Apple warns users to stop putting wet iPhones in rice

Feb 23 2024

Whenever your iPhone gets wet you will always hear people telling you to put your smartphone in a bag of rice to soak up the water, however this theory has been debunked by experts for years and now iPhone manufacturer Apple have also come out against the method.

In a recent support note published by Apple and found by Apple-centric website Macworld, the company states “Don’t put your iPhone in a bag of rice. Doing so could allow small particles of rice to damage your iPhone.”

Not only will putting your phone in rice result in the possibility of further damage, there have been countless studies which has suggested that uncooked raw rice is not effective at drying the device and absorbing the water.

The theory may find it roots and origins from photography as technology website The Verge traced back the rice method as far as 1946 as a way to maintain your camera.

In contrast to the rice method Apple advises users with a “liquid detected” alert to unplug both ends of the charging cable, tap the phone gently against their hand with the connector facing down to remove excess liquid, let it dry for at least 30 minutes, and if both the phone and cable are completely dry, attempt charging again. If unsuccessful, retry after a day.

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Worker at risk of dying after falling two storeys in Marsa

Feb 23 2024

A man, whose identity has so far remained unknown, has suffered serious injuries and is at risk of dying after falling around two storeys whilst at work.

The incident occurred today, at approximately 13:45, in the Marsa Industrial Zone. On his work site, the man received medical assistance from a medical team before being taken to Mater Dei Hospital by ambulance.

Magistrate Dr. Victor Axiak has been informed of the case and has ordered an official inquiry. Investigations by the Police and the Occupational Health and Safety Authority have started and are currently ongoing.

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Germany Plans To Legalise Cannabis By Spring

Feb 23 2024

German Health Minister Karl Lauterbach remains optimistic about the passage of the Cannabis Act by the Bundestag in February, with hopes for implementation by April, despite opposition from within the governing coalition. Despite resistance within Germany’s ruling coalition, Health Minister Karl Lauterbach is still pushing for the legalization of cannabis, aiming to introduce a bill to parliament next month.

“I am still hopeful that the Cannabis Act will be approved by the Bundestag between February 19 and 23, with enforcement beginning on April 1,” Lauterbach stated in an interview with Die Welt newspaper on Sunday, noting positive progress in discussions on the legislation.

What the legislation entails The coalition, comprised of the Social Democrats (SPD), including Lauterbach and Chancellor Olaf Scholz, the Greens, and the pro-business liberals of the FDP, reached an agreement in late November to remove cannabis from the list of prohibited substances under previous laws. The objective of legalizing cannabis is outlined in the coalition agreement.

Under the proposed bill, adults would be permitted to cultivate and possess limited amounts of cannabis as of April 1. Additionally, as of July 1, establishments established for collective cultivation would also be permitted. In an interview, Lauterbach emphasized the dangers of highly toxic concentrations in unauthorized cannabis products, advocating for the need to dismantle the illicit market.

“The regulated distribution of cannabis is the appropriate approach, coupled with specific safeguards for minors,” he added.

Who opposes the legalization of cannabis? Several of Germany’s 16 states, which are responsible for law enforcement, have voiced concerns regarding legalization.

The southern state of Bavaria, governed by the conservative Christian Social Union, has consistently called for blocking the liberalization.

Certain SPD politicians have also voiced reservations, particularly regarding cannabis use in proximity to schools.

In response, Lauterbach clarified to Die Welt: “We do not want cannabis consumption near schools or daycare centers, hence we have designated a 100-meter prohibition zone. I view this as a reasonable decision.”

While enforcement of the measure may pose challenges, Lauterbach pointed out that policing the current illicit market has also proven problematic.

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Malta Will Soon Have Its Very Own Veterinary Course

Feb 23 2024

During a Labour Youths event, Prime Minister Robert Abela unveiled plans to initiate a veterinary course in Malta.

This aims to address the current necessity for prospective veterinarians to pursue studies abroad, incurring significant financial burdens and separation from familial and social ties.

Robert Abela revealed ongoing negotiations between MCAST and an international university to establish this groundbreaking program.

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