Developer Brandon Thomas has released three free, AI-built alternatives to Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint. The open-source apps cover most core features but remain in early development, with 50% to 60% readiness for real-world use.
WeatherlyBritish software engineer Lewis Barber is suing BitMEX operator HDR Global Trading for the return of 324.8 BTC worth about $27.2 million, arguing that the exchange offered derivatives in the UK without FCA authorisation. The claim challenges 1,053 losing trades made between 2018 and 2022 and could open the door to further compensation claims from other UK traders.
AnaisSolana displayed its brand on Shanghai’s Citigroup Tower and opened a local office as it expands its developer network in China despite strict cryptocurrency restrictions. Binance founder CZ expressed surprise at Solana’s ability to advertise and establish an office in China, noting that BNB Chain has yet to achieve similar visibility.
WeatherlyThe NBA’s official Instagram account was reportedly hacked on 14 October 2026 to promote a Solana-based memecoin called $NBA Coin, which had a market capitalisation of about $3,500 before the post was deleted. The NBA has yet to confirm the breach, which echoes a similar hack in March 2025, as scammers continue to exploit trusted social media accounts to promote risky cryptocurrencies.
AnaisCNN has signed a multiyear deal with Google to license its journalism for experimental AI features, with financial terms undisclosed. The partnership aims to expand audience reach while compensating CNN for its content, as publishers seek to protect their work and recover revenue lost to AI-driven search.
AnaisVisa has launched USDC prefunding for cross-border payouts through Visa Direct, allowing businesses to fund payments around the clock. Inyo Global is the first provider to offer the service, which supports payouts across more than 180 countries.
WeatherlyNetwork School has acquired Farcaster from Neynar and will rename it the Network State Protocol, introducing stricter rules, AI moderation and human verification to reduce bots and abusive posts. Users who reject the new social contract will have read-only access to the main app, although they can keep their accounts and move to other clients.
AnaisIreland’s national police service, An Garda Síochána, regained control of two official X accounts after hackers took them over to promote a cryptocurrency app offering XRP. The breach affected accounts with nearly 900,000 followers, but Gardaí confirmed that no police systems or data were compromised as a criminal investigation continues.
WeatherlySolana Foundation postponed the morning programme of Solana Accelerate China 2026 in Shanghai on 16 October after attendees reported being unable to enter the venue, where police officers were present. Binance co-founder CZ questioned whether organisers understood China’s crypto rules, but the cause of the disruption remains unconfirmed and no replacement date has been announced.
AnaisDisney has offered jobs to at least 60 Character.AI employees and bid $20 million for selected assets after the chatbot startup filed for bankruptcy. The deal includes hiring former CEO Karandeep Anand as Disney’s first chief technology officer, as the company seeks to expand its AI capabilities.
Weatherly