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Breaking Bad's Walter White Has Just Made OpenAI Ban Celeb Deepfakes: Here's How

OpenAI has stopped users from making celebrity deepfakes on its new Sora app. The move comes after many raised concerns about the misuse of AI to create fake videos of famous people. The issue gained attention when Breaking Bad actor Bryan Cranston found videos online that used his face and voice without his permission. He complained to SAG-AFTRA, the Hollywood union that protects actors and media professionals.  Soon after, OpenAI said it would strengthen its safety systems and stop people from using Sora for such fake content. Bryan Cranston & SAG-AFTRA Raise Alarm Over AI Deepfakes Bryan Cranston said he was worried not only for himself but for all artists who could be copied without their consent.  He thanked OpenAI for updating its policy and asked other tech companies to do the same. SAG-AFTRA joined him in raising the issue and teamed up with major talent agencies such as United Talent Agency, Creative Artists Agency, and the Association of Talent Agents.  Together, they are asking AI companies to protect people’s identities and prevent the misuse of their faces and voices in fake videos. Even families of late stars like Robin Williams and George Carlin have also contacted OpenAI after seeing deepfake videos of their loved ones. These complaints pushed OpenAI to take quick action. OpenAI Strengthens Sora Rules After Backlash Over Deepfake Videos OpenAI has now introduced a strict opt-in policy, which means the Sora app can only use a person’s voice or face if they have given permission.  The company said it regrets any “unintentional generations” and is working to stop fake or harmful content. The backlash started when users made offensive and racist videos using the likeness of Martin Luther King Jr.  After that, OpenAI added new tools that allow families or representatives of public figures to request a complete ban on using their image.  The Sora app is currently invite-only on iOS, with Android access coming soon.

From Coorg To Coonoor: 7 Breathtaking Places In South India To Welcome Winter

When winter arrives, South India transforms into a realm of breathtaking beauty, misty hills draped in lush greenery, serene backwaters glistening under soft sunlight, and fragrant plantations that fill the air with soothing aromas. The southern states welcome travellers with a perfect blend of warmth and freshness. From tranquil lakes and ancient temples to tea gardens and wildlife sanctuaries, each destination offers its own charm and calm. Whether you’re seeking rejuvenation in nature or an escape into history, these stunning places in South India are perfect to embrace the winter magic. ALSO READ: Why Does Kerala Referred To As 'God’s Own Country'? Know Here Coorg, Karnataka (Image Source: freepik) Carpeted with coffee plantations and surrounded by dense forests, Coorg offers the perfect mix of serenity and adventure. Winters here bring cool breezes and a comforting aroma of coffee wafting through the air. Whether you explore waterfalls or cozy up in a homestay, Coorg is an irresistible winter haven. Alleppey, Kerala (Image Source: Canva) Famed for its tranquil backwaters and picturesque houseboats, Alleppey is a soothing retreat during winters. Glide along the serene canals, watch palm trees sway, and soak in the calm of traditional Kettuvallams reimagined as luxury stays. The cool breeze and peaceful lagoons make it a dreamy destination to unwind amidst nature. Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu (Image Source: Canva) A coastal town steeped in history, Mahabalipuram offers a blend of sandy beaches and ancient rock-cut marvels. The winter sun enhances the charm of its intricately carved temples and monuments. With the sea breeze and spiritual aura, this UNESCO World Heritage Site becomes a captivating spot for culture and tranquility lovers alike. Ooty, Tamil Nadu (Image Source: Canva) Nestled amidst the Nilgiri Hills, Ooty becomes a paradise in winter with misty mornings and blooming gardens. From scenic lake walks to sipping freshly brewed tea, every moment here feels serene. Its rolling hills, colonial charm, and crisp winter air revive your soul, making it one of South India’s most beloved winter escapes. Kumarakom, Kerala (Image Source: Canva) Set on the banks of Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom welcomes you with a soothing palette of emerald waters and lush paddy fields. The winter season enhances its serenity, making it perfect for birdwatching, boating, and slow living.  Coonoor, Tamil Nadu (Image Source: Canva) Less crowded than Ooty yet equally captivating, Coonoor charms with its rolling tea gardens and tranquil vibe. The winter air carries the aroma of fresh leaves and crisp mountain freshness. It’s the perfect spot for nature walks, treks, and moments of solitude amidst the Nilgiri hills.

Ola Electric Shares Tank During Muhurat Trading After CEO Bhavish Aggarwal Named In Employee Suicide FIR

Shares of Bhavish Aggarwal-led Ola Electric Mobility came under heavy pressure on Tuesday during the special Muhurat Day trading session, following news that the company’s top executives have been booked in connection with the suicide of an employee. Ola Electric’s stock fell as much as 4.16 per cent, touching an intra-day low of Rs 52.65 per share on the National Stock Exchange (NSE). At the closing bell, the stock was at Rs 53.43, down by Rs 1.51 or 2.75 per cent. Nearly 45 million equity shares, worth Rs 24.08 crore, were exchanged on both the NSE and the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) during the session. The sharp decline in share price followed reports that Bhavish Aggarwal, the CEO and founder of Ola, along with senior executive Subrath Kumar Das, has been named in an FIR filed by Bengaluru police. The case relates to the alleged suicide of a 38-year-old employee, K Aravind, who reportedly left behind a detailed 28-page death note accusing his seniors of workplace harassment. Aravind, who worked in the company’s homologation division, allegedly consumed poison at his residence on September 28. Despite being rushed to a private hospital, he did not survive. The police registered a case of abetment to suicide under Section 108 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), based on a complaint filed by Aravind’s brother. The complaint also raised concerns about financial irregularities amounting to Rs 17.46 lakh and accused Ola’s HR department of failing to explain suspicious money transfers to Aravind’s account. A senior police officer confirmed that notices had been issued to all individuals named in the FIR and that written explanations had been submitted. The investigation is ongoing. Ola’s spokesperson earlier said they were deeply saddened by Aravind’s death and extended condolences to his family. The company claimed that Aravind had not raised any complaints or grievances during his 3.5-year tenure at Ola Electric, nor did he have direct contact with senior leadership, including the CEO. Ola also stated that it has challenged the FIR in the Karnataka High Court, where protective orders have been passed in favour of the company and its officials. The firm said it is fully cooperating with authorities and remains committed to ensuring a safe and respectful work environment. (This report has been published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. Apart from the headline, no editing has been done in the copy by ABP Live.)

8th Pay Commission Update! What Employees And Pensioners Can Expect After Diwali

Over one crore Central Government employees and pensioners are closely monitoring the developments surrounding the 8th Central Pay Commission (CPC).  Though the government approved the proposal in January 2025, the official notification is still awaited, and the appointment of the Commission's Chairperson and members remains pending.  With expectations running high amid Diwali, many are wondering when the long-anticipated salary and pension revisions will take effect. The Union government has confirmed that discussions with state governments on the 8th CPC are underway. Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary recently informed the Rajya Sabha that the notification would be issued "in due course," indicating that the process is progressing but not yet finalised.  Once the notification is released, the Chairperson and members of the Commission will be formally appointed. The 8th Pay Commission, announced on January 16, 2025, is expected to assess the pay structure, allowances, and pensions of Central Government employees. However, unlike earlier panels, the current process appears to be taking longer, raising speculation that implementation may not occur until 2026. What The Fitment Factor Means For Employees A key determinant of the new pay structure will be the fitment factor, which directly affects the basic salary and pension calculations. Under the 7th Pay Commission, employees received a minimum basic salary of Rs 18,000 and pensioners Rs 9,000, along with a dearness allowance (DA) or dearness relief (DR) of 58 per cent. The fitment factor currently stands at 2.57 under the 7th CPC. For the 8th CPC, if the government opts for a fitment factor of 1.92, the new minimum basic salary could rise to Rs 34,560, while the minimum pension may increase to Rs 17,280. If the factor is revised to 2.08, the minimum basic salary could touch Rs 37,440, and the pension could be Rs 18,720. Once the new Commission comes into effect, DA and DR will be reset to zero. How The Government Calculates Wages The central government may consider using the Aykroyd formula, a method developed by nutritionist Dr Wallace Aykroyd, to calculate fair wages. This formula estimates minimum wages based on essential living costs, factoring in nutrition, clothing, housing, and other necessities. It aims to ensure that the revised pay scales reflect real-world living expenses, especially amid rising inflation and urban cost pressures. What History Of Pay Panels Reveals The history of India's Pay Commissions shows a consistent pattern of roughly 8 to 10 years between each revision. The 1st Pay Commission functioned from May 1946 to May 1947, followed by the 2nd (1957-1959), 3rd (1970-1973), and 4th (1983-1986). The 5th Commission worked from 1994 to 1997, the 6th from 2006 to 2008, and the 7th from 2014 to 2016. If this historical trend continues, employees can expect the 8th Pay Commission's recommendations to be implemented by 2026. Broader Implications For Economy And Employees The Pay Commission’s recommendations have far-reaching economic implications. A substantial increase in salaries and pensions could boost consumption demand, particularly in rural and semi-urban India, where government employees form a key part of the middle-income population. However, it may also raise concerns about the fiscal burden on the exchequer. For now, the government has maintained that consultations are in progress, and official announcements will likely follow soon. 

IPL 2026 Mini Auction: Top 3 Players Delhi Capitals Might Release

Delhi Capitals (DC) were one of the most promising sides in IPL 2025 early on, but unfortunately, lost momentum and failed to make it to the Playoffs. As one of the only two original IPL franchises to remain trophyless, they will have to make some major overhauls if they seriously want to challenge for the title in IPL 2026.  Notably, the player auction for the next edition of the Indian T20 franchise league is expected to be conducted mid-December 2025. While no players have been released officially just yet, there are some names who could be let go ahead to make up space in Delhi Capitals' purse ahead of the auction. IPL 2026 Auction: Top 3 Players Delhi Capitals Might Let Go 3) Faf du Plessis Faf du Plessis was once one of the most destructive batsmen in the Indian Premier League. His best years came under the leadership of MS Dhoni at the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), with whom he won 3 titles. DC acquired him for Rs 2 crore last season, and while he had a decent start, injury rendered him out of action for quite a few games, after which he didn't regain momentum.  Now at 41-years old, age is not on the South African veteran's side, and so he might be let go from the Delhi franchise. 2) T. Natarajan T. Natarajan was one of Delhi Capitals' most expensive purchases last year at Rs 10.75 crore. However, the fast bowler was severely underused, and understandably, didn't do anything spectacular with whatever little game time he got. If he is to not be a part of the franchise's plans moving forward, they may look to free up hefty space in their purse by releasing Natarajan before the IPL 2026 mini auction. 1) Jake Fraser McGurk Jake Fraser McGurk was a revelation during IPL 2024. He was relentless against all opposition, even the mighty Jasprit Bumrah, which prompted DC to retain him during last year's auction for Rs 9 crore via the Right To Match (RTM) option. Sadly, the young Aussie flopped badly and was eventually dropped from the squad in the latter half of the previous season. Hence, there is a chance he might be one of the players Delhi Capitals release before IPL 2026.

The Power Of Plant-Based Eating For Better Gut And Mental Health

(By Ms. Alma Chopra) Plant-based eating is one of the most natural and effective ways to maintain overall well-being. Rooted in foods derived from nature, grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, this diet provides essential nutrients while keeping harmful additives and preservatives at bay. Unlike heavily processed foods, plant-based meals offer pure, wholesome nourishment that strengthens both the body and the mind. ALSO READ: Diabetes And Stroke: How Blood Sugar Spikes Affect Your Brain The Gut: The Foundation Of Good Health A diet rich in plant-based foods is high in fiber, which plays a key role in improving gut health. A healthy gut supports better digestion, enhances immunity, and ensures your body absorbs nutrients efficiently. Since the gut is closely connected to the brain through the gut-brain axis, maintaining digestive health also contributes to mental clarity and emotional balance. The Gut-Brain Connection Research suggests that eating more plant-based meals can help reduce anxiety, lower stress levels, and promote a sense of calm. This happens because when the gut functions well, it sends positive signals to the brain, leading to improved mental focus, mood stability, and cognitive performance. In essence, a sound gut truly fosters a sound mind. A Growing Movement Toward Conscious Eating In recent years, more people have been turning vegan or embracing plant-forward lifestyles. They’re witnessing tangible improvements in energy levels, mood, and overall health.  Eat With Intention, Live With Balance So, the next time you prepare a meal, look at your plate as more than just food. Think of it as nourishment for your mind and body, a conscious step toward a healthier, balanced lifestyle. Fill your plate with greens, grains, and goodness, and experience how nature can heal and energize you from within. Ms. Alma Chopra is a renowned motivational speaker, disability rights activist and life coach. [Disclaimer: The information provided in the article is shared by experts and is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]

Rare earths are new assets: India to become credible alternative in critical mineral game; here's how

India is poised to become a significant player in the global rare earth elements market, aiming to reduce reliance on China. With substantial reserves and government initiatives like the National Critical Mineral Mission, the country is boosting exploration, mining, and processing. This strategic push for self-reliance in critical minerals is vital for India's clean energy and advanced technology ambitions.

Realme GT 8 Pro Gets A Makeover-Friendly Swappable Camera Island & Ricoh-Tuned Lens

Realme GT 8 Pro: Realme has officially lifted the curtain on its latest flagship, the Realme GT 8 Pro, a phone that’s not just about top-tier performance but also a strikingly customizable design. The highlight? A swappable camera island that lets users literally change the face of their smartphone. Realme GT 8 Pro Pricing and Availability The Realme GT 8 Pro starts at CNY 3,999 (approx. Rs 49,400) for the 12GB + 256GB model, going up to CNY 5,199 (around Rs 64,200) for the 16GB + 1TB version. Pre-orders have already begun in China, with availability in other regions expected soon. Realme GT 8 Pro Specifications Breaking away from the monotonous rectangular or circular camera layouts, Realme’s GT 8 Pro allows users to swap out the entire camera housing. The interchangeable module is secured with two Torx screws and magnetic connectors, making it easy to attach or remove. Realme says it will release multiple designs, from square and round to futuristic robot-themed options, all available through its official channels. In an interesting twist, the company is also inviting users to 3D print their own camera island designs. To encourage creativity, Realme has even shared the 3mf model file and announced a design contest in collaboration with MakerWorld, reported GSMArena. The GT 8 Pro’s camera department is just as ambitious as its design. The phone introduces a triple-camera setup, led by a 50MP Ricoh-tuned main sensor. This marks the debut of the Realme x Ricoh collaboration, promising photography inspired by Ricoh GR’s iconic tones , Positive, Negative, High-contrast Black & White, Standard, and Monochrome. The primary 50MP shooter features a 1/1.56-inch sensor with an f/1.8 aperture and supports Ricoh GR’s 28mm and 40mm equivalent focal lengths. It’s paired with a 200MP periscope telephoto camera offering 3x optical and up to 12x lossless zoom, using a 1/1.56-inch ISOCELL HP5 sensor. Completing the trio is a 50MP ultrawide lens with a 116-degree field of view. The phone supports 8K video recording at 30fps for creators who want cinema-grade footage. Powering the Realme GT 8 Pro is the Snapdragon Elite Gen 5 Extreme Edition chipset, coupled with up to 16GB LPDDR5X RAM and 1TB UFS 4.1 storage. There’s also Realme’s custom R1 graphics chip to boost gaming performance. The phone flaunts a QHD+ AMOLED display (3,136×1,440) with a 144Hz refresh rate and brightness that peaks at an astonishing 4,000 nits. It also includes an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner and a 32MP selfie camera. Battery life won’t be an issue. Realme has equipped the GT 8 Pro with a 7,000mAh dual-cell setup, supporting 120W wired and 50W wireless charging. Despite the massive power unit, the device remains impressively slim at 8.2mm. The phone is IP66, IP68, and IP69 certified, runs Android 16-based Realme UI 7, and comes in White, Green, and Blue variants. With its modular design and professional-grade camera partnership, the Realme GT 8 Pro is not just another flagship; it’s a statement of creativity, performance, and personalisation.

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