Mortgage Rate Update | June 19, 2025

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.81%, down slightly from 6.84% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.96%, nearly unchanged from 5.97% last week.

The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.

Freddie Mac was chartered by Congress in 1970 to keep money flowing to mortgage lenders in support of homeownership and rental housing. Their mandate is to provide liquidity, stability, and affordability to the U.S.

June 19, 2025June 19, 2025

From The Android 16 to Cloud Computing and More! | Tech News

Stay ahead of the curve with seven standout tech stories from the U.S. and Canada. From the Android 16 to breakthroughs in cloud computing, and more, we have you covered. Check out this week’s headlines showcasing the bold moves driving innovation across industries!

Texas Instruments Commits $60 B to U.S. Chip Manufacturing

Texas Instruments announced plans to invest over $60 billion to build and expand seven semiconductor fabrication plants in Texas and Utah—the largest domestic chip investment in U.S. history. The new fabs will focus on analog and embedded-processor chips vital to smartphones, electric vehicles, and industrial equipment, and are projected to create more than 60,000 jobs across manufacturing, engineering, and support roles. This investment aligns with federal incentives under the CHIPS and Science Act aimed at reshoring advanced manufacturing and reducing reliance on overseas suppliers. Partnerships with major customers such as Apple, Ford, and SpaceX are planned to co-develop specialized process technologies and packaging solutions. Groundbreaking is set to begin by the end of 2025, with phased production ramps expected between 2027 and 2029.

Big Tech Seeks Federal AI Preemption for a Decade

Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and Meta have joined forces to lobby Congress for a ten-year moratorium preventing U.S. states from enacting their own AI regulations, advocating a unified national framework to foster innovation and avoid conflicting rules. The proposal, included in the House budget reconciliation bill, would bar states from regulating AI models or imposing mandates for ten years after enactment. Supporters contend that a single federal standard will maintain U.S. competitiveness—particularly against China—by providing clarity for developers and investors. Critics, including privacy advocates and some state attorneys general, argue the ban risks entrenching Big Tech’s power and removing essential consumer protections at the local level. The Senate is preparing its own version of the legislation, which may tie federal broadband funding to state compliance, setting the stage for a high-stakes policy battle.

Micron Boosts U.S. Investments by $30 B to Total $200 B

Micron Technology announced an additional $30 billion investment in U.S. memory-chip manufacturing, bringing its total domestic commitment to $200 billion. The expansion includes new DRAM and NAND fabs in Boise, Idaho, and Manassas, Virginia, aimed at meeting surging demand from data centers, mobile devices, and AI applications. Micron will also allocate $50 billion toward R&D for advanced packaging and high-bandwidth memory technologies essential to next-generation AI systems. Executives emphasize that these investments enhance supply-chain resilience and stimulate local economies through job creation and partnerships with technical institutions. Production ramp-up is slated to begin in late 2026, with full capacity by 2028 to support global customer needs.

Android 16 Arrives on Pixel; Samsung Teases AI-Enhanced Foldables

Google began rolling out Android 16 to Pixel devices this week, introducing desktop-style windowing for tablets. In addition, Android 16 features LE Audio support for hearing aids, and advanced protection modes for sensitive apps. The update also brings a new Pixel VIPs widget for quick access to favorite contacts and generative AI stickers within Gboard. At its recent developer event, Samsung previewed the Galaxy Z Fold 7, showcasing AI-powered camera modules. The new models automatically adjust framing and exposure based on scene recognition. Leaks hint at a Galaxy Watch 8 Classic variant featuring premium materials, a refined squircle design, and extended battery life. Both companies are emphasizing personalization, accessibility, and intelligent hardware integration in their latest software and device upgrades. Of course, the arrival of Android 16 brings continued innovation to Pixel devices.

JetZero to Build $4.7 B Aircraft Plant in North Carolina

JetZero, backed by United and Alaska Airlines, will invest $4.7 billion to establish its first manufacturing facility and corporate headquarters in Greensboro, North Carolina. The plant will produce the Z4 blended-wing-body passenger jet, promising 50% better fuel efficiency and a quieter cabin, with conditional orders for up to 200 aircraft. The project is the largest in North Carolina history and is expected to create over 14,500 jobs by 2036, alongside $450 million in airport infrastructure upgrades. An on-site R&D center will support advanced composite structures and sustainable aviation fuel research, in collaboration with the U.S. Air Force and NASA. Construction kicks off in early 2026, with the first test jets anticipated in 2028, marking a major boost for domestic aerospace manufacturing.

AWS Cuts EC2 GPU Prices & Enhances Amazon Q Developer

AWS announced up to 45% price reductions on NVIDIA-accelerated EC2 GPU instances. In its June 9 AWS Weekly Roundup, Amazon also introduced agentic capabilities for Amazon Q Developer. Likewise, this enables autonomous chaining of queries. In addition, it allows for API invocations and context retention across multi-step workflows within the AWS Console, Teams, and Slack. These updates aim to empower developers and enterprises with more cost-effective and intelligent cloud tools.

SpaceX Conducts Static-Fire Test of Super Heavy Booster

On June 6, SpaceX conducted a full-duration static-fire of all 33 Raptor engines on its Super Heavy booster at Starbase. The static fire signifies a critical milestone before the 10th fully stacked Starship launch. The extended burn validated thermal management and structural integrity under load. Likewise, this test also marks the booster’s fourth static fire since its debut and follows recent reflights. Of course, the latter showcases SpaceX’s progress toward rapid reusability of its core launch hardware. Pending FAA clearance and final safety reviews, SpaceX aims to attempt orbital flight later this month. Overall, SpaceX aims to accelerate its cadence of Starship missions to support frequent flights to low Earth orbit and beyond.

June 18, 2025June 19, 2025

Dining Near LA’s Top Hiking Spots | L.A. Eats

Los Angeles rewards every trekker after hiking with a world-class meal just a few minutes from the trailhead. Whether you’ve summited Mount Baldy or simply strolled the Culver City Stairs, these ten restaurants—spread across the Valley, city center, Westside, and San Gabriel foothills—serve menus worthy of your post-hike hunger.

Brent’s Deli

Location: Stoney Point Park — Northridge

Famous for skyscraper pastrami Reubens, Brent’s has nourished climbers tackling Stoney Point’s granite boulders since 1967. Pair the sandwich with a matzo-ball soup or share a latke-and-blintz sampler after hiking before heading back to the 118 freeway.

Berge’s Sandwiches

Location: Deukmejian Wilderness Park — La Cañada Flintridge

A 1970s time capsule of wood paneling and tomato-soup steam, Berge’s is beloved for thick pastrami on rye and tuna melts. It’s the reward locals crave after hiking the Rim of the Valley trail network’s switchbacks.

The Old Place

Location: Malibu Creek State Park — Agoura Hills

Housed in a former 19th-century general store, this Western roadhouse serves cinnamon rolls at sunrise and rib-eye steaks at dusk. It’s rustic, remote, and exactly what you want after scrambling the park’s volcanic rock pools.

Loupiotte Kitchen

Location: Griffith Park — Los Feliz

Checkered tablecloths and all-day brioche French toast make this French café a brunch magnet. Order the creamy polenta with panko-crusted egg, then wander Vermont Avenue’s boutiques en route to the Observatory.

Luv2Eat Thai Bistro

Location: Runyon Canyon — Hollywood

Southern-Thai heat meets Hollywood cool at this laid-back spot just downhill from Runyon’s Fuller Gate. Plan for the 30-minute Hat Yai fried-chicken wait, and soothe the spice with Thai iced tea before continuing your hiking to the next selfie stop.

Lowboy

Location: Elysian Park — Echo Park

Smash burgers, chicken tenders, and six beers on tap define this neighborhood bar’s post-Dodger-game vibe. After looping Elysian’s dog-friendly trails, grab patio seating and watch Sunset Boulevard roll by.

Village Mart & Deli

Location: Ascot Hills Park — El Sereno

Home to one of L.A.’s most legendary breakfast burritos, this family-run deli also crafts classic Italian subs. It’s a quick downhill drive from Ascot’s skyline overlooks—perfect for a grab-and-go picnic.

Gus’s BBQ (Claremont)

Location: Mount Baldy — Claremont

Nothing beats smoked ribs and jalapeño-cheese grits after conquering Baldy’s 10,066-foot peak. Cast-iron cornbread and a cold beer seal the deal at this 1946-born smokehouse’s spacious Foothill outpost.

Flo’s Coffee Shop

Location: Bridge to Nowhere Hike — El Monte

Classic diner plates—huevos rancheros, French toast, menudo on weekends—await hikers who’ve tackled the San Gabriel River’s 10-mile round-trip adventure. Counter stools and bottomless coffee feel especially satisfying after a canyon swim.

Monroe Place

Location: Culver City Stairs — Culver City

Having climbed nearly 300 concrete steps, reward yourself with a jamón Serrano–loaded Italian Spaniard sandwich or the vegetarian Lil’ Bambino drizzled in honey. Everything is designed for takeout, so grab a bench at nearby Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook and savor your victory.

Hiking Trail-to-Table Tips

Hydrate First: Sip water for 15 minutes before digging in—your muscles will thank you.
Dress in Layers: Restaurants like The Old Place get breezy after sunset; pack a light jacket.
Order Ahead: Loupiotte and Brent’s offer online pickup; minimize wait times by tapping your phone before you untie your boots.

From pastrami towers in the Valley to beach-adjacent cinnamon rolls, these ten eateries prove that Los Angeles hiking isn’t just about elevation gain—it’s about tasting the city one trail at a time. Lace up, trek out, and bring your appetite.

June 17, 2025June 18, 2025

Summer Yacht Cruises and Seaside Fun | Out & About

June’s summer solstice delivers more daylight than any other 24-hour stretch, practically begging Angelenos to savor every golden minute. Rather than defaulting to yet another backyard BBQ, elevate the occasion with local summer events that fuse ocean panoramas with VIP amenities. Below, you’ll find a curated itinerary—sunset yacht charter, shoreline ritual, and post-cruise cocktail scene—designed to turn June 20 into the most luxurious evening of your season.

1. Charter a Sunset Yacht from Marina del Rey

Why Charter?

Nothing says “longest day” like chasing the sun aboard a 60-foot motor yacht. Most premium operators offer three-hour solstice sails timed to depart at 6 p.m. and return by 9 p.m.—just after that last ember drops beneath the horizon. Onboard perks often include:

Private Chef Station – Think lobster sliders, caviar bumps, and rosé chilled to 45 °F.
Live Saxophonist or DJ – Cue classic yacht rock or Balearic beats for a modern twist.
Champagne Send-Off – Crew pops magnums as the captain clears the breakwater.

Booking Tips

Reserve at least two weeks in advance; ask for a top-deck flybridge to maximize photo angles. If your party is under ten, split the charter fee with friends and treat it like an upscale floating supper club.

2. Anchor for a Golden-Hour Polar Bear Dip

Celebrating Summer

Enjoy the official start of summer with a seaside swim at sunset. While anchored off Playa del Rey or Paradise Cove, toss pool steps overboard and invite guests to jump into shimmering 68-degree Pacific water. Provide Turkish towels, plush robes, and a hot-toddy station on deck for a swift warm-up.

Capturing the Moment

Waterproof phone pouches or a drone (flown by crew) immortalize your group dive—perfect content for that midnight Instagram reel.

3. Dock-and-Dine: Post-Cruise Cocktails

Whiskey Red’s, Marina del Rey

Pull into the guest slips and stroll to an outdoor fire-pit table. Their Solstice Spritz—mezcal, passion-fruit, and chamomile—echoes the sunset palette you just witnessed from the water.

Elephante, Santa Monica

Prefer oceanfront glam? Pre-arrange a valet for your rideshare at the pier. Sip frozen rosé and share burrata pizza while Santa Monica’s Ferris wheel lights trace the newly nighttime sky.

4. Alternate Coastal Celebrations If You’re Land-Locked

Beachfront Sound Bath at Zuma – Malibu wellness studios host 75-minute crystal-bowl sessions that crescendo as the sun dips.
Solstice Yoga on The Maybourne Rooftop – Beverly Hills’ swank hotel opens its helipad for a candlelit vinyasa flow, followed by mocktails.
Pacific Park VIP Ferris Wheel Ride – Book the private gondola for two, timed to sunset; a chilled bottle of bubbles awaits in-cab.

5. What to Wear & Pack

White-on-White Dress Code – Reflective fabrics glow during golden hour and transition seamlessly into evening elegance.
Layer Light – Linen blazers or cashmere wraps ward off the marine layer without compromising aesthetics.
Gifts for Guests – Cedar-scented solstice candles or monogrammed silk sleep masks tie the theme together and extend the celebration into dreamland.

Final Glimmer

The summer solstice comes but once a year, offering Angelenos an extra slice of daylight to turn ordinary plans into bucket-list memories. Whether you’re toasting on a private yacht, saluting the setting sun with beachside gongs, or clinking glasses at a rooftop garden, the key is simple: stay present, look west, and let Los Angeles’ most cinematic moment of daylight become your runway to summer.

This June 20, trade routine for ritual—and watch the sky reward you in gold.

June 17, 2025June 17, 2025

Designing Your Luxury Outdoor Kitchen | Home Tips

Why an Outdoor Kitchen Is the New Luxury Must-Have

In Southern California, the backyard is usable real estate 12 months a year. A thoughtfully planned outdoor kitchen design extends that square footage, boosts property value, and turns casual cookouts into resort-level soirées. Whether you’re reimagining a patio or building from scratch, these 2025 trends and gear essentials will transform any estate into a true open-air culinary playground.

Plan the Layout of Your Outdoor Kitchen: Flow First, Flash Second

Establish the “Work Triangle”

Just like an indoor chef’s kitchen, the outdoor version benefits from a sink–cooktop–refrigeration triangle, layered with a clear serving path to the dining area. Maintain at least four feet of counter runway on either side of the grill so platters move safely in your outdoor kitchen.

Create Zones

Divide the footprint into Hot, Cold, Wet, and Serve zones. Position refrigeration and ice makers on the patio edge so guests can help themselves while chefs stay focused at the grill station. Install a low wall or island to double as a buffet during larger gatherings.

Signature Appliances That Wow

Hybrid Gas-Charcoal Grill – Flip a lever to go from searing steaks over gas to smoking brisket over oak.
Artisan Pizza Oven – Portable countertop models reach 900 °F in 15 minutes, turning out Neapolitan pies before the rosé warms.
Teppanyaki Griddle – Stainless steel flat-tops let you sauté veggies or sear scallops without leaving the conversation.
Drop-In Cocktail Station – Built-in ice bin, bottle well, and speed rail keep craft drinks flowing without bar clutter.

Design Details: Materials, Finishes, and Comfort

Indestructible Surfaces

Choose 304 or 316 marine-grade stainless for cabinetry; finish counters in sintered stone or porcelain slabs, which resist UV fading and citrus-acid staining better than granite. Ipe decking borders hold up to salt air and chlorine splashes.

Shade & Climate Control

Motorized louvered pergolas pivot at the tap of an app, blocking noon sun but opening for stargazing. Add radiant heaters and overhead fans to create shoulder-season comfort without bulky space heaters in your outdoor kitchen.

Ambient Lighting

Recessed LED strips under cabinet lips illuminate prep surfaces for your outdoor kitchen. Consider low-glare Edison pendants that can hang above the island for an elegant dinner table ambiance. Pair with an outdoor-rated sound system to pipe playlists directly from your phone.

Smart Tech Integration

Wi-Fi Grills send real-time temperature alerts, allowing you to mingle while rib-eye reaches its perfect medium-rare.
Voice-Activated Scenes lower louvers, dim lights, and cue music simultaneously: “Alexa, start grill night.”
Leak and Smoke Sensors trigger phone notifications and automatically shut gas valves—peace of mind when the party moves indoors.

Entertaining Extras

Refrigerated drawers keep condiments and rosé at arm’s length.
A slim dishwasher rated for outdoor installation saves late-night cleanup.
Pull-out trash and recycling cabinets maintain sleek lines without visible bins.

Maintenance Checklist

Monthly: Wipe stainless with a microfiber cloth and mild soap.
Quarterly: Check grill burners and ignition systems for debris.
Annually: Re-seal wood decking and inspect gas lines for leaks.

With zoning smarts, resilient materials, and gadgetry worthy of a Michelin kitchen, your new outdoor kitchen design promises gourmet results and effortless hosting all summer—and every season—long.

June 13, 2025

Economic Update | Week Ending June 14, 2025

Inflation remained cooler in May – The Consumer Price Index (CPI) inched up from an annual rate of 2.3%, its lowest reading since early 2021, to 2.4% in May. That year-over-year increase matched its lowest level this year and its lowest level in four years, with the exception of April’s reading. Core CPI, which excludes volatile costs like food and energy, was up 2.8% year-over-year, matching April’s 4-year low. Economists surveyed expected a 2.5% increase in Headline CPI and a 2.9% increase in Core CPI, so this report beat expectations. So far tariffs have not caused inflation to rise in April and May; however, economists still fear that tariffs will drive up future inflation.

The graph below shows CPI rates year over year.

Stock markets – Stock markets were up for the week on Thursday before Israel attacked Iran and Iran retaliated. Oil prices also spiked to their highest levels in 5 months. Major indexes dropped 1.1%-1.8% on Friday to finish the week lower. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped almost 800 points on Friday to close the week at 42,197.79, down 1.3% from 42,762.87 last week. Year-to-date, it is down 6.3% from 44,544.66 on December 31, 2024. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,976.97, up 0.4% from 6,000.36 last week. Year-to-date the S&P is down 1.1% from 6,040.53 on December 31, 2024. The Nasdaq closed the week at 19,406.83, down 0.6% from 19,529.95 last week. Year-to-date it is down 1.1% from 19,627.44 on December 31, 2024.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.41%, down from 4.51% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.90%, down from 4.97% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

Mortgage rates – Every Thursday Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of June 5, 2025, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.84%, nearly unchanged from 6.85% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.97%, nearly unchangedfrom 5.99% last week. The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.

The graph below shows mortgage rates over the past year.

Have a Great Weekend!

June 12, 2025June 12, 2025

Weekend Events | June 13 – June 15

The weekend is here, and it’s time to enjoy all the local happenings around town! From music festivals to Father’s Day fun, there are plenty of activities to do in your neighborhood. Check out our weekend round-up below!

Los Angeles Weekend Events | June 13 – June 15

Blue Note Jazz Festival

When: June 14 – June 15

Where: Hollywood Bowl

What: Get ready for smooth grooves and legendary performances at this summer’s Blue Note Jazz Festival, formerly known as the Playboy and Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival. Held over two days at the iconic Hollywood Bowl, the lineup includes the Isley Brothers, De La Soul, Grace Jones, Willow, Derrick Hodge, and more. Pack a picnic, bring a bottle of wine, and enjoy an unforgettable weekend of jazz under the stars.

Tarfest

When: June 14

Where: Fairfax District

What: Who can say no to free live music under the sun? The 22nd annual Make Music L.A. festival returns on June 14—this time at Pan Pacific Park. Enjoy performances from CHROMEQUEEN and Garth Trinidad, shop local artisan goods, feast on gourmet food truck fare, and take part in art-making, dance workshops, and cultural activities for all ages. Free admission and free parking included!

Pride Night at Dodger Stadium

When: June 13

Where: Dodger Stadium

What: Dodger Stadium lights up in rainbow colors for its annual Pride Night, presented in partnership with LA Pride. The celebration includes a pregame party in the right field pavilion, a special-edition jersey with ticket purchase, a celebrity first pitch, and postgame fireworks after the matchup against the San Francisco Giants.

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | June 13 – June 15

Outdoor Movies at the Skirball

When: June 13 – June 27

Where: The Skirball Cultural Center

What: Settle in under the stars at the Skirball Cultural Center’s courtyard for a special outdoor screening series. In connection with its Jack Kirby exhibition, the museum will show Black Panther and Captain America: The First Avenger.

Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance

When: June 15

Where: Beverly Hills

What: Celebrate Father’s Day in style at the 30th annual Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance, a free car show featuring rare and exotic vehicles in the heart of Beverly Hills. This year’s “Luxury in Motion” theme brings supercars and hypercars from Lamborghini, McLaren, Aston Martin, and more—plus a skills demo by the Beverly Hills Police Motor Unit. All set against the iconic backdrop of Rodeo Drive.

Off the 405

When: Until June 20

Where: Mid-City

What: Enjoy sunset views and live music at the Getty’s beloved free Saturday-night concert series, set against the stunning hilltop backdrop. This year’s lineup includes performances by SML (May 31), Madi Diaz (July 12), Empress Of (July 26), and Emile Mosseri (Aug 23). Arrive after 3pm for discounted parking and time to explore the exhibits before the show.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | June 13 – June 15

‘Pee-wee’s Big Adventure’ 40th Anniversary Reunion

When: June 14

Where: California Institute of the Arts, McBean Parkway, Santa Clarita

What: Celebrate 40 years of Pee-wee’s Big Adventure with a special anniversary screening at the Alex Theatre, featuring a cast Q&A and live string quartet performing Danny Elfman’s iconic score. While Paul Reubens is no longer with us, stars E.G. Daily, Diane Salinger, Mark Holton, and writer Michael Varhol will be on hand to honor his legacy. Expect themed photo ops, nostalgia, and a good cause—50% of ticket proceeds benefit Stand Up to Cancer.

Connie Presented by the Dumas-Stenson Thespians

When: June 12

Where: The MAIN | 24266 Main Street | Santa Clarita

What: The Dumas-Stenson Thespians return to The MAIN this summer with their gripping new production, Connie. Follow Connie’s emotional journey as she navigates life after her husband’s death and faces choices that could unravel her family. Don’t miss this powerful story of love, loss, and resilience.

Skate for the People: ALL SKATE PURPLE RAIN

When: June 14

Where: LA Kings Burbank Sports Center

What: Roll into summer with Skate for the People: All Skate – Purple Rain Date on Saturday, June 14, 2025, from 5–9 p.m. at the LA Kings Burbank Sports Center. Groove to Prince-inspired sets and more from Rogue Rollers & friends, enjoy food, drinks, free parking, and an all-levels welcome vibe—plus skate rentals on site. Bring your blankets, your best moves, and your crew (even the dog) for a night of music, skating, and community fun!

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | June 13 – June 15

Summer Season at Theatricum Botanicum

When: Until October 12

Where: Topanga

What: For over 50 years, this open-air amphitheater in Topanga Canyon has enchanted audiences with its intimate, nature-filled setting and diverse productions. This season, themed “A Season of Resilience,” features Much Ado About Nothing, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, a Malibu-inspired take on The Seagull, and Strife by Nobel laureate John Galsworthy. Perfect for theater lovers of all ages.

Thousand Oaks Pop-Up Arts & Music Fest

When: Until June 28

Where: Spring Meadow Park, 3283 Spring Meadow Ave

What: The City of Thousand Oaks’ Pop-Up Arts & Music Festival returns June 6–28, bringing free performances to parks and public spaces every Friday and Saturday. Enjoy live music, theater, and dance under the stars—no tickets needed. Just bring a blanket, some snacks, and soak up the summer entertainment all month long.

Father’s Day Car Show at Channel Islands Harbor

When: June 15

Where: Channel Islands Harbor | 3900 Pelican Way, Oxnard

What: Celebrate Father’s Day at the Channel Islands Harbor Car Show on Sunday, June 15, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy a vibrant mix of custom cars, hot rods, low riders, motorcycles, and classics, plus food trucks, live music, raffles, and vendors—all benefiting Food Share of Ventura County. Don’t miss the nearby Father’s Day celebration at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum, featuring classic cars and boats.

June 12, 2025June 12, 2025

From Apple’s Latest UI to Starbucks AI Barista and More! | Tech News

Stay in the loop with the latest tech headlines from across the web. From Apple’s bold UI overhaul to Starbucks AI barista, we have the stories you won’t want to miss. Read on for in-depth insights on the innovations shaping our digital landscape this week.

Apple Unveils “Liquid Glass” UI Across All Platforms

At WWDC 2025, Apple rolled out its “Liquid Glass” design language—a sleek, translucent aesthetic debuting in iOS 26, macOS Tahoe, iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS, VisionOS, and CarPlay. The update brings dynamic depth and translucency to system interfaces, unifying the user experience across devices. On the iPad, Apple introduced true windowed multitasking with a Mac-style menu bar and fluid app resizing, finally closing the gap between tablet and desktop workflows. The revamped Files app adds a detailed list view, and the new Preview app offers native PDF editing with Apple Pencil support. Across all platforms, on-device Apple Intelligence now powers features like live language translation in FaceTime and contextual shortcuts, all while keeping user data private. A public beta is available next month, with full release expected this fall.

OpenAI’s Vision for ChatGPT as “Super Assistant”

Insider reports reveal OpenAI’s ambitious plan to evolve ChatGPT into a deeply personalized “super assistant” that integrates seamlessly into daily life. The roadmap includes hardware integration—potentially via wearables or dedicated devices—and enhanced multimodal capabilities to process text, voice, and image inputs. ChatGPT’s contextual memory will improve over time, learning user preferences for email drafting, scheduling, and personal research without repeated setup. Future agentic features aim to enable the model to autonomously complete complex tasks, like booking travel or coordinating team projects, with minimal user prompts. Privacy and security measures will be baked in, giving users control over what data is stored or shared. This vision positions ChatGPT to become a central productivity hub, blurring the lines between a chatbot and a true digital concierge.

Starbucks Pilots AI Barista Chatbots to Speed Service

Starbucks, in partnership with Microsoft’s Azure OpenAI, has begun testing “Green Dot Assist” chatbots in 35 U.S. locations. The Starbucks chatbot is slated to begin a nationwide rollout next year. These AI Starbucks baristas can upsell pastries, answer menu questions, and suggest custom drink pairings. Likewise, the chatbots would do so based on customer history, aiming to streamline order times and reduce staff load. Using real-time speech recognition, the Starbucks system personalizes interactions—greeting regulars by name and recalling past preferences. Early trials show a 10% increase in average transaction value and a modest reduction in peak-hour wait times. The Starbucks experiment also feeds data back to human baristas, helping them learn which suggestions resonate most. If successful, this could redefine the coffee-shop experience, blending high-tech convenience with the familiar café vibe.

Nvidia Advances Industrial AI with RTX 50 Series & Germany Cloud

At its Paris GTC event, Nvidia unveiled the Blackwell-based GeForce RTX 50 series GPUs, led by the flagship RTX 5090 with GDDR7 memory and next-gen ray-tracing performance. These cards promise up to 30% faster AI training speeds and smoother real-time rendering for creators and gamers alike. Simultaneously, Nvidia announced plans to build Europe’s first industrial-scale AI cloud in Germany, powered by thousands of GPU-accelerated DGX systems. This facility will serve research institutions and enterprises across the continent, meeting strict data-sovereignty and privacy requirements. Together, these desktop and cloud initiatives reaffirm Nvidia’s leadership in AI compute, addressing everything from individual developers to large-scale enterprise workloads. Early adopters report significant performance gains in large-language-model fine-tuning and generative design applications.

Tesla’s Robotaxi Service Gears Up in Austin

Elon Musk confirmed that Tesla’s fully autonomous robotaxi service will launch its public beta in Austin on June 22, operating without human safety drivers. The service will initially serve select downtown zones, with rides hailed via the Tesla app and billed by the minute. Regulatory approval remains pending, but early demos have shown the fleet navigating complex city streets and unprotected left turns. Tesla asserts that its FSD Beta software has achieved over 5 million miles of real-world driving data, which it uses to refine neural-net decision-making. Analysts will scrutinize passenger safety and satisfaction metrics closely, as Tesla aims to prove the viability of driverless ride-hailing. If successful, this rollout could usher in a new era of shared autonomous mobility.

Nintendo Switch 2 Breaks Records with 3.5 M Sold in Four Days

Nintendo’s hybrid next-gen console, the Switch 2, launched on June 5 and sold over 3.5 million units in just four days—the fastest start in the company’s history. Upgrades include a 7-inch OLED display at 120 Hz, 4K docked output, and haptic-feedback Joy-Cons for immersive gameplay. Launch titles like Mario Kart World and Zelda: Echoes of Time showcase the hardware’s power. Of course, a new online subscription tier offers streaming of GameCube classics as well. Nintendo says strong demand will keep production ramps high through the summer. Likewise, Nintendo is already teasing a Major League Baseball title timed for the World Series season.

June 12, 2025June 12, 2025

Mortgage Rate Update | June 12, 2025

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.84%, nearly unchanged from 6.85% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.97%, nearly unchanged from 5.99% last week.

The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.

June 12, 2025June 12, 2025

The Top Restaurants Near Every Music Venue | LA Eats

Los Angeles is a city that dines early, sings late, and hates sitting in traffic between the two. The smartest play before a concert? Book a table you can walk to. Below, you’ll find ten destination restaurants—organized by nearby music venue—that let you savor dinner, ditch the parking headache, and still make the opening act. Each pick delivers crowd-pleasing menus, reserved-seat convenience, and the kind of atmosphere that keeps the night buzzing long after the encore.

Pasadena’s Rose Bowl — Bone Kettle

A fragrant 36-hour bone broth anchors the Indonesian-inspired ramen at Bone Kettle, just ten minutes from the stadium. Start with oxtail dumplings, then level up to the signature beef bone ramen before your favorite headliner takes the field.

Arts District’s Resident — Girl & the Goat

Chef Stephanie Izard’s sprawling outpost makes sharing plates an art form—crispy shrimp with sesame aioli, grilled pork belly over rice, and goat-milk caramel soft-serve. A six-minute walk brings you from the bustling bar to the Resident’s outdoor stage.

Music Center & Disney Hall — San Laurel

Inside the Conrad Los Angeles, José Andrés melds Spanish coastal flavors with SoCal produce: lobster salpicón, mole-rubbed lamb, and vermicelli mac-and-cheese. Reserve the terrace for Walt Disney Concert Hall views before a symphony or Broadway tour.

Crypto.com Arena — Joyce

Joyce channels Charleston charm—think buttermilk catfish, crawfish hushpuppies, and a zero-waste cocktail list—inside an art-lined dining room less than a mile from the arena’s main gates. Perfect for Lakers, Kings, or arena-tour nights.

Silver Lake’s Los Globos — Pijja Palace

The city’s trendiest Indian sports bar slings green-chile “pijja,” dosa-battered onion rings, and cardamom highballs. It’s a 10-minute stroll to the storied dance floor at Los Globos—ideal for stretching your legs before you start moving them.

USC’s Shrine Auditorium — Holbox

Chef Gilberto Cetina dresses pristine seafood with Yucatán heat: uni-topped yellowtail tostadas, shrimp cocktails thick with avocado, and scallops al carbón. The stall inside Mercado La Paloma sits half a mile from the Shrine’s historic music stage.

Greek Theatre — House of Pies

This retro diner (open 7 a.m.–1 a.m.) fuels Griffith Park shows with chicken pot pie, fish-and-chips, and a roster of fruit pies—strawberry, key lime, even peach. Open late enough to reward your hike back down the hill.

Wiltern — Quarters Korean BBQ

Order meats by the quarter-pound—prime ribeye, pork jowl—plus kimchi pancake and soju slushies at this lively K-BBQ house. Late-night hours make it the ultimate post-show grill session just steps from Wilshire’s neon landmark.

Hollywood Forever Cemetery — Kuya Lord

James Beard winner Maynard Llera plates family-style Filipino fare—slow-roasted lechon belly, longanisa sausage, pancit chami—for dine-in or takeaway. It’s the move before Cinespia screenings or indie music concerts on the cemetery lawn.

Hollywood Bowl — Linden

Chef Jonathan Harris fronts a seasonal menu. Endulge in smoked jerk duck, prawns over polenta, stellar bread with schmaltz cream cheese—just minutes from the Bowl. Book a 5 p.m. seating, finish by 6:15, and ride-share straight to your seat before the overture at LA’s favorite music venue.

Quick Tips for a No-Stress Dinner-and-Music Night

Park Once: Choose a restaurant within a 10-minute walk to avoid stacked venue lots.
Reserve Early: Pre-show prime times (5–6:30 p.m.) vanish fast—book two weeks out for weekends.
Order Decisively: Tell servers you have tickets; most spots can pace a three-course meal in 75 minutes.
Take Dessert to Go: Hand pies from House of Pies or doughnuts from Girl & the Goat make ideal post-concert treats en route home.

Whether you’re catching an arena megastar or an intimate club set, we have you covered on pre-show bites. Check them out and ensure the culinary portion of your night hits every high note—no detours required!