Jagathy Sreekumar foresaw the future of AI in cinema, suggesting a day when actors might no longer be needed

A resurfaced interview with the legendary Malayalam actor Jagathy Sreekumar offers a remarkable glimpse into his forward-thinking perspective on the evolution of acting and the film industry. Known predominantly for his comic roles and immense contribution to Malayalam cinema, Jagathy spoke insightfully about how acting styles have transformed over the years. He observed that audiences are increasingly drawn toward realism in performances, shifting away from exaggerated theatricality to more subtle and genuine portrayals of human emotions. This change reflects a broader trend in contemporary cinema where authenticity in acting is highly prized. What stood out in the interview was Jagathy’s prophetic prediction about the role of technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), in the future of acting. He foresaw AI’s potential to replace human actors, a concept that appears increasingly relevant today as AI technologies advance rapidly. Jagathy speculated that AI could simulate human expressions and act in films, potentially transforming the entertainment industry by reducing the reliance on human actors for certain roles. While this raises questions about the future of creativity and the human touch in acting, his foresight highlights the emerging intersection of technology and the arts. Jagathy’s insights are especially poignant given his recent return to cinema after a long hiatus due to a serious accident. Although he now faces challenges with speaking, his vision of evolving acting styles and technological impacts underscores his enduring influence on Malayalam cinema. His thoughts invite a deeper reflection on how the industry adapts to changing audience preferences and innovations in technology.<br /> <br /> This interview not only celebrates Jagathy’s legendary status but also positions him as a visionary who anticipated critical shifts in acting and filmmaking, making his views highly relevant in today’s fast-evolving entertainment landscape.

US Charges North Korean IT Workers in Scheme Using Stolen Identities to Fund Weapons Program via U.S. Remote Job Salaries

The U.S. Justice Department recently announced criminal charges related to a sophisticated North Korean scheme that targets American companies by exploiting remote work arrangements. According to Assistant Attorney General John Eisenberg, these schemes are designed not only to steal from U.S. firms but also to evade international sanctions and funnel funds into North Korea's illicit programs, including its weapons development. This operation involved thousands of workers who, using stolen or fabricated U.S. identities, secured remote IT jobs at American companies, including large Fortune 500 corporations. Many of these workers were not actually located in the U.S. but in North Korea or China, misleading companies into believing they were hiring domestic employees. The wages paid by these companies were then funneled into accounts controlled by individuals affiliated with the North Korean regime. This allowed the regime to generate substantial revenue and potentially access sensitive or proprietary data from these companies. The Justice Department's crackdown included the seizure of numerous financial accounts, websites, and laptops used in the fraudulent activities. Separate legal cases filed in Georgia and Massachusetts reflect an ongoing effort by U.S. authorities to dismantle this network and prevent the regime from profiting through deceptive hires. Investigations revealed that at least two U.S. citizens assisted North Korean operatives from 2021 to 2024 in this identity theft and fraud scheme, which affected over 100 American firms across multiple states. This operation underscores the evolving threat posed by North Korea’s use of cyber and remote work strategies to circumvent sanctions and fund its weapons programs, presenting significant challenges to both national security and corporate integrity.<br /><br /> The Justice Department’s actions demonstrate the U.S. commitment to disrupting these illicit schemes and safeguarding American businesses from exploitation by foreign adversaries. The complexity and scale of the fraud highlight the need for increased vigilance and improved cybersecurity measures in remote workforce management.

Xiaomi Unveils Affordable Ferrari Inspired EV SUV Challenging Porsche's Throne

Watching the recent launch of Xiaomi Corp.’s luxury electric SUV, the YU7, evoked two powerful reactions: awe at its cutting-edge technology and a deep concern for the future prospects of traditional Western automakers. The YU7, Xiaomi’s second electric vehicle, combines impressive innovation with aggressive pricing, poised to challenge established industry giants. This tech-laden SUV offers a blend of speed, luxury, and advanced features that surpass many competitors. It features a high-capacity 96.3 kWh battery delivering an extraordinary range of up to 519 miles (CLTC-rated) and incorporates sophisticated elements like lidar, 11 cameras, 12 ultrasonic sensors, millimeter-wave radar, and Nvidia Thor-powered AI systems. Its interior showcases a groundbreaking triple Mini LED panoramic display that projects comprehensive information onto the windshield, a feature far beyond typical head-up displays, alongside an AI voice assistant and animated pet companions. Priced starting at around $35,000 for the base rear-wheel-drive model, the YU7 undercuts rivals such as Tesla’s Model Y and luxury SUVs like the Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid. This pricing strategy, coupled with high performance and luxury appeal, has led to a frenzy of demand; within 18 hours of launch, Xiaomi secured over 240,000 orders, exhausting production capacity until early 2027. For Western automakers, Xiaomi’s entry signals a looming disruption. The company’s adeptness at delivering near-premium quality at half the cost, combined with rapid technological advancements, poses a formidable challenge. Xiaomi is not just a smartphone maker but an emerging automaker redefining electric vehicle luxury and performance, raising serious questions about how legacy automakers will compete in this fast-evolving landscape. <br /> <br /> The Xiaomi YU7 is a compelling symbol of how tech companies from China are reshaping the automotive industry. Its combination of smart design, cutting-edge technology, aggressive pricing, and massive pre-orders is a wake-up call for Western brands. In an era where innovation speed and cost-efficiency dictate market share, Xiaomi's YU7 stands as a formidable new benchmark, stirring both wonder and apprehension about the future dynamics of global electric vehicle markets.

FAA's new runway incursion system set to enhance safety nationwide — but New York airports will have to wait longer for its arrival

While New York and New Jersey are not included in the initial deployment of the FAA’s new runway incursion device (RID), the agency is already utilizing alternative advanced tools in the region. One of these tools is the use of 4K tower simulators that replicate actual airport environments for training air traffic controllers. These high-fidelity simulators are installed at more than 50 locations nationwide, including Newark Airport, to enhance controller training by offering realistic scenarios. The simulators allow trainees to experience various weather conditions and operational challenges, such as simulations of heavy rain or clear skies, helping prepare them for real-life situations. According to FAA transportation specialists, the use of these simulators speeds up controller certification by about 25%, making training more efficient and improving readiness at locations like Newark.<br /><br /> The FAA’s broader runway safety strategy involves the rollout of the RID across 74 airports by the end of 2026, aiming to reduce runway incursions by alerting controllers when a runway is occupied. This device complements other technology like the surface awareness initiative system and approach runway verification system, which together improve situational awareness for controllers and enhance overall safety. The FAA emphasizes that despite ongoing infrastructure challenges, the U.S. airspace remains among the safest globally, and these technological upgrades are critical to maintaining and improving that status.<br /><br /> In summary, while New York and New Jersey await the runway incursion device, they benefit from sophisticated 4K tower simulators supporting air traffic controller training at airports like Newark, contributing significantly to operational safety and efficiency.

Apple supplier Lens Tech aims to raise up to $606 million with Hong Kong IPO

A leading Chinese manufacturer of mobile phone glass covers and other consumer electronics components is joining a growing trend of mainland-listed Chinese companies seeking to expand their capital base by selling shares in Hong Kong. This movement is part of a broader wave of listings known as "A+H listings," where companies already traded on mainland exchanges issue shares, called H shares, on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Hong Kong is poised to become the world's dominant IPO market in 2025, fueled by a resurgence of interest from global investors looking for alternatives to US assets amid geopolitical and economic uncertainties. The city’s stock market has seen strong liquidity and turnover, attracting numerous high-quality tech and manufacturing firms from mainland China. Notably, companies such as Lens Technology, which supplies Apple and others, plan to raise significant funds through secondary listings in Hong Kong to diversify their investor pool and increase capital. The trend is supported by regulatory reforms and initiatives, such as the launch of the Technology Enterprises Channel (TECH), designed to facilitate listings of technology-intensive firms with complex R&D cycles by simplifying requirements and offering confidential filing options. With the recovery of investor sentiment and the strong pipeline of mainland companies, including chipmakers and AI firms, Hong Kong's equity market could reclaim its position as the global leader in IPO proceeds for the first time since 2019. This wave of listings reflects China’s strategic push for tech self-sufficiency and global capital market integration, reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as a premier financial hub bridging mainland China and international investors. <br /> <br /> In summary, the decision by this mobile phone glass cover maker to list in Hong Kong is emblematic of a broader shift among mainland Chinese companies leveraging Hong Kong’s capital markets to raise funds, broaden their shareholder base, and enhance their global visibility amid a dynamic and competitive global IPO landscape.

How to Apply for an e Passport Online: Complete Step by Step Process, Required Documents, and Key Tips to Remember

India has officially launched e-passports nationwide, introducing a modern travel document embedded with a secure electronic chip to enhance security and streamline immigration processing. The embedded microchip stores critical personal and biometric data, including fingerprints, facial photograph, iris scans, name, date of birth, and passport ID, making the document tamper-resistant and compliant with international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). This new e-passport uses RFID technology for contactless reading, significantly reducing the risk of forgery and duplication. To apply for the e-passport online, applicants need to visit the official Passport Seva portal. New users must register by creating an account, while returning users can log in with their existing credentials. After registration, the applicant fills out the application form by providing accurate personal and travel details, uploads required documents, and pays the applicable fees online. Following this, the applicant selects a convenient Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK) to schedule an appointment for biometric data capture and document verification. Required documents typically include proof of Indian citizenship, identity, and address. At the appointment, biometric data such as fingerprints and facial recognition are collected to complete the application process. The Ministry of External Affairs oversees the issuance of the e-passports, ensuring that all procedures meet strict security norms. Key points to remember for a smooth application include verifying the accuracy of personal details, ensuring correct document upload, timely fee payment, and arriving punctually for the biometric appointment. This initiative aligns with the Digital India mission, enhancing passport security and providing a more efficient travel experience for Indian citizens.