

Moreover, tvOS 18 refreshes the **Fitness+ app**, enhancing its user-friendliness and aesthetic appeal. Users can also assign a specific iPhone as a dedicated camera for FaceTime and other apps, enhancing the functionality of the Apple ecosystem.

Apple has also announced new screensavers featuring scenes from popular Apple TV+ shows, although these are not yet available in the current beta release.

## Availability and Compatibility

The tvOS 18.2 beta is now available to developers, with a public release anticipated in December 2024. This update will be compatible with Apple TV models from 2015 onward, ensuring that a broad array of users can benefit from the new features.

## Conclusion

The addition of support for different aspect ratios in the tvOS 18.2 update represents a significant advancement for Apple TV users, especially those using projectors. In conjunction with other exciting features like InSight and enhanced dialogue options, Apple continues to refine and broaden the functionality of its streaming platform. As the public release nears, users can eagerly anticipate a more customizable and enriched viewing experience on their Apple TVs.

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Prime Video Unveils Generative AI-Driven Tool for Content Summarization

# Amazon’s Prime Video Introduces AI-Generated X-Ray Summaries

Amazon Prime Video has established a reputation for its cutting-edge features designed to enhance viewer satisfaction. Among its notable offerings is the **X-Ray** tool, which gives audiences in-depth information about the shows they are watching, including actor biographies, trivia, and even the titles of songs playing in the background. Now, Amazon is elevating this feature with the launch of **X-Ray Recaps**, a groundbreaking AI-driven tool intended to provide tailored summaries of films and series.

## What Are X-Ray Recaps?

X-Ray Recaps represent a fresh addition to Prime Video’s array of features, fueled by **generative AI** technology. This tool delivers viewers short, digestible summaries covering complete seasons, individual episodes, or even particular scenes. The recaps are customized according to the viewer’s progress in the content, facilitating an effortless return to a show or film after a pause or catching up on intricate storylines.

For example, if you find yourself halfway through a season and need a reminder of past events, X-Ray Recaps can produce a succinct overview to refresh your memory. Likewise, if you’re engaged in a complex movie and require a quick briefing on the ongoing plot, the feature will supply an appropriate recap without divulging future happenings.

## How It Functions

The technology driving X-Ray Recaps utilizes **Amazon Bedrock**, an AWS service crafted for creating and scaling generative AI applications. The feature marries Bedrock models with tailored AI models developed on **Amazon SageMaker**. These models evaluate video segments, subtitles, and dialogue to create elaborate descriptions of the ongoing action.

One of the major hurdles in crafting this feature was ensuring that the recaps remained brief and free from spoilers. Amazon has established guidelines to confirm that the AI-generated summaries do not expose pivotal plot details or spoil subsequent events, enabling viewers to appreciate the content without the anxiety of encountering unwanted spoilers.

## Availability and Supported Content

As of November 2024, X-Ray Recaps are currently in **beta**, but they have begun to roll out to **Fire TV** users in the United States. Amazon intends to broaden device compatibility as the year progresses. Presently, the feature is compatible with all **Amazon MGM Studios Original** series, encompassing popular titles like *Mr. & Mrs. Smith* and *The Boys*.

To utilize X-Ray Recaps, viewers can locate the feature on the Prime Video detail page or while watching content within the X-Ray interface. Once chosen, users can select from multiple recap formats, including full-season summaries or episode-specific recaps.

## Why This Is Important

The rollout of X-Ray Recaps aligns with a larger movement in the entertainment sector, where streaming services are increasingly adopting **AI** to enhance viewer engagement. By furnishing tailored, AI-generated summaries, Amazon is tackling a prevalent issue for viewers: the difficulty of staying updated with complex storylines, particularly when viewing content intermittently.

This function is especially beneficial for those who may lack the time or inclination to rewatch entire episodes or seasons for a memory boost. Instead, they can depend on X-Ray Recaps to supply the necessary details needed to continue relishing their preferred shows and films.

## Conclusion

Amazon’s X-Ray Recaps signify a notable advancement in utilizing AI to enhance the streaming experience. By providing personalized, spoiler-free summaries, Prime Video is simplifying the process for viewers to remain connected to their beloved content, even when they have paused or find themselves lost in a convoluted narrative. As this feature expands to additional devices and content, it is poised to become a vital asset for Prime Video users.

If you’re a Fire TV user in the U.S., you can explore the X-Ray Recaps feature now. Just head to the Prime Video detail page or engage the X-Ray experience during playback to take advantage of this revolutionary new tool.

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Facebook and Nvidia Call on Supreme Court to Limit “Nuisance” Investor Lawsuits in Wake of Corporate Scandals

# Facebook and Nvidia Request SCOTUS to Limit Investor Lawsuits

Two prominent technology firms, Facebook (now Meta) and Nvidia, are appealing to the United States Supreme Court (SCOTUS) in disputes that could alter the legal terrain for investor lawsuits. Both entities are urging SCOTUS to constrict the legal avenues through which investors can pursue claims against them for losses resulting from alleged corporate wrongdoing. The decisions made in these cases could significantly influence how technology firms disclose risks and manage investor relations following controversies.

### Overview of the Cases

The two matters currently before the Supreme Court involve significant scandals that have shaken the tech sector in recent years:

1. **Facebook-Cambridge Analytica Scandal**: This case centers on Facebook’s management of the notorious Cambridge Analytica data breach, where the personal information of millions of users was inappropriately accessed and utilized for political marketing. In 2019, Facebook reached a settlement with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), paying over $5 billion in civil fines for misleading users and investors regarding the breach. Nonetheless, investors have continued to pursue legal action, contending that Facebook deceived them by failing to disclose the breach promptly and transparently.

2. **Nvidia’s Cryptocurrency Surge**: Nvidia is confronting allegations that it misrepresented the actual source of its revenue growth during the 2017–2018 cryptocurrency surge. Investors assert that Nvidia minimized the degree to which its sales were propelled by the volatile cryptocurrency market, as opposed to its primary gaming division. When the crypto market collapsed, Nvidia found it necessary to reduce its earnings forecasts, resulting in substantial investor losses. Nvidia settled with the SEC in 2022, incurring a $5.5 million penalty for insufficient disclosures, yet investors are still pursuing reparation through the litigation process.

### Legal Contentions

Both Facebook and Nvidia have filed appeals to SCOTUS, positing that the legal criteria for investor lawsuits must be tightened to fend off frivolous litigation. They argue that the existing legal framework enables investors to engage in “fishing expeditions” and initiate lawsuits based on hindsight instead of concrete evidence of fraud.

#### Facebook’s Stance: Hypothetical Risk Declaration

In the Facebook matter, the company defends its choice to characterize the risk of a data breach as a hypothetical occurrence in its SEC filings, even though the Cambridge Analytica breach was already in progress. Facebook’s disclosure articulated that a failure to avert or mitigate a data breach “could harm our business and reputation.” Investors contend that this phrasing was misleading because it suggested that no breach had occurred, while the Cambridge Analytica debacle was already happening.

Facebook argues that no reasonable investor would interpret a forward-looking risk disclosure as suggesting that no breach had ever taken place. The company claims that mandating it to report every past material incident would establish an “omissions liability” regime, compelling companies to over-disclose information and potentially inundating investors with extraneous data.

#### Nvidia’s Position: Expert Testimony and Crypto Revenue

In the Nvidia case, the company disputes the use of expert testimony to estimate how much of its revenue was linked to cryptocurrency demand. Investors relied on such an expert analysis to assert that Nvidia underreported its crypto-related revenue by over $1 billion. Nvidia contends that this expert testimony is speculative and that the lawsuit represents an instance of “fraud by hindsight,” where investors are initiating claims based on market conditions that were unforeseeable at the time.

Nvidia is invoking the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act (PSLRA), which imposes stricter pleading requirements on plaintiffs in securities fraud cases. The company argues that the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals erred in permitting the lawsuit to advance based on expert testimony, which Nvidia claims was “manufactured” to align with the investors’ allegations.

### Possible Consequences

The Supreme Court’s rulings in these cases could have extensive implications for both tech companies and investors. If SCOTUS favors Facebook and Nvidia, it may become considerably more difficult for investors to litigate against companies for securities fraud, especially in situations involving intricate disclosures and emerging markets like cryptocurrency.

#### Effects on Investor Lawsuits

Both Facebook and Nvidia caution that upholding the 9th Circuit’s decisions could unleash a deluge of frivolous lawsuits. Nvidia, in particular, has asserted that permitting expert testimony to serve as the foundation for securities fraud claims would create a “dangerous” precedent, facilitating investors to launch lawsuits based on speculative data.

Conversely, investors contend that private securities litigation is a crucial mechanism for ensuring corporate accountability. They argue that if SCOTUS favors the tech giants, it would effectively grant companies a “license to intentionally mislead investors” by minimizing or omitting material risks in their disclosures.

#### Pro-Business Court?

Legal analysts have noted that the Supreme Court’s conservative majority has a history of delivering business-friendly decisions, especially in matters related to federal regulation. Andrew Feller, a former SEC

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Pharmaceutical Firm Shut Down Following Discovery of Contaminants in Injectable Weight Reduction Drug

# FDA Raises Alarm Over Compounded Weight-Loss Medications Amid Ongoing Legal Disputes

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a significant alert to both consumers and healthcare providers concerning the products made by Fullerton Wellness LLC, a compounding pharmacy located in Ontario, California. This notification emerges as the FDA continues to deal with safety issues related to compounded weight-loss medications, a sector that has surged recently due to the rising demand for drugs such as Wegovy, Ozempic, and Mounjaro.

## The FDA’s Notification

The FDA’s advisory was triggered by a concerning finding: Fullerton Wellness was producing drugs that must be sterile—namely injectable medications—without adhering to appropriate sterilization protocols. Among the drugs manufactured by the pharmacy were semaglutide and tirzepatide, which are designed to replicate established weight-loss and diabetes therapies like Wegovy, Ozempic, Zepbound, and Mounjaro.

The problem surfaced after a patient reported discovering a “black particulate” within a vial of semaglutide, which is an injectable medication that requires sterility to prevent severe health hazards. Following a thorough investigation, the FDA determined that Fullerton Wellness was utilizing non-sterile components in these injectable drugs and had failed to implement any sterilization measures.

Administering non-sterile medications can result in serious and potentially fatal health issues, including infections and sepsis. Consequently, the FDA has recommended that medical offices, clinics, and patients immediately discontinue the use of any products from Fullerton Wellness and isolate any leftover items.

## Fullerton Wellness Shuts Down

After the FDA’s inquiry, Fullerton Wellness voluntarily halted its operations. An inspection conducted at the pharmacy’s facilities in October verified that the company had been using non-sterile ingredients in its injectable medications. Nonetheless, it remains uncertain how extensively Fullerton Wellness’s drugs were distributed, and the company has not provided any comments regarding the situation.

## The Increasing Appeal of Compounded Weight-Loss Medications

The FDA’s warning is merely the latest incident in a broader conflict over compounded weight-loss medications. These drugs are essentially generic versions of well-known treatments like Wegovy, Ozempic, Zepbound, and Mounjaro. Compounding pharmacies are permitted to create these products only when the original branded versions are in limited supply, acting as a temporary measure to ensure patient availability.

However, given the soaring demand for weight-loss treatments and the exorbitant prices of their branded counterparts, compounded alternatives have become a desirable and cost-effective option for numerous patients. This trend has resulted in a surge in compounded weight-loss medications, consequently raising alarms regarding their safety and quality.

## Legal Conflicts and Industry Strains

The emergence of compounded weight-loss drugs has ignited a legal showdown between major pharmaceutical corporations and compounding pharmacies. Leading drug companies such as Eli Lilly, the producer of Zepbound and Mounjaro, and Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Wegovy and Ozempic, have initiated lawsuits against compounding pharmacies, alleging that they are creating unsafe and deceptive versions of their medications.

In one prominent instance, Eli Lilly took legal action against several compounding pharmacies for their production of knockoff types of tirzepatide, the active component in Zepbound and Mounjaro. Novo Nordisk has also pursued legal avenues, asserting that semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy and Ozempic, is too intricate for compounding pharmacies to effectively duplicate.

The FDA has also found itself in a contentious position. In October, a trade group representing large-scale compounding pharmacies filed a lawsuit against the FDA after the agency removed tirzepatide from its drug shortage list. This action effectively prohibited compounding pharmacies from creating generic versions of the medication. Nevertheless, the FDA swiftly rescinded its decision in court, permitting compounders to persist in producing alternative versions of tirzepatide while reconsidering the withdrawal.

## The Outlook for Compounded Weight-Loss Medications

As the litigation continues, the future of compounded weight-loss medications remains ambiguous. In October, Novo Nordisk formally sought that the FDA prohibit compounding pharmacies from manufacturing generic versions of semaglutide, citing safety apprehensions. The company contended that the drug’s intricacy complicates safe replication by compounders, resulting in notable risks for patients.

In reaction, the Outsourcing Facilities Association, a trade organization representing compounding pharmacies, sent a letter to the FDA requesting that the agency obligate Novo Nordisk to submit an economic impact assessment. The organization argued that eliminating semaglutide from the compounding landscape could cause considerable price hikes and restrict patient access to affordable options.

## Conclusion

The FDA’s alert regarding Fullerton Wellness underscores the persistent challenges in monitoring the expanding market for compounded weight-loss medications. As the appetite for these drugs continues to escalate, so too do the worries surrounding their safety, quality, and legality. With pharmaceutical

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“Malicious Code Repositories aimed at Hundreds of JavaScript Developers”

# Continuous NPM Supply Chain Assault: Harmful Packages Aim at Developers

In a troubling update for the software development sector, a sustained attack has been discovered that involves the introduction of numerous harmful packages to the open-source Node Package Manager (NPM) repository. These packages are intended to compromise the devices of developers who depend on widely-used code libraries. The ongoing attack was recently highlighted by the security firm Phylum and underscores the escalating risk of supply chain assaults within the software environment.

## The Assault: Typosquatting and Harmful Packages

The perpetrators are employing a strategy known as **typosquatting**, where harmful packages are named similarly to legitimate ones to deceive developers into downloading them. Specifically, these malicious packages imitate popular libraries such as [Puppeteer](https://www.npmjs.com/package/puppeteer) and [Bignum.js](https://www.npmjs.com/package/bignum.js), as well as various libraries associated with cryptocurrency development.

Typosquatting has historically been a method used to attract unwitting users to harmful websites. However, over the last five years, this strategy has increasingly been utilized to mislead developers into installing malicious code libraries. In this instance, the harmful packages aim to infect the developer’s system and could jeopardize the security of their projects.

## Supply Chain Assaults: A Rising Concern

Supply chain assaults, where attackers focus on the software supply chain by infiltrating third-party components, have emerged as a noteworthy issue in recent years. Phylum researchers accentuated the ongoing nature of these attacks, remarking:

> “Out of necessity, malware authors have had to endeavor to find more novel ways to hide intent and to obfuscate remote servers under their control. This is, once again, a persistent reminder that supply chain attacks are alive and well.”

The harmful packages in this initiative utilize a fresh approach to mask the IP addresses of the servers they connect with to gain second-stage malware payloads. Rather than hardcoding the IP address in the first-stage code, the attackers leverage an Ethereum smart contract to dynamically fetch the IP address.

## How the Attack Operates

When a developer installs one of the malicious packages, the code taps into an Ethereum smart contract to obtain a string containing the IP address of the server responsible for delivering the second-stage malware. This technique allows the attackers to sidestep directly embedding the IP address in the code, thereby making it more challenging to detect the malicious operations.

Interestingly, while this technique was likely designed to obscure the source of the second-stage infections, it inadvertently created a record of previous IP addresses utilized by the attackers. The Ethereum blockchain retains an immutable history of all values related to a contract, enabling researchers to trace the past IP addresses employed.

Phylum researchers successfully identified multiple IP addresses used by the attackers, including:

– **hxxp://localhost:3001** (2024-09-23)
– **hxxp://45.125.67[.]172:1228** (2024-09-24)
– **hxxp://45.125.67[.]172:1337** (2024-10-21)
– **hxxp://193.233[.]201.21:3001** (2024-10-22)
– **hxxp://194.53.54[.]188:3001** (2024-10-26)

## The Malicious Payload

Upon installation, the harmful packages manifest as a packed [Vercel](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vercel) package. The payload operates in memory, configures itself to load with each reboot, and connects to the IP address obtained from the Ethereum smart contract. Following this, it executes several actions, including:

– Retrieving additional JavaScript files from the malicious server.
– Transmitting system information back to the server, encompassing details about the GPU, CPU, memory, username, and operating system version.

This information could be leveraged by attackers to further breach the system or to customize future attacks according to the specific hardware and software setup of the compromised machine.

## Safeguarding Yourself: Recommended Practices for Developers

To prevent becoming a victim of this attack type, developers should implement the following measures:

1. **Verify package names:** Typosquatting exploits minute differences in package names, such as misspellings or extra symbols. Always confirm the name of a package before downloading it, particularly if it is a new or unfamiliar library.

2. **Utilize reliable sources:** Whenever feasible, obtain packages from official repositories or trusted sources. Exercise caution when utilizing third-party libraries that are not well-established or widely recognized.

3. **Keep an eye on dependencies:** Regularly scrutinize your project’s dependencies to ensure that no harmful or compromised packages have been introduced. Tools like

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“Best Buy Kicks Off Early Black Friday Sale: Must-See Android Discounts You Can’t Afford to Overlook”

# Get Ready: Incredible Offers Are Arriving – Best Buy’s Early Black Friday Android Tech Offers

Get ready: incredible offers are arriving.

As November begins, the excitement for Black Friday shopping hits new heights. However, this year, Best Buy has chosen to start the festivities early, presenting an array of tech bargains well before the usual shopping rush. For Android aficionados, this signifies a prime chance to acquire some of the top gadgets at fantastic prices without having to wait until the end of the month.

In this piece, we’ve assembled some of the best Android offers from Best Buy’s early Black Friday sale, giving you a chance to jumpstart your holiday shopping. Whether you seek a new smartphone, tablet, or accessories, there’s something available for everyone.

## Prime Android Offers to Keep an Eye On

### 1. **OnePlus 12 (256GB)**
– **Original Price**: $799.99
– **Discounted Price**: $649.99
– **Savings**: $150 off!
– [**View Deal**](https://shop-links.co/link?publisher_slug=future&exclusive=1&u1=ac-us-1197374533848388392&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Foneplus-12-256gb-unlocked-silky-black%2F6570636.p&article_name=Best%20Buy%20just%20kicked%20off%20its%20Black%20Friday%20sale%20early%20%E2%80%94%20here%20are%20the%20Android%20deals%20in%20my%20cart%20right%20now&article_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.androidcentral.com%2Fphones%2Fbest-buy-black-friday-sale-top-android-deals-2024)

The OnePlus 12 stands as one of the top Android smartphones available, featuring a robust Snapdragon processor, a two-day battery, and outstanding camera capabilities. With a $150 reduction, this is an opportunity you simply cannot overlook.

### 2. **Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus (Wi-Fi) 128GB**
– **Original Price**: $599.99
– **Discounted Price**: $479.99
– **Savings**: $120 off!
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The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus is ideal for those seeking a high-performance tablet at a reasonable price. With a brilliant 12.3-inch screen and up to 20 hours of battery life, this tablet is perfect for both business and leisure.

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macOS 15.2 Brings Fresh Weather Widget for Tailoring Menu Bar

### Apple Introduces Second Developer Beta of iOS 18.2 and macOS Sequoia 15.2: Fresh Features and Improvements

On Monday, Apple announced the second developer beta of iOS 18.2 and macOS Sequoia 15.2, both bringing thrilling new capabilities, especially in the area of Apple Intelligence. Among the enhancements, Mac users can now incorporate a Weather app widget into their macOS Menu Bar, improving access to live weather updates.

#### New Weather App Widget for macOS Menu Bar

A key highlight of the latest beta is the option to integrate a Weather app widget straight into the macOS Menu Bar. This functionality is initially turned off by default, necessitating users to manually enable it. To activate this feature, users need to head to **System Settings**, then select **Control Center**, where they can locate the Weather option and choose to show it in the Menu Bar.

Once enabled, users will have the current temperature prominently displayed in the Menu Bar. Clicking on the temperature will expand the widget, showing a complete Weather app interface similar to the Notification Center widgets from previous macOS releases before Big Sur. This widget offers not just the current temperature but also weather conditions and a forecast for the upcoming hours. Moreover, there’s a handy button that allows users to launch the Weather app for more in-depth details.

#### Improvements in macOS Sequoia 15.2

Aside from the Weather app widget, macOS Sequoia 15.2 introduces multiple features focused on Apple Intelligence, including **Image Playgrounds** and **ChatGPT integration**. These upgrades are designed to enhance the user experience and productivity by utilizing advanced AI technology.

Initially, the beta version was limited to M1 Macs and newer models. However, Apple has broadened compatibility, permitting any Mac that supports macOS Sequoia to utilize these new features. This decision underscores Apple’s dedication to ensuring a wider audience can take advantage of its latest advancements.

#### Public Release Schedule

Apple has indicated that macOS Sequoia 15.2 is slated for public launch in December. As developers continue testing the beta version, users can expect additional improvements and refinements as the official release approaches.

#### Conclusion

The introduction of the second developer beta for iOS 18.2 and macOS Sequoia 15.2 is an exciting advancement for Apple enthusiasts, especially with the launch of the Weather app widget for the Menu Bar. As Apple persists in embedding more intelligent features into its operating systems, users can anticipate a more streamlined and efficient experience. With the public release on the horizon, excitement for these updates is sure to intensify within the Apple community.

*H/T: Matt Elliot!*

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