Article URL: https://joshblais.com/blog/using-the-internet-like-its-1999/ Comments URL: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=47881198 Points: 165 # Comments: 101

The green model of the Move 2 shown here is sold out at Sonos’ refurbished site, but the black or white models are up for grabs. | Photo by Chris Welch / The Verge Portable audio and home theater upgrades can be very pricey, which is why we make a habit out of telling readers when there are good deals happening. With that in mind, here’s a friendly reminder that a heap of refurbished Sonos gear is steeply discounted, and will be until the company’s sale ends April 24th. It’s an opportunity to get refurbished tech that is delivered in like-new condition, all of which are backed by the same one-year warranty that new products have. Sonos always offers a discount when buying refurbished gear compared to buying new, but some of the current sale prices are better than usual. For instance, its smallest plug-in speaker, the Era 100, is down to $134 (versus $219 new). The bigger Era 300 that offers louder, more immersive sound is $329, a huge $150 off discount. There are also deals on refurbished home theater add-ons, as well as on hybrid speakers that work just as well outside for a barbecue as they do inside, linked to a larger group of Sonos speakers over Wi-Fi. The second-gen Sonos Beam soundbar with Dolby Atmos support and a wider sound than the first-gen model is down to $299 in black, which is $50 less than the best-ever price on a new model (it currently sells new for $499). Finally, the Sonos Move 2 that has a IP56 water-resistant design and up to 24 hours of battery life, plus line-in audio support, is $299. That’s a phenomenal deal considering the cost for a new unit hasn’t gone below $399 since last September. It currently costs $499 new at retailers. Sonos Era 100 (refurbished) Sonos’ Era 100 smart speaker is a replacement for the older Sonos One, utilizing two tweeters (left and right) and one larger woofer. In addition to Wi-Fi, the Era 100 also supports Bluetooth audio and line-in playback via an optional 3.5mm to USB-C adapter. Read our review. Where to Buy: $219 $134 at Sonos Sonos Era 300 (refurbished) The hourglass-shaped Sonos Era 300 is designed from the ground up for spatial audio and Dolby Atmos. It supports the same Bluetooth and line-in features as the Era 100. If you pair two 300s together with a Sonos Arc or Beam (Gen 2), you can get truly immersive home theater surround sound. Read our review. Where to Buy: $479 $379 at Sonos Sonos Beam (second-gen, refurbished) The Sonos Beam (second-gen) is a compact soundbar with bigger, wider sound than its predecessor. It supports Dolby Atmos spatial audio, and can stream music from a plethora of services. Read our review. Where to Buy: $499 $299 at Sonos Sonos Move 2 (refurbished) With double the battery life of its predecessor and better-sounding stereo audio, the Sonos Move 2’s improvements don’t stop there. It supports line-in audio, can stream Bluetooth audio to other Sonos speakers, and more. Read our review. Where to Buy: $399 $299 at Sonos

Mark Zuckerberg presenting at Meta Connect on September 17th, 2025. | Bloomberg via Getty Images Meta is planning to layoff around 10 percent of employees in May, according to a memo from the company's chief people officer, Janelle Gale, published by Bloomberg. That means approximately 8,000 people will see their jobs cut. Meta will also be closing around 6,000 open roles, according to Gale. The cuts follow Meta's significant investments in AI, including spending huge sums to hire top talent and build data centers. The company forecast in January that it will spend $115 billion to $135 billion in capital expenditures in 2026 - a significant increase from its $72.22 billion in capital expenditures for 2025. The increase is to "support o … Read the full story at The Verge.

XREAL’s top-of-the-line One Pro glasses continue to be updated, and now, they’re also getting a price cut to $599. more…

Multiview is one of the best features to launch on YouTube TV for some time, but it’s always been restricted to certain channels. As previously teased, that’s finally changing. more…

OpenAI just announced that ChatGPT is getting a model upgrade to GPT-5.5. The company says the model will bring better results because of changes to how it understands context. more…

Article URL: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c9d4zgnqpqeo Comments URL: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=47880189 Points: 210 # Comments: 168

There are a lot of folks waiting for a new version of the Apple TV because the set-top box hasn't been updated since 2022. There is an update coming this year, but people will need to wait a bit longer because Apple is holding the next ‌Apple TV‌ until the new version of Siri comes out this fall. Design ‌Apple TV‌ design updates don't happen often, and that's not changing in 2026. The next ‌Apple TV‌ is going to have the same squircle shape as the current model, and it'll continue to be made from a black plastic material. We're expecting the 2026 ‌Apple TV‌ to be indistinguishable from the existing ‌Apple TV‌ on the exterior, with no changes to size or design. New Chip The ‌Apple TV‌ 4K is going to get a new A-series chip, and that'll be the biggest upgrade. Rumors suggest Apple is planning to use the A17 Pro that was first introduced in the iPhone 15 Pro models. Compared to the A15 Bionic in the current ‌Apple TV‌, the A17 Pro is a solid update, and it's a good reason to hold off on buying the current model. The A17 Pro is built on a 3-nanometer process for faster speeds and better efficiency, and it has hardware-accelerated ray tracing for higher-quality graphics in games. The A17 Pro is the oldest chip Apple makes that supports Apple Intelligence, and it's also used in the iPad mini 7. Given that Apple has held the ‌Apple TV‌ update for so long, it's possible it'll get an even newer chip like the A18 or A19. A RAM update is possible too, especially if the ‌Apple TV‌ has any kind of ‌Apple Intelligence‌ support. Apple Intelligence and Siri The next ‌Apple TV‌ is ready to launch, but new ‌Siri‌ features are the holdup. Apple wants to release the ‌Apple TV‌ with the smarter version of ‌Siri‌ that's in the works, and it's not ready to go. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman says the Apple TV is linked to "new artificial intelligence features" that Apple has postponed until iOS 27, which is coming in September 2026. Apple intended to launch the ‌Apple Intelligence‌ ‌Siri‌ features in spring 2026, but the company was still experiencing issues with ‌Siri‌. At this point, we're not going to see new ‌Siri‌ capabilities until iOS 27, which also means a delay for all the devices that Apple is holding. Along with the ‌Apple TV‌, the rumored home hub and a new version of the HomePod are waiting on ‌Siri‌. Updated ‌Siri‌ features may require more RAM and a faster chip, so if you want the smarter ‌Siri‌ on the ‌Apple TV‌, that's another reason to wait before making a purchase. Wi-Fi The ‌Apple TV‌ could get Apple's N1 networking chip with Wi-Fi 7 support. Wi-Fi 7 works with the 6GHz band offered by newer routers. 6GHz connectivity is faster and less congested, which you want for a device designed for streaming content. Bluetooth and Thread The ‌Apple TV‌ 4K could get Bluetooth 6 for connecting devices like controllers and earbuds. Apple's N1 chip also supports Thread, so the ‌Apple TV‌ will be able to continue to serve as a Thread border router and a Matter hub for smart home devices. Pricing There have been rumors of a price drop, so it's possible Apple has plans for a cheaper ‌Apple TV‌. Apple could release two models, one that's higher-end and one that has lower specs and a lower price tag, or it could keep the existing ‌Apple TV‌ around as a low-cost option. Launch Date Since the new version of ‌Siri‌ has been pushed to ‌iOS 27‌ and the ‌Apple TV‌ is tied to that update, we're likely not going to see the ‌Apple TV‌ refreshed until September 2026 at the earliest.Related Roundup: Apple TVBuyer's Guide: Apple TV (Don't Buy)Related Forum: Apple TV and Home TheaterThis article, "Here's What's Coming in the 2026 Apple TV" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums

Asha Sharma. | Image: The Verge, Microsoft Microsoft's new Xbox CEO Asha Sharma has laid out a new strategy for what she describes as a "return of Xbox." In a joint memo with Xbox Chief Content Officer Matt Booty, Sharma and Booty lay out their vision for the future of Xbox that will be judged on daily active players and the priorities of hardware, content, experience, and services. "Players are frustrated," admits Sharma and Booty. "New feature drops on console have been less frequent. Our presence on PC isn't strong enough. Pricing is getting harder for people to keep up with. And core experiences like search, discovery, social, and personalization still feel too fragmented. Devel … Read the full story at The Verge.

https://techcrunch.com/2026/04/23/meta-job-cuts-10-percent-8... Comments URL: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=47879986 Points: 604 # Comments: 584

The split-view Now Playing redesign that YouTube Music has been working on since last year is now widely rolling out.  more…

Your afternoon lineup of the best Android game and app deals is now ready, including titles like DRAGON QUEST BUILDERS, 9th Dawn Remake RPG, Maneater – Shark RPG, 7 Billion Humans, SENTINEL 519: SAGA – GENESIS, Human Resource Machine, SpongeBob – The Cosmic Shake, and more. Be sure to scope out the deals on unlocked Pixel 10 models from $449 (Up to $300 off) as well as this massive price drop on the unlocked Galaxy Z Fold 7 at up to $819 off today, but for now, all of the apps await below. more…

Article URL: https://skyandtelescope.org/astronomy-news/astronomers-find-the-edge-of-the-milky-way/ Comments URL: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=47879239 Points: 126 # Comments: 27

Article URL: https://openai.com/index/introducing-gpt-5-5/ Comments URL: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=47879092 Points: 1375 # Comments: 904

Instagram is once again expanding its list of social apps, this time with “Instants,” which mimics a core part of Snapchat. more…

Article URL: https://www.anthropic.com/engineering/april-23-postmortem Comments URL: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=47878905 Points: 744 # Comments: 556

Apple's entire entry-level product lineup now costs less than a single 16-inch MacBook Pro with the M5 Pro chip. The ten products that now define Apple's lowest-cost tier are as follows: iPhone 17e: $599 MacBook Neo: $599 iPad (11th generation): $349 Magic Keyboard Folio: $249 Apple Pencil (USB-C): $79 Apple Watch SE 3: $249 AirPods 4: $129 Apple TV 4K: $129 HomePod mini: $99 AirTag: $29 The total comes to $2,510, which is $189 less than the $2,699 starting price of the 16-inch ‌MacBook Pro‌ with the M5 Pro chip. AppleCare One, which can cover any three Apple devices of the buyer's choosing, costs an additional $19.99 per month. The MacBook Neo, announced on March 4, is the linchpin of the shift. At $599, it is Apple's most affordable laptop ever and the first Mac to contain an A-series chip, using the A18 Pro that debuted in the iPhone 16 Pro. After its March 11 launch, Apple CEO Tim Cook said Apple saw its "best launch week ever for first-time Mac customers." The iPhone 17e and MacBook Neo, both at $599, anchor the lineup at an identical price point that would have seemed implausible just two years ago, when the cheapest Mac laptop cost $999. What is striking about today's lineup is how capable most of Apple's entry-level products have become relative to their more expensive siblings. The iPhone 17e uses the same A19 chip and 48-megapixel main camera as the $799 iPhone 17, differing meaningfully only in its slightly smaller 60Hz display, single rear camera, and notch design. The ‌MacBook Neo‌'s A18 Pro chip posts a single-core score of 3,461, within 6% of the M5 MacBook Air, and is highly capable for everyday tasks. The Apple Watch SE 3 shares the same S10 chip as the $399 Series 11 and, with its last refresh, gained an always-on display, sleep apnea detection, body temperature sensing, and fast charging. The notable exception in the lineup is the entry-level iPad, which is the only current Apple device that does not support Apple Intelligence. It is also notable that three of the eleven products on the list are also due for imminent replacements. The 12th generation ‌iPad‌ with an A18 chip and Apple Intelligence support is said to be "ready to go" and "still coming this year." The next Apple TV and HomePod mini are expected to gain faster chips, along with Apple's N1 chip for Wi-Fi 7 and Thread support. All three devices have reportedly been ready for release since last year, primarily held up by the delayed arrival of a more capable version of Siri. Overall, Apple's entry-level lineup arguably never seems to have been stronger or more affordable.Related Roundup: MacBook ProBuyer's Guide: MacBook Pro (Buy Now)Related Forum: MacBook ProThis article, "A Full Apple Ecosystem Now Costs Less Than a MacBook Pro" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums

The One UI 8.5 changelog for the Galaxy S25 series appeared online, signaling what could be a rollout in the coming days. It includes a ton of features, including Quick Share’s new AirDrop capabilities for the Galaxy S25 series. more…

Google’s Pixel 11 series is in the pipeline and, in the latest Android 17 beta release, we spotted a quick preview of the wallpapers set to debut on the Pixel 11 Pro Fold. more…

For the second year in a row, Google will be hosting “The Android Show | I/O Edition” before I/O 2026. more…

Today’s 9to5Toys Lunch Break is headlined by a ginormous discount on unlocked Galaxy Z Fold 7 at up to $819 off open-box or $510 off brand new, alongside Galaxy Tab S10 Lite at up to $120 off and Galaxy Tab S11 models up to $320 off. The recent Google spring sale is quickly coming to a close so consider this your last call for new condition unlocked Pixel 10 deals from $449 (up to $300 off) and we are still tracking TCL NXTPAPER 11 and 14 Android tablets from $160. Head below for everything. more…

The interest rate on Apple Card's savings account was today lowered from 3.65% to 3.50%. Push notifications regarding the cut were sent to ‌Apple Card‌ users on Thursday. Savings account interest rates often fluctuate with changes made by the Federal Reserve, and when rates are lowered, banks cut their annual percentage yield (APY). That said, today's cut doesn't appear tied to a specific Federal Reserve move. Apple introduced its savings account in April 2023, partnering with Goldman Sachs. Designed for ‌Apple Card‌ holders, the account is exclusively available to U.S. residents aged 18 and above. It can be managed through the iPhone's Wallet app, offering a user-friendly experience with no fees, minimum deposits, or balance requirements. The account allows users to earn interest on their Daily Cash cashback balance, as well as on funds transferred from linked bank accounts or Apple Cash balances. Initially capped at $250,000, the maximum balance has since been increased to $1,000,000. In January 2026, JPMorgan Chase reached a deal to take over operation of the Apple Card, with the transition expected to take approximately two years. Alongside its new Apple Card partnership, JPMorgan Chase will reportedly launch a new Apple savings account, but existing users with Apple savings accounts at Goldman Sachs will not be automatically transitioned and will need to decide whether they want to stay at Goldman Sachs or open new accounts with Chase. Apple has a FAQ about the transition. Tag: Apple CardThis article, "Apple Lowers Savings Account Rate for Apple Card Users" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums

The new Motorola Razr Ultra is just days away from launch and, ahead of the announcement, new leaks show off the new flagship flip phone in its entirety. more…

Google Wallet is beginning to widely roll out a big redesign of the app on Android that upgrades the passes experience. more…

Outgoing Apple CEO Tim Cook has named the botched 2012 launch of Apple Maps as his "first really big mistake" in the role, according to a Bloomberg report covering the town hall meeting that was held Tuesday with his recently announced successor, John Ternus. The Maps app launched with mislabeled landmarks, faulty directions, and a user experience that fell well short of Google Maps at the time. "The product wasn't ready, and we thought it was because we were testing more of local kind of stuff," Cook told staff. Reflecting on the debacle, Cook said it was "valuable," noting that he expressed regret to users at the time and suggested they use competing navigation apps instead. From the report: "We apologized for it, and we said, 'Go use these other apps. They're better than ours.' And that was some humble pie," Cook said. "But it was the right thing for our users. And so it's an example of keeping the user at the center of the decisions that we made." Cook added: "Now we've got the best map app on the planet. We learned about persistence, and we did exactly the right thing having made the mistake."The fallout led to the first major management shake-up of Cook's tenure, with software chief Scott Forstall – a close Steve Jobs collaborator – pushed out in the aftermath. (Fun fact: Forstall was recently invited back to Apple Park to celebrate the company's 50th anniversary.) On the bright side, Cook singled out the Apple Watch and its expanding health features as the work he's most proud of. He recalled receiving his first note from a user whose life had been saved by the device. "It caused me to just stop in my steps," he said. Cook conceded that his list of mistakes would be "extraordinary in length" (the never-released AirPower charging mat and Apple's abandoned car project would surely be high up there) but the CEO has successfully avoided the kind of product recalls and cancellations that have plagued other consumer device companies over the last 15 years. Cook became CEO in August 2011 and hands over the reins to Ternus, currently chief of hardware engineering, on September 1, 2026.Tags: Apple Maps, Tim CookThis article, "Tim Cook Calls Apple Maps Launch His 'First Really Big Mistake' as CEO" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums

Apple is expected to bring several camera enhancements to the iPhone 18 Pro models this year, but there have been no fixed rumors suggesting these upgrades will require measurable, visible changes to the device's rear camera plateau. And yet a new series of dummies suggests exactly that. iPhone 17 Pro dummy (left) vs. iPhone 18 Pro (image: Vadim Yuryev) YouTube channel Max Tech's Vadim Yuryev recently shared images of dummy units for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max – as well as Apple's upcoming foldable iPhone. Dummy units are typically created by third-party case makers based on information that leaks out of Apple's partner factories. Yuryev says the dummy units have "much thicker cameras... The black glass on the cameras protrudes a bit more too." He also says the camera plateau itself is "a bit thicker" than on the iPhone 17 Pro Max, and he provided the above image for comparison. The silver unit is the iPhone 18 Pro Max dummy, while the blue is an iPhone 17 Pro Max dummy. Other than the rear triple lens camera system, the two device's dimensions are said to be extremely similar – same thickness, but a slight height (.36mm) and width (.39mm) increase on the 18 Pro Max unit. Yuryev says he stands by the accuracy of the iPhone 18 Pro dummies, claiming they should be "spot on" like the iPhone 17 Pro dummy units he received last year, presumably from the same source – which we believe to be Sonny Dickson. The Main camera in the iPhone 18 Pro could have a variable aperture, which would provide users with more control over how their photos look. iPhone users would be able to manually adjust how much light gets to the sensor, cutting down on overexposure and providing new customization options for lighting and depth of field. The Telephoto lens in the iPhone 18 Pro models could also feature a larger aperture, allowing for more light in poor lighting conditions. At least one of the iPhone 18 Pro models could also feature a new three-layer stacked image sensor developed by Samsung. The advanced image sensor would make the camera more responsive, plus it could cut down on noise, increase dynamic range, and more. Will any of these upgrades necessitate a larger camera module? Theoretically, but no leak has explicitly said the lenses on either 18 Pro model will stick out more or that the camera plateau will get thicker. It's especially surprising given that the industry is actively targeting flat or near-flush camera systems in future devices, but Apple could well be taking a different tack. We'll know for sure when the devices arrive around mid-September alongside the company's first foldable iPhone. Update: Since this story was published, Yuryev has shared some more comparative dimensions: The total thickness of the iPhone 18 Pro Max including camera plateau is said to be 11.54mm (vs. 11.23mm on the iPhone 17 Pro Max), while total thickness including camera lens bumps is 13.77mm (vs. 12.92mm on the iPhone 17 Pro Max). Related Roundup: iPhone 18 ProThis article, "Latest iPhone 18 Pro Max Dummies Suggest Thicker Camera Plateau, More Protruding Lenses" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums

Apple Maps has updated its "2026 Formula 1 Tracks Around the World" guide with a dedicated experience for the Miami F1 Gran Prix, which takes place on May 3 and will be streamed exclusively on Apple TV in the United States. The guide offers an immersive way to explore F1 circuits. It began with Albert Park in Australia, with more 3D circuit experiences to be added as the season progresses. The Miami experience adds detailed features at key locations in Miami International Autodrome circuit. As spotted by 9to5Mac, there are 3D landmarks for things like grandstands, The Marina, the Pit Building, the Finish Line, and more. The area also includes technical information about the circuit, along with local gates, race entrances, bridges, restrooms, and water stations. There are also some guides for fans attending the race, such as "A Local's Guide to Miami F1 Race Week" for dining and shopping recommendations, and "Hyperlocal F1 Miami Race Week Spots," for identifying prime viewing locations close to the track. The 2026 F1 season kicked off in Australia on March 8. Last October, Apple and Formula 1 announced a five-year partnership including exclusive streaming rights in the U.S. The partnership allows ‌Apple TV‌ to provide comprehensive coverage of Formula 1, including all practice, qualifying, Sprint sessions, and Grands Prix.Tag: Apple MapsThis article, "Apple Maps Gains Immersive 3D Experience of Miami F1 Grand Prix" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums

Caesars Entertainment is now facing a proposed federal class action that says the casino and hotel company failed to protect customer information during a second cyber incident, coming after its widely reported 2023 breach. The case was filed in Nevada on behalf of plaintiff Mark Huddleston, a Texas resident who says he has belonged to Caesars Rewards since 2007 and has regularly gambled with Caesars both online and in person. He says Caesars gathered personal information through those transactions and loyalty program activity over many years. NEW: Caesars hit with class action alleging 2026 data breach exposed customer info after 2023 hack, raising fraud fears. @RWW pic.twitter.com/vLVEJAIQ5G— Suswati Basu (@suswatibasu) April 22, 2026 Huddleston is seeking to hold Caesars responsible for injuries allegedly caused by “Caesars’s inadequate data security,” which the complaint says resulted in private information being exposed to unauthorized third parties. The filing refers to the incident as the “Data Breach.” According to the lawsuit, reviewed by ReadWrite, Caesars had already experienced a data breach in September 2023. It alleges that despite that earlier event, the company “failed to implement the requisite security measures, and failed to prevent another Data Breach from occurring in early 2026.” The complaint says customer data was again taken by cybercriminals, leaving proposed class members exposed to “an elevated and significant risk of fraud and identity theft.” Caesars alleged data breach puts privacy promises under scrutiny The suit says information affected in the 2026 incident included at least customer contact details and dates of birth. It adds that based on what was exposed in 2023, “it can be expected that even more sensitive information, including Social Security numbers and driver’s license numbers were also stolen in 2026.” The complaint also points to Caesars’ privacy policy, which states: “We maintain physical, electronic and organizational safeguards that reasonably and appropriately protect against the loss, misuse and alteration of the information under our control.” Huddleston argues those promises were misleading. The lawsuit says Caesars “did not ‘maintain physical, electronic and organizational safeguards that reasonably and appropriately protect against the loss, misuse and alteration of the information under our control.’” It further claims customers still face long-term consequences because their information may remain in circulation. The filing says class members now face “a present and continuing risk of fraud and identity theft for years to come.” The proposed nationwide class would include “All persons in the United States whose Private Information was compromised in the Caesars’s Data Breach discovered in March, 2026.” Claims in the case include negligence, breach of implied contract, unjust enrichment, negligence per se, and alleged violations of the Nevada Consumer Fraud Act. The suit seeks damages, credit monitoring, identity theft protection services, and court-ordered security improvements.The Caesars case arrives as other gambling operators face similar scrutiny. ReadWrite recently reported the litigation tied to alleged Wynn Resorts data breaches, including a separate federal class action. We also found that German gambling company Merkur was hit by a major cyberattack. ReadWrite has reached out to Caesars Entertainment for comment. Featured image: Bernard Spragg via Flickr / CC0 1.0 The post Caesars faces new lawsuit after second alleged data security breach claims appeared first on ReadWrite.

Sportradar pushed back hard Wednesday after a short-selling firm accused the company of having meaningful links to unlawful betting sites. “A short report issued today contains factual inaccuracies about the company, and we unequivocally challenge these assertions,” a Sportradar spokesperson told ReadWrite. NEW: @Sportradar responds to claims its profits are tied to illegal gambling revenues, saying it "demonstrates a fundamental misunderstanding of our business."   @RWW pic.twitter.com/PYSOtJxBve— Suswati Basu (@suswatibasu) April 22, 2026 The company said the report misread both its operations and the wider betting market. The spokesperson added: “The report demonstrates a fundamental misunderstanding of our business and the industry and was authored by a short seller trying to erode shareholder value and profit from stock disruption.” Callisto Research published the report and disclosed that it held a short position in Sportradar shares. It says Sportradar’s image as a sports integrity specialist conflicts with allegations that some websites using its tools or feeds operate unlawfully. Callisto said it found “over 270 individual platforms” that it says use Sportradar products or services while operating illegally in regulated or prohibited markets. It also alleged that some lacked licences and that certain regulators had started reviews. ReadWrite has not independently verified those allegations. Sportradar compliance questions and short seller market reaction to alleged illegal betting Sportradar answered by pointing to its controls, licensing checks and public disclosures. “Sportradar works exclusively with licensed operators, follows strict global compliance, and due diligence standards, and we stand by our independently audited financial statements, risk disclosures, and information provided to investors and regulators,” the spokesperson said. The company also stressed its internal standards. The company added: “We conduct our business with the highest ethical standards consistent with company policies, laws and regulations.” The Callisto document focuses on examples where Sportradar widgets, virtual sports products, backend tools or branding allegedly appeared on sites aimed at places where gambling is limited or banned. Separate appendices released with research materials from Muddy Waters Research describe technical methods used to identify what the authors said were customer integrations. These included reviews of client IDs, widget loaders and licensing endpoints. Even so, code snippets, branding elements, old references or third-party integrations on external websites do not automatically prove a current commercial relationship. They also do not by themselves establish knowledge, misconduct or a regulatory breach by Sportradar. Short-seller reports are written by investors who benefit if a company’s share price drops. That does not mean every claim lacks merit, but it does mean the research comes from an interested party. Such reports commonly include disclaimers stating they are not investment advice. At the time of writing, Sportradar stock was down 23% ahead of reporting its first quarter results on May 6. The combo punch of @callistores and @muddywatersre has sent Sportradar reeling. $SRADTake your twenties, gentlemen. pic.twitter.com/Xv5kaozn4Q— Codfish Johnny (@CodfishJohnny) April 22, 2026 Sportradar sells sports data, integrity monitoring and betting technology to leagues, bookmakers and media groups around the world. Because the company has long promoted anti-match-fixing work and regulatory compliance, any prolonged scrutiny of those claims could draw investor attention even while management firmly rejects the accusations. As of publication, no regulator had publicly announced enforcement action against Sportradar tied to the specific allegations in the report. Featured image: Sportradar The post Sportradar denies short seller claims of links to illegal betting appeared first on ReadWrite.

With dummy models of Apple's rumored foldable iPhone now circulating, YouTube channel Max Tech's Vadim Yuryev has shared images and video of the book-style form factor compared to existing Apple devices, giving us a better idea of what to expect when it launches later this year. The foldable iPhone's inner display is said to have a 4:3 aspect ratio like an iPad, and it will have an iPad mini-sized OLED display when it's opened up. Most rumors say it will be 5.5 inches when closed, and 7.8 inches when open, making it a bit smaller than the 8.3-inch iPad mini (shown behind the dummy in the image above). Compared to an iPhone 17 Pro Max in landscape orientation, Yurydev says the width of the foldable is basically the same, but it has a 56.9 percent taller display (71 mm vs. 111.5 mm). Yurydev suggests this will provide a more immersive video experience at 16:9 and will be "awesome" for gaming using onscreen controls. pic.twitter.com/6E67aPrC3x— Vadim Yuryev (@VadimYuryev) April 22, 2026 Yurydev also shared a video showing what it might be like to interact with the outer display, which is probably smaller than many people will be expecting. According to The Information, it will measure just 5.3 inches – smaller than the 5.4-inch screen on the iPhone 13 mini – but that claim is an outlier, whereas most rumors put it at 5.5 inches. Either way, bigger hands may find it takes some getting used to. Further images give us an idea of the side of the device when folded. A Touch ID-integrated power button and a Camera Control button can be seen set apart on the right side, with volume buttons along the top like the iPad mini. Face ID is not expected to feature because of space constraints, while Apple apparently sees Camera Control as a key feature for the device, enabling users to maintain a steady grip while making any required adjustments, or do so one-handed if they wish. Note the raised camera bump or "plateau" that does not span across the entire back of the device. It houses a two-lens camera system, rather than three, which is expected. Yurydev says his dummy unit is exactly 11mm thick when it's closed. That contrasts with rumors suggesting the foldable could be around 9mm to 9.5mm when closed. Yurydev stands by the accuracy of his dummy, saying it should be "spot on" like last year's iPhone 17 Pro units. Yurydev did not disclose the thickness of the unit when open, but if it is 4.5mm as some rumors claim, the foldable iPhone will be Apple's thinnest device by far. iPhone Ultra: Launch, Pricing, and What to Expect From Apple's Foldable Apple is expected to unveil the foldable iPhone in September alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max models (shown above), whose dimensions are expected to remain identical to the iPhone 17 Pro series, albeit with a smaller Dynamic Island and – based on these dummies – a potentially thicker camera plateau with lenses that protrude more. Apple may call its first foldable "iPhone Ultra," according to an oft-reliable Chinese leaker.Tag: iPhone UltraThis article, "Here's How the iPhone Ultra Compares to Other Apple Devices" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has signed an executive order blocking state workers from using confidential government information to make money on prediction markets, calling the practice a threat to public trust. The order was signed on Wednesday (April 22) in Albany and took effect immediately. It applies to covered state officers and employees. They are barred from using “any nonpublic information obtained in the course of their official duties” to seek gains or avoid losses through trades on prediction market platforms. They also cannot help other people profit by passing along inside information. NEW: @GovKathyHochul signs EO No. 60 barring state workers from using insider info to profit on prediction markets, violation means firing @RWW #PredictionMarkets pic.twitter.com/b6kyiGngD5— Suswati Basu (@suswatibasu) April 22, 2026 Violations can bring dismissal, other discipline, and possible referrals to law enforcement or ethics agencies. “Getting rich by betting on inside information is corruption, plain and simple,” Hochul said in the state’s announcement. “Our actions will ensure that public servants work for the people they represent, not their own personal enrichment.” We’ve all seen it. Anonymous traders betting on government secrets and walking away with massive payouts.Washington is fine with it. New York isn’t. pic.twitter.com/LUKXG5szCL— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) April 22, 2026 Prediction markets let users buy and sell contracts based on whether future events happen. The governor’s office said those events can include “outcomes of military activity, election results, or the severity of natural disasters,” along with “obscure and manipulable events” such as “the attire of public officials at appearances” or “the volume of social media posts made by an individual.” How the Hochul insider trading order reaches prediction markets The executive order says ethics rules need to keep pace with newer trading platforms. It states that “the maintenance of public trust is founded on the principle that public servants are charged with using their positions to benefit the public good,” and that officials should not use access to government information “for personal financial gain.” It also says the “recent proliferation of prediction markets” has raised the risk that people with privileged knowledge may try to profit by “trading on insider information.” Each public authority in New York is directed to adopt matching policies for officers and employees who serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority. The order defines a prediction market as an exchange-traded platform or service not licensed or permitted by the New York State Gaming Commission, where participants trade contracts tied to future events including elections, sports, economic indicators, or the actions and speech of individuals. The move lands as prediction markets face heavier scrutiny across the country. We previously reported the controversy around a Polymarket contract tied to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, where questions were raised about settlement decisions and whether insiders could benefit from opaque processes. In a video statement posted on X, Hochul pointed to what she called “really suspicious bets with huge payoffs” including the Polymarket contract tied to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, markets on the timing and location of military actions in Iran, and even bets on the length of White House press briefings. She said insider trading in stocks has long been illegal, but argued similar conduct on prediction markets can happen with “zero consequences.” She also drew a contrast with Washington, saying, “some in Washington think this is fair, but here in New York, we say no.” The state has also been aggressive in policing other financial platforms. State regulators have pursued major crypto companies including Coinbase and Gemini in separate legal actions centered on compliance, disclosures, and consumer protections. At the same t

Prediction-market exchange Kalshi has publicly identified three political candidates it says violated rules that bar traders from betting on contests they can influence. Their names appeared in formal enforcement notices after the company first announced the cases without identifying anyone. Kalshi earlier published a company update titled “Enforcement update: Kalshi continues crackdown on political insider trading,” saying three investigations had been completed. The company wrote: “Today, we’re releasing notices related to three enforcement investigations.” It added that “All three cases concern political insider trading and were flagged because of our newly released safeguards to block political candidates from trading on their own elections.” Today, we're releasing notices related to three enforcement investigations.All three cases concern political insider trading and were flagged because of our newly released safeguards to block political candidates from trading on their own elections.Kalshi does not tolerate…— robertjdenault (@robertjdenault) April 22, 2026 It described the punishments but did not name the people involved. Public disciplinary records linked to the update identified them as Matt Klein, Mark Moran, and Ezekiel Enriquez.  Who are the alleged election candidates penalized by Kalshi? Prediction markets appear to be pushing deeper into the worlds of politics and sport, raising urgent questions about whether they can truly guard against insider advantage. Critics warn that when candidates, campaign operatives, donors, or others with privileged access are allowed to trade on election-linked contracts, the integrity of those markets is immediately called into question. Kalshi, for its part, says it is tightening the net. The company has stated stronger restrictions on politicians and athletes, increased automated surveillance, and improved reviews designed to identify conflicts before they can distort the market, following another two insider trading cases. The company said the three matters showed how internal controls can identify improper activity. In its update, Kalshi said the cases demonstrated how “developing proactive engineering solutions can help identify illicit trading activity.” Kalshi has also argued that prediction markets can function as information tools rather than gambling products. However, it depends heavily on confidence that insiders cannot profit from private knowledge or direct control over outcomes. The three candidate cases In the first matter, a settlement notice said Klein had “announced himself as a candidate for public office and was added as a market option for a contract on [election].” The notice continued: “As a candidate, Klein qualified as a direct decision maker for the contract and had direct influence on the outcome of the Underlying event.” Kalshi said Klein then traded “in violation of Rule 5.17(z),” which prohibits users from trading on markets where they are a decision-maker or have influence over the outcome. Under the settlement, Kalshi suspended Klein from direct or indirect access to the platform for five years and imposed a $539.85 financial penalty. Klein is a Democratic Minnesota state senator and reported he admitted making a $50 wager. In a statement on X, Klein wrote: “In October 2025 I heard from friends that there was a prediction market site with wagers on my primary race. I had never wagered on a predictions market previously. I was curious about how it worked. I set up an account and bet $50 of my own funds that I would win the primary.  !I was informed in March of 2026 that this was a violation of the platform rules. In compliance with their request, I paid a penalty and agreed to be suspended from the platform. That was the only wager I have ever made on a predictions market. This was a mistake, and I apologize.” pic.twitter.com/gjQgGGWxrx— Dr. Matt Klein (@DrMattKleinMN) April 22, 2026 The second case involved Mark Moran. Kalshi alleged that “in N

Apple appears to be sold out of the base Mac mini, and the machine is listed as “Currently Unavailable” from the Apple Online Store. The base ‌Mac mini‌ is the model with an M4 chip, 256GB of storage, and 16GB RAM. M4 Mac mini models with upgraded storage are still in stock, as are ‌Mac mini‌ models that are equipped with the M4 Pro chip. Configurations with 24GB RAM are also still available, but some models that use 32GB RAM or higher are out of stock. When an Apple device goes out of stock, it can be an indication of an imminent refresh, but it’s not clear if that’s the case with the ‌Mac mini‌. The ‌Mac mini‌ has been in high demand because people are purchasing it to use as a machine to run AI models locally, so it’s possible the shortage is related to demand rather than a sign that an update is coming soon. Apple is also dealing with RAM shortages caused by a surge in global memory demand that has led to increased RAM pricing. The memory shortages previously caused some higher tier ‌Mac mini‌ and Mac Studio models to go out of stock. Apple removed the 512GB ‌Mac Studio‌ from its online store entirely earlier this year. Apple is working on M5 and M5 Pro versions of the ‌Mac mini‌ for 2026, but the update may not come until later in the year due to the RAM supply issues. (Thanks, Max!) Related Roundup: Mac miniBuyer's Guide: Mac Mini (Caution)Related Forum: Mac miniThis article, "Base Mac Mini Sold Out From Apple Online Store" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums

Apple is working on a new version of the AirPods Pro, which could come as soon as this year. The AirPods are expected to be a variant of the current AirPods Pro, which suggests they won't be called the AirPods Pro 4. Cameras Multiple sources have said Apple is developing AirPods Pro that have tiny infrared cameras. The cameras won't be used to take photos or videos like an iPhone camera, but will instead provide the AirPods with information about what's around the wearer. Cameras could potentially provide data to a connected iPhone, improving Visual Intelligence and Siri features that are set to come out in iOS 27. Gestures The infrared cameras could recognize hand gestures, allowing music and other features to be controlled with hand movements. The AirPods Pro already support head gestures for doing things like declining or accepting phone calls, and the addition of hand gestures could expand this functionality. Apple could even remove pressure sensitivity from the stem of the AirPods Pro, making gestures the main control method. Vision Pro Integration Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo believes the cameras integrated into the AirPods Pro will upgrade the spatial audio experience when used with the Apple Vision Pro headset. Naming There is some disagreement about where the AirPods Pro with cameras will fit in the AirPods lineup, and what they will be called. The AirPods Pro 3 came out in September 2025, and the new model with cameras isn't expected to be labeled AirPods Pro 4. Apple could just upgrade the ‌AirPods Pro 3‌ with cameras and keep the name, or call them something like ‌AirPods Pro 3‌ with Cameras. Apple released two versions of the AirPods 4, one that has ANC and one that doesn't. The ANC model is named ‌AirPods 4‌ with Active Noise Cancellation, so there is precedent for a straightforward AirPods Pro name. Apple could also call the AirPods Pro with cameras the "AirPods Ultra," and that's what some rumors suggest will happen. H3 Chip It's possible that Apple will include a new H3 chip with camera-equipped AirPods Pro. Apple is working on a new chip, but the current ‌AirPods Pro 3‌ launched with the same H2 chip that was in the AirPods Pro 2. The H3 chip is expected to bring lower latency and improved audio quality. Pricing Some rumors suggest the AirPods Pro with cameras will be more expensive than the existing model, while others say they will be the same price. If Apple is planning to sell them for $249, the AirPods Pro with cameras would replace the current model. If they're more expensive at ~$299, they could be sold alongside the ‌AirPods Pro 3‌. Launch Date A new version of the AirPods Pro with cameras could come out as soon as 2026, and if that launch timing is accurate, we'll likely see them introduced alongside new iPhone models in September.Related Roundup: AirPods Pro 3Buyer's Guide: AirPods Pro (Buy Now)Related Forum: AirPodsThis article, "What to Expect From the Next AirPods Pro, Launching as Soon as This Year" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums

The iOS 26.4.2, iPadOS 26.4.2, iOS 18.7.8, and iPadOS 18.7.8 updates that Apple released today address a security vulnerability that the FBI recently used to extract Signal message previews from an iPhone even after the app was deleted. A flaw with notification services allowed notifications that were supposed to be deleted to be retained on an iPhone or iPad. Apple says it fixed the logging issue with improved data redaction. Apple became aware of the vulnerability after recent court testimony revealed that the FBI was able to access the internal notification database on an iPhone involved in a case, providing law enforcement with access to message previews. The iPhone in question was set to display the content of Signal messages on the Lock Screen, and with that feature enabled, the iPhone stores message content. The defendant in the case had deleted the Signal app and had Signal messages set to disappear, but the iPhone kept the messages in its database long enough for the FBI to access them. Apple users running iOS 26, iPadOS 26, iOS 18, or iPadOS 18 should update to the latest versions to avoid being impacted by the security flaw.Related Roundups: iOS 26, iPadOS 26Tags: FBI, SignalRelated Forum: iOS 26This article, "iOS 26.4.2 Patches Flaw That Let FBI Extract Deleted Signal Messages" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums

Google today commented on its partnership with Apple, confirming that Gemini will power a new, more personalized version of Siri that's set to be released later in 2026. Google Cloud chief Thomas Kurian mentioned the Apple partnership during Google Cloud Next 2026, a conference that's taking place in Las Vegas, Nevada today. Earlier this year, we announced a monumental partnership with one of the most iconic brands that will bring the power of our technology to users everywhere around the world. We're collaborating with Apple as their preferred cloud provider to develop the next generation of Apple Foundation Models based on Gemini technology. These models will now power future Apple Intelligence features including a more personalized Siri coming later this year. Kurian's comment doesn't provide us with any new information because Apple has already committed to a 2026 launch for the new ‌Siri‌ features. When Apple first delayed the smarter ‌Siri‌ in March 2025, the company said it would launch "in the coming year." Later in 2025, Apple said that ‌Siri‌ would get an update at some point in 2026, though it did not provide a specific launch timeline. In February 2026, Apple confirmed to CNBC that the new version of ‌Siri‌ is still set to come out this year. According to rumors, Apple was planning to release the Apple Intelligence version of ‌Siri‌ in spring 2026, but ran into issues with accuracy. Since Apple never gave a launch date beyond 2026, the ‌Siri‌ update isn't exactly delayed, but Apple has needed to adjust its internal schedule. Apple has until December 31, 2026 to update ‌Siri‌, but we could get a first look at the new personal assistant in iOS 27. Kurian did say that Google Cloud is Apple's "preferred cloud provider," which is the same language that Google used earlier this year. It continues to be unclear if the new ‌Siri‌ and Gemini-powered ‌Apple Intelligence‌ features will use Private Cloud Compute or will run on Google's servers. Apple has asked Google to investigate setting up servers in Google data centers to run ‌Siri‌ because Apple is anticipating much more cloud usage when the smarter ‌Siri‌ launches. Apple plans to introduce ‌iOS 27‌ at the Worldwide Developers Conference, which is set to begin on June 8, 2026. We'll hear more about ‌Siri‌ at WWDC.Tags: Gemini, Google, Siri, Siri ChatbotThis article, "Google Confirms Gemini-Powered Siri Coming Later This Year" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums

Apple today released minor iOS 26.4.2 and iPadOS 26.4.2 software updates for the iPhone and iPad, respectively. The updates are available two weeks after Apple released iOS 26.4.1 and iPadOS 26.4.1. The new software can be downloaded on eligible iPhones and iPads over-the-air by going to Settings → General → Software Update. According to Apple's release notes, the software updates contain unspecified bug fixes and security updates. Apple also released iOS 18.7.8 for older iPhones that are not updated to iOS 26. Apple is already beta testing iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5, the next versions of ‌iOS 26‌ that will likely launch later in May.Related Roundups: iOS 26, iPadOS 26Related Forum: iOS 26This article, "Apple Releases iOS 26.4.2 and iPadOS 26.4.2 With Bug Fixes" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums

OpenAI this week introduced ChatGPT Images 2.0, which the company says brings a new era of image generation. Images 2.0 is an updated model that can better handle complex visual tasks. It is able to follow detailed instructions, placing and relating objects accurately, preserving fine detail, and rendering dense layouts. Images 2.0 is OpenAI’s first image model with thinking capabilities, and it has an improved sense of composition and visual taste, which OpenAI says will result in images that feel less AI-generated. Images 2.0 is able to search the web to get real-time information, create up to eight images from a single prompt, and double-check its output. Graphics can be created across several aspect ratios and at up to 2K resolution. The new model also has improved multilingual understanding and can better render non-Latin text like Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Hindi, and Bengali. Images 2.0 is available now for all ChatGPT, Codex, and API users.Tags: ChatGPT, OpenAIThis article, "OpenAI Launches ChatGPT Images 2.0 With Thinking Capabilities and Better Text Rendering" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums

A federal appeals court has given the Comanche Nation a mixed but meaningful win in its fight over the Warm Springs Casino run by the Fort Sill Apache Tribe near Lawton, Oklahoma. In a decision filed Tuesday (April 21), the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit said part of the lawsuit can keep moving even after arguments that tribal sovereign immunity should block the case. Judges said the Comanche Nation may continue claims under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, known as IGRA, against Fort Sill Apache officials sued in their official roles. NEW: Tenth Circuit splits casino immunity case: Comanche Nation IGRA claims survive, while Fort Sill Apache officials win partial RICO shield @RWW pic.twitter.com/W7xOcyrTNH— Suswati Basu (@suswatibasu) April 21, 2026 The dispute began after Warm Springs Casino opened in 2022. According to the ruling, the Comanche Nation runs nearby gaming properties and claimed that “The resulting competition made the Nation’s casinos less profitable.” The Nation asked the court to stop casino operations and award damages. The opinion says the Nation alleged the casino “was opened in violation of federal law.” Writing for the three-judge panel, Circuit Judge Timothy Tymkovich said the court would “affirm in part and reverse in part.” Why the Warm Springs Casino ruling supporting the Comanche Nation matters The panel said “the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) abrogates the Tribe’s sovereign immunity defense, so the Nation can proceed with its official-capacity claims under IGRA.” It keeps alive the central argument that Warm Springs Casino may be operating outside the Fort Sill Apache Tribe’s gaming compact with Oklahoma. The Comanche Nation contends the casino sits on land that does not qualify as Fort Sill Apache land under that compact. Judges said the complaint alleges the Tsalote Allotment remains Kiowa land, not Fort Sill Apache land. At this stage, the court said it had to accept properly pleaded allegations as true. The ruling also said the claim fits a federal provision allowing suits “initiated by a State or Indian tribe to enjoin a class III gaming activity located on Indian lands and conducted in violation of any Tribal-State compact.” But the Comanche Nation did not win across the board. The judges rejected official-capacity racketeering claims under RICO that sought injunctions and declarations. The panel said the Ex Parte Young exception could not be used here because the complaint did not tie the named officials to ongoing casino operations. As the panel put it, “Ex Parte Young does not help the Nation because its claims are not against officials charged with operating the casino.” The court separately allowed individual-capacity RICO damages claims to continue, saying those claims target officials personally rather than the tribe itself. Because of that, judges wrote, “they cannot raise the Tribe’s sovereign immunity.” The panel did not decide whether those officials might later assert qualified immunity. The case now returns to the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma. The decision lands amid wider tribal gaming battles, including a temporary casino deal involving Yocha Dehe, Vallejo, and Scotts Valley in California, and a paused northern California tribal casino lawsuit. Featured image: Google Maps The post Appeals court revives Comanche challenge to Oklahoma tribal casino lawsuit appeared first on ReadWrite.

MGM Resorts International said Tuesday (April 21) it finished the sale of the operating business at MGM Northfield Park, wrapping up a $546 million all-cash transaction that hands control of the Ohio property to funds managed by Clairvest Group Inc. The company announced the closing from Las Vegas and framed the move as another step in reshaping its holdings while unlocking money for other priorities. The sale had been expected and now formally removes the racino from MGM’s operating lineup. Dear guests, please see detailed FAQs about our property's transition here: https://t.co/f8w8gNlfcy pic.twitter.com/XVIJ0GwpPC— Northfield Park Racino (@RacinoNP) April 17, 2026 Executives said the Northfield Park property had become a leading venue in its region and credited employees for sustaining performance in a competitive market. “MGM Northfield Park is a market-leading property supported by a talented team that has consistently delivered outstanding guest experiences,” said Bill Hornbuckle, CEO & President, MGM Resorts International.  “The property has a strong foundation, and we extend our best wishes to the team and new ownership for continued success in the next chapter of the property’s evolution.” The transaction also changes MGM’s lease structure with VICI Properties Inc. MGM said its master lease, which previously included MGM Northfield Park, was amended at closing and will lower annual rent by $53 million. After taxes and deal expenses, MGM expects to receive about $420 million in net cash proceeds. That gives the company additional flexibility as it weighs investments, debt management, and shareholder returns. Chief Financial Officer Jonathan Halkyard said the sale showcases the strength of MGM’s operating assets while allowing the company to move on from a property it no longer views as core to long-term plans. “The closing of this transaction underscores the value of MGM’s high-quality operations and provides an opportunity to divest a non-strategic regional asset at a significantly higher multiple than currently ascribed to our premium portfolio,” said Jonathan Halkyard, CFO, MGM Resorts International. “The proceeds will be deployed in line with our priorities of maintaining a strong balance sheet, selectively investing in growth opportunities, and returning capital to shareholders.” MGM said Northfield Park produced roughly $142 million in adjusted EBITDAR for the year ended Dec. 31, 2025. The company noted that adjusted EBITDAR is a non-GAAP financial measure often used in gaming and hospitality to compare property-level performance. Advisers on the sale included Jefferies LLC and SMBC Nikko Securities America, Inc. Legal counsel was provided by Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP. Northfield Park sale gives MGM more room for capital plans The completed transaction adds liquidity while MGM continues to concentrate on larger resort destinations and digital gaming interests. The company has repeatedly said it wants to focus capital where returns can be strongest. MGM Resorts operates casino and hotel properties across the United States and in international markets. It also holds online sports betting and iGaming interests through BetMGM and related brands, while pursuing a major integrated resort project in Japan as part of its Asia growth strategy. Featured image: MGM Resorts via Facebook The post MGM completes Northfield Park sale for $546M appeared first on ReadWrite.

Resorts World New York City says it plans to open New York City’s first live table games casino on April 28, bringing blackjack, craps, baccarat and roulette to Queens in a major expansion beside Aqueduct Racetrack. The start still depends on final testing by the New York Gaming Commission this week. If regulators sign off, the property says it will become the first place in the five boroughs to run live dealer table games. A rebuilt third floor is set to debut with more than 240 tables and over 1,500 gaming positions spread across blackjack, craps, baccarat and roulette. Guests will also find more than 2,500 slot machines on opening day. The company says thousands of additional machines are expected later in 2026. Resorts World New York City will open its table games April 28, the casino announced earlier today; Resorts World in Queens will become the first legal casino in New York City to offer live dealer table games— Ryan Butler (@ButlerBets) April 21, 2026 “New York City has never seen anything like what we’re planning for April 28. Once the Gaming Commission’s final testing is complete, live table games will be open and operating right here in Queens for the first time in the history of New York City. We are ready to welcome New Yorkers to this exciting new experience,” said Robert DeSalvio, President of Genting Americas East.  “Resorts World now employees over 2,200 Team Members and have already doubled our workforce and expect thousands more Team Members as the integrated resort is developed over the next three years. This is a transformational moment for Resorts World New York City, and we cannot wait to share it with our fellow New Yorkers.” Resorts World Queens casino hiring ramped up ahead of live tables opening Ahead of the launch, Resorts World says it added 1,250 jobs, including 950 new table-game dealers. Most of those hires completed orientation during several sessions this week. The company says its workforce now stands at about 2,200 people and could climb past 2,700 by summer as operations grow. Resorts World New York City lanyards are seen ahead of the casino’s live table games launch. Credit: Whitmore Studios / Resorts World Executives also pointed out a local training pipeline. Resorts World says its Introduction to Gaming program began in 2022 and has trained more than 350 residents for gaming careers. It also says the Resorts World Dealer School has already trained and hired more than 400 local residents in Queens, with another 500 graduates expected by May. A formal opening ceremony is scheduled for Tuesday, April 28, at 9:30 a.m. with plans calling for a ribbon-cutting and a ceremonial first roll of the dice. The company says Genting Chairman KT Lim and NAS are expected to attend alongside elected officials, community leaders and other guests. The property at 110-00 Rockaway Blvd. in Jamaica says it remains the city’s only casino-hotel and has generated nearly $5 billion for New York public education since 2011. It also includes the 400-room Hyatt Regency JFK Airport at Resorts World New York City, which opened in 2021. The expansion arrives as New York moves toward awarding three downstate casino licenses. Resorts World has submitted a reported $5.5 billion proposal to redevelop the site into a larger integrated resort, and its community advisory committee recently advanced the bid to the next stage. Featured: Whitmore Studios / Resorts World The post Resorts World Queens casino to debut first live tables in April appeared first on ReadWrite.

New York Attorney General Letitia James has opened what may become one of the biggest state fights yet over prediction markets, suing Coinbase and Gemini and accusing both companies of running illegal online gambling operations. The paired cases were filed in New York Supreme Court and ask judges for heavy financial penalties that could ripple across a fast-growing corner of crypto finance. State lawyers say residents were allowed to stake money on sports, elections, and entertainment results without the gaming licenses New York requires for legal wagering. In the attorney general’s view, calling those products market contracts does not change what they are. .@Gemini and @coinbase's so-called prediction markets are just illegal gambling operations that expose young people to addictive platforms.Gambling by another name is still gambling. I'm suing to stop these platforms from breaking the law.https://t.co/DosDKe2un1— NY AG James (@NewYorkStateAG) April 21, 2026 James said the companies cannot sidestep gambling law by changing labels, and that “New Yorkers deserve the protections that come with legal, regulated gaming.” Her office said it wants the court to force both firms to surrender profits, compensate consumers, and “pay fines equal to three times the profits the companies made through their illegal actions.” The filings also ask for permanent court orders stopping the businesses from continuing in New York. New York AG launches sweeping state investigation against Coinbase and Gemini The complaints address how much direct testing state investigators say they carried out themselves. According to the filings, investigators placed about 22,000 bets on Coinbase and another 12,000 bets on Gemini over roughly two and a half months. The New York AG's Office placed 12,000 bets on Gemini over a two-and-a-half-month period. pic.twitter.com/k9AKRpCokL— Daniel Wallach (@WALLACHLEGAL) April 21, 2026 The complaints indicate investigators tracked how accounts were opened, how wagers were entered, what fees were charged, and how payouts moved back to users. The timing matters because New York already runs one of the country’s most tightly controlled sports betting systems. Licensed mobile sportsbooks operate under strict rules, identity checks, and tax rates that have produced more than $1 billion a year for the state. Officials argue prediction markets cut around that structure while avoiding the same safeguards. James has recently tied the spread of prediction markets to concerns often raised about sports betting expansion, especially risks for young men and vulnerable consumers. State Sen. Joseph Addabbo Jr., a key Albany voice on gaming issues, previously told ReadWrite that federally regulated event-contract platforms may be pushing into territory traditionally overseen by states. The allegations against Gemini Titan and Coinbase The Gemini complaint says Gemini Titan LLC rolled out Gemini Predictions in December 2025 and made the product available across the country, including New York. Prosecutors cite Gemini’s own statement that it was “now live across all 50 U.S. states.” State lawyers say users could take positions on outcomes ranging from the Super Bowl to college basketball and reality television, including “Survivor Season 50.” The petition argues Gemini “seeks to avoid the legal and financial consequences of New York’s close regulation of gambling by offering what is quintessentially wagering under the guise of offering ‘event contracts’ on a ‘prediction market.’” The state also claims the platform allowed users between ages 18 and 21 to participate, despite New York restricting sports wagering to those 21 and older. The Coinbase case follows the same blueprint. Prosecutors say Coinbase entered the prediction market business in December 2025 and later said its products were “live in all 50 states.” According to the complaint, users could wager on whether the New York Knicks would cover a point spread, who would win the

Kalshi went to federal court in Montana on Tuesday (April 21), asking a judge to stop state officials from using gambling laws against its federally regulated prediction market. The company says Montana is trying to shut down trading activity that falls under the sole authority of the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission. The filing seeks a preliminary injunction in the U.S. District Court for the District of Montana. On the same day, Kalshi also filed an unopposed request to pause case deadlines while both sides continue discussions. Defendants include Attorney General Austin Knudsen, the Montana Gambling Control Division, and other state officials. NEW: Kalshi sues Montana officials, claiming state crackdown on event contracts violates federal authority over derivatives markets #PredictionMarkets @RWW pic.twitter.com/K6RIjpB4Xk— Suswati Basu (@suswatibasu) April 13, 2026 Kalshi told the court state officials are “unconstitutionally threatening to prohibit trading on Kalshi’s federally designated contract market,” even though its contracts are “federally authorized” and Congress granted the CFTC “exclusive jurisdiction” over designated contract markets. Kalshi runs a federally licensed exchange offering event contracts. The contracts let users trade on whether future events will happen, from economic data to elections and sports outcomes. The company argues those products are derivatives governed by federal commodities law, not sports wagers or gambling products controlled separately by each state. According to the complaint, Montana regulators decided Kalshi’s offerings in the state “constitute illegal gambling” under Montana law and ordered the company to stop offering contracts to residents. The state warned that it “expect[ed]” Kalshi to “voluntarily comply” and that “[r]efusal to do so will result in legal action against Kalshi.” Why Kalshi is asking for a preliminary injunction against Montana Kalshi said Montana had previously agreed to a standstill in April 2025. Under that deal, the Gambling Control Division said it would “not initiate any civil or criminal enforcement against Kalshi during the pendency of” related Nevada litigation and would “defer any enforcement pending the outcome of the proceedings before Chief Judge Gordon in Nevada and any appeal to the Ninth Circuit.” The company says those Nevada proceedings were still active when Montana sent a new cease-and-desist letter dated April 6, 2026. Kalshi says it received that letter on April 11, asked officials for clarification, but “received no response and filed the Complaint.” In its latest brief, Kalshi argued Congress built a national framework for exchanges like its own, and letting states block trading one by one would break that system. The company cited legislative history saying that “different State laws would just lead to total chaos.” The Montana case follows similar fights around the country. Kalshi has recently pointed to favorable rulings in New Jersey, Arizona, and Tennessee, where judges found the company was likely to succeed on arguments that federal commodities law preempts state gaming enforcement. It has also sued Iowa while challenging similar state actions elsewhere. Kalshi says immediate relief is needed because Montana’s newest letter creates an “imminent threat” of enforcement. It asked the court to stop officials from enforcing Montana gambling statutes or “any other Montana law that attempts to regulate Kalshi’s exchange” while the lawsuit moves ahead. Featured image: Kalshi / Canva The post Kalshi seeks Montana court injunction over federal prediction market authority fight appeared first on ReadWrite.

Germany’s gambling regulator says it has intensified action against rapper Capital Bra after what it describes as repeated promotion of illegal online gambling across his social media accounts. The Joint Gambling Authority of the Länder, or GGL, said on Monday (April 20) that an ongoing case centers on videos and livestreams in which the artist allegedly showed himself using unauthorized gambling services while encouraging followers to engage with them. The news comes after reports that he was rushed to the hospital the same day following an alleged drug overdose. Capital Bra soll Werbung gemacht, selbst gespielt und das im Internet gezeigt haben. Die Glücksspielbehörde will, dass er zahlt, doch der Rapper reagiert nicht. https://t.co/Fq9g0Fz4Au— stern (@sternde) April 20, 2026 According to the authority, videos remained available on his channels after the streams ended, while banner advertising for related sites continued to appear. Regulators also allege he ran a comparison website that directed users toward illegal gambling providers. German law bars advertising for illegal gambling under Section 5, paragraph 7 of the 2021 State Treaty on Gambling. The GGL says showing participation in unlawful gambling can itself function as marketing because it normalizes the activity and drives traffic. How the illegal gambling crackdown grew against Capital Bra The authority said it first opened proceedings in October 2025 over suspected illegal gambling advertising. It says a hearing notice received no response. A prohibition order followed, including the threat of a coercive fine, and regulators say that order also went unanswered. The GGL then set a coercive penalty of 250,000 euros ($294,000). With assistance from West Hesse police, officials served the notice during one of the rapper’s club concerts in Wiesbaden last weekend. “We are not deterred even by well-known names. Anyone who promotes illegal gambling must expect decisive regulatory action,” Ronald Benter, executive board member of the GGL, said in the statement. The regulator says cases involving celebrities and influencers can be harder to enforce when individuals are difficult to contact or documents cannot be served easily. Even so, it says it will keep using available legal tools and police cooperation when needed. Germany has recently warned consumers about newer forms of illegal social betting that can spread quickly online through community-style platforms and creator promotion. Officials say those offers may appear harmless or game-like while still exposing users to unlicensed gambling risks. There has been increasing scrutiny of celebrity-linked gambling promotion internationally. Recent reporting has examined claims around high-profile streaming losses involving Drake and Stake, raising questions about whether sponsored personalities gamble with their own funds or promotional balances. Elsewhere in Europe, regulators have also stepped up enforcement. Finnish authorities recently moved against two influencers over gambling marketing tied to possible fines of 30,000 euros, while the Dutch gambling authority took action involving influencer LeftLanePapi over illegal gambling promotion. The GGL says its campaign is meant to protect consumers from sites outside state supervision. It warns those operators may lack player safeguards and can expose users to addiction, manipulated game presentations, and serious financial losses. Featured image: Stefan Brending / CC-BY-SA-3.0 de The post German regulator targets Capital Bra over alleged illegal gambling promotion case appeared first on ReadWrite.

A former finance manager for the Fresno Arts Council has pleaded guilty after federal prosecutors accused her of siphoning more than $1.8 million from the nonprofit, and spending part of the money to gamble at local casinos, pay for vacations, and cover other personal expenses. Suliana Caldwell, 46, of Fresno, admitted one count of wire fraud in federal court, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California said. Prosecutors contend the losses mounted while she controlled key accounts and handled internal financial reporting. The former Fresno Arts Council operations manager pleaded guilty today to federal wire fraud charges following an investigation by the FBI and the @FresnoPolice. She embezzled more than $1.8 million from the organization. Please visit https://t.co/otOrH4iwxb for more information. pic.twitter.com/XdNBCs7vgC— FBI Sacramento (@FBISacramento) April 20, 2026 According to court records, Caldwell worked as the council’s operations manager from 2021 until February 2026. The position gave her authority over bank accounts, payroll, grants, donations and other day-to-day finances. She also assembled financial updates that were shared with the executive director, board members and local government officials. Investigators say the theft started in 2022, when Caldwell began making “unauthorized transfers from the FAC’s bank accounts to her own personal PayPal and to her bank accounts.” Prosecutors said the amounts grew sharply the following year after new public money reached the organization. The plea agreement says those transfers “increased significantly in 2023” after the council began receiving Measure P funds. Measure P is a voter-approved Fresno tax measure that supports parks, trails, arts programming and other community projects. Federal prosecutors said the Fresno Arts Council received $9.4 million in August 2023, followed by another $5.7 million in October 2024. How Fresno Arts Council manager hid money used for gambling and personal expenses Federal prosecutors said Caldwell used a position of trust to keep the scheme from being detected. According to the plea agreement, she “altered and misreported the financial figures in the reports to make the reports appear as though no unauthorized transfers were occurring.” They were then provided to council leaders and public officials as if they were accurate, prosecutors said. The filing says that between June 2022 and February 2026, Caldwell took more than $1.8 million. It adds: “She then used the funds to gamble at local casinos, pay for vacations, and for other improper personal expenses.” Investigators said Caldwell later met with the Fresno Police Department and the FBI on March 26, 2026. During that interview, authorities said, she confessed and described the organization’s financial procedures during her time there. Caldwell’s defense attorney, Kevin Rooney, told reporters outside the court: “Ms Caldwell had some emotional problems, alcohol problems, all of it spiralled into a gambling addiction. “Ms Caldwell’s extremely distraught about what she’s done. It’s impacted her family; it’s impacted the Fresno Arts Council.” Suliana Caldwell walked into federal court on Monday to plead guilty after prosecutors said she stole $1.8 million from the Fresno Arts Council.I exclusively reported on the investigation and her identity in February.Watch my latest reporting for @ABC30 pic.twitter.com/01g9CzutJD— Gabe Ferris (@GabeABC30) April 21, 2026 When asked about the artists impacted by the theft, Rooney added, “I can’t speak exactly to what Ms. Caldwell would say. She’s very upset. It’s just unfortunate all around for the artists, for the community, for Ms Caldwell, for her family.” The FBI and Fresno Police Department are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cody S. Chapple and Joseph D. Barton are leading the prosecution. Caldwell is scheduled to be sentenced before U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston on August 10, 2026. She fa

Fanatics Markets has introduced a new product called Combos, giving customers another way to trade sports outcomes as the basketball playoffs get underway. The feature was rolled out Monday (April 20). It allows users to bundle multiple outcomes into one new contract inside Fanatics Markets. The selections can include player props, winners, spreads and totals. Customers can mix picks from different sports, different games, or keep everything inside a single matchup. .@Fanatics Markets launches Combos, letting users bundle sports predictions across leagues. Available on iOS and Android in 24 states today. @RWW pic.twitter.com/oXffK0FYWT— Suswati Basu (@suswatibasu) April 20, 2026 The launch adds to Fanatics’ push into prediction markets, an area the company entered in 2025 when it rolled out Fanatics Markets. Earlier reporting around the launch said Fanatics was moving into the space through a partnership with Crypto.com, in a bid to offer event-based trading tied to sports results. How Fanatics Markets Combos works Fanatics said customers can find eligible markets by looking for the combo icon, then building a custom contract from there. The company says Combos is currently available for professional basketball, baseball, hockey, soccer, football, boxing, MMA and tennis, with more sports expected later. The company said it is launching the product “just in time for basketball’s postseason,” while making it usable across several major leagues at the same time. Fanatics Markets is available on iOS and Android in 24 states and four U.S. territories. The company also says web access is offered in those same approved jurisdictions. Among the states specifically named were California, Texas and Florida. Fanatics Markets has combos now pic.twitter.com/XEwHK3G11l— Dustin Gouker (@DustinGouker) April 15, 2026 The company says the platform runs on infrastructure provided by Crypto.com Derivatives North America, or CDNA, which Fanatics identified as a CFTC-registered exchange. Fanatics has argued that structure gives users a regulated venue to trade contracts tied to sports moments such as game winners, player milestones and championship outcomes. The regulatory backdrop has drawn attention across the industry. Coverage this year also noted a Nevada court dispute involving Crypto.com, which may end up affecting the partnership. Fanatics states it is also introducing consumer safeguards alongside the new product. According to the company, Fanatics Markets includes tools intended to help customers manage exposure and make informed decisions while trading. This includes deposit limits, session limits, timeouts and self-exclusion options. The company says those settings are designed to support responsible use of the platform. Featured image: Fanatics via Instagram The post Fanatics Markets launches Combos feature as basketball postseason trading starts appeared first on ReadWrite.

A fight over prediction markets, federal authority, and Arizona gambling law is moving onto a slower track after all sides asked for more time, even as they continue arguing over what a temporary court order actually blocks. In a joint status report filed Monday (April 20) in U.S. District Court in Arizona, the United States, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, Kalshi, and Arizona officials said they had met under a prior court order and were updating the judge on scheduling. LATEST: Arizona seeks June delay in Kalshi case; TRO remains as parties clash over state probe powers and betting contracts. #PredictionMarkets pic.twitter.com/FgPeJxPL9m— Suswati Basu (@suswatibasu) April 20, 2026 Arizona asked to cancel the current May 6 hearing on the federal plaintiffs’ request for a preliminary injunction and reset it for June 3 or another date later in June. The state also said, “Defendants consent to extending the current Temporary Restraining Order through the hearing date and to such time as the Court decides the Motion for Preliminary Injunction.” The temporary restraining order was issued earlier this month after a federal judge temporarily halted Arizona enforcement tied to the disputed contracts, preserving the status quo while the case moved forward. The parties also noted that the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals may soon rule in related consolidated appeals argued April 16. This involves similar clashes over event contracts and whether states can act against federally regulated markets. Federal plaintiffs said they do not need another round of briefing. They told the court that “the best course of action would be to convert the TRO to a preliminary injunction and to stay the case pending a decision in the Ninth Circuit.” Kalshi said it agrees. Arizona dispute over Kalshi scope remains amid delays Arizona wants a fuller record before any injunction decision. State lawyers said the court would benefit from information “regarding standing and any financial, economic, commercial consequences associated with sports or election event contracts traded on designated contract markets.” The state added that it expects witness testimony at the hearing and declarations with its opposition filing. Arizona also said supplemental briefing would help after the restraining order and recent appellate arguments. It plans to address “standing, merits (what instruments do or do not qualify as swaps, or as properly listed event contracts, and why), irreparable harm, and the balance of equities.” Federal plaintiffs pushed back, saying the judge already has substantial briefing and heard argument on April 10. They said more briefing “would be duplicative, especially with the Ninth Circuit likely to issue a decision quickly.” Kalshi likewise said more briefing is unnecessary, though it wants to participate if future filings affect its interests. The filing also touched on an intervention request from North American Derivatives Exchange, doing business as Crypto.com Derivatives North America. Arizona said it does not oppose intervention if the company joins the federal plaintiffs’ injunction request and avoids repetitive briefing. If approved, CDNA would be added as an intervenor-plaintiff, permitted to file its complaint in the consolidated action, and formally join the plaintiffs’ request for a preliminary injunction and temporary restraining order. Arizona said it does not oppose the move after receiving assurances that CDNA would avoid duplicative briefing. Another major issue centers on the restraining order’s reach. Arizona said it reads the order as blocking new enforcement actions, but not investigations or subpoenas. Federal plaintiffs objected, arguing investigations burden federally regulated designated contract markets, unsettle traders, and interfere with the CFTC’s claimed exclusive oversight role. Kalshi said it agrees with that reading. The Arizona case follows other recent rulings, including appellate decisions that favored K

Evoke has confirmed it is talking with Bally’s Intralot S.A. about a possible takeover, ending days of market chatter around the debt-laden betting group that owns William Hill and 888. The London-listed company said the early-stage approach values the business at 50 pence a share ($0.68). Investors have been watching for signs of corporate interest after a difficult stretch marked by tax pressure, store closures and questions over leverage. In a stock exchange statement, Evoke said it “notes the recent media speculation and confirms that it is in discussions with Bally’s Intralot S.A. … regarding a possible offer for the entire issued and to be issued share capital of the Company at a price of 50 pence per share.” The company added that the proposal “is expected to comprise an all-share combination with a partial cash alternative.” The board said there “can be no certainty that an offer will be made or as to the terms on which any offer might be made,” and said shareholders “are advised not to take any action in relation to the Proposal.” Evoke said its board is evaluating the approach with advisers Morgan Stanley and Rothschild & Co. Under takeover rules, Bally’s Intralot has until 5 p.m. London time on May 18 to announce a firm offer or step away, unless Evoke agrees to an extension. Pressure has been building for Evoke in recent months after UK Budget as Bally’s floats takeover The bid interest arrives after months in which Evoke has openly reviewed its future. In December, the company launched a strategic review that said it would consider “a range of potential alternatives to maximise shareholder value,” including “a potential sale of the Group, or some of the Company’s assets and/or business units.” It came after warnings that UK tax changes would squeeze earnings and make trading tougher across the regulated market. In January, we reported Evoke posted its strongest quarter of the year, with fourth-quarter revenue of £464 million ($627 million), while chief executive Per Widerström criticized the UK Budget for dealing a “significant blow to both evoke and the wider regulated industry.” In December Evoke had begun a formal review of its future direction as pressure mounted from tax increases and planned store cuts across the group. Retail operations have already been shrinking. In October, we found that William Hill planned to close around one in ten of its UK betting shops during 2026. The potential buyer itself has also been reshaped. Bally’s completed a $3 billion merger deal with Intralot in October, giving Bally’s a controlling position in the enlarged business and access to Intralot’s international lottery and digital technology assets. The American corporation based in Rhode Island, entered Europe last year when it bought Aspers Casino in Newcastle. In the same year, hedge fund Standard General completed its $4.6 billion takeover of Bally’s Corporation. It appears to be increasing its digital footprint in the UK market. For now, no firm offer has been agreed and talks remain conditional. Featured image: Hermann Luyken via WikiCommons / CC0 1.0 / WythenshaweMike via WikiCommons / CC BY 3.0 The post Evoke takeover talks by Bally’s Intralot confirm pressure on gambling group finances appeared first on ReadWrite.

Online gambling ads faced a tougher year in 2025 as Google stepped up enforcement across its network. The company says it blocked or removed 270.7 million gambling and gaming ads for breaking policy rules, putting the sector among the most heavily penalized categories in its latest Ads Safety Report. That total trailed areas such as financial services and sexual content, but it was higher than enforcement tied to alcohol and healthcare advertising. The numbers appear to show how hard it has become for platforms and regulators to police a betting market that keeps growing across borders and devices. In 2025, Gemini-powered tools helped us catch over 99% of policy-violating ads before they ever served. Our 2025 Ads Safety Report details how we’re continuing to evolve our defenses to stay ahead of even the most advanced schemes. pic.twitter.com/9oqDgbpFFc— News from Google (@NewsFromGoogle) April 16, 2026 Google also said it restricted 123.9 million gambling and gaming ads rather than removing them outright. In practice, that can mean an ad was limited by country, age gate rules, licensing status, or other local compliance checks before users could see it. Across every category, Google reported blocking or removing 8.3 billion ads in 2025. The company said more than 99% of violating ads were stopped before they were shown, reflecting its heavier use of automated detection systems and AI review tools. Google gambling ads policy changes widened oversight in 2025 The company said it took action on 9.7 million web pages for paid online gambling violations, making gambling one of the larger publisher policy issues it handled during the year. This can involve pages promoting unlicensed operators, misleading offers, or content targeting restricted audiences. Google also spent the year rewriting rules for advertisers in the sector. It tightened certification requirements for gambling and gaming campaigns, adding stricter checks around operator licensing and who is allowed to promote betting products. Certification has become central because advertisers often need approval before campaigns can run in regulated markets. Another update expanded limits on offline gambling promotion in 35 countries, which affected ads connected to physical venues and in-person wagering where local laws or licensing standards required tighter controls. The company separately moved to limit ads tied to prediction markets beginning in January 2026, signaling that newer wagering-style products will receive closer scrutiny as they spread online. Prediction markets have drawn attention because they can resemble betting products while operating under different legal frameworks. Google has also changed how it treats sweepstakes-style games, removing some social gaming classifications that previously gave certain advertisers more flexibility. Industry observers say that it closes loopholes where chance-based products could market themselves as casual entertainment instead of gambling-adjacent services. The tech giant has been responding to pressure from regulators, including those in the Netherlands, who have called for stronger action against illegal online gambling ads, saying it requires advertisers to comply with local licensing laws and certification standards before campaigns can run. Featured image: Google via X / Canva The post Gambling ads face scrutiny as Google blocks 270 million promotions in 2025 appeared first on ReadWrite.