The first issue of Observe the Work is around the corner, beginning distribution on July 9. If you would like a copy, simply reply to this email and let me know! I’ll be sure to reserve one for you. 

On the same day, our website will be updated and all stories will be available. Reporting and writing for the August issue has begun as well. 

In the meantime, energy is the thread between today’s stories. The global race for fuel and energy has never been more relevant. It powers our technology, our art and ever-growing needs.

Alibaba (AliExpress), Unitree (dancing robots) and Huawei (cell phones) are among the 65 companies blacklisted and labeled as “Chinese Military Companies.” 

The action joins a WSJ Investigation and FBI announcement that warned consumers of Chinese-made internet devices were installing malicious software on home networks.

Music Journalist Liz Pelly connects the dots between manufactured virality, consumer manipulation and bots. 

The first deadline for last year’s Reactor Pilot Program is coming up. Three nuclear reactors of the 11 projects must reach an essential stage called ‘criticality’ by July 4. 

Valar Atomics was the second reactor to achieve criticality. Energy supply is a growing priority as demand increases with data centers and crypto farm projects.

“Dreams of Violets,” written, directed and produced by Iranian brothers Ash and Pooya Koosha centers on protest and violence against Iranian civilians. It is the first AI film to be accepted by the prestegious festival and cost roughly $2,000 to produce.  

During production, Koosha valued the ability to quickly rehash scenes while maintaining a full-time job in tech. The tech is becoming more accepted in logistics, training and producing, NYT wrote. 

Celebrating Royal Albert Hall’s 150th anniversary, Bonobo’s performance  of his 2022 electronic album Fragments (Ninja Tune) became the longest run in the venue for an electronic musician.