Tag: Source: Bgr.com

Researchers Uncover Three New Earth Minerals That Were Not Previously Catalogued

We are continually enhancing our understanding of our planet. From uncovering the origins of life on Earth to exploring what exists beneath the Earth’s crust, there is still a vast amount we have yet to comprehend about our little floating rock. Nonetheless, researchers have uncovered another component of this intricate puzzle recently by cataloging three new minerals that have never before been identified by scientists.

The minerals being referenced are labeled as raydemarkite, virgilluethite, and stunorthropite. They represent just a portion of the 5,998 minerals presently recognized on our planet. Although it may not appear to be a significant achievement, it truly is. While we regularly identify new species of animals within the animal kingdom, new mineral families are considerably more challenging to discover.

Thus, the identification and cataloging of three new minerals at Cookes Peak in New Mexico is a monumental event for geologists. Each mineral exhibits a unique appearance, with raydemarkite characterized by a colorless needle-like form that typically measures around a millimeter in length. It also has the flexibility to bend without fracturing.

Conversely, virgilluethite appears more yellow and green, forming small plates that exceed the size of surrounding crystals. Lastly, stunorthropite presents a milky, blade-like form, which can occasionally replace the yellow mineral sidwillite. The names of these minerals honor New Mexicans who have dedicated their lives to the study of the region’s geology.

Even though it may not seem particularly significant to the average person, the discovery of new minerals represents a tremendous advancement for geologists. Each year, the International Mineralogical Association’s Commission on New Minerals, Nomenclature and Classification processes approximately 100 proposals. However, even if accepted, a new mineral might only be found in a single location.

The discovery of new minerals, even those that exist solely in one area, aids geologists in understanding the processes behind the formation of these crystalline substances. Furthermore, those minerals discovered in multiple locations pave the way for further research into their potential applications in sensors, batteries, and beyond. It’s also important to mention that some minerals found in nature, such as raydemarkite and virgilluethite, were synthesized in laboratories over a century ago.

However, this marks the first time they have been catalogued in their natural habitat, having formed organically. This not only enriches the data available for study but also reveals that these minerals behave differently in their natural environments compared to laboratory conditions, raising even more questions for researchers to explore. The findings are documented in two papers published in The Canadian Journal of Mineralogy and Petrology.

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Anticipated Launches on Peacock: July 2025

**Twisted Metal Season 2: A High-Octane Comeback to Peacock**

The eagerly awaited second season of “Twisted Metal” is scheduled to debut on Peacock this July, reintroducing the adrenaline-charged chaos that fans have cherished. This season aims to be even more exhilarating with Anthony Mackie returning as John Doe and the debut of Anthony Carrigan as Calypso, the mysterious host of the demolition derby.

**Plot and Characters**

“Twisted Metal” draws inspiration from the legendary video game series recognized for its vehicular warfare and dark humor. The narrative follows John Doe, a chatty outsider, as he maneuvers through a post-apocalyptic wasteland populated by merciless marauders operating weaponized cars. The stakes escalate this season with Calypso running the perilous tournament, introducing new levels of intrigue and peril.

**New Additions**

Anthony Carrigan, celebrated for his notable performances in “Barry” and “Gotham,” joins the ensemble as Calypso. His character is anticipated to introduce a fresh layer of complexity and unpredictability to the series. Fans are keen to see how Carrigan’s rendition will affect the show’s dynamics.

**What to Expect**

Season 2 is projected to explore the backgrounds of its characters more comprehensively, giving viewers a more engaging experience. The series will persist in blending action, comedy, and drama, preserving the equilibrium that made its initial season successful. With rapid chases, explosive confrontations, and unforeseen alliances, “Twisted Metal” guarantees to keep audiences captivated.

**Release Details**

“Twisted Metal” Season 2 launches on July 31, 2025, exclusively on Peacock. With episodes lasting around 30 minutes each, the series is ideal for binge-watching. Whether you’re a devotee of the original games or new to the franchise, this season promises a thrilling journey.

**Conclusion**

As “Twisted Metal” makes its comeback for a second season, it brings the assurance of additional action-packed episodes and fascinating character arcs. With a skilled cast and a compelling narrative, this season is set to be essential viewing for fans of the genre. Don’t miss the chaos and excitement as John Doe and Calypso clash in the ultimate automotive duel.

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App Converts iPhone into Classic Game Boy Camera

Riley Testut, the mastermind behind Delta, has unveiled a new venture: a Game Boy Camera replica tailored for iPhone users. Named Delta Camera, this independent application will encompass everything you would anticipate from a contemporary camera app, but with a twist: a nostalgic Game Boy-like feel.

Testut is recognized for the Delta app, the most renowned Game Boy emulator on the App Store. With this upcoming launch, the developer resurrects the 1998 sensation of the Game Boy Camera, one of Nintendo’s most legendary peripherals.

For those who weren’t around when the Game Boy Camera debuted, or missed the opportunity to experiment with it, the Game Boy Camera boasted an impressive resolution of 128×112 pixels, capturing images in black and white as well as four varying shades of gray.

The camera enabled users to snap selfies or conventional pictures. It had the capacity to hold 30-40 photos internally and featured basic editing functions like stamps and effects. Typically, Nintendo includes a novelty, and with this camera, you could engage in mini-games within a quirky, bizarre interface and enjoy music. Users could even produce photo collages resembling pixel art and counterfeit IDs. Moreover, you could utilize the Game Boy Printer to print photos and keep those memories alive.

Testut has not disclosed all the particulars about Delta Camera yet, but it will support any iPhone camera with manual exposure, zoom capabilities, and comprehensive Camera Control support. Currently, only patrons can download the beta version of the app, with a complete release anticipated later this year.

The developer also noted that the app mimics the original Game Boy Camera, requiring users to supply their own ROM file.

BGR will inform you as soon as Delta Camera is accessible to all users. At this time, it remains uncertain whether it will be a paid application or if it will solely be a sideloading option for users within the EU. Most likely, users around the globe will be able to access this experience through the App Store too.

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Three Netflix Releases You Can’t Miss Next Week

As the calendar turns to July, Netflix is swiftly releasing some of its most talked-about offerings for the summer.

Whether you’re seeking a dose of real-world corporate intrigue, thrilling supernatural exploits, or dark fantasy with an ethereal twist, next week’s lineup has something for everyone. In this article, we will provide a summary of three noteworthy titles debuting on the platform that certainly merit a place on your watchlist — and they encompass a new docuseries, a sequel to a beloved Netflix original film, and the concluding season of a cult classic Netflix original series.

We will begin with an upcoming documentary film I previewed in a different post, as it happens to be one of five documentaries with the Trainwreck label coming to Netflix in July.

Readers who have been around for a while will not need reminding, but it is hard to emphasize just how significant American Apparel was in the mid-2000s. Renowned for its sexually suggestive advertisements, the brand became a giant in fashion retail partly through its shocking marketing — while its internal operations were quite chaotic.

Directed by Sally Rose Griffiths, Trainwreck: The Cult of American Apparel explores the tumultuous ascent and decline of the company from the perspective of those who truly experienced that downfall. Central to the narrative is founder Dov Charney, a contentious figure accused of fostering a toxic, cult-like environment. Anticipate behind-the-scenes insights, unsettling accusations, and an abundance of black-and-white images that might leave you questioning what we were all thinking at that time.

The undying mercenaries are returning.

After breaking into the Netflix Top 10 in 2020, The Old Guard emerged as an unexpected summer sensation. The sequel is finally here, bringing back Charlize Theron as Andy, the once-immortal fighter now confronting her own mortality. With old betrayals still lingering, including Quynh’s desire for revenge, the team encounters a mysterious new threat that could reveal their existence and dismantle centuries of secrecy.

Directed by Victoria Mahoney, The Old Guard 2 raises the stakes with international backdrops, emotionally charged action sequences, and new cast members Uma Thurman and Henry Golding. As co-creator Greg Rucka mentioned in an interview with Netflix’s Tudum, “What I find most intriguing about these immortal characters is that fundamentally, they all face the same questions we do: ‘What am I doing here? What is the purpose of my life?’” Ultimately, this sequel promises more intense battles and fresh locations, with both a director and star focused on captivating and astonishing us.

The Sandman: Season 2, Volume 1 (Streaming July 3)

Neil Gaiman’s The Sandman makes a return with the first half of its second and final season, continuing the story of Morpheus, the Lord of Dreams. Volume 1 resumes just weeks after the Season 1 conclusion, with Dream (Tom Sturridge) in the process of reconstructing his realm while attempting to move on from the past. However, in the realm of The Sandman, the past rarely remains concealed.

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Researchers Doubtful Regarding Reasons for Shark Inactivity When Upside Down

Sharks are captivating animals and rank among the most powerful predators in the sea. Nonetheless, they display an unusual behavior termed tonic immobility, wherein they become rigid when flipped onto their backs. This reaction parallels the freeze response observed in creatures such as rabbits, lizards, snakes, and possums. In spite of their daunting reputation, sharks can be rendered inert merely by being turned upside down, a method often employed by researchers for secure handling during studies.

Tonic immobility in sharks is a thoroughly studied occurrence, yet its function continues to baffle scientists. Various theories have been suggested, including it acting as an anti-predator mechanism, a mating behavior, or a reaction to sensory overload. Nevertheless, recent research indicates that none of these theories withstand closer examination. The anti-predator hypothesis seems improbable as freezing presents no clear survival benefit, and predators like orcas could take advantage of this weakness. The reproductive hypothesis is also debatable, given that tonic immobility is observed in both genders, and the sensory overload theory has yet to be validated.

In a research study examining 13 species of sharks, rays, and a chimaera, only seven species demonstrated tonic immobility when inverted. This variability adds to the complexity of understanding this behavior. Despite considerable research efforts, the precise reason for sharks undergoing tonic immobility remains undefined, underscoring the necessity for additional exploration into this fascinating feature of shark biology.

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A Manual for Utilizing Google’s Veo 3 AI Film Creator at No Cost

Google’s I/O 2025 event introduced numerous revolutionary AI innovations, with Veo 3 emerging as a prominent feature. Veo 3, the newest version of Google’s AI video generation software, presents notable enhancements compared to the previous version. It can produce ambient sounds, audio, and dialogue for AI-generated films, all from a straightforward text input. This software aligns spoken language with video segments and ensures character consistency throughout various scenes, positioning it as a formidable asset for filmmakers.

However, Veo 3 comes with a high price tag, necessitating a $249.99/month Google AI Ultra subscription. Alternatively, it can be utilized through third-party platforms like Adobe’s Firefly, Freepik, and LTX Studio, although these options also require subscriptions. A more budget-friendly choice will launch on June 27, when Veo 3 becomes available through Google’s Vertex AI in public preview, enabling users to experiment with its functionalities before deciding on a subscription.

Google’s blog emphasizes Veo 3’s prowess in generating seamless, lifelike videos that match audio with visuals, deliver cinematic quality with intricate creative details, and replicate realistic movements governed by actual physics. These attributes are set to transform AI video generation, equipping users with the resources to craft high-definition, believable scenes. Google has also provided sample clips to the public, demonstrating Veo 3’s features.

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Google’s Doppl App Utilizes AI to Enable Virtual Try-Ons for Clothing Prior to Purchase

Shopping stands as one of the primary motivations behind our use of tools like Google Search. This is likely why Google has incorporated numerous shopping-centric features into its offerings throughout the years. More recently, it has also introduced AI tools to enhance the online shopping experience.

An example of this is Google’s AI Mode tool for Google Search. AI Mode received a significant enhancement at I/O 2025, which introduced a variety of new and exciting shopping functionalities.

For example, AI Mode can automatically purchase items for you when their price decreases. It keeps an eye on the internet for deals and alerts you when a product reaches your desired price. Once you agree to the purchase, AI Mode can finalize it on your behalf.

The most remarkable AI Mode feature unveiled at I/O 2025 is called “Try it on.” This builds upon existing Google technology that enables users to virtually try on clothes using AI. To utilize it in AI Mode, simply upload a photo of yourself.

However, wouldn’t it be even better to have a standalone Google app specifically for virtually trying on clothes? That’s precisely what Doppl is. It’s a new experimental application from Google, now accessible for iPhone and Android users in the United States.

At I/O 2025, Google detailed the AI behind AI Mode’s capability to demonstrate how clothing might appear on you:

“This cutting-edge technology is the first of its kind functioning at this scale, enabling shoppers to virtually try on billions of clothing items from our Shopping Graph. It is driven by a new custom image generation model tailored for fashion, which comprehends the human body and the intricacies of clothing — such as how various materials fold, stretch, and drape on diverse body types. It retains these nuances when applied to poses in your photos. The outcome is a try-on experience that integrates seamlessly with your photos.”

The AI Mode feature is currently offered exclusively as a Search Labs experiment in the United States.

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Upcoming Launches on Prime Video: July 2025

If you hold an Amazon Prime membership, you also gain entry to the Prime Video streaming platform. With Prime Video, there’s a plethora of fantastic new original films and series that you should explore. Here’s what you can find new on Prime Video in July 2025.

Following the debut of its high-budget, star-filled action comedy Deep Cover in June, Prime Video returns with yet another lavish, celebrity-laden action comedy in July. Heads of State features Idris Elba as the UK Prime Minister and John Cena as the US President, joining forces with MI6 agent Noel (Priyanka Chopra Jonas) to thwart a worldwide conspiracy.

Additional new originals in July comprise the Bosch spinoff series Ballard, Judge Judy’s comeback in Justice on Trial, and the docuseries One Night in Idaho: The College Murders.

All new content on Prime Video in July 2025

Available July 1
– Sherlock S1 (2010)
– Shooter S1-3 (2016)
– WNBA on Prime (2025)
– 2 Fast 2 Furious (2003)
– A Bridge Too Far (1977)
– A Fish Called Wanda (1988)
– Baby Boom (1987)
– Back to School (1986)
– Bandits (2001)
– Blown Away (1994)
– Blue Crush (2002)
– Blue Velvet (1986)
– Colors (1988)
– Creed II (2018)
– Death Warrant (1990)
– Double Impact (1991)
– Dressed to Kill (1980)
– Duck Soup (1933)
– Every Day (2018)
– Fast & Furious 6 (2013)
– Fast Five (2011)
– Fiddler On the Roof (1971)
– Gladiator (2000)
– Hart’s War (2002)
– Hidden Figures (2017)
– Hoodlum (1997)
– How to Train Your Dragon 2 (2014)
– I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry (2007)
– Into The Blue (2005)
– Into The Blue 2: The Reef (2009)
– It Came from Outer Space (1953)
– K-PAX (2001)
– Leaving Las Vegas (1996)
– Licorice Pizza (2021)
– Little Fockers (2010)
– Little Man (2006)
– Mad Max (1980)
– Meet the Fockers (2004)
– Meet the Parents (2000)
– Mystic Pizza (1988)
– No Country for Old Men (2007)
– No Way Out (1987)
– Only Lovers Left Alive (2013)
– Paths Of Glory (1957)
– Rings (2017)
– Robocop (1987)
– Robocop (2014)
– Robocop 2 (1990)
– Robocop 3 (1993)
– Rocky (1976)
– Rocky Balboa (2006)
– Rocky II (1979)
– Rocky III (1982)
– Rocky IV (1985)
– Rocky V (1990)
– Salt (2010)
– Saving Private Ryan (1998)
– Teen Wolf (1985)
– The 40 Year-Old Virgin (2005)
– The Addams Family (2019)
– The Addams Family 2 (2021)
– The Apartment (1960)
– The Bone Collector (1999)
– The Bounty Hunter (2010)
– The Fast and the Furious (2001)
– The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift (2006)
– The Funhouse (1981)
– The Great Train Robbery (1979)
– The Horse Soldiers (1959)
– The House Bunny (2008)
– The Hustle (2019)
– The Informant! (2009)
– The Perfect Storm (2000)
– The Usual Suspects (1995)
– Thunderbolt And Lightfoot (1974)
– What’s The Worst That Could Happen? (2001)
– Windtalkers (2002)
– Witness For The Prosecution (1958)
– XXX: The Return Of Xander Cage (2017)

Available July 2
– Heads of State (2025)

Available July 4
– Game Night (2018)

Available July 9
– Ballard (2025)

Available July 11
– One Night in Idaho: The College Murders (2025)
– Better Man (2025)

Available July 15
– Uncharted (2022)

Available July 17
– Surf Girls: International (2025)

Available July 19
– PBC on Prime (2025)
– Sabotage (2014)

Available July 21
– Justice on Trial (2025)

Available July 23
– Shiny Happy People: A Teenage Holy

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