Vanessa May

Helsinki Takes the Lead: Medical Supplies Transported via Drones with BVLOS Authorization

Vanessa May on November 3, 2025

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Quick Overview

Helsinki initiates a pilot scheme for medical supply delivery via drones.
This project is a segment of the EU-backed CITYAM initiative.
Drones will traverse a distance of 7 kilometres from Kyläsaari to Laajasalo.
Operations are set to run from late October to mid-November 2025.
Safety and regulatory compliance take precedence under the BVLOS permit.
The initiative aspires to boost urban mobility and logistical efficiency.

Innovative Drone Deliveries in Helsinki

Helsinki is making significant strides in smart city logistics with the rollout of a pioneering pilot program utilizing drones to transport medical supplies. This venture, part of the CITYAM project funded by the European Union, aims to incorporate uncrewed aerial vehicles within urban transport infrastructures, improving efficiency and sustainability throughout the Baltic Sea area.

Path and Timetable

The pilot involves drone flights along a 7-kilometre stretch from Kyläsaari to the Laajasalo health station. Planned to operate multiple times each weekday from late October to mid-November 2025, these flights are intended to gather real-world data and signify a key advancement in Helsinki’s logistical planning.

Aims and Potential

The primary aim of this trial is to evaluate the potential for integrating drones into city logistics, particularly for addressing unexpected challenges such as pandemics or widespread disruptions. Drones may offer a compelling alternative to traditional delivery methods, especially in highly populated locales.

Specifications

The drones participating in this trial are fixed-wing variants managed by the Norwegian company Aviant. Notable specifications include:

Size: 2.6 metre wingspan.
Cargo Limit: Up to three kilograms.
Flight Altitude: Operates between 60 and 100 metres.
Current Cargo: Medical supplies such as masks and disinfectants.
Future Prospects: Potential expansion to a broader array of medical goods.

Helsinki drone medical delivery pilot program

Ensuring Safety and Adherence

The operations are conducted Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) with a permit from the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency, Traficom. While controlled remotely from Oslo, on-ground personnel in Helsinki ensure the drones are prepared for flight. The findings from this trial are anticipated to influence future logistics regulations.

Helsinki drone medical delivery pilot program

Partnership and Future Influence

This project represents a partnership among Stara (Construction Services), the Social Services, Health Care and Rescue Services Division of Helsinki, and Forum Virium Helsinki. The initiative aims to establish a foundation for upcoming urban mobility innovations.

For further details, visit Forum Virium Helsinki: CITYAM Project

Conclusion

The drone delivery pilot program in Helsinki signifies a notable development in urban logistics. By incorporating drones for medical supply deliveries, the city intends to improve efficiency and response times, particularly in emergency situations. The lessons learned from this initiative are expected to guide future logistics approaches and urban mobility enhancements.

Q: What is the primary goal of Helsinki’s drone delivery pilot?

A: The main objective is to evaluate the integration of drones into urban logistics, emphasizing systematic deliveries and swift actions in response to unexpected situations.

Q: What route and timing are established for the drone deliveries?

A: The drones will operate along a 7-kilometre path from Kyläsaari to Laajasalo, scheduled for several flights daily during weekdays from late October to mid-November 2025.

Q: What safety protocols are implemented for the drone operations?

A: The flights are conducted under a BVLOS permit from Traficom, with remote oversight from Oslo and local personnel in Helsinki ensuring readiness for operations.

Q: What are the specifications of the drones utilized in the pilot project?

A: The drones have a wingspan of 2.6 metres, can carry up to three kilograms of cargo, and operate at altitudes ranging from 60 to 100 metres.

Labor Implements New Triple Zero Legislation

Vanessa May on October 30, 2025

New Triple Zero Telecom Regulations

Quick Overview

Labor enacts new triple zero telecommunications regulations in Australia.
A role for a triple zero custodian is established to ensure emergency call reliability.
Telcos risk facing increased fines of up to $30 million for non-compliance.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) endorses the new regulations.
A public register for network outages in real-time will be introduced by November 1.

Labor establishes new triple zero regulations

The Role of the Newly Established Triple Zero Custodian

Labor has approved the Telecommunications Legislation Amendment (Triple Zero Custodian and Emergency Calling Powers) Bill 2025, which creates a new position within the Department of Infrastructure, Transport and Communications. This role, designated as the triple zero custodian, is granted the authority to take decisive actions to ensure telcos resolve issues related to emergency calling services promptly.

Background and Justification

The legislation was conceptualized following guidance from the federal government’s investigation into the Optus network outage in November 2023. This event brought attention to weaknesses in emergency call services and highlighted the necessity for a more solid and accountable framework.

Enhanced Penalties for Non-Compliance

One significant modification to the bill raises the upper limit of fines for carriers failing to comply with triple zero regulations from $10 million to $30 million. This adjustment underscores the government’s dedication to enforcing rigorous standards on telcos to guarantee service dependability.

Backing and Execution

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has shown its support for the newly introduced bill. Acting chair Adam Suckling emphasized that these adjustments correspond with ACMA’s regulatory responsibilities and are aimed at offering greater protection to Australians in critical situations. The legislation will take effect shortly after obtaining Royal Assent, usually within seven to ten business days.

Real-Time Outage Monitoring

As part of the legislative initiative, carriers are obligated to maintain a publicly accessible register regarding network outages that enables real-time updates. Minister Anika Wells has established November 1 as the deadline for carriers to launch this real-time public outage register, thereby increasing transparency and responsibility.

Conclusion

The new triple zero regulations represent an important advancement in ensuring the reliability and strength of Australia’s emergency call services. Through the establishment of a triple zero custodian and the implementation of stricter penalties, the government seeks to hold telcos accountable and ensure that Australians can trust the emergency call system.

Q: What is the fundamental aim of the new triple zero legislation?

A:

The primary objective is to assure the reliability of emergency call services by granting the government powers to directly intervene in the telecommunications sector and hold telcos responsible for service failures.

Q: What authorities does the triple zero custodian hold?

A:

The triple zero custodian is empowered to take direct measures to rectify problems with emergency calling services and ensure telcos adhere to regulations, enhancing service reliability.

Q: What prompted the increase in penalties for non-compliance?

A:

The penalties were raised to $30 million to establish stricter compliance and accountability within telcos, ensuring they fulfill their responsibilities to deliver dependable emergency call services.

Q: What implications does the new legislation have for telcos?

A:

Telcos are mandated to manage a real-time public register of network outages and face heightened penalties for failing to comply with emergency call service regulations.

Q: How does ACMA fit into this new framework?

A:

ACMA supports the new regulations and will collaborate with the triple zero custodian to oversee and improve the robustness of emergency call services.

Ford and Google Forge New Paths: TransAmerica Trail Now Charted with Street View

Vanessa May on October 29, 2025

Ford and Google Map the TransAmerica Trail with Street View

Fast Overview

Ford and Google have utilized Street View technology to chart the TransAmerica Trail.
This trail extends over 5,900 miles of unpaved routes throughout the United States.
A Ford Bronco Badlands was employed to document the trail’s rugged features.
The new lightweight camera system from Google enabled the successful expedition.
This initiative promotes virtual exploration and route planning for adventurers.

Documenting the Indomitable: 5,900 Miles of Off-Road Exploration

The TransAmerica Trail represents a vast network of unpaved roads spanning over 5,900 miles across the U.S., celebrated by off-road enthusiasts. Historically challenging to map, this trail is now visible on Google Maps due to a partnership between Google and Ford. This effort allows individuals to explore the secluded landscape from the comfort of their homes.

Preferred Vehicle: Ford Bronco

For navigating such demanding terrain, the project utilized a Ford Bronco Badlands, acclaimed for its off-road performance. With Ford’s High-Performance Off-Road Stability Suspension System, the Bronco comfortably managed varying landscapes, from sandy areas to rocky trails, allowing the Google team to concentrate on obtaining high-quality images.

The expedition was backed by a support convoy featuring a Ford Ranger Lariat and an Expedition Tremor, tasked with transporting necessary equipment and supporting the team during a 32-day journey from Oregon to North Carolina.

Technical Details: Google’s New Street View Camera

Innovative Camera System

The camera utilized in this venture was compact and light, weighing less than 7 kilograms. This allowed for easy mounting on vehicles such as the Ford Bronco, adapting swiftly to the trail’s variable conditions.

Virtual Exploration

Adventurers can now explore the entire trail virtually, evaluating the difficulty of different sections and organizing their trips with improved precision and safety.

Enhanced Accessibility and Assurance

By integrating the TransAmerica Trail on Street View, Google has made this famed route more accessible, empowering drivers of all experience levels to plan their off-road adventures with assurance.

Ford and Google Navigate TransAmerica Trail with Street View

Conclusion

This collaboration between Google and Ford has transformed the remote and demanding TransAmerica Trail into an accessible feature on Google Maps, enabling users to discover and plan their journeys with unparalleled access and information.

Q: What is the TransAmerica Trail?

A: The TransAmerica Trail is a 5,900-mile network of unpaved roads throughout the U.S., favored by off-road fans.

Q: How did Ford and Google capture the trail?

A: They employed a Ford Bronco outfitted with Google’s new lightweight Street View camera system to record high-quality visuals of the trail.

Q: What advantages does having the TransAmerica Trail on Street View provide?

A: It allows users to virtually navigate the trail, plan trips more effectively, and evaluate the difficulty of different sections before setting off on their journey.

Q: What vehicles aided the expedition?

A: Besides the Ford Bronco, the expedition was supported by a Ford Ranger Lariat and an Expedition Tremor.

Q: What was the duration of the expedition?

A: The expedition spanned 32 days, traveling from Oregon to North Carolina.

Order 1X’s NEO Humanoid Robot Now for Only US$20,000 or AU$499 Monthly

Vanessa May on October 29, 2025

The NEO Humanoid Robot by 1X Technologies is now up for order, representing a significant advancement in domestic robotics.
Supported by OpenAI, the NEO is designed to take on household duties, allowing users to save precious time.
Offered for A$30,370 or through a subscription option at A$758 monthly.
Key features include interaction via voice commands, remote learning functionalities, and a robust AI-powered computing system.

Presenting the NEO Humanoid Robot: The Future of Home Assistance

1X Technologies, with backing from OpenAI, has launched the NEO Humanoid Robot, marking a major milestone in home robotics. This is not just a vision of the future; it’s a real product available at a tangible price. Tailored to manage everyday home tasks, the NEO aims to integrate seamlessly into contemporary households.

Capabilities and Learning: A Robot That Becomes Smarter Over Time

The NEO is designed to enhance its functionality as it is used. It features basic capabilities, enabling it to perform actions like retrieving items and controlling lights right out of the box. Its dual command interface, which includes voice activation and a smartphone application, facilitates both prompt and scheduled task handling.

1X Technologies implements a “human-in-the-loop” approach, where specialists can remotely instruct the NEO to learn new functions, continuously enriching its AI model with real-time data.

Technology and Build: Tailored for Home Life

With a height of 5’6” and a weight of just 66 lbs, the NEO is crafted for safety and functionality within lively home settings. Its soft 3D Lattice Polymer shell safeguards its intricate components while ensuring a gentle touch with both people and pets.

The robot is powered by the 1X Cortex, featuring NVIDIA Jetson Thor, which offers powerful AI processing and real-time visual functions.

Feature	Description
5’6” Height	Created to interact smoothly with human settings.
66 lbs Weight	Designed to be lightweight for safe and efficient navigation.
4 Hours Battery Life with Fast Charging	Self-docks and charges, guaranteeing uninterrupted functionality.

Order 1X's NEO Humanoid Robot Today for Just US$20,000 or AU$499 a Month

Cost and Availability

The NEO is positioned as a premium product priced at A$30,370 for outright ownership or available via a subscription model at A$758 monthly. Both options necessitate a deposit to confirm an order. This pricing mirrors the sophisticated technology and early adopter phase of the product.

Overview

The NEO Humanoid Robot from 1X Technologies represents a crucial point in consumer robotics, merging cutting-edge AI with practical, day-to-day uses. With its release, household robots are transitioning from a futuristic concept to a current reality.

Q: What tasks can the NEO Humanoid Robot handle?

A: The NEO is capable of performing basic household functions such as retrieving items, opening doors, and managing light switches, with its skills increasing as it learns.

Q: How does the NEO acquire new skills?

A: It utilizes a “human-in-the-loop” system where experts can remotely assist in guiding it, continuously feeding new information into its AI model for ongoing development.

Q: What are the pricing alternatives for the NEO?

A: Buyers can choose to purchase the NEO outright for A$30,370 or subscribe at A$758 per month, with both requiring a deposit for ordering.

Q: What is the battery duration for the NEO?

A: The NEO offers a battery life of 4 hours and includes automatic docking and rapid charging features.

Australian Authorities Conduct Raid on WiseTech Following Allegations of Founder’s Share Transactions

Vanessa May on October 29, 2025

WiseTech Under Scrutiny: Founder Accused of Share Transactions

Australian authorities probe WiseTech for share transactions

Brief Overview

Australian authorities have executed a search at WiseTech Global’s Sydney office regarding alleged share transactions.
Founder Richard White along with three staff members are currently being investigated.
Share prices have plummeted nearly 17% to reach a six-month low.
The investigation is a follow-up to Richard White’s contentious return as chairman.
Reports indicate that shares valued at over $200 million were sold during a blackout phase.

Authorities Conduct Search at WiseTech Global

Australia’s corporate watchdog, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), together with the Australian Federal Police, has carried out a search at WiseTech Global’s Sydney office. This operation forms part of an inquiry into suspected share trading actions by founder Richard White and three other staff members, prompting the company’s shares to plummet to a level not seen in over six months.

Effect on WiseTech Shares

Following the search, WiseTech’s stock experienced a severe decline, dropping nearly 17% to $73.69, marking its lowest value in over six months. This drastic fall illustrates the market’s response to the ongoing inquiry and the gravity of the allegations.

Allegation Details

The claims against Richard White and his colleagues concern improper trading of WiseTech shares from late 2024 until early 2025. Reports suggest that White may have disposed of shares worth over $200 million during a blackout period, neglecting to inform the market as mandated.

Context and Governance Issues

WiseTech has been under observation since February, when ASIC initiated preliminary investigations following a mass departure of executives and White’s unanticipated return as chairman. The company has encountered ongoing governance difficulties, contributing to a 40% decrease in share value this year.

Conclusion

The search at WiseTech Global highlights serious accusations against founder Richard White and others, with possible implications for the company’s governance and market position. As inquiries progress, WiseTech is under considerable pressure to tackle these challenges and re-establish shareholder trust.

FAQ

Q: Why was WiseTech Global searched?

A: The search is part of an investigation into supposed improper share transactions by founder Richard White and three employees.

Q: What has been the impact of the search on WiseTech’s stock price?

A: WiseTech’s shares have fallen nearly 17%, hitting their lowest level in over six months.

Q: What specific accusations have been made against Richard White?

A: Accusations include selling over $200 million worth of shares during a blackout period without notifying the market.

Q: What other challenges does WiseTech face?

A: WiseTech is addressing wider corporate governance issues and a 40% decline in share value this year.

Q: What has been Richard White’s recent involvement with WiseTech?

A: Richard White returned as chairman after a mass executive departure, raising further governance concerns.

ACCC Accuses Microsoft of Deceiving 2.7 Million Australians Regarding M365 Charges

Vanessa May on October 27, 2025

Microsoft Under Legal Scrutiny for Deceptive 365 Charges

Quick Overview

ACCC claims Microsoft misled 2.7 million Australians concerning Microsoft 365 charges.
Claims involve unjustified fees for the AI tool Copilot.
Microsoft purportedly hid less expensive subscription alternatives.
Legal proceedings aim for fines, injunctions, and compensation for consumers.
Potential maximum penalty could amount to $50 million or triple the financial gain.

Context of the Claims

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has initiated legal action against Microsoft, accusing the technology company of misleading 2.7 million Australian customers regarding the expenses linked to its Microsoft 365 (M365) subscriptions. The issue revolves around the integration of Microsoft’s AI tool, Copilot, within subscription plans, which allegedly caused customers to think they were required to pay more.

ACCC claims Microsoft misled 2.7 million Australians concerning M365 charges

Specifics of the Claims

As stated by the ACCC, Microsoft allegedly told its customers that to maintain access to M365, they were obligated to incur extra costs for Copilot, despite having the option to continue without integrating the AI tool. Such information was reportedly conveyed through emails and blog posts, thus misleading customers regarding their subscription options.

Microsoft’s Reaction

A representative for Microsoft Australia expressed that the company is examining the ACCC’s allegations and highlighted its dedication to consumer trust, transparency, and compliance with legal and ethical norms. Microsoft claims it is ready to engage positively with the regulatory body.

Legal Consequences

The ACCC seeks to impose sanctions, request injunctions, and pursue consumer compensation. Although the specific penalties have yet to be revealed, Australian law allows for a maximum fine of $50 million per infraction, or three times the financial benefit obtained from the actions.

Conclusion

The ACCC has charged Microsoft with misleading Australian customers about Microsoft 365 subscription costs by bundling Copilot and allegedly not revealing less expensive options. The legal action aims to tackle these purportedly deceptive practices and safeguard consumer rights.

Q: What allegations are made against Microsoft?

A: The ACCC claims Microsoft misled consumers into paying unjust charges for the AI tool Copilot within their M365 subscriptions.

Q: How did Microsoft allegedly deceive customers?

A: Microsoft purportedly informed customers they had to pay additional fees to keep using M365 with Copilot, without disclosing a more affordable, non-Copilot choice.

Q: What has Microsoft articulated in response to these claims?

A: Microsoft has indicated it is currently reviewing the allegations and is dedicated to collaborating with the ACCC to ensure its practices align with legal and ethical expectations.

Q: What potential penalties could Microsoft encounter if proven guilty?

A: Microsoft may face fines up to $50 million for each breach or triple the financial advantage gained from the actions, as per Australian legislation.

Q: Why is this case important for Australian consumers?

A: This case underscores the necessity for transparency in subscription services and may impact forthcoming practices in the technology sector regarding consumer rights in Australia.

Queensland Government Eliminates CISO Position

Vanessa May on October 23, 2025

Update on Cyber Security Role in Queensland Government

Quick Overview

The CISO position in the Queensland government has been rebranded to general manager, cyber security.
Adam Smith is currently the acting general manager, cyber security.
This modification is in line with departmental title standardization.
The position continues to report to the Deputy Director-General, Data and Digital Government.
A $1 billion investment has been announced by the government to improve governmental systems.

Rebranding the Role: A Strategic Decision

The Queensland government has embarked on a strategic rebranding of its chief information security officer (CISO) role, selecting the title of general manager, cyber security. This transformation follows an extensive search for a qualified candidate to fill the role and fits into a wider departmental initiative to harmonize role titles.

Interim Management and Hiring Process

In June, Adam Smith, who was the deputy CISO, took over as the interim whole-of-government CISO after Rob Champion’s retirement. Smith will hold this role until a permanent candidate is chosen. The newly designated position of general manager, cyber security is presently listed on Queensland’s Smart Jobs website.

Consistency in Duties

Even though the title has changed, the duties linked to the CISO role remain unchanged. The general manager, cyber security will keep reporting to the Deputy Director-General, Data and Digital Government, assuring leadership continuity and strategic direction.

Major Investment in Digital Technology

Simultaneously with this leadership change, the Queensland government has revealed a significant $1 billion investment aimed at enhancing its whole-of-government systems. This initiative seeks to consolidate systems and funding across 19 departments, demonstrating a strong pledge to modernizing and securing governmental functions.

QLD government retires CISO position title

Conclusion

The choice made by the Queensland government to change its CISO title to general manager, cyber security signifies an adaptation to departmental naming practices and a dedication to preserving strong leadership in cyber security. The ongoing $1 billion investment in digital infrastructure further emphasizes the state’s commitment to advancing and securing its governmental processes.

Q&A Section

Q: Why was the CISO title changed to general manager, cyber security?

A:

The renaming is consistent with the titles used throughout the department and represents a strategic effort to unify and standardize government roles.

Q: Who is presently heading the cyber security initiatives in Queensland?

A:

Adam Smith is acting as the interim general manager, cyber security until a permanent successor is appointed.

Q: What effect will the $1 billion investment have on the systems of Queensland’s government?

A:

The funding aims to upgrade and integrate systems across 19 departments, enhancing efficiency, security, and technological advancements.

Q: Will the CISO’s responsibilities change with the new title?

A:

No, the duties will remain consistent, and the position will still report to the Deputy Director-General, Data and Digital Government.

Q: How does this rebranding impact the overall cyber security strategy?

A:

The rebranding forms part of a larger initiative to standardize roles and titles, ensuring clarity and uniformity in the government’s cyber security approach.

“Malicious ‘Glassworm’ Malware Distributes Through Compromised VS Code Extensions”

Vanessa May on October 22, 2025

Glassworm Malware Intrusion on VS Code Plugins

Brief Overview

Glassworm malware has compromised a number of VS Code plugins.
The infection employs invisible Unicode characters to avoid detection.
More than 10,700 downloads compromised on the OpenVSX marketplace.
Malware functions via the Solana blockchain for command and control.
Attackers exploit alternative channels such as Google Calendar.
Ongoing threat with existing infrastructure and payload server.
Developers urged to review plugins and update credentials.

Grasping the Glassworm Malware Intrusion

Concealed malware intrusion on VS Code plugins

The Glassworm malware has surfaced as a considerable risk, targeting Microsoft Visual Studio Code plugins. Identified by Koi Security, this advanced worm utilizes invisible Unicode characters to embed harmful code, eluding both human oversight and detection tools. As of October 17, it had penetrated seven plugins on the OpenVSX marketplace, resulting in over 10,700 downloads.

How Glassworm Avoids Detection

By employing Unicode variation selectors, Glassworm’s code stays hidden from static scanners and human reviewers, resulting in developers unknowingly disseminating the malware. This stealthy method has outmaneuvered even GitHub’s diff view and syntax highlighting features.

Communication Using Blockchain

Glassworm utilizes the Solana blockchain for its command and control (C2) setup. It interprets base64-encoded data in blockchain memos to discover new payloads. The unchangeable nature of blockchain transactions creates an “unkillable infrastructure,” permitting attackers to refresh commands without concern of being removed.

Backup Channels and Payload Distribution

In addition to blockchain, Glassworm employs direct IP addresses and Google Calendar events as secondary channels. Malware traffic masquerading as legitimate Calendar events circumvents conventional security protocols. The Solana-connected server delivers an AES-encrypted payload, with decryption keys transmitted via HTTP headers, complicating interception efforts.

Propagation and Secondary Component: ZOMBI

The worm actively pursues credentials from npm, GitHub, OpenVSX, and cryptocurrency wallets to extend its reach. Glassworm’s secondary component, ZOMBI, transforms infected systems into proxy nodes, utilizing SOCKS proxies and WebRTC to evade firewalls. It also employs HVNC for discreet remote desktop access.

Ongoing Threat and Suggestions

Koi Security confirms that Glassworm’s infrastructure is still active, with operational payload servers and continuous data exfiltration. Developers are recommended to scrutinize their plugins and change any compromised credentials. Affected plugins include CodeJoy, l-igh-t.vscode-theme-seti-folder, among others.

Conclusion

The Glassworm malware intrusion underscores vulnerabilities within software supply chains, taking advantage of the invisibility of Unicode characters to conceal its existence. With an indestructible command infrastructure and advanced evasion tactics, Glassworm continues to pose a significant threat to developers globally.

Q&A

Q: What is Glassworm malware?

A: Glassworm is a malware worm that targets Microsoft Visual Studio Code plugins, using invisible Unicode characters to avoid detection.

Q: In what way does Glassworm evade detection?

A: It employs Unicode variation selectors to render its code invisible to both static scanning tools and human evaluators.

Q: What renders Glassworm’s command infrastructure unkillable?

A: It functions through the Solana blockchain, which is immutable, enabling it to modify commands without the risk of being terminated.

Q: How are developers impacted by Glassworm?

A: Developers unknowingly propagate malware through compromised plugins, resulting in potential data breaches and internal system compromises.

Q: What steps can developers take to safeguard themselves?

A: Developers should review their installed plugins, refresh exposed credentials, and stay alert against such intricate attacks.

Q: Is the threat from Glassworm still ongoing?

A: Yes, the infrastructure remains active, with operational payload servers and ongoing data collection efforts.

ESO’s Legendary Twisting Wall Face-off: An Unrivaled Community Challenge

Vanessa May on October 16, 2025

The Elder Scrolls Online: The Writhing Wall Showdown

Quick Overview

Exciting community-driven event in The Elder Scrolls Online: The Writhing Wall Showdown.
Unlock the Eastern Solstice area by joining forces with your server.
Event consists of three stages: Supply and Defense, The Assault Begins, and Fall of the Writhing Wall.
Earn exclusive rewards such as the Wormwrithe outfit and Wall Breaker title.
Progress is unique to each server, encouraging rivalry between NA and EU servers.

The Fight for the Writhing Wall

There’s something significant happening throughout Tamriel, and this time it’s not merely another world event. The Fight for the Writhing Wall signals a new chapter for The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO), where complete server communities come together to unlock the next part of the narrative.

An Inclusive Battle

Launched this week and now active, this lengthy event directly relates to Update 48 and the Seasons of the Worm Cult storyline. These events culminate in opening the Eastern Solstice: a fresh area accessible only after your server engages, crafts, and collaborates to overcome the challenge.

In contrast to conventional ESO updates that simply show up after patch day, the Writhing Wall necessitates teamwork. Each server’s community must accomplish quests, gather materials, and repel Daedric invasions to progress through three specific phases:

Phase 1: Supply and Defense. Collect resources, protect siege camps, and thwart Coldharbour Daedra invading delves and public dungeons throughout Tamriel.
Phase 2: The Assault Begins. Take the battle to the Worm Cult. Anticipate stronger sieges, more frequent incursions, and the emergence of Ghishzor, a new Maldrith world boss.
Phase 3: Fall of the Writhing Wall. Collaborate to breach the Writhing Fortress public instance. Once any group achieves this, the Eastern Solstice is unlocked for the whole server.

ESO's Writhing Wall Showdown: Community Challenge — Explore a new zone, complete challenges, and unlock an entirely new area in the ESO Writhing Wall event.

Cultivating a Genuine Community Effort

When talking about this innovative approach, Mike Finnigan, Associate Design Director at ZeniMax, stressed the importance of encouraging server community collaboration. This event allows players to engage in their preferred playstyle, whether it’s crafting, PvE, or PvP, all contributing to the overall goal of the server. Each server’s progress is monitored independently, igniting friendly competition between NA and EU servers.

Incentives to Fight For

ESO players can acquire exclusive items like Wormwrithe outfit styles, the Fellowship of Stirk motif, and the Bone Caltrops skill style. Completing the final Writhing Fortress grants the sought-after ‘Wall Breaker’ title. Additional collectibles include the Wormwrithe Bear-Lizard mount and Haj-Mota pet fragments. Engaging in quests and daily rewards can further enhance players’ collections.

How Writhing Wall is Transforming ESO’s Future

Aside from the loot and battles, the Writhing Wall event signifies a change in ESO’s update rollout, granting players greater control over the introduction of new content. This aligns with the developers’ goal of integrating player feedback and presenting more dynamic, community-focused events in the future.

Will You Conquer the Wall?

The struggle for Solstice is more than just another in-game occurrence. It serves as a rallying point for players to unite, engage in their preferred styles of play, and drive their server towards triumph. Whether you’re vanquishing Daedra, crafting supplies, or defending siege camps, every action matters. Learn more about Battle for the Writhing Wall on the ESO blog.

Synopsis

The Writhing Wall Showdown in ESO represents a revolutionary community-driven event that invites players to join forces and unlock new content. With exclusive rewards and a new region at stake, server communities must work together to navigate several stages, marking a fresh chapter for the game.

Q: What is the Writhing Wall Showdown in ESO?

A: It is a multi-week, community-oriented event in The Elder Scrolls Online that challenges players to collaborate and unlock a new area, Eastern Solstice.

Q: How does the event develop?

A: Players are required to complete quests, gather materials, and fend off invasions across three distinct phases: Supply and Defense, The Assault Begins, and Fall of the Writhing Wall.

Q: What rewards are available for participants?

A: Rewards feature Wormwrithe outfit styles, the Fellowship of Stirk motif, Bone Caltrops skill style, and the exclusive ‘Wall Breaker’ title, among other prizes.

Q: Are players able to participate solo?

A: Yes, individual players can join in crafting, gathering, and hunting quests to contribute to the event.

Q: How is progress monitored?

A: Progress for each server is tracked independently, fostering competition between NA and EU servers to unlock the update first.

Q: What does this event mean for the future of ESO?

A: The event represents a shift towards more engaging, player-led content updates, allowing the community to influence the speed of new material.

X’s Recent Creator Payment Generating Excitement

Vanessa May on October 12, 2025

X's Updated Creator Payouts Prompting Responses

Fast Overview

X has made revisions to its creator compensation program.
Qualified creators now have the opportunity to earn a one-time bonus of $10,000.
This initiative seeks to acknowledge creators who set off global trends.
There is a sense of uncertainty and displeasure among creators about the new eligibility requirements.

History of X’s Creator Payments

X initiated its creator payments program in February 2023 to incentivize content creators on its platform. The original program required creators to possess a Premium subscription, achieve over 5 million impressions within the last three months, and have more than 500 verified followers to become eligible.

Latest Updates and Feedback

This week, a creator named Zoomer, boasting 25,000 followers, encountered a surprising development. After a post garnered 173 million impressions, Zoomer initially received a payout of $1,500. However, prompted by X’s product head, Nikita Bier, Zoomer found an additional one-time $10,000 payment credited to his account.

This bonus, which was not a rectification of the algorithm but rather a fresh method to reward creators who ignite global trends, has elicited mixed responses from the creator community.

Clarifying the New Payout Standards

The ambiguity surrounding what qualifies as a ‘global trend’ has been a significant issue. Creators are unclear about whether they need specific engagement statistics or originality in their posts. Furthermore, there are worries about how these bonus payouts might affect the overall revenue pool for other creators.

While some view this as a motivation for innovation, the initial recipient of the bonus faced criticism for lack of originality, further heightening frustrations among committed creators.

Conclusion

X’s recent modifications to its creator payment program have generated considerable excitement. With the rollout of a one-time $10,000 bonus for creators who trigger global trends, the platform intends to foster creativity and uniqueness. Nonetheless, the vagueness regarding the criteria and allocation of these payments has resulted in discontent and demands for increased transparency from creators.

Q: What criteria must creators meet to be eligible for X’s creator payment program?

A: To be eligible, creators must have a Premium subscription, more than 5 million impressions in the last three months, and over 500 verified followers.

Q: How is the new $10,000 bonus allocated?

A: The bonus is given to creators who are considered to have sparked a global trend, although the specific criteria are still not well defined.

Q: What issues have creators brought up regarding the new payout system?

A: Creators are expressing concerns about the lack of clarity, undefined criteria for ‘global trends,’ and the potential effects on the overall revenue pool for other earnings.