Kate Middleton’s family photo is raising further scrutiny

Royal Photo Fail

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Kate Middleton’s family photo is raising further scrutiny.

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Yesterday, the Princess of Wales apologized for “any confusion” an image she edited may have caused. The response came after several photo agencies stopped using the image of Middleton and her three children after finding it had been manipulated. The photo, released by Kensington Palace, came amid rumors about the princess’ whereabouts and condition following her abdominal surgery. But instead of stopping the speculation, the image only made things worse. It's also raising some other flags.

About?

Digitally altered photos. It’s no secret that many people turn to filters, AI, and other editing tools to zhuzh up their images. However, as AI becomes more sophisticated and the technology makes it harder to spot whether a photo is authentic or not, experts are raising concerns about misinformation and misleading content. In the princess’ case, experts say the doctored image underscores the importance of the palace being more transparent. Other royal insiders say it could be a while before the public trusts another photo that comes from the royals.

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The royal family's photo scandal has intensified the public's questions about Kate Middleton. It has also sparked a larger conversation about authenticity and trust in the digital age, especially when it comes to one of the most recognizable families in the world.

What’s back in the spotlight…

The Sunshine State. Yesterday, Florida education officials and civil rights attorneys reached a settlement over a parental rights law that critics dubbed as “Don’t Say Gay.” The law prohibits instruction on gender identity and sexual orientation in public schools. Now, the settlement clarifies that students and teachers can discuss those topics in the classroom as long as they're not part of a formal lesson. The deal also says the law only applies to library books that are used as official classroom materials. The agreement comes after Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) signed the bill into law about two years ago, creating confusion among parents, students, and teachers. Both DeSantis and LGBTQIA+ activists in the state are hailing the settlement as a win.

Who has a long wishlist…

President Biden. Yesterday, the president released his budget for the fiscal year 2025. The proposal, which faces an uphill battle in Congress, calls on lawmakers to sign off on universal free pre-k for four-year-olds, restore the Child Tax Credit expansion, provide 12 weeks of paid family leave, and give first-time home buyers a tax credit. It also plans to cut $3 trillion from the national debt in the next decade by taxing the wealthy and corporations. The proposal is similar to the plan Congress struck down last year. House Republicans dismissed the president's new budget. It comes as Biden is trying to convince voters to give him a second term in office.

Who can no longer watch you…

Your Airbnb host. Yesterday, the company banned the use of indoor security cameras across its listings globally. Previously, Airbnb hosts could put those cameras in common areas as long as they disclosed it in the listing. Airbnb said most of its hosts don’t use indoor security cameras, so the policy update shouldn’t affect that many listings. The cameras have to be out of homes by the end of April. In recent years, travelers have shared stories of finding hidden cameras in short-term rentals. The issue has landed Airbnb hosts in court.

What probably has airport dads stressed…

A rough flight. Yesterday, authorities said at least 50 passengers were injured after a Boeing-made plane experienced a “strong movement.” The airline LATAM said the flight from Sydney to Auckland experienced some kind of "technical event" but didn't elaborate. One passenger said the plane “just dropped,” causing several people to hit the ceiling. Officials said at least a dozen people were taken to the hospital and one person is in serious condition. It’s not clear if turbulence is to blame. Boeing, which is already at the center of another mid-flight incident, says it is investigating what happened.

What people are watching…

The trailer for the movie adaptation of “Who TF Did I Marry?”

Who’s apparently an “Elementary School Dropout”...

North West.

What saw a rebound…

The Oscars.

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