Category: Human Interest

skip to main content Updated / Thursday, 24 Sep 2026 17:07 Bono and the late Dolly Parton sing together on Torn, which is described as a song about broken family ties A duet between Bono and Dolly Parton is one of the tracks on U2’s new album, Carnaval de Luz , which will be released on Friday, 13 November.

In the world of music, surprises are the spice of life. But when you hear that U2’s upcoming album will feature a duet between Bono and the late Dolly Parton, you can’t help but raise an eyebrow and say, “Wait, what?” Yes, you read that right!

The song, titled “Torn,” promises to delve into themes of broken family ties, a subject that resonates universally—because let’s face it, who hasn’t had a family member they’d like to avoid at Thanksgiving? But I digress. This collaboration is particularly poignant as it marks a posthumous release for Parton, who sadly passed away just last month after a brief but fierce battle with cancer. It’s like the universe decided to throw us a curveball, and somehow, it feels both heartbreaking and oddly uplifting.

Now, you might be wondering how this duet came to be. I mean, did Bono just slide into Dolly’s DMs before she left us? Or was this a top-secret project that only the most elite music insiders knew about? Either way, it seems that U2 has been keeping this gem under wraps until recently, possibly to avoid the inevitable media frenzy that would follow. Let’s be honest—if there’s one thing we love more than music, it’s a good celebrity gossip story.

As U2 gears up to unveil their latest musical project, anticipation is building. Fans are not just excited about the collaboration but are also curious about how Bono’s iconic voice will mesh with Parton’s unmatched twang. One can only imagine the creative discussions that must have taken place. Picture Bono, in his signature sunglasses, earnestly discussing the thematic depth of family ties with Dolly, who’s probably sipping sweet tea and offering sage advice.

But what does this mean for the legacy of both artists? For U2, it’s another notch in their already impressive belt of collaborations and musical innovations. For Dolly, it’s a chance to continue touching hearts even after her departure. It feels like a musical hug from beyond, reminding us that love and artistry can transcend even the most definitive of goodbyes.

As we await the album’s release, one can only hope that “Torn” is just the tip of the iceberg and that there are more surprises in store. Maybe a surprise track featuring Freddie Mercury? (Okay, that might be pushing it.) But in all seriousness, it’s a reminder that music has a way of connecting us, even in the most unexpected circumstances.

So, here’s to U2, to the late Dolly Parton, and to the magic of music that keeps on giving. If this duet is anything like what we’re imagining, we might just need a box of tissues and a glass of wine to get through it. Cheers to that!

Inspired by: “U2’s new album to feature duet between Bono and Dolly Parton” (r/News)

River Flood Warning is in effect, Lake County, Volusia County 3 Rip Current Statement until SUN 1:00 AM EDT, Coastal Flagler County Rip Current Statement from THU 8:00 AM EDT until SAT 4:00 AM EDT, Coastal Volusia County Pulse massacre survivors, families visit nightclub site Survivors and families of the 49 victims killed in the Pulse nightclub shooting were invited this week to walk through the nightclub for the first time since the June 12, 2016, massacre, just before the site is demolished.

It’s not every day that you hear about a rally turning into a scene from a suspense thriller, but in 2024, that’s exactly what happened at a Donald Trump campaign event in Butler, Pennsylvania. On July 13, during what was meant to be a spirited gathering of supporters, tragedy struck as shots rang out, leaving two men critically injured. One of those men, James “Jim” Copenhaver, has sadly passed away at the age of 76, two years after surviving the horrific incident.

Now, you might be wondering what kind of world we live in where a political rally turns into a shooting incident. It’s almost like something out of a bad movie script, right? But this was all too real for Jim and his family. He was one of the unfortunate souls caught in the crossfire during what has now been dubbed an assassination attempt against the former president. While Jim survived the initial chaos, he suffered permanent injuries that would haunt him for the rest of his days.

Jim’s story is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and how quickly things can go sideways. One moment you’re cheering for your favorite candidate, and the next, you’re dodging bullets like you’re in an action film. It’s a situation that no one should ever have to face, yet here we are, living in a reality that often feels more surreal than fiction.

His passing was confirmed by a source close to the family, and it was first reported on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter, for those keeping track of the ever-changing landscape of social media). The outpouring of condolences and remembrances for Jim highlights the impact he had, not just as a survivor of a tragic event, but as a person who faced unimaginable circumstances with courage.

In the aftermath of the shooting, many began to question the safety of political gatherings and the climate of divisiveness that has become all too familiar in today’s society. It’s a sad reality that individuals like Jim, who attended a rally to express their political beliefs, ended up facing life-altering consequences. It’s almost as if we’ve forgotten how to disagree without resorting to violence.

As we reflect on Jim Copenhaver’s life and the circumstances of his untimely death, it’s essential to remember that behind the headlines and statistics are real people with families, dreams, and a desire for a better world. Jim was not just a statistic in a news report; he was a father, a friend, and a member of his community who wanted to be part of the democratic process.

So, as we say goodbye to Jim, let’s also take a moment to consider the broader implications of what happened that fateful day in Butler. In a world where political tensions seem to escalate by the hour, let’s strive to ensure that future gatherings can be places of unity rather than division. Because at the end of the day, whether you’re a fan of Trump, Biden, or anyone in between, we all deserve to voice our opinions without fear of being caught in a crossfire.

Rest in peace, Jim Copenhaver. You will be remembered not just for your survival, but for your resilience in the face of unimaginable circumstances. And let’s hope that we can learn from this tragic chapter in our history and work towards a future where such violence is a thing of the past.

Inspired by: “Trump rally shooting survivor Jim Copenhaver dies two years after suffering permanent injuries in B…” (r/Entertainment)

Advertisement Advertisement Return to Homepage Entertainment: Swift to be most awarded VMAs artist ‘Primetime’ divides critics Domhnall Gleeson on leaving ‘Harry Potter’ Princess Kate at ‘Digger’ premiere TikTok’s newest earworm Watch these if you liked ‘Backrooms’ 2026 VMAs: How to watch live Dolly estate alleges threats How ‘Killing Me Softly’ began Madonna returns to MTV VMAs FILE PHOTO: US actor John Malkovich attends the premiere of the film "Seneca" as part of the 73rd Berlin International

In a world where awards are handed out like candy on Halloween, one actor is set to snag a particularly sweet treat: John Malkovich! Yes, you heard it right. The man with the unforgettable voice and a face that could launch a thousand memes is being honored with the Outstanding Performer of the Year Award at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival. Now, before you roll your eyes and say, “Oh great, another award ceremony,” let’s take a moment to appreciate why this is actually worth talking about.

Malkovich is receiving this accolade for his role in the film “Wild Horse Nine,” directed by the brilliant Martin McDonagh. If you’re wondering what this film is about, let’s just say it’s not a rom-com starring a talking horse (though that would be a hit, right?). Instead, it’s a gripping tale that showcases Malkovich’s incredible range as an actor. He’s not just a guy who plays quirky characters; he’s a master of his craft. And if you need further proof, just look at his recent win for Best Actor at the Venice Film Festival. That’s right, Venice! The city of gondolas and gelato, where Malkovich charmed his way to the top.

Now, the Santa Barbara International Film Festival will run from February 3-13, 2027, and it’s shaping up to be quite the event. With Malkovich being the star of the show, you can bet there will be plenty of buzz. You might even spot him walking the red carpet, looking dapper and slightly bemused, as he often does. I mean, who wouldn’t be bemused by the whole Hollywood circus?

What’s truly fascinating about Malkovich is his ability to dive into roles that are as varied as a buffet line at a family reunion. From playing a deranged puppet master in “Being John Malkovich” to a suave villain in “Red,” he has done it all. And now, with “Wild Horse Nine,” he’s proving once again that he’s not just a pretty face (though let’s be honest, he has that covered too).

So, what can we expect from this year’s Santa Barbara Film Festival? Well, apart from the usual glitz and glamour, we can look forward to some heartfelt speeches, awkward moments on the red carpet, and, let’s not forget, the inevitable awkward questions from reporters. “So, John, how does it feel to be you?” Oh, the humanity!

In conclusion, Malkovich receiving the Performer of the Year Award isn’t just another notch on his already well-decorated belt; it’s a reminder that great acting is alive and well in Hollywood. As we gear up for the festival, let’s raise a glass (or a cup of coffee, no judgment here) to John Malkovich and his continued journey of captivating audiences. And who knows, maybe this award will inspire him to take on even more bizarre roles in the future. Here’s hoping for a Malkovich-led musical about the life of a horse… or not.

Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the festival. Until then, keep your popcorn ready and your expectations high!

Inspired by: “Santa Barbara Film Festival Awards: ‘Wild Horse Nine’ Star John Malkovich To Get Performer Of The Y…” (r/Entertainment)

Close Close By Jeremy Dick Published Sep 14, 2026, 6:37 PM EDT Jeremy has been a freelance writer and editor since 2014, having contributed to a variety of entertainment websites. He is a self-professed expert on all things pop culture and Bob Saget’s biggest fan.

If you thought the only thing Netflix was good at was delivering a never-ending stream of true crime documentaries and reality shows that make you question your life choices, think again! The streaming giant has officially renewed its breakout limited series, ‘The Beast In Me,’ for a second season. And guess what? Claire Danes is back in the saddle, reprising her Emmy-nominated role. Yes, the same Claire Danes who made us cry in ‘My So-Called Life’ and made us question our life choices in ‘Homeland.’

Now, let’s take a moment to appreciate the fact that Claire is not just returning but also executive producing this season. So, if you thought she was just going to show up, do her thing, and leave, think again! She’s taking charge, folks. I can already hear the Netflix executives crying tears of joy (or maybe it’s just the coffee they spilled).

But wait, there’s more! Howard Gordon and Daniel Pearle, the dynamic duo behind the scenes from Season 1, are back for another round of storytelling. For those of you who might not know, Gordon is a big deal in the TV world. He’s worked on shows like ‘24’ and ‘The X-Files,’ so he knows a thing or two about keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. With him at the helm, we can expect some twists and turns that will make your head spin faster than a hamster on a wheel.

Now, you might be wondering what this means for the storyline. Since it was originally labeled as a limited series, it’s safe to say that the creators found a way to stretch the narrative without causing too much of a stretch on our sanity. Maybe they found a plot twist so juicy that it couldn’t possibly be contained within just one season. Who knows? But whatever it is, I’m sure it involves a lot of emotional turmoil, moral dilemmas, and possibly some dramatic monologues that will make you want to applaud—if you’re watching alone, of course.

As for the fans, the news of the renewal has sparked a flurry of excitement on social media. You know, the usual mix of memes, fan theories, and people declaring that they’ve been waiting for this moment since the dawn of time (or at least since the last season ended).

So, as we gear up for Season 2 of ‘The Beast In Me,’ let’s grab our popcorn and settle in for what promises to be another wild ride. Will Claire Danes deliver another unforgettable performance? Will Howard Gordon pull off more plot twists than a pretzel factory? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure: Netflix is not done with this beast just yet, and neither are we.

Inspired by: “‘The Beast In Me’ Renewed For Season 2 With Claire Danes Reprising Role; Howard Gordon Back With Ne…” (r/Entertainment)

1 hour ago … US and Iranian negotiators in New York are exploring a phased path out of war that would involve Tehran reopening the Strait of Hormuz and …

So, grab your popcorn, folks! The U.S. and Iran are reportedly sitting down for a little chit-chat in New York, and it sounds like they might be inching toward a phased deal that could reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Yes, that’s right—the same Strait of Hormuz that’s like the world’s oil highway. If you’re wondering what’s at stake here, let’s just say it’s a big deal, not just for the two countries but for global oil markets and regional stability.

Now, for those who might not be familiar, the Strait of Hormuz is a crucial waterway where about 20% of the world’s oil passes through. That’s right—one-fifth of the oil that keeps your car running and your TikTok scrolling comes from this narrow stretch of water. So, when tensions flare up in this region, it’s not just a local issue; it’s a global one. Picture it like a high-stakes game of Jenga, where one wrong move could send oil prices skyrocketing faster than your last impulse buy on Amazon.

Over the past seven months, the conflict has escalated, and the U.S. has imposed a series of economic sanctions on Iran. The sanctions have hit the Iranian economy like a ton of bricks, and let’s face it, nobody enjoys being on the receiving end of a financial smackdown. So, the negotiators are now exploring a phased agreement—because who doesn’t love a little step-by-step approach to solving complex international issues?

What does this phased deal entail, you may ask? Well, it seems to involve Iran reopening the Strait of Hormuz while the U.S. considers lifting some of those pesky sanctions. It’s a bit like saying, “Hey, we’ll let you back on the playground if you promise to stop throwing sand.” The idea is to de-escalate tensions and create a more stable environment for both countries and, by extension, the rest of us who don’t want to see gas prices hit the roof.

The potential impact on global oil markets could be significant. If the Strait of Hormuz reopens and sanctions are lifted, we might see oil prices drop, which would be a relief for everyone who has had to tighten their belts (and not just because of the latest diet fad). But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. These negotiations are like trying to untangle a pair of headphones that have been in your pocket for too long—frustrating and potentially messy.

In the end, whether this phased deal comes to fruition will depend on how well both sides can play nice. It’s a delicate balancing act, and it’s clear that both the U.S. and Iran have their own priorities. But if they can come together on this, it could pave the way for a more peaceful relationship in the future. Imagine that—a world where countries actually talk to each other instead of throwing sanctions like confetti. Now that’s a future I can get behind.

So, let’s keep our eyes peeled for updates on this developing story. Who knows? We might just witness a diplomatic breakthrough that could change the landscape of international relations—or at least make our next trip to the gas station a little less painful. Stay tuned!

Inspired by: “US and Iran discuss phased deal to reopen Hormuz and end US blockade” (r/Crypto)

Skip to main content Misperceptions about child sex offenders Richards, Kelly ISSN 1836-2206 Published Date 30-09-2011 Subject Child abuse and neglect Child sex offenders Sexual violence Peer-reviewed Series Trends & issues in crime and criminal justice 429 References All URLs correct at August 2025 Abel G et al.

Oh boy, where do we even start with this one? It seems like the universe has a twisted sense of humor sometimes, especially when it comes to the justice system. Let’s talk about Zafer Dogan, a 32-year-old mechanic who recently made headlines for all the wrong reasons. This guy was sentenced to two years and four months in prison for some truly horrific offenses, including using artificial intelligence to digitally undress children’s photos. Because, you know, that’s what every mechanic dreams of doing with their spare time.

But here’s where it gets even more eyebrow-raising: despite the serious nature of his crimes, Dogan was repeatedly granted bail to live in a flat that overlooks a playground. Yes, you read that right. Let’s just pause for a moment and let that sink in. A convicted paedophile, with a penchant for snapping photos of unsuspecting kids, was allowed to reside right by a place where those kids play. What could possibly go wrong?

It’s almost like handing a kid a box of cookies and saying, “Don’t eat them!” The police and prosecutors were clearly not on board with this whole bail scenario, and who can blame them? It’s like giving a cat the keys to a pet store and expecting it to behave.

Dogan’s actions were not just limited to taking photos of children (which is already way too much) but also included capturing images of adults without their consent. You know, just your average day in the life of a guy who clearly doesn’t understand boundaries—or basic human decency.

Now, one might wonder how someone could be so misguided. Is it a lack of understanding of the law? A failure of the judicial system? A really poor sense of judgment? Probably a combination of all three, but let’s not forget the role technology plays in this mess. With the rise of AI capabilities, we’re seeing some truly disturbing uses of technology. It’s almost like the more advanced we get, the more creative people become in finding ways to misuse it. Who knew that AI could be weaponized in such a grotesque manner?

After finally being sentenced, it’s clear that this case has sparked outrage and concern about how the justice system handles such offenders. The repeated bailing out of Dogan has raised questions about the effectiveness of the legal system in protecting the most vulnerable among us—our children. It’s like a bad movie plot where the villain keeps escaping from prison, except this time it’s real life, and it’s horrifying.

In summary, the saga of Zafer Dogan serves as a disheartening reminder of the challenges we face in ensuring justice is served, especially for crimes against children. It’s a sobering thought that someone could take such liberties with technology and then be given a second chance in a neighborhood that’s all about kids playing and having fun. Let’s hope that moving forward, the justice system can learn a thing or two about keeping dangerous individuals away from places where they can do harm. Because at the end of the day, we all want to live in a world where playgrounds are safe and innocent laughter isn’t overshadowed by the dark corners of society.

Inspired by: “Paedo, 32, bailed to same flat overlooking playground where he took thousands of pics of kids & use…” (r/Entertainment)

Jun 25, 2026 … Carlson made the claim during a discussion with Alex Jones, saying Trump is “very convinced” the California governor has a real shot. But …

Well, folks, it looks like Tucker Carlson has decided to throw a bombshell into the political arena once again. And this time, it’s not just your average hot take; we’re talking about a call for President Donald Trump to be removed from office via the 25th Amendment. Yes, you heard that right!

In a recent segment, Carlson suggested that Trump’s own cabinet should step in and do the unthinkable—take him out of office. And I don’t mean a nice dinner and a heartfelt chat; he actually said Trump should be ‘bundled up and taken out!’ Now, if that doesn’t sound like a scene from a political thriller, I don’t know what does.

For those who might be scratching their heads, the 25th Amendment is basically the constitutional way to ensure that a president who is unable to perform their duties can be removed. It’s not just a casual suggestion; it’s a serious legal framework that allows for the transfer of power in cases of incapacity. But let’s be real, invoking it is about as comfortable as wearing a wool sweater in July.

Now, why is Carlson making this call? Well, it seems like he’s pretty concerned about Trump’s mental fitness for office—an opinion that’s been floating around for a while now, and not just from Carlson. The chatter about whether Trump is fit to lead has been a hot topic since, oh, I don’t know, the beginning of his presidency?

Carlson, in his typical fashion, didn’t just stop at suggesting the 25th Amendment. He went on to imply that the current state of affairs is so chaotic that it might just be the best course of action. I mean, if you’re looking for a way to spice up your political commentary, calling for the president to be carted off like a troublesome toddler is certainly one way to do it.

Of course, this isn’t the first time we’ve seen calls for Trump to be removed from office. The political landscape has been rife with debates and discussions about his leadership style, decisions, and, let’s face it, some of his more colorful comments. But to hear Carlson—a prominent figure on Fox News—suggest such a drastic measure is like watching a cat suddenly decide it’s a dog. It’s unexpected, and frankly, a little jarring.

So, what does this mean moving forward? Well, we’re likely to see a flurry of reactions from both sides of the aisle. Supporters of Trump might dismiss Carlson’s comments as just another instance of media hysteria, while opponents may jump on the bandwagon, waving their 25th Amendment flags high.

In the end, whether or not this leads to any real action remains to be seen. But one thing’s for sure: Tucker Carlson knows how to keep the conversation lively. Whether you agree with him or not, it’s hard to ignore the ripple effect his comments can have in the current political climate.

So, grab your popcorn and settle in; the political drama is far from over, and who knows what the next episode will bring? And remember, if you ever find yourself in a political pickle, maybe it’s time to consider a cozy blanket and a swift exit strategy—just in case someone suggests you need to be ‘bundled up and taken out!’

Inspired by: “Tucker Carlson Issues Shocking Call for Trump’s Cabinet to Remove Him from Office Via 25th Amendmen…” (r/Media)

Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TRENDING Dart is done MLB playoff scenarios Fantasy Football rankings Presidents Cup primer NBA stars in new places Story by Story by Russian Reports Indicate Andrei Kuzmenko’s Father Tragically Killed in Bear Attack IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect Dan Kingerski Thu, September 24, 2026 at 12:21 PM UTC · 1 min read About Our Ads Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russian media Thursday morning reported a tragedy for Pittsburgh Pengui

In a tale that sounds like it was ripped straight from an action movie, Andrei Kuzmenko, the Penguins forward, is facing a heartbreaking loss. His father, a devoted hockey coach and a seemingly ordinary guy, was killed in a bear attack while fishing in the remote wilderness of Russia’s Republic of Tuva. Yes, you read that right—a bear attack. I mean, I thought fishing was supposed to be a peaceful way to spend a Saturday, not an episode of ‘Survivor: Bear Edition.’

Now, before you start imagining a scene from ‘The Revenant’ with Leonardo DiCaprio fighting off a bear for his life, let’s get real. This incident occurred in a restricted area, which makes you wonder what was going through his father’s mind. Was he trying to catch the biggest fish in the lake, or was he just looking for a little thrill? Either way, it ended in tragedy.

Andrei Kuzmenko, who is making waves in the NHL, is now taking a leave of absence from the game to deal with this unimaginable loss. It’s not every day you hear about a bear attack, and certainly not one that hits so close to home. The hockey community is rallying around him, but it’s hard to find the right words to express condolences in a situation like this.

Hockey players are tough, but they’re also human—who knew? Kuzmenko’s father was not only a coach but also a significant figure in his life, shaping his passion for the sport. Unfortunately, bears don’t care much for your life story or your dreams of becoming a professional athlete. They’re more interested in, well, being bears.

This incident raises questions about safety in the great outdoors. Who knew fishing could be so perilous? The next time you think about heading out for a day on the lake, maybe consider staying in a populated area and leaving the bears to their own devices.

In conclusion, while Andrei Kuzmenko is likely processing this devastating news, we can all take a moment to appreciate the unpredictability of life—and perhaps invest in some bear spray for our next outdoor adventure. Let’s hope Andrei finds solace in the love from fans, family, and friends during this tough time. And if you see a bear while fishing, just remember: the fish can wait. Stay safe out there!

Inspired by: “Penguins forward Andrei Kuzmenko’s father killed in bear attack on remote Russia fishing trip” (r/News)

“Well, it Depends”: The Explosive Pagers Attack Revisited by Amichai Cohen , Yuval Shany | Oct 11, 2024 On 17 September, 2024, thousands of pagers distributed by Hezbollah to its operatives in Lebanon and Syria exploded.

So, let’s take a moment to appreciate the sheer audacity of the operation that unfolded on September 17, 2024. Imagine thousands of Hezbollah members in Lebanon and Syria, minding their own business, when suddenly, they receive a message on a pager. Yes, a pager. It’s like sending a telegram in the age of smartphones. But hey, who are we to judge their choice of communication?

What happened next was nothing short of explosive—literally. The pagers triggered simultaneous explosions that left a mark, and not just on the ground. The following day, another wave of chaos ensued when walkie-talkies were targeted. Because, of course, why not take out two forms of outdated communication in one fell swoop?

Now, let’s talk about these devices. Apparently, they were ordered from a Taiwanese company and modified with explosives. That’s right, folks. We’re not just talking about your average, run-of-the-mill tech here. These were ‘special’ pagers and walkie-talkies, designed to do more than just beep when you get a message. It’s almost like a twisted version of a tech upgrade. Forget about the latest iPhone; this is next-level creativity in the world of counter-terrorism.

Hezbollah, known for its reliance on older technology to avoid detection, probably thought they were being clever. But sometimes, you can be too clever for your own good. It’s like trying to hide from the world by wearing sunglasses in a dark room—sure, it might work for a while, but eventually, someone’s going to turn the lights on.

This operation, dubbed ‘Paging Hezbollah,’ is being hailed as one of the most daring anti-terror operations of all time. And why wouldn’t it be? It’s not every day that you see a group of people turning the tables on a terrorist organization using tech that most of us have long forgotten about. I mean, when was the last time you saw a pager in the wild? It’s practically a relic at this point.

The aftermath of the operation has left many wondering about the future of Hezbollah’s communication methods. With the world moving at lightning speed toward advanced technology, it’s a bit surprising that they were still holding on to the past like some kind of nostalgic tech hoarder. But hey, if it works for them, who are we to judge? Oh wait, we’re supposed to be judging them because they’re a terrorist organization. My bad.

In conclusion, the ‘Paging Hezbollah’ operation serves as a reminder that sometimes the simplest tools can be weaponized in the most unexpected ways. It’s a testament to creativity in the face of adversity, a reminder that the past can come back to haunt you, and a warning to those who think they can get away with using outdated tech in a modern world. So, here’s to the brave individuals who pulled this off and to all the pagers still collecting dust in your drawers—thank you for your service, but it’s time to move on to more current communication methods.

Stay tuned as we see how Hezbollah responds to this tech-savvy wake-up call. Who knows? Maybe they’ll finally invest in a smartphone—or perhaps they’ll just stick to their walkie-talkies and pagers, because why not keep the nostalgia alive?

Inspired by: “’Paging Hezbollah’ Takes Viewers Inside the Historic 2024 Operation Against the Terrorist Group” (r/News)

Say goodbye to hold music Sep 30, 2020 | x.com Facebook LinkedIn Mail Copy link Andrew Goodman Product Manager, Google Assistant Joseph Cherukara Product Manager, Phone app Share x.com Facebook LinkedIn Mail Copy link Sometimes, a phone call is the best way to get something done.

If you’ve ever found yourself stuck on hold, listening to an endless loop of elevator music while contemplating your life choices, get ready for some good news. Google has rolled out a shiny new feature called “Call for Me,” powered by its Gemini AI. This is not just any feature; it’s like having your very own personal assistant who doesn’t require coffee breaks or a salary. So, what’s the scoop?

First off, this feature is currently exclusive to Pixel 11 smartphone users in the U.S. (sorry, folks with other brands—maybe try bribing your phone with some new apps?). To use this magical service, you’ll need a Gemini subscription and to be part of the Phone by Google app’s public beta. Yes, that’s right; we’re still in the experimental phase, so it might be a bit like giving a toddler a phone for the first time—exciting but slightly terrifying.

So, what exactly can Gemini do? Picture this: you’re busy binge-watching that show everyone’s been talking about, and you suddenly remember you need to make a dinner reservation. Instead of putting down the remote and dealing with an actual human being (gasp!), you can let Gemini handle it. The AI will call the restaurant, navigate through the menu options, and make that reservation for you—all while you stay comfortably ensconced on your couch, possibly in your pajamas.

But this isn’t just about booking tables. Gemini is also capable of checking product availability, which means no more awkward conversations with store employees who probably don’t want to deal with your questions anyway. You know the drill—”Can you check if you have this in stock?” and they respond with that blank stare that says, “Why don’t you just look online?” Well, Gemini is here to save you from those cringe-worthy moments.

Now, let’s not forget that this feature builds upon Google’s previous AI-powered calling capabilities. If you thought AI was just for recommending cat videos on YouTube or predicting which pizza you’ll want next Friday night, think again. Google is expanding what AI can do, and it’s about time we let machines take over the mundane tasks that plague our daily lives. After all, who wouldn’t want to delegate the fun stuff like waiting on hold to a robot that doesn’t mind listening to the same three notes on repeat?

Of course, let’s not pretend this is a flawless system. It’s still in beta, which means you might encounter a few hiccups along the way. Maybe Gemini will accidentally book a table for 20 instead of 2, or maybe it will try to get through to customer service for that broken blender only to get stuck in a loop of “Your call is very important to us. Please hold.” But hey, at least you won’t be the one on the line, right?

In conclusion, while we wait for the day when AI takes over all our responsibilities (and maybe even our dating lives), we can at least look forward to Gemini making those tedious phone calls for us. So, if you’re a Pixel 11 user with a flair for the lazy but a desire for efficiency, this feature could be a game-changer. Just remember to keep your expectations in check—after all, it’s still learning, just like we all are.

Inspired by: “Gemini can now call businesses for you so you don’t have to wait on hold” (r/Tech)