Feed your brain this weekend with intriguing stories from around the world
Here's a roundup of some interesting stories to add to your reading list...
Next week heralds a new month. Get set for it this weekend with some stories from around the world that will get you thinking.
Another boost for the four-day work week concept. A new study of 15 Australian businesses found most saw productivity stay the same or even improve, while employees reported less burnout and better work-life balance.
Even the world’s biggest tech companies are trying to seem a little more human. Many are embracing cute mascots as a way to build trust, personality and stronger customer connections.
A new study found that blockbuster films are more likely to feature a talking animal — or a leading actor named Chris — than a woman over 60. The findings have reignited conversations about ageism in Hollywood, with stars like Emma Thompson calling for more stories centred on older women.
AI might be making workplaces more efficient, but some experts worry it’s also making them less human. A new report found many employees are now turning to AI for advice, brainstorming and even companionship, instead of having conversations with colleagues.
The European Inventor Award celebrates inventors whose ideas are tackling some of the world’s biggest challenges. The 2026 finalists have just been announced and include people working on new vaccines and disease detection, infrastructure and manufacturing improvements and climate change.
A groundbreaking new space mission called SMILE has launched to capture the first-ever complete images of Earth’s magnetic shield. Scientists hope the mission will improve our understanding of solar storms that can disrupt satellites, GPS, communications and even power grids.