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The New York Datacenter Moratorium New York moved closer toward becoming the first US state to enact a moratorium on large datacenters this week. On Thursday, the state legislature approved a one-year ban on the facilities powering the AI boom. How Would New York's Temporary Ban on Datacenters Work? The moratorium largely targets datacenters built by 'tech goliaths' and will not apply to facilities already possessing the necessary state permits. The bill would also require an environmental impact report, which would document water and electricity usage, as well as new labor, energy efficiency and transparency standards, and ratepayer protections aimed at keeping New Yorkers' energy bills low. A Part of a Nationwide Pushback More than a dozen US states have considered moratoria in response to residents' fears about the potential costs of living next to datacenters, especially higher utility bills and negative environmental impacts. The Data Center Coalition, a trade association that has championed the expansion of these facilities, worries that a statewide moratorium would 'discourage further investment, undermine New York's economy, and send a signal that the state is closed for business'. The Scene in Albany In Thursday's debate on the legislative floor in the state capital of Albany, lawmakers against the ban echoed industry worries that it was a one-size-fits-all measure that would stifle economic growth and supersede local control. Kristen Gonzalez, a New York state senator and co-author of the bill, disagrees with that approach, saying 'It's an abdication of our responsibility to ask a local government to engage and take on the wealthiest companies in the world. That is what state government is for.'

Guardian Rolls Out the Free Football Daily Email The Guardian is now offering a free, daily email titled Football Daily, aimed at delivering concise football news, match previews, and expert commentary straight to subscribers' inboxes. Why a Dedicated Football Newsletter Matters in 2026 Fans increasingly prefer bite‑size, mobile‑friendly content over long‑form articles. Daily newsletters achieve higher open rates (often 30%‑40%) compared with generic news digests. The football market remains one of the most engaged digital audiences worldwide. Early Adoption Metrics and Audience Reach Initial sign‑up goal: 100,000 subscribers within the first quarter. Projected email open rate: 35% based on similar Guardian newsletters. Anticipated click‑through to the Guardian website: 15% of opens. Implications for Football Media and Fan Engagement The launch signals a strategic pivot for traditional news outlets, leveraging newsletters to build a direct relationship with fans, reduce reliance on social‑media algorithms, and gather first‑party data for personalized content. What Comes Next for the Football Daily Initiative Looking ahead, the Guardian plans to enrich the email with exclusive interviews, data‑driven match predictions, and occasional sponsor‑free promotions. Success will likely encourage other sports publishers to adopt similar newsletter‑first models, reshaping how football news is consumed in the digital age.

The Origins of 'Mogging' Until recently, if someone had said "mog" to me, I probably would have assumed they were talking about the children's book cat created by the late great Judith Kerr. If asked about "mogging" or being "mogged," I would have been completely baffled. But for many members of gen Z and gen Alpha (or anyone who is just a bit too online), the slang term, which means to outdo or outshine others, is everywhere. From Manosphere to Mainstream Mogging's origins are in the manosphere, where it began as a verb derived from the acronym "Amog" (alpha male of the group). In misogynistic forums in the 2010s, to "mog" came to mean to outdo someone in terms of sexual desirability. Mogging has been adopted by "looksmaxxing" influencers such as Braden Peters, known online as Clavicular, who encourage men to try to alter their looks – sometimes in extreme ways – to increase their "sexual market value". Such an influencer might talk of "frame mogging" another person in a photo or video – a variation on mogging that specifically refers to being more muscular. The Evolution of Competitive Language Even now, as the term has begun to be used much more widely, and in a tongue-in-cheek way, it is still typically associated with looks (a friend of mine, for example, was described by her boyfriend's younger siblings as "mogging him" in a photo). But increasingly, mogging can mean besting others at basically anything. The gold medal Olympic figure skater Alysa Liu said in an interview last year that her main competition strategy was "to mog", while a 23-year-old colleague of mine tells me that she and her friends joke about "walk-mogging" when they overtake people on the street. Linguistic Analysis of Modern Slang Tony Thorne, director of the slang and new language archive at King's College London, says a lot of new slang terms "have come recently from the same kind of male-based internet culture", referencing the words "simp" (someone who is excessively attentive), "soy boy" (a derogatory term for a man who is not stereotypically masculine) and "sigma" (someone cool and successful). Not to mention "maxxing," now such an established part of the lexicon that it was tweeted by the US Department of Defense earlier this year. The Cultural Impact of Competitive Slang Thorne thinks it is significant that "mogging" in particular has become fashionable at this time. "What it implies – hyper-competitive, hyper-individualist, aggressive selfishness" has become "mainstream behaviour", he says. Which is why Will Adolphy, a psychotherapist who was himself once an ardent follower of manosphere influencers, has concerns about the word. "Part of me can see how it's a kind of handy, even entertaining word," he says. But the idea of mogging "reinforces this sense that there are certain people that will dominate others based off their physical appearance and status", he says. Psychological Concerns About Competitive Language Dr Emily Sehmer, an NHS child and adolescent psychiatrist, worries too about the "constant sense of competition" that concepts such as mogging help to foster, especially for teenagers, who are developing their socio-emotional skills and typically "have a desire to fit in and to get peer approval". Apart from anything else, she adds, wanting to mog someone is "kind of mean, isn't it?" The Ironical Reappropriation of 'Mogging' "I think people are right to be concerned," about the rise in usage of slang that originates from a toxic subculture, Thorne says – and notes that some of his fellow linguists feel uncomfortable about researching it. But, he adds, "mogging" has moved well beyond its origins, and many people who use it now "tend to understand it and laugh at it, and they use it themselves, but ironically". Certainly, plenty of mogging content on social media now has an irreverence to it: such as the trend of posing for the photo on a rollercoaster in order to "mog" the screaming riders next to you. Making what started as an aggressive concept into something very silly pokes fun at the ridiculousness of the manosphere, my younger colleague explains. She shows me a picture of herself on a recent holiday, standing next to a statue of Napoleon, that she sent to a group chat of her friends. The caption? "I mogged Napoleon!"

The Bridge Between Art and ScienceWhy do we find things beautiful? More precisely, why do some paintings of coloured dots in rippling patterns inspire in me something like revelation? The idea that beauty is the feeling you get when encountering truth is unfashionable in the arts, but lingers in the sciences. The physicist Paul Dirac once proposed that it is more important that a formula is beautiful than that it can be proven: when a perfectly beautiful theory produces results that cannot be real, he argued, then we should not discard the theory but reconsider what is real.Since the 1970s, Terry Winters has been rebuilding that bridge between art and science. Taking inspiration from disciplines including botany – his early paintings, particularly, evoke sprouting pods and tangled roots – engineering, computer modelling and cybernetics, his paintings might be understood as diagrammatic approximations of the patterns that govern everything from the division of cells to the constellation of stars. If every era has to renew its standards of beauty to reflect new understandings of how the world is constructed, then Winters comes as close to providing that model as any living painter.Mathematical Patterns in Visual ArtThese eight new works take their titles from the language of geometry and mathematics: Area, Array, Field, Locus, Point, Scope, Sequence and Set. Each is composed of overlapping patterns that pull each other out of shape according to invisible laws of attraction and repulsion. Field is indicative: on a sooty pink ground, a dense grid of dusty blue cells bends inwards like a trampoline beneath a bowling ball, while an intersecting arrangement of larger circles swells outwards. The disorienting effect of this push-pull is exaggerated by an optical illusion, created by ragged phosphorescent orange haloes around the blue circles, that makes them appear to be craters sunk into the crust of paint. You have to walk up to the surface to be reassured that it is flat.Point shows a teeming landscape of cells bulging outwards at the centre, as if a scum of frogspawn had been skimmed off a pond and placed under a paperweight microscope. In Sequence, a storm of pink interference skims through a yellow circle split like a brain into hemispheres, while a nebulous weather system sweeps in from the right. In Scope, vaguely symbolic arrangements of freshwater blue and desert orange nodules move across the familiar circle-within-a-square geometry of Leonardo's Vitruvian Man. Where that famous demonstration of sacred geometries exudes stillness and calm, the systems that run through Winters' worlds are wild and strange. Here, as much importance is given to the subjective factors of perception and consciousness as the objective principles of logic and proportion.Optical Illusions and Sensory ExperienceAll of this should not distract from the pure sensory pleasure afforded by these pictures. In Locus, another optical illusion seems to lift the red edge of the painting off the canvas like a clumsy wooden frame, squeezing the pockmarked sphere at its centre so that it balloons outwards, threatening to burst. The same cadmium red, so sandy that the pigment seems barely to have been suspended in oil, turns carmine pockets into rock formations that climb off the surface of Set. These sleights of hand evoke the more secular movement of op art, in which patterns are manipulated to exploit the idiosyncrasies of human perception rather than to uncover deeper truths. Which begs the question: is this all just a conjuring trick?Rediscovering the Renaissance ApproachThere is something magical about these works. Even though Winters is generally credited with having extended the lineage of modernist American painting into the present, his practice is in this sense pre-modern. In its rejection of the idea that art should be separated from science, it resembles the Renaissance attitude according to which painting is no less a tool for understanding the world than mathematics, and magic is just the name for things we don't yet understand. His commitment to synthesising diverse spheres of knowledge, his alchemist's commitment to materials, and his sheer technical ability certainly mark him out in a scene recently overwhelmed by chancers and charlatans, bandwagoners and snake-oil salesmen. That his work is enjoying a revival might be taken as an encouraging sign.Beauty as a Path to TruthDirac, incidentally, was proved right. He formulated a theory that was so beautiful it couldn't possibly be wrong, even though it implied the existence of phenomena that everyone agreed must be impossible. He stood by it, and a few years later, someone else discovered anti-matter. Winters' paintings likewise offer a flash of those secret patterns that underpin the physical world, and which science has yet to illuminate. Which is to say, they're beautiful.Exhibition DetailsTerry Winters: Along the River is at Modern Art, London, until 11 July

The Lead: A Glimmer of Humanity in the Conflict In the midst of a protracted and devastating war, a significant humanitarian milestone was achieved as Ukraine and Russia successfully exchanged 185 prisoners of war from each side. This event represents a rare moment of de-escalation and offers a critical window into the complex dynamics of modern conflict resolution. The Mechanics of the 185-For-185 Swap The exchange involved a direct swap of 185 individuals from each nation, a number that underscores the scale of the human cost of the ongoing hostilities. Such operations are rarely executed without significant logistical planning and trust between opposing forces. The return of these captives provides a rare opportunity for families to reunite and for the soldiers to reintegrate into civilian life. Scale of the Exchange: 185 prisoners from each side. Human Impact: Restoration of family bonds and hope for soldiers. Logistics: Requires high-level coordination between belligerents. The Diplomatic Ripple Effect This prisoner exchange serves as more than just a humanitarian gesture; it acts as a potential diplomatic signal. The ability to facilitate such a swap suggests that backchannel communications may be active, even if public hostilities continue. It demonstrates that both nations retain the capacity for dialogue and cooperation on specific issues, which could be a precursor to broader negotiations. Future Prospects for Prisoner Exchanges While this specific exchange is a positive development, it is likely an isolated event rather than a sign of an immediate ceasefire. However, it sets a precedent for future negotiations. The successful return of these prisoners may encourage further talks regarding humanitarian corridors and the potential for more extensive swaps in the coming months.

Executive Summary: Human‑Centric Startups Rise Amid AI Money FloodEven as AI fundraising breaks new records, founders like Brynn Putnam are raising capital for ventures that prioritize face‑to‑face interaction and tactile tech. The shift reflects a broader consumer desire for experiences that feel more human, challenging the narrative that all capital must flow to AI‑only companies.Rise of Offline‑First Startups in an AI‑Dominated MarketRecent weeks have highlighted two contrasting movements:Board – founded by Mirror co‑founder Brynn Putnam, secured a new funding round to develop in‑person games and social experiences.Cyberdeck creators – a community building whimsical DIY computers that literally encourage users to "touch grass," gaining viral attention for their analog appeal.Both illustrate a growing appetite for products that foster real‑world connection.Funding Landscape: AI vs Human‑Centric VenturesAlphabet announced an $80 billion AI fundraising commitment, underscoring the scale of corporate AI investment.Anthropic filed a confidential IPO, signaling that even AI‑focused startups are eyeing public markets.Despite this, startups like Board are attracting seed‑stage capital, indicating that investors still see value in non‑AI playbooks.Impact on Consumer Behavior and Startup StrategyThe emergence of "together tech" suggests a market correction:Consumers are gravitating toward experiences that feel tangible and social.Founders are positioning products as antidotes to screen fatigue, leveraging nostalgia and physical interaction.Venture firms are diversifying portfolios to include both AI‑heavy and offline‑first concepts.Looking Ahead: A More Balanced Startup EcosystemAnalysts expect the following trends to shape the next 12‑18 months:Continued inflow of capital into AI, but with a growing slice earmarked for hybrid models that blend digital intelligence with physical experiences.Increased media coverage and podcast discussion (e.g., Equity hosts Kirsten Korosec, Anthony Ha, and Sean O’Kane) will amplify awareness of offline‑first ventures.Potential for strategic partnerships between AI giants and tactile‑tech startups, creating new categories of smart‑physical products.

Executive Summary of Jon Snow’s DiagnosisThe veteran broadcaster Jon Snow has been confirmed to have Alzheimer’s disease, marking a poignant moment for UK media and public‑health advocacy.Jon Snow’s Diagnosis Revealed by the Alzheimer’s SocietyThe Alzheimer’s Society announced the diagnosis, noting that Alzheimer’s is the leading cause of dementia worldwide. The statement emphasized the need for compassion and support for those affected.Alzheimer’s Prevalence in the UK Highlights Growing Concern850,000 people in the UK live with dementia.Approximately 60% of these cases are attributed to Alzheimer’s disease.The condition costs the UK economy an estimated £34.7 billion annually.Implications for Public Awareness and Media RepresentationSnow’s high‑profile status brings renewed attention to dementia, potentially encouraging earlier screening and reducing stigma. Media outlets may increase coverage of neuro‑degenerative diseases, fostering broader public understanding.Future Outlook for Advocacy and Early DetectionExperts anticipate that Snow’s disclosure will boost fundraising for research and strengthen partnerships between broadcasters and health charities. Continued advocacy could accelerate the development of diagnostic tools and therapeutic interventions.

The Road to the French Open Final Alexander Zverev moved to within one match of a long-awaited first grand slam title as he defeated the Czech 26th seed Jakub Mensik 7-5, 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 to reach the French Open final for the second time in his career. Zverev's Journey to the Final Zverev, the second seed and ATP No 3, will contest his fourth career grand slam final on Sunday. The German player lost his first grand slam final at the 2020 US Open in a fifth set tie-break against Dominic Thiem having led by two sets and served for the match in the fifth. He was then defeated by Carlos Alcaraz here in 2024 and Jannik Sinner in the 2025 Australian Open final. The Match Against Mensik Mensik is a generational talent who will likely compete in the latter rounds of grand slam draws for many years to come. Alongside one of the most destructive serves in the game, the Czech has an impressively complete game; he is an excellent mover with great feel, net play and a sweet two-handed backhand. The Impact of the Win From the moment Sinner, the No 1 and heavy favourite, and the 24-time champion Novak Djokovic were bounced out of this tournament, all eyes shifted to Zverev. He has won titles at all other levels, including Masters 1000 titles, the ATP Finals and an Olympic gold medal, but in the most important moments of the majors has often been punished for his lack of courage. The Future Outlook At the same time that the men’s draw has been a site of total carnage, top seeds falling in the early rounds and the remaining players battling through energy-sapping marathon matches just to hang on, Zverev has used his wealth of experience to take care of business and maintain his momentum. His focus has rarely wavered over the past 12 days. He knows more than anyone that this is an opportunity he cannot afford to miss, one that may never come again, and it seems increasingly likely that he will take it.

The Lead: Ireland's Diplomatic Stand Against Israeli MinistersIreland has imposed a travel ban on Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, citing their conduct towards pro-Palestinian activists and support for policies that would displace Palestinians from their homeland. The decision marks a significant diplomatic stance by Ireland against members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing coalition.The Event Details: Ban Based on Ministers' Controversial PositionsIreland's Prime Minister Micheal Martin (Taoiseach) confirmed the move on Friday, stating that the two far-right ministers had advocated positions that amounted to "a desire to see the elimination of Palestinians from Palestine." Both Ben-Gvir and Smotrich have repeatedly called for Israel to annex Palestinian territories and push Palestinians out of Gaza, provoking condemnation from rights groups and several foreign governments.The ban specifically stems from several incidents:Ben-Gvir shared video of himself mocking detained pro-Palestinian activists who were part of a Gaza-bound aid flotilla last monthBoth ministers have advocated for annexing Palestinian territoriesSmotrich, who lives on an illegal Israeli settlement, has been a vocal opponent of a Palestinian stateIn a formal statement, Ireland's justice ministry confirmed that Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan had instructed immigration officers to refuse entry to Ben-Gvir and Smotrich should they seek to enter the country.The Data Analysis: Growing International IsolationThe Irish ban adds to a pattern of international isolation for the two Israeli ministers. Ben-Gvir and Smotrich have previously been banned from other European countries including Britain, Spain, Slovenia, and France. This growing list of restrictions highlights the international community's increasing concern over their policies and statements.Since Israel's military operations in Gaza, Ireland has positioned itself as one of the most outspoken critics of Israel's approach. In 2024, Ireland officially recognized the Palestinian state, a move that led to Israel ordering the closure of its embassy in Dublin.The Impact Analysis: Shifting EU-Israel RelationsIreland's diplomatic action reflects a broader shift in European Union relations with Israel, particularly regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While EU member states have traditionally maintained varying positions on Israel, the recent events in Gaza have prompted more unified criticism of certain Israeli policies and officials.Prime Minister Martin explicitly stated that the behavior of Ben-Gvir and Smotrich "justifies sanctions at EU level as well." This suggests that Ireland may push for coordinated EU action against the ministers, though Martin acknowledged that obtaining sufficient support across all member states remains a challenge.The Prediction: Potential for Expanded EU MeasuresAs Ireland takes this diplomatic stance, other EU nations may follow suit, potentially leading to broader restrictions on Israeli officials deemed to have violated international norms or human rights standards. The recognition of Palestine by Ireland, Norway, and Spain in 2024 could also encourage more EU member states to take similar diplomatic steps.However, deep divisions within the EU over policy toward Israel suggest that coordinated sanctions or diplomatic measures will face significant hurdles. The situation may further strain EU-Israel relations, particularly as the coalition government in Israel continues to promote policies viewed as antagonistic by many European nations.