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Nintendo’s newest WarioWare is a weirdo smartphone app

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Nintendo’s newest WarioWare is a weirdo smartphone app

Much like WarioWare, Pictonico (which, I admit, I’m not entirely sure how to pronounce) is a collection of microgames that last just a few seconds each. In each round, you play 10 of these in quick succession, and usually you have just enough time to figure out what you actually need to do before moving on to the next thing. You’re given a simple command like, say, “chomp,” and then you have to do something like grab hold of a mouth and make it chew some food. The games are all very silly in often hilarious ways, so you’ll be plucking hair, licking lollipops, and peeling bananas as quickly as you can.

The twist in Pictonico is that the games all use photos on your camera roll to customize the experience. The game pulls faces from photos and slips them into the microgames, so I found myself making my wife chomp down on kebab with a disturbingly large mouth, or rubbing a lamp to see a buff genie version of my 10-year-old pop out. As an example, here is me as a ballerina waiting to get their photo taken:

The game lets you choose which photos you want to appear in the game so things don’t get uncomfortably weird, and it does occasionally pull things that aren’t human faces. At one point I had to match up an image that had been broken up into three parts, and it was a photo I had taken during my time reporting on the Nintendo Museum in Kyoto. Pictonico is a free download on both iOS and Android, but that only gets you access to a demo version; to play the full thing, which includes 80 different minigames, you have to buy two content packs priced at $7.69 and $5.99 each.

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Fox News AI Newsletter: Chatbots’ left-wing bias

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Fox News AI Newsletter: Chatbots’ left-wing bias

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

Welcome to Fox News’ Artificial Intelligence newsletter with the latest AI technology advancements.

IN TODAY’S NEWSLETTER:

– Conservatives say AI chatbots are being weaponized with left-wing media bias as millions rely on them

– Pope Leo warns AI risks becoming tool of ‘domination, exclusion, death’ in new encyclical

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– Meta lays off nearly 1,400 Washington employees in latest tech workforce cut

DIGITAL GATEKEEPERS: Conservatives are raising alarms over artificial intelligence chatbots, arguing they are being weaponized with left-wing media bias. As millions of Americans increasingly rely on these tools for information, critics warn that the underlying algorithms reflect partisan perspectives, shaping public discourse and potentially skewing user interactions.

AI applications Claude, ChatGPT, and Gemini are shown in this image. The photo was taken by Samuel Boivin and provided by NurPhoto via Getty Images. (Samuel Boivin/NurPhoto)

DIGITAL RECKONING: Pope Leo delivers a stern warning about the dangers of artificial intelligence in a new encyclical. The pontiff cautions that without ethical oversight, AI risks evolving into a tool of domination, exclusion, and death, urging global leaders to ensure technological progress aligns with human dignity and moral responsibility.

META PHYSICS: Meta has laid off nearly 1,400 employees in Washington state as part of its latest round of tech workforce cuts. The significant reduction highlights the ongoing structural shifts and cost-cutting measures within the technology industry, as major companies streamline operations amidst economic uncertainties and pivoting business strategies.

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Muse Spark gives Meta AI new multimodal tools, including image understanding and parallel task handling for travel planning, shopping and everyday questions. Meta says more advanced versions are already in development. (Hollie Adams/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

NEVER CLOCKS OUT: In a recent trial, humanoid robots were put to the test working nonstop to handle and process packages. The continuous operation aims to evaluate the endurance and efficiency of these advanced machines in logistics, offering a glimpse into a future where autonomous robots could dominate warehouse environments without the need for breaks.

TERMINAL UPGRADE: An AI-powered hologram is now assisting travelers by answering questions in real time at LaGuardia Airport. The innovative system is designed to streamline customer service, offering flyers an interactive and efficient way to navigate the terminal and access vital flight information.

BIG BROTHER BOSS: The New York Times is facing accusations of deploying artificial intelligence surveillance technology on its staff without providing prior notification to their union. The move has sparked internal pushback and concerns over workplace privacy, as employees demand transparency regarding how the publication monitors their digital activities and productivity.

UNHOLY ALLIANCE: A progressive pope takes aim at artificial intelligence, cautioning that its rapid advancement risks diminishing the spiritual and miraculous aspects of life. The commentary explores the intersection of faith and technology, reflecting on the potential moral costs of a highly automated world.

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Pope warns artificial intelligence could become a force for “domination, exclusion and death” without moral limits in the Vatican’s new encyclical. (Photo by Alberto PIZZOLI / AFP via Getty Images)

WORKPLACE SHIFT: As tech layoffs surge and the adoption of artificial intelligence accelerates, workers are experiencing mounting automation anxiety. The report highlights the growing fears among employees across various sectors who worry their jobs may become obsolete as companies increasingly integrate AI solutions to cut costs and improve efficiency.

NEXT-GEN PITCH: Looking ahead to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Lenovo’s AI-powered 3D avatars, an enhanced referee view and other technological innovations are set to transform the sporting event. These advancements promise to deliver an unprecedented and immersive experience for both fans and officials, reshaping the future of global soccer broadcasts.

NEW WAY TO INVEST: Robinhood CEO and Chairman Vlad Tenev joins “Mornings with Maria” to discuss the company’s new AI products, expansion into private markets and partnership on Trump accounts.

Subscribe now to get the Fox News Artificial Intelligence Newsletter in your inbox.

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YouTube will let you ask AI to make a custom video feed

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YouTube will let you ask AI to make a custom video feed

YouTube is launching a new AI feature that creates a personalized video feed based on descriptions of what you want to watch. In its announcement, YouTube says custom content feeds can be built around your specific interests, moods, or favorite topics, which you can then pin to the top of your YouTube homepage — making it easy to jump back into the feed.

This feature is currently rolling out with English language support to YouTube users in the US who are signed-in on the YouTube mobile app or desktop. To access it, click on the “Your custom feed” tab at the top of the YouTube homepage and enter a prompt description into the AI text box. For example, you can ask the YouTube AI to “help me unwind with guided meditations under 10 minutes,” or for “deep-dive tech podcasts about AI,” and then receive a curated feed based on your request.

It’s similar to other AI-powered feed customization features we’ve seen from other platforms, including Spotify’s prompted playlists. Instagram also gave users more control over their Reels feed algorithm in December, though that uses topic lists rather than descriptive prompts.

YouTube says that prompts can be edited at any time to “generate a brand new space” by selecting the text box at the top of your custom feed. To see the “Your custom feed” tab, YouTube says you need to ensure your search and watch history are enabled in your account settings. If the AI messes up your feed request, you can also report the issue to YouTube by clicking the 3-dot menu on the feature tab and selecting “Something wrong?” to leave feedback.

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Are bank text codes enough to protect you?

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Are bank text codes enough to protect you?

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Bank security can feel confusing because every account seems to handle it differently. One bank sends a text. Another sends an email. Another asks you to approve a login inside its app. So when someone says, “Use stronger two-factor authentication,” it is fair to wonder what that actually means. 

Kyra from West Plains, Missouri, reached out to us asking:

I watched your podcast video where you talked about two-factor authentication and getting codes by email from your bank and other accounts. My accounts seem to do that automatically, as far as I know. Is that enough, or do I need to contact my bank to make sure it’s set up correctly

— Kyra from West Plains, Missouri

Kyra, this is a great question because a lot of people are in the same boat. They see a code pop up and assume they are fully protected. The truth is a little more complicated. Text or email codes are better than having only a password.

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Text and email codes, however, are not always the strongest options. Scammers have found ways to steal codes, trick people into sharing them or take control of a phone number through a SIM swap scam. Once scammers control your number, they may receive the text codes needed to get into accounts that use SMS-based multi-factor authentication.

TOP MULTI-FACTOR AUTHENTICATION APPS TO PROTECT YOUR ACCOUNTS

Bank customers using text-message security codes may still face risks from SIM swap scams and phishing attacks. Cybersecurity experts recommend stronger login protection when available. (Anna Barclay/Getty Images)

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What two-factor authentication actually does

Two-factor authentication, also called 2FA or multi-factor authentication, adds another step when you log in. Instead of relying only on your password, the account asks for something else to prove it is really you.

That “something else” might be a code sent by text, a code from an authenticator app, a security key or a prompt inside your bank’s mobile app. Two-factor authentication is one of the best ways to protect your accounts because it adds a second layer beyond your password. 

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So, Kyra, if your bank already sends you a code, that is a good sign. It means some form of extra protection is turned on. But the next question is whether your bank offers a stronger option.

SIM SWAP SCAM DRAINED FLORIDA WOMAN’S BANK ACCOUNT IN MINUTES

Why text message codes are not the strongest choice

Text message codes are popular because they are easy to use. Most people know how to read a text and type in a code. That convenience comes with risk.

A SIM swap scam happens when a criminal tricks your phone carrier into moving your phone number to a device they control. Once that happens, your calls and texts may go to the scammer instead of you. The American Bankers Association warns that scammers may try to intercept two-factor authentication codes so they can access financial accounts.

Scammers can also call, text or email while pretending to be your bank. They may say there is fraud on your account and ask you to read back a code. That code may actually be the key they need to log in. Scammers often try to trick people into sharing verification codes because they need both the password and the code to break into an account.

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BEWARE FAKE CREDIT CARD ACCOUNT RESTRICTION SCAMS

That is why the safest rule is simple: Never share a bank security code with anyone who contacts you. A real bank should not call and ask you to read back a login code.

Why an authenticator app is usually better

When your bank supports it, an authenticator app is usually a stronger choice than text messages. Apps such as Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, Authy and Duo Mobile generate a changing six-digit code on your phone.

The big advantage is that the code is created inside the app. It usually works even when you do not have cell service. It also does not depend on your phone number, which helps reduce the risk from SIM swap scams.

That said, authenticator apps are not magic. If you type a code into a fake banking website, a scammer may still capture it. One-time password authentication isn’t phishing-resistant. Still, authenticator apps remove some of the biggest weaknesses tied to text-message codes.

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NEW PHISHING ATTACK USES REAL-TIME INTERCEPTION TO BYPASS 2FA 

Two-factor authentication adds a second layer of protection to online banking accounts, but not all methods offer the same level of security. Authenticator apps and passkeys are generally safer than text codes. (Kyle Ericksen/WWD/Penske Media via Getty Images)

The strongest option, if your bank offers it

Some banks and financial services give you stronger ways to prove it is really you when you log in. Two of the strongest options are hardware security keys and passkeys.

A hardware security key is a small physical device, often shaped like a USB stick, that you plug into your computer or tap against your phone to approve a login.

A passkey lets you sign in using your device, such as your phone or computer, often with Face ID, Touch ID, a fingerprint or a screen lock.

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These options are harder for scammers to steal because they are designed to work only with the real website or app. That means a fake banking website usually cannot trick them the same way it can trick someone into typing in a text code.

For most people, the safest order is simple: use a security key or passkey if your bank supports it. If not, use an authenticator app. If text codes are the only option, keep them turned on because they are still better than using only a password.

How to check your bank’s security settings

You may not need to visit a branch. In most cases, you can check this from your bank’s official website or app.

Start from a computer if you can. Go directly to your bank’s official website by typing the web address yourself. Do not click a link from a text or email, even if it looks real.

Then look for a section with a name like:

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  • Security
  • Login & Security
  • Privacy & Security
  • Two-Factor Authentication
  • Multi-Factor Authentication
  • 2-Step Verification

Once you are there, look for an option called Authenticator app. Some banks may use different wording, such as authentication app, one-time passcode app, TOTP, security app or third-party authenticator. If you see that option, follow the setup steps. Your bank will usually show a QR code on your computer screen. Open your authenticator app on your phone, tap Add account or the + button, then scan the QR code. The app will generate a six-digit code. Enter that code on your bank’s website to confirm setup.

Do not skip the backup codes

This part matters more than people realize. If your bank gives you backup codes, save them right away. Print them and store them somewhere safe, or place them in a secure password manager. These codes can help you get back into your account if your phone gets lost, damaged or replaced.

Also, make sure your bank has your current email address and phone number on file. If your recovery information is old, getting back into your account can become much harder.

If you share access with a spouse or trusted family member, ask your bank how additional users should set up their own secure login. Avoid sharing one password or one authenticator code when the bank offers separate user access.

What to do if your bank only offers text codes

Some banks may not offer a third-party authenticator app, but may let you approve logins inside the bank’s own mobile app. That can be stronger than a text message because the approval happens inside the banking app rather than through your phone number.

AMERICA’S MOST-USED PASSWORD IN 2025 REVEALED

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If yours only offers text-message codes, do not turn them off. Text codes are still better than no second layer at all. However, you should ask your bank whether it supports a stronger option. You can call the number on the back of your debit or credit card, use secure messaging inside the bank’s app or visit a branch.

Ask this: “Do you support authenticator apps, passkeys, hardware security keys or app-based login approval for online banking?”

If the answer is no, keep text codes turned on. Then strengthen the parts you can control. Use a strong and unique bank password, and store it in a trusted password manager so you do not have to remember it or reuse it anywhere else. Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2026 at CyberGuy.com.

In addition, ask your mobile carrier to add a port-out PIN, number transfer lock or account security PIN to help reduce SIM swap risk. Also, turn on account alerts for transfers, password changes and new device logins.

 HOW SIM SWAPPING LED TO A $1.8M CYBER FRAUD CASE

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Security experts warn that scammers can intercept text verification codes or trick customers into sharing them. Customers should never provide login codes to unsolicited callers or texts. (Karl-Josef Hildenbrand/picture alliance via Getty Images)

Should Kyra contact her bank?

Yes, but she probably does not need to walk into a branch unless she prefers in-person help. Kyra should first log in to her bank’s official website or app and check the security settings. If she sees an authenticator app, passkey, security key or app-based approval option, she should consider using it. If she only sees text or email codes, she should keep them turned on and contact the bank to ask whether stronger login options are available.

She should also make sure her bank password is strong and unique, protect her email account with strong two-factor authentication and confirm that her account alerts are turned on.

WORLD PASSWORD DAY: CHECK IF YOUR PASSWORDS ARE SAFE

Kurt’s key takeaways

Kyra’s question gets to the heart of account security. Seeing a code arrive by text or email can feel reassuring. And yes, it is better than relying on a password alone. However, bank accounts deserve the strongest protection your bank offers. If you can move from text codes to an authenticator app, that is a smart upgrade. If your bank supports a passkey or security key, even better. And no matter which method you use, never give a security code to someone who calls, texts or emails you out of the blue.

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Have you checked whether your bank still relies on text codes, and would you switch banks if yours refused to offer stronger login protection? Let us know by writing to us at CyberGuy.com.

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