A day after former US President Donald Trump claimed that Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents had 'stolen' his three passports during the August 8 raid, CBS News and NBC News confirmed that the passports had been returned.

A day after former US President Donald Trump claimed that Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents had 'stolen' his three passports during the August 8 raid, CBS News and NBC News confirmed that the passports had been returned. Reportedly, the FBI's 'filter team' which screens the contents seized during the raids discovered the three passports. Moreover, FBI justified its stance of taking the passports along with the documents by saying, "When executing search warrants, the bureau follows search and seizure procedures ordered by courts, then returns items that we do not need to be retained for law enforcement purposes." They stole my passport: Trump As reported by WION, Trump on Monday took to his social media platform 'Truth Social' to make the news public. “Wow! In the raid by the FBI of Mar-a-Lago, they stole my three Passports (one expired), along with everything else. This is an assault on a political opponent at a level never seen before in our Country. Third World!,” said the Republican leader. Read more: Donald Trump claims his passports 'stolen' by FBI agents during the August 8 raid However, after a section of media questioned Trump's statement which came a few days after the raid, his spokesman Taylor Budowich tweeted a screenshot where Justice Department's Jay Bratt sent an email to Trump's team, informing them about the FBI, indeed having the passports. "We have learned that the filter agents seized three passports belonging to President Trump, two expired and one being his active diplomatic passport. We are returning them, and they will be ready for pickup at WFO at 2 pm today," wrote Bratt in the email. This is how Fake News works, folks. Biden admin actively feeds half truths & lies that the media willingly amplifies—advancing a partisan narrative to attack Trump.@NorahODonnell, did your “source” read you this email? Did you bother asking if they indeed seized the passports? https://t.co/DlzkagN0ie pic.twitter.com/VwCU7DPCvg — Taylor Budowich (@TayFromCA) August 15, 2022 × Ever since the raid took place, both Trump and the Department of Justice have been trading blows. While the former claims that it is a witch hunt, the latter has refused to reveal the affidavit that led to the issuance of the search warrant. Read More: US Justice Department refuses to reveal the affidavit that led to the issuance of search warrant against Trump (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Trump's passports returned a day after former US prez claimed they were 'stolen' by FBI agents

Apple has its next big money-making idea. It is not the next generation, glass-ceiling breaker iPhone, MacBook or even an Apple smartwatch. It's advertising. Reportedly, Apple is looking to add more advertisements to its first-party apps that come pre-installed on iPhone.

Apple has its next big money-making idea. It is not the next generation, glass-ceiling breaker iPhone, MacBook or even an Apple smartwatch. It's advertising. Reportedly, Apple is looking to add more advertisements to its first-party apps that come pre-installed on iPhone. According to tech reports, Apple has already internally tested the ads on its Maps, Books and Podcasts. Currently, Apple allows app developers to advertise their apps on the App Store. Moreover, ads are displayed in Apple News and Stocks. It is pertinent to note that last year, Apple rolled out its new privacy policy called 'App Tracking Transparency' that required the apps on its platform to ask for users' permission to track their activity and share it with third parties. Read More: Apple sets deadline for employees to be in the office at least three days a week Succinctly put, Apple disrupted the entire 'personalised advertising' market as business houses had to reconsider their strategies. However, Apple remained unscathed and on the contrary, its advertising business grew 238 per cent to $3.7 billion in 2021. Thus it appears a tad ironic that by adding more ads in the iPhone apps, Apple wants to take this number into the double digits. It's not all that. Apple is also looking to maximise the earning potential of its streaming platform Apple TV Plus. Reportedly, taking a cue out of Dinsey+ and Netflix's book, Apple is willing to experiment with a lower-priced ad-supported subscription plan. Both Disney+ and Netflix are expected to roll out the said tiers by the end of the year. Analysts believe that Apple is in the early stages of developing its own new mobile advertising platform. The uptick in recruitment drive suggests that efforts were ongoing to create a profitable ad platform. Apple and its bumper quarter As reported by WION, last month Apple announced that its June quarter revenue stood at a record $83 billion, up two per cent YoY. Apple also announced that it expected to pay a dividend of $0.3 per share to its shareholders. “This quarter’s record results speak of Apple’s constant efforts to innovate, to advance new possibilities, and to enrich the lives of our customers." Tim Cook was quoted as saying. Read More: Apple and Amazon post impressive numbers amid an economic slowdown (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Apple's next big money-making idea: More ads in iPhones

Weeks after Pope Francis returned from a six-day trip to Canada where he apologised to victims of sexual abuse by the Church, a Canadian cardinal named Marc Ouellet, regarded as a potential successor to him and having a high-ranking position within the Vatican has been accused of sexual assault.

Reportedly, a class action lawsuit has been filed against Cardinal Ouellet and more than 88 members of the clergy in the Quebec diocese. More than 100 victims have lent their weight to the civil lawsuit where some damning claims have been made.

Ouellet's name had not come up in the lawsuit up until now but according to court documents, an alleged victim, identified as 'F' stated that she was interning as a pastoral agent between 2008 and 2010 when the series of assaults by Ouellet took place. The victim added that most of the assaults took place during public events.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pope-in-canada-to-apologise-for-abuse-of-indigenous-children-500358">Pope in Canada to apologise for abuse of indigenous children</a>

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Ouellet was the archbishop and head of the archdiocese at the time, parachuted from Rome. He had the authority to hire individuals as pastoral agents and thus his strong position may have forced the victim to keep quiet.

"He grabbed me and then...his hands on my back, they went down pretty low. Quite intrusive for, let's say for someone who is my superior, who is the archbishop of Quebec." said the victim on a Radio show.&nbsp;

"I felt chased after. It became more and more invasive, more and more intense to the point where I stopped attending events. I tried avoiding being in his presence as much as possible," the victim further added.&nbsp;

Read more:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/listening-to-evil-committed-at-catholic-run-schools-in-canada-felt-like-a-slap-pope-503332">&nbsp;Listening to 'evil' committed at Catholic-run schools in Canada felt like slaps: Pope</a>

The court documents further reveal that the victim went to the committee in charge of reviewing sexual allegations 10 years later where she shared her story.

The committee believed her and told her to file a complaint. The committee went to the Vatican in 2021 and filed the complaint. A virtual meeting was arranged between the victim and the Vatican church.

However, more than a year after the meeting, nothing has come out of it as Ouellet continues to hold a prominent public image.&nbsp;

It is pertinent to note that most of the 100-odd victims were sexually abused when they were minors by the priests and other staff with cases dating back to the 1940s.&nbsp;

With the victim 'F' shedding light on Ouellet, one of the big fishes, it is expected to open a pandora's box. In most cases, the abuser has not committed a sexual offence for the first time.

Lawyers representing the plaintiffs believe that more such cases may be unearthed as the lawsuit receives public exposure.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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Weeks after Pope Francis returned from a six-day trip to Canada where he apologised to victims of sexual abuse by the Church, a Canadian cardinal named Marc Ouellet, regarded as a potential successor to him and having a high-ranking position within the Vatican has been accused of sexual assault.

Weeks after Pope Francis returned from a six-day trip to Canada where he apologised to victims of sexual abuse by the Church, a Canadian cardinal named Marc Ouellet, regarded as a potential successor to him and having a high-ranking position within the Vatican has been accused of sexual assault. Reportedly, a class action lawsuit has been filed against Cardinal Ouellet and more than 88 members of the clergy in the Quebec diocese. More than 100 victims have lent their weight to the civil lawsuit where some damning claims have been made. Ouellet's name had not come up in the lawsuit up until now but according to court documents, an alleged victim, identified as 'F' stated that she was interning as a pastoral agent between 2008 and 2010 when the series of assaults by Ouellet took place. The victim added that most of the assaults took place during public events. WATCH | Pope in Canada to apologise for abuse of indigenous children × Ouellet was the archbishop and head of the archdiocese at the time, parachuted from Rome. He had the authority to hire individuals as pastoral agents and thus his strong position may have forced the victim to keep quiet. "He grabbed me and then...his hands on my back, they went down pretty low. Quite intrusive for, let's say for someone who is my superior, who is the archbishop of Quebec." said the victim on a Radio show. "I felt chased after. It became more and more invasive, more and more intense to the point where I stopped attending events. I tried avoiding being in his presence as much as possible," the victim further added. Read more: Listening to 'evil' committed at Catholic-run schools in Canada felt like slaps: Pope The court documents further reveal that the victim went to the committee in charge of reviewing sexual allegations 10 years later where she shared her story. The committee believed her and told her to file a complaint. The committee went to the Vatican in 2021 and filed the complaint. A virtual meeting was arranged between the victim and the Vatican church. However, more than a year after the meeting, nothing has come out of it as Ouellet continues to hold a prominent public image. It is pertinent to note that most of the 100-odd victims were sexually abused when they were minors by the priests and other staff with cases dating back to the 1940s. With the victim 'F' shedding light on Ouellet, one of the big fishes, it is expected to open a pandora's box. In most cases, the abuser has not committed a sexual offence for the first time. Lawyers representing the plaintiffs believe that more such cases may be unearthed as the lawsuit receives public exposure. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Canada: Weeks after Pope's visit, a prominent cardinal named in a sexual assault class lawsuit

A day after India's 75th Independence Day anniversary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi dialled French President Emmanuel Macron and the two reviewed the ongoing bilateral initiatives including defence cooperation projects and cooperation in civil nuclear energy. PM Modi also conveyed solidarity to his French counterpart as the European nation continues to brave devastating wildfires.

PM Modi took to Twitter to inform about the phone call, “Spoke to my friend President @EmmanuelMacron today. Conveyed India’s solidarity with France in dealing with the devastating wildfires. We discussed ongoing bilateral cooperation under the India-France Strategic Partnership, and other issues of global and regional significance,”

“President @EmmanuelMacron and I also agreed to cooperate closely in responding to global challenges of food and energy security,” PM Modi added.

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Spoke to my friend President <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a> today. Conveyed India’s solidarity with France in dealing with the devastating wildfires. We discussed ongoing bilateral cooperation under the India-France Strategic Partnership, and other issues of global and regional significance.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1559574141279150081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) also released a statement after the call and stated that the two leaders agreed to expand their relationship to new areas of cooperation.&nbsp;

“The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the depth and strength that the India-France Strategic Partnership has acquired in recent years and agreed to continue working closely together to expand the relationship to new areas of cooperation,” <a href="https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-pays-tribute-to-atal-bihari-vajpayee-on-the-his-punya-tithi/?comment=disable">read </a>the statement.&nbsp;

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-pm-modi-french-president-macron-hold-talks-call-for-end-to-russia-ukraine-war-476483">Indian PM Modi, French President Macron hold talks, call for end to Russia-Ukraine war</a>

As reported by WION,&nbsp;&nbsp;France has been facing one of its worst summer seasons as deadly heatwaves parch the land across the region. Consequently, multiple wildfires, especially in&nbsp;southwestern France have torched more than 6,200 hectares alone. Overall, more than 57,200 hectares of area has been blazed in France since the fire began.&nbsp;

IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/wildfires-continue-to-rage-in-france-mass-evacuation-ordered-505781#10000-residents-forced-to-evacuate-the-region-505762">Wildfires continue to rage in France; mass evacuation ordered</a>

The phone call to Macron comes a day after the French PM wished India on its Independence Day anniversary, both in English and Hindi, much to the astonishment of Indians.&nbsp;

"Dear friend @NarendraModi,&nbsp;dear people of India, congratulations on your Independence Day! As you proudly celebrate India’s stunning achievements in the past 75 years, you can count on France to always stand by your side." tweeted Macron.&nbsp;

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Dear friend <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NarendraModi</a>, dear people of India, congratulations on your Independence Day! As you proudly celebrate India’s stunning achievements in the past 75 years, you can count on France to always stand by your side.
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/1559057838609137666?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"We have built a strategic partnership together that makes our country stronger. Together, we are able to find solutions to global challenges, make the world safer, and bring prosperity and progress to our people,"&nbsp;the French PM added in Hindi as well.&nbsp;

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Macron and Modi have enjoyed a warm relationship, ever since both came to power. PM Modi visited France in May earlier this year, where the two countries held fruitful bilateral discussions.

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My visit to France was brief but a very fruitful one. President <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a> and I got the opportunity to discuss various subjects. I thank him and the French Government for the warm hospitality. <a href="https://t.co/pJCCvpvjao">pic.twitter.com/pJCCvpvjao</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1521957778591518726?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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A day after India's 75th Independence Day anniversary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi dialled French President Emmanuel Macron and the two reviewed the ongoing bilateral initiatives including defence cooperation projects and cooperation in civil nuclear energy.

A day after India's 75th Independence Day anniversary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi dialled French President Emmanuel Macron and the two reviewed the ongoing bilateral initiatives including defence cooperation projects and cooperation in civil nuclear energy. PM Modi also conveyed solidarity to his French counterpart as the European nation continues to brave devastating wildfires. PM Modi took to Twitter to inform about the phone call, “Spoke to my friend President @EmmanuelMacron today. Conveyed India’s solidarity with France in dealing with the devastating wildfires. We discussed ongoing bilateral cooperation under the India-France Strategic Partnership, and other issues of global and regional significance,” “President @EmmanuelMacron and I also agreed to cooperate closely in responding to global challenges of food and energy security,” PM Modi added. Spoke to my friend President @EmmanuelMacron today. Conveyed India’s solidarity with France in dealing with the devastating wildfires. We discussed ongoing bilateral cooperation under the India-France Strategic Partnership, and other issues of global and regional significance. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 16, 2022 × The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) also released a statement after the call and stated that the two leaders agreed to expand their relationship to new areas of cooperation. “The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the depth and strength that the India-France Strategic Partnership has acquired in recent years and agreed to continue working closely together to expand the relationship to new areas of cooperation,” read the statement. Read More: Indian PM Modi, French President Macron hold talks, call for end to Russia-Ukraine war As reported by WION, France has been facing one of its worst summer seasons as deadly heatwaves parch the land across the region. Consequently, multiple wildfires, especially in southwestern France have torched more than 6,200 hectares alone. Overall, more than 57,200 hectares of area has been blazed in France since the fire began. IN PICS | Wildfires continue to rage in France; mass evacuation ordered The phone call to Macron comes a day after the French PM wished India on its Independence Day anniversary, both in English and Hindi, much to the astonishment of Indians. "Dear friend @NarendraModi, dear people of India, congratulations on your Independence Day! As you proudly celebrate India’s stunning achievements in the past 75 years, you can count on France to always stand by your side." tweeted Macron. Dear friend @NarendraModi, dear people of India, congratulations on your Independence Day! As you proudly celebrate India’s stunning achievements in the past 75 years, you can count on France to always stand by your side. — Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) August 15, 2022 × "We have built a strategic partnership together that makes our country stronger. Together, we are able to find solutions to global challenges, make the world safer, and bring prosperity and progress to our people," the French PM added in Hindi as well. × Macron and Modi have enjoyed a warm relationship, ever since both came to power. PM Modi visited France in May earlier this year, where the two countries held fruitful bilateral discussions. My visit to France was brief but a very fruitful one. President @EmmanuelMacron and I got the opportunity to discuss various subjects. I thank him and the French Government for the warm hospitality. pic.twitter.com/pJCCvpvjao — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 4, 2022 × (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

PM Modi dials French PM Macron, a day after latter's heartful Independence Day message to India

US President Joe Biden on Tuesday signed the&nbsp;Inflation Reduction Act, a much toned-down version of his election manifesto promise of the Build Back Better plan. Biden signed the bill with&nbsp;West Virginia Democrat senator Joe Manchin III by his side, whose decisive vote led to the passing of the legislation.&nbsp;

"The Inflation Reduction Act will help save money on prescription drugs, cut health care premiums, cut energy costs, take aggressive action on climate, and make large corporations pay their fair share in taxes. We got it done," the US president tweeted.

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The Inflation Reduction Act will help save money on prescription drugs, cut health care premiums, cut energy costs, take aggressive action on climate, and make large corporations pay their fair share in taxes. 
 
We got it done. <a href="https://t.co/XjdkNkOpov">pic.twitter.com/XjdkNkOpov</a>
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden/status/1559631898619641857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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“I’m keeping my campaign commitment. No one...let me emphasize this, no one earning less than $400,000 a year will pay a penny more federal tax,” said Biden after signing the bill and handing the pen to Manchin.&nbsp;

Biden also took the opportunity to target the GOP lawmakers who were not in favour of the bill.&nbsp;

"In this historic moment, Democrats sided with the American people and every single Republican sided with the special interests.&nbsp;Every single Republican in Congress voted against this bill." said the US President.

Timeline and significance of the Act

As <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democrat-senator-joe-manchin-takes-a-volta-face-supports-bidens-build-back-better-plan-501491">reported </a>by WION extensively, the Inflation reduction Act is being touted as the biggest financial package when it comes to tackling climate change, lowering prescription drug prices and high inflation.

By hiking the corporate minimum tax on big companies to 15 per cent, the new tax policy&nbsp;is expected to generate&nbsp;$739 billion by the end of the decade. Moreover,&nbsp;$369 billion will be spent on climate and energy reforms while $64 billion will be used to beef up the Affordable Care Act.&nbsp;&nbsp;

However, for a long time, the bill and its previous iterations lingered in nothingness as the&nbsp;West Virginia senator continued to harangue the Biden administration.&nbsp;With the Democrats having a razor-thin majority in the Senate, Manchin's vote became all the more necessary.&nbsp;

Manchin had applied brakes on the new tax and healthcare reforms&nbsp;by stating that he will wait for the July inflation numbers to come up first.&nbsp;

Such was Biden's helplessness that he was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-mulls-declaring-climate-change-emergency-but-can-he-fight-off-his-colleagues-498760">mulling </a>bringing a climate emergency plan. However, the President backtracked at the last minute and unveiled a $2.3 billion&nbsp;plan to fight climate change.&nbsp;

However, after Manchin received the nod to several of his demands, including a gas pipeline in his home state of West Virginia, he agreed to the passing of the law.&nbsp;

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democrat-senator-joe-manchin-takes-a-volta-face-supports-bidens-build-back-better-plan-501491">Democrat Senator Joe Manchin takes a volta-face; supports Biden's 'Build Back Better' plan</a>

Ahead of the November midterm election, Biden is looking to use the passing of the act to woo the voters. The Democrats have not fared well in approval ratings and Biden is staring at an uphill task, in the backdrop of historic inflation rates and a contracting economy.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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US President Joe Biden on Tuesday signed the Inflation Reduction Act, a much toned-down version of his election manifesto promise of the Build Back Better plan. Biden signed the bill with West Virginia Democrat senator Joe Manchin III by his side, whose decisive vote led to the passing of the legislation.

US President Joe Biden on Tuesday signed the Inflation Reduction Act, a much toned-down version of his election manifesto promise of the Build Back Better plan. Biden signed the bill with West Virginia Democrat senator Joe Manchin III by his side, whose decisive vote led to the passing of the legislation. "The Inflation Reduction Act will help save money on prescription drugs, cut health care premiums, cut energy costs, take aggressive action on climate, and make large corporations pay their fair share in taxes. We got it done," the US president tweeted. The Inflation Reduction Act will help save money on prescription drugs, cut health care premiums, cut energy costs, take aggressive action on climate, and make large corporations pay their fair share in taxes. We got it done. pic.twitter.com/XjdkNkOpov — Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) August 16, 2022 × “I’m keeping my campaign commitment. No one...let me emphasize this, no one earning less than $400,000 a year will pay a penny more federal tax,” said Biden after signing the bill and handing the pen to Manchin. Biden also took the opportunity to target the GOP lawmakers who were not in favour of the bill. "In this historic moment, Democrats sided with the American people and every single Republican sided with the special interests. Every single Republican in Congress voted against this bill." said the US President. Timeline and significance of the Act As reported by WION extensively, the Inflation reduction Act is being touted as the biggest financial package when it comes to tackling climate change, lowering prescription drug prices and high inflation. By hiking the corporate minimum tax on big companies to 15 per cent, the new tax policy is expected to generate $739 billion by the end of the decade. Moreover, $369 billion will be spent on climate and energy reforms while $64 billion will be used to beef up the Affordable Care Act. However, for a long time, the bill and its previous iterations lingered in nothingness as the West Virginia senator continued to harangue the Biden administration. With the Democrats having a razor-thin majority in the Senate, Manchin's vote became all the more necessary. Manchin had applied brakes on the new tax and healthcare reforms by stating that he will wait for the July inflation numbers to come up first. Such was Biden's helplessness that he was mulling bringing a climate emergency plan. However, the President backtracked at the last minute and unveiled a $2.3 billion plan to fight climate change. However, after Manchin received the nod to several of his demands, including a gas pipeline in his home state of West Virginia, he agreed to the passing of the law. Read More: Democrat Senator Joe Manchin takes a volta-face; supports Biden's 'Build Back Better' plan Ahead of the November midterm election, Biden is looking to use the passing of the act to woo the voters. The Democrats have not fared well in approval ratings and Biden is staring at an uphill task, in the backdrop of historic inflation rates and a contracting economy. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Biden signs the Inflation Reduction Act, a toned down version of his Build Back Better plan

Making basic healthcare facilities available to all, the US Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday announced it had signed the historic legislation that allows millions of Americans to buy hearing aids without any prescription, from over-the-counter.

Making basic healthcare facilities available to all, the US Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday announced it had signed the historic legislation that allows millions of Americans to buy hearing aids without any prescription, from over-the-counter. Up until now, the devices were not accessible if an individual did not have a medical subscription. Moreover, only a handful of retail stores sold the device, making accessibility a major issue. Reportedly, FDA changing the rules is expected to benefit nearly 30 million American adults. According to FDA, the finalised rules will reduce the red tapism in the industry. Moreover, it will allow a new class of hearing aids in the market which would not require any standard medical exam or a prescription from a doctor. “Today’s action by the FDA represents a significant milestone in making hearing aids more cost-effective and accessible,” Xavier Becerra, Health and Human Services Secretary was quoted as saying by AP. According to FDA estimates, of the 30 million Americans that need hearing devices, only 600,000 or one-fifth use the device, with the rest not willing to take the tedious doctor's prescription route. Not to forget, the devices are not cheap. A single pair of hearing aid and their fitting cost as much as $5,000 which puts a heavy dent in the patient's wallet and in most cases, is not covered under health insurance. Read More: After Juul e-cigarettes, Americans rally behind 'candy' flavoured disposable e-cigs FDA believes that the decentralisation of the process ought to bring the cost down as traditional manufacturers are expected to scale their operations. Experts predict that the hearing market, after the implementation of the new legislation, in a few years will resemble the eye care market where consumers are spoiled for choices and don't have to necessarily rely on prescriptions and medical exams. However, few caveats have been applied to make sure that patients do not come in harm's way. The new over-the-counter status won't apply to devices that are expected to be used by patients with severe hearing loss. Only a prescription will work in such cases. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Americans can buy hearing aids over-the-counter; FDA clears the way

Meta, more colloquially known as Facebook has found itself in stormy waters yet again. According to an investigation report by Global Witness, a London-based non-profit, Facebook has been allowing blatant misinformation-laden advertisements to be published on its platform, ahead of the crucial Brazilian elections, scheduled to take place later this year.

Meta, more colloquially known as Facebook has found itself in stormy waters yet again. According to an investigation report by Global Witness, a London-based non-profit, Facebook has been allowing blatant misinformation-laden advertisements to be published on its platform, ahead of the crucial Brazilian elections, scheduled to take place later this year. Reportedly, Global Witness conducted its investigation by submitting ten election-related ads in Brazilian-Portuguese to Facebook. Out of the 10 ads, five contained misinformation while the rest attempted to delegitimise the electoral process. It is pertinent to note that all of the ads were submitted from outside of Brazil viz. Nairobi and London. Meta's 'strict' ad policy should have raised the alarm over the location of the ad content not being the same as the election country. Russia compromised the US elections in the same manner in 2016 by submitting and publishing electoral ads from afar. Since then, Facebook has been pressured to shore up its ad- acceptance mechanism. However, none of that sort happened in this particular case. After submitting the ads, unsurprisingly enough, all 10 were given the nod and without any "paid for by" disclaimer. Global Witness stated that not only the ads were accepted, but a rather bizarre process of rejection and acceptance also transpired, which raised several eyebrows. "Initially, one of the ads we submitted was rejected under Facebook’s “Ads about social issues, elections, or politics” policy. But just six days later, without any intervention from Global Witness, the ad was approved without explanation." said the NGO. The NGO did not even follow Meta's 'ad authorisation process and yet it was not only allowed to submit ads but they were submitted by the platform itself. Global Witness did not publish the ads but the point was already made. The elections in Brazil will take place in October and Facebook has identified it as one of the 'priority countries'. However, observing the Mark Zuckerberg owned platform fluffing its lines in such a timid manner certainly casts a doubt over the legitimacy of its claims. WATCH: Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro officially launches his re-election campaign × Facebook came short in Kenya as well Global Witness has been conducting a thorough investigation into Meta's claims of trying to uphold the integrity of critical elections. However, so far, Facebook has been falling short in every other test. As reported by WION, last month, a report by the NGO showed that Facebook approved hate speech advertisements that promoted ethnic violence ahead of the Kenyan Presidential elections. Read More: Meta served a seven-day ultimatum by Kenya. Could be suspended if it fails to act As a result, Kenya's National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), a watchdog, served a seven-day ultimatum to the social media platform to tackle hate speech and incitement. "Facebook is in violation of the laws of our country. They have allowed themselves to be a vector of hate speech and incitement, misinformation and disinformation," Danvas Makori, NCIC commissioner was quoted as saying. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Facebook fluffs its lines yet again; fails to catch misinformation in ads ahead of Brazil elections

Tory leader Rishi Sunak, currently in the race for the keys to 10, Downing Street on Tuesday pledged that if elected to power, he will overhaul the country's bureaucracy.

Tory leader Rishi Sunak, currently in the race for the keys to 10, Downing Street on Tuesday pledged that if elected to power, he will overhaul the country's bureaucracy. Claiming to bring 'Rolls Royce' civil service to the masses, Sunak stated the civil servants will no longer be rewarded for the length of their service but for their performance. “I’ll press ahead with cuts to back office Civil Service headcount, recruiting and retaining the brightest and best. I’ll strengthen civil servants’ experience beyond Whitehall, allow ministers to bring in more external expertise, and bring in performance pay so we have a truly Rolls Royce service delivering for and accountable to the British people,” said Sunak. Sunak further remarked that he wanted to create a “sharper, leaner” bureaucracy in the backdrop of a post-Covid UK. “As Chancellor, I saw parts of the British Civil Service at its best, delivering world-class COVID support schemes in record time. But the bloated post-COVID state is in need of a shake up so I will create a sharper, leaner civil service,” added Sunak. Sunak and his battle with Liz Truss Sunak is currently battling foreign secretary Liz Truss for the Prime Minister's post. However, the British Indian former chancellor has been losing ground lately. After Boris Johnson resigned as the PM, Sunak was dubbed the clear front runner. But in recent times, some of his statements and actions have changed the tide in favour of Truss. Reportedly, on Tuesday, Sunak faced flak on social media platforms after news reports suggested that Sunak was spending almost $40 million on a pool at his North Yorkshire property as UK residents braced for another heatwave and a rise in the cost of living. Read More: UK: Rishi Sunak's opulent private pool amid rising cost of living sparks row Will reduce income tax: Sunak Moreover, as reported by WION, to cut the deficit in his fight with Truss, the Tory leader announced last month that he would reduce the basic rates of income tax by 20 per cent by 2029 if voted to power. Sunak stated that his immediate target was tackling inflation. However, once that is achieved, his government will slash one pence off income tax in 2024, as announced in his tenure as the chancellor. Afterwards, another three pence will be struck off the income tax, come 2029. Read More: Trailing in UK PM race, Rishi Sunak promises 'radical' 20% income tax cuts (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Tory leader Rishi Sunak to make bureaucracy 'sharper' and 'leaner', if elected to power

Apple on Monday informed that its employees will be expected to return to the office three days per week from next month, September 5, to be precise. Reportedly, Apple CEO Tim Cook sent out the mail, informing about the changes that the upper hierarchy was implementing in the coming days.

Apple on Monday informed that its employees will be expected to return to the office three days per week from next month, September 5, to be precise. Reportedly, Apple CEO Tim Cook sent out the mail, informing about the changes that the upper hierarchy was implementing in the coming days. Currently, Apple employees have been working from their offices, twice a week. However, with the new rules coming in, all employees in Bay Area will have to report to the office on Tuesday and Thursday compulsorily. The third day will be picked or decided based on individual teams. Meanwhile, the option of working from home will be applicable for two days only. "Teams participating in the pilot will come to the office three days each week with Tuesday and Thursday as set days across the company, but now the third day you come in will be decided by your teams." said Cook in a memo sent to his employees. "In terms of timing, many locations around the world are in different phases and you will hear more details shortly. For Santa Clara Valley, we plan to begin our new adjusted pilot with all employees in the office three days beginning the week of September 5th." added the Apple boss. It is pertinent to note that Apple attempted to implement its pilot programme a year ago. The employees were expected to return to the offices in May. However, the rise in Covid cases delayed the process. Read More: Apple and Amazon post impressive numbers amid an economic slowdown Apple's culture heavily depends on employees working together and creating new products. The company has relied on in-person meetings, demos and the physical touch to shape its products; something which was missing in the last couple of years. By recalling its employees to the office, Apple appears to be reaffirming its faith in the office culture, albeit with a hybrid twist. Apple’s head of software, Craig Federighi built on Cook's mail and added that Septemeb will mark the true start of Apple's next hybrid chapter. "Needless to say, this next phase is a pilot, so the one thing of which we can be assured is that we’ll learn a great deal in the months to come. I’m excited for this next chapter and all that lies ahead." he signed off by saying. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Apple sets deadline for employees to be in the office at least three days a week

Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have shot down a US military drone, news agencies have reported citing US officials. Houthi rebels in the past have shot down American drones, but the latest incident has taken place just when the situation in the Middle East is tense due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Houthi rebels have claimed that the American MQ-9 Reaper drone war spying as part of the USA's help to Israel in the ongoing war, reported AFP.

"A US military MQ-9 remotely-piloted aircraft was shot down off the coast of Yemen by Houthi forces," AFP quoted an unnamed US official.

Houthi rebels captured Yemen's capital Sanaa in the year 2014. They still control a large part of the country. The rebels had claimed responsibility for shooting down the US drone earlier on Wednesday.

Watch | Israel-Hamas war: IDF releases video of tunnel destruction: Gaza

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"Our air defences were able to down an American MQ-9 while it was carrying out hostile surveillance and espionage activities in Yemeni territorial waters as part of American military support&nbsp;for Israel," the Houthis said in a statement as reported by AFP.

Houthi rebels have staged attacks against Israel in recent weeks. The US Navy has also intercepted missiles fired by the rebels. After Hamas' October 7 attack, the US rushed military help to Israel and boosted US forces stationed in the region.

<h2>US strikes Iranian site in Syria</h2>

The US has carried out strikes against a weapons storage facility used by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in Syria. On Wednesday, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said that the strikes were carried out in response to attacks on US forces in the region.

After the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war, there have been at least 40 attacks on US and coalition troops in Syria and Iraq by forces which are backed by Iran.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-falls-short-of-calling-for-ceasefire-in-gaza-as-israel-hamas-war-rages-on-656560">G7 nations fall short of calling for ceasefire in Gaza as Israel-Hamas war rages on</a>

In his statement, Austin said that attacks against American troops must stop.

"If attacks by Iran's proxies against U.S. forces continue, we will not hesitate to take further necessary measures to protect our people," Austin added.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-mr-security-hes-mr-bullst-former-israeli-pm-slams-netanyahus-plans-for-post-war-gaza-656618">Not ‘Mr Security. He’s Mr Bulls**t’: Former Israeli PM slams Netanyahu’s plans for post-war Gaza</a>

He said that the fresh airstrikes in Syria were carried out by two F-15 fighter jets.

The US has often launched retaliatory strikes against Iran-backed elements in the region.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have shot down a US military drone, news agencies have reported citing US officials. Houthi rebels in the past have shot down American drones, but the latest incident has taken place just when the situation in the Middle East is tense due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.

Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have shot down a US military drone, news agencies have reported citing US officials. Houthi rebels in the past have shot down American drones, but the latest incident has taken place just when the situation in the Middle East is tense due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Houthi rebels have claimed that the American MQ-9 Reaper drone war spying as part of the USA's help to Israel in the ongoing war, reported AFP. "A US military MQ-9 remotely-piloted aircraft was shot down off the coast of Yemen by Houthi forces," AFP quoted an unnamed US official. Houthi rebels captured Yemen's capital Sanaa in the year 2014. They still control a large part of the country. The rebels had claimed responsibility for shooting down the US drone earlier on Wednesday. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: IDF releases video of tunnel destruction: Gaza × "Our air defences were able to down an American MQ-9 while it was carrying out hostile surveillance and espionage activities in Yemeni territorial waters as part of American military support for Israel," the Houthis said in a statement as reported by AFP. Houthi rebels have staged attacks against Israel in recent weeks. The US Navy has also intercepted missiles fired by the rebels. After Hamas' October 7 attack, the US rushed military help to Israel and boosted US forces stationed in the region. US strikes Iranian site in Syria The US has carried out strikes against a weapons storage facility used by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in Syria. On Wednesday, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said that the strikes were carried out in response to attacks on US forces in the region. After the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war, there have been at least 40 attacks on US and coalition troops in Syria and Iraq by forces which are backed by Iran. Also Read | G7 nations fall short of calling for ceasefire in Gaza as Israel-Hamas war rages on In his statement, Austin said that attacks against American troops must stop. "If attacks by Iran's proxies against U.S. forces continue, we will not hesitate to take further necessary measures to protect our people," Austin added. Also Read | Not ‘Mr Security. He’s Mr Bulls**t’: Former Israeli PM slams Netanyahu’s plans for post-war Gaza He said that the fresh airstrikes in Syria were carried out by two F-15 fighter jets. The US has often launched retaliatory strikes against Iran-backed elements in the region. (With inputs from agencies)

Red giant star Betelgeuse blows off its top; scientists dub it a 'never-before-seen' phenomenon

In an attempt to draw more people to its Walmart+ subscription service, American multinational retail corporation Walmart on Monday struck a deal with Paramount Global to offer its Paramount+ streaming service to its subscribers.

In an attempt to draw more people to its Walmart+ subscription service, American multinational retail corporation Walmart on Monday struck a deal with Paramount Global to offer its Paramount+ streaming service to its subscribers. Reportedly, starting September, members of Walmart+ will gain access to Paramount's $4.99 plan that includes commercials. The Walmart+ membership costs $12.95 per month or $98 per year which includes a free six-month subscription to the audio streaming platform Spotify as well as free shipping and discounts on fuel. “With the addition of Paramount+, we are demonstrating our unique ability to help members save even more and live better by delivering entertainment for less, too," said Chris Cracchiolo, Walmart+ General Manager. Meanwhile, Paramount's roster of shows and movies includes brands such as Comedy Central, Nickelodeon, and BET. It has movies like Top Gun: Maverick, The Godfather, Star Trek and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood amongst others. Moreover, the platform has exclusive rights to the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League and the National Women's Soccer League. Walmart is competing with Amazon in the segment. The latter has its own streaming platform named Prime Videos which appears to be a major driving force when it comes to the membership numbers. Read More: Beating Netflix: Dinsey+ gains 14.4 million subscribers in Q3, hits the 152.1 million mark Globally, Amazon has over 200 million subscribers in its Prime membership. Its membership costs $14.99 a month or $139 annually. Meanwhile, Walmart does not disclose its Walmart+ numbers, ever since it launched operations, two summers ago in 2020. However, according to estimates provided by different data-collection firms, the number currently stands anywhere between 11 million and 32 million. Reportedly, Walmart had been in talks with several big streaming giants such as Walt Disney and Comcast. However, it settled with Paramount+ in the end. According to reports, Paramount+ has 43.3 million subscribers around the world which pales in front of the numbers put forth by Disney+ earlier this month. Disney+ alone had more than 152 million subscribers while the brand Walt Dinsey had more than 221 million total subscribers across different streaming platforms viz. ESPN+ and Hulu. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

To compete with Amazon, Walmart strikes streaming deal with Paramount+

The Delaware Court of Chancery on Monday ordered Twitter Inc. to submit files from a former Twitter employee to Elon Musk to calculate the number of spam and bot accounts as the billionaire attempts to terminate the $44 billion deal, citing fake account issues.

The Delaware Court of Chancery on Monday ordered Twitter Inc. to submit files from a former Twitter employee to Elon Musk to calculate the number of spam and bot accounts as the billionaire attempts to terminate the $44 billion deal, citing fake account issues. Reportedly, the court wants Twitter to submit documents and files from former General Manager of Consumer Product Kayvon Beykpour, who Musk claims is a key person related to the real numbers behind the bot accounts. The Tesla founder has been adamant that Twitter is hiding the names of employees who are responsible for evaluating the number of bots and fake accounts on the platform. However, Twitter has been dillydallying around the issue and has only given up those workers who are not much familiar with the 'bot calculation' process. Read More: Twitter spent $33 million on Elon Musk’s deal in three months Musk had submitted the names of 22 data custodians whose documents he wanted to review. However, the court only granted permission to access documents from one individual and that is Beykpour. It is pertinent to note that Beykpour was fired by Twitter in May. He had been at Twitter for years and was majorly responsible for the expansion of Twitter's userbase. According to Musk's filings, Beykpour was "most intimately involved with" the evaluation of spam accounts. WATCH: Elon Musk says Twitter lied about spam accounts, challenges CEO Parag Agrawal to public debate × His sudden termination has raised some eyebrows and Musk is attempting to fish the right numbers regarding the bot accounts. Musk continues to claim that Twitter has close to 20 per cent bot accounts, as opposed to the five per cent that the company claims. Read More: Elon Musk wants to question Twitter employees who count bots Musk announced last month that he was suspending the agreement, alleging Twitter had concealed information about these accounts. Twitter sued Musk to complete the transaction and has claimed that the issue is unrelated to the deal with Musk. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE:

Twitter ordered to submit documents to Elon Musk from a fired employee regarding bot accounts

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