Setting up a distraction-free digital workspace

Google is making Android development private by moving all future work to internal branches, ending its long-standing practice of building the OS in public via AOSP. While the source code will still be released when versions are finished, developers and open-source watchers will no longer see changes in real time. Google argues this streamlines releases and reduces sync issues between public and private branches, making life easier for OEMs and app developers. It’s a pragmatic shift, but a blow to transparency and the spirit of open source — essentially, Android’s development will still be open, just no longer openly developed.

Elon Musk’s AI firm xAI has officially acquired X (better known as Twitter!) in a $45 billion all-stock deal, valuing the social platform at $33 billion after accounting for $12 billion in debt. Musk says the merger will deepen integration between the two, combining data, compute power, and talent to support xAI’s development — particularly its Grok chatbot. The move consolidates Musk’s empire and positions X as a distribution channel and data source for AI training. While it may streamline operations and boost investor returns, it also raises concerns about data control, AI consolidation, and regulatory oversight. A bold, strategic play — but not without baggage.

Cybersecurity expert Troy Hunt, creator of HaveIBeenPwned, ironically fell victim to a phishing attack targeting his personal blog’s Mailchimp account. While jet-lagged in London, Hunt clicked on a convincing email mimicking Mailchimp, entered his credentials and OTP, and inadvertently gave a hacker access to export his blog’s 16,000-email mailing list. Even unsubscribed users were affected due to Mailchimp not purging their data. Hunt openly admitted his lapse in judgment, citing exhaustion and the phishing email’s subtle urgency. It’s a reminder that even the best can slip — and that 2FA isn’t foolproof against clever social engineering.