Burger King is introducing Patty, an AI coaching assistant, to enhance employee performance and customer service by analyzing meal prep and real-time hospitality in drive-thrus. While the rollout is limited to under 100 locations, public reaction is mixed, with concerns over privacy, accuracy, and workplace surveillance overshadowing the potential benefits of this AI-driven initiative.

A federal judge denied a preservationist group's injunction to stop the White House ballroom project, suggesting they might not succeed in their legal challenge. Construction began without input from two federal panels, though the ballroom design has received some approvals, and litigation continues on environmental and statutory grounds.

Japan's population declined for the 10th consecutive year in 2025, with births hitting a record low, marking a significant demographic challenge. The government emphasizes boosting births and economic growth, while immigration policy remains a contentious issue.

U.S. aerospace and semiconductor firms face rare earth shortages as China tightens its grip on supplies, especially yttrium and scandium, essential for engines and 5G chips. The U.S. government is pursuing alternative supply chains and negotiations to mitigate dependency and secure critical minerals.

The Bank of Korea maintained the base policy rate at 2.5%, while raising the 2026 growth forecast from 1.8% to 2.0% due to strong semiconductor exports and improved consumption. Despite trade uncertainties, the central bank expects growth driven by high chip demand, with a focus on monitoring financial stability and inflation without altering liquidity measures.

Pokémon GO launches a 30th Anniversary event starting March 2026, packed with Kanto-themed content, wild spawns, and special raids until March 9. Players can join by redeeming a code, choosing a Starter, and completing tasks for rewards, with options to upgrade for more bonuses.

Researchers at Science Tokyo and The University of Tokyo have unveiled how LGP2 and MDA5 proteins collaborate to detect viral RNA, broadening the range of detectable RNA lengths for antiviral responses. Published in Molecular Cell, this study offers insights that could enhance RNA vaccine safety and effectiveness.

JaKobi Burton's involvement in prenatal care through Dads to Doulas underscores the positive impact of paternal support on birth outcomes for Black families. Experts highlight the need for more inclusive healthcare practices amid racial disparities in maternal health.

A groundbreaking US study reveals that placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells can be safely used during fetal surgery for spina bifida, potentially improving mobility and quality of life after birth. The research, involving six successful cases, showed no safety issues and suggested better functional outcomes compared to traditional surgery, marking a potential shift in treating this severe condition.

Stellantis reports a significant €20.1 billion net loss for H2 2025, largely due to €22.2 billion in charges from scaling back its EV plans. Under new CEO Antonio Filosa, the firm adopts a multi-energy strategy aimed at balancing ICE, hybrids, PHEVs, and BEVs based on market demand, while planning new model launches to stabilize revenue.