insurance

NY Reaches 2026-2027 Budget Deal Including Auto Insurance Reforms

May 7, 2026

1 source

Insurance Journal

NY Reaches 2026-2027 Budget Deal Including Auto Insurance Reforms

Story Summary

New York State finalized a $268 million budget agreement extending operations past the April deadline, incorporating Governor Hochul's auto insurance reforms alongside lawmaker-proposed consumer protections. The deal mandates insurer rate approvals, restricts rating criteria, and targets fraud without raising general taxes, though it adds a NYC property surcharge estimated to generate $500 million annually.

As WWDC approaches, reports suggest the iPhone 18 may feature a reduced Dynamic Island, under-screen Face ID, and potential color options like burgundy and brown. Some sources indicate the launch could span fall 2026 and spring 2027, while others note possible memory component shortages affecting specifications. Despite these changes, no official price increases have been confirmed.

CNET Services and Software·May 8, 2026

gaming

IGN Interview Reveals Plot Details and Future Plans for Mortal Kombat II and III

IGN interviewed director Simon McQuoid, writer Jeremy Slater, and stars Karl Urban and Joe Taslim regarding the release of Mortal Kombat II, which features Johnny Cage and Kitana leading the defense against Shao Kahn. The discussion covers character arcs, the return of Noob Saibot, and confirms Shinnok as the likely antagonist for the upcoming third installment while addressing fan concerns about the franchise's continuity.

IGN·May 8, 2026

lifestyle

Björk DJs at Venice Biennale in Recycled Fiberglass Bottega Veneta Dress

Icelandic musician and fashion icon Björk performed as a DJ at the Venice Biennale wearing a bubblegum pink, ankle-length dress from Bottega Veneta's fall 2026 collection. The outfit, designed by Louise Trotter, features thousands of recycled fiberglass needles that ripple during movement. While the specific garment is unavailable for purchase, Vogue suggests similar styles via their linked jackets and skirts.

Vogue·May 8, 2026

lifestyle

Bella Hadid Launches New Perfume Range and Shows Off Summer Curls

Two years after launching Orebella, Bella Hadid released new body and hair perfume mists. To promote the launch, she attended a brand dinner in Los Angeles wearing a bohemian-inspired outfit featuring light blonde corkscrew curls and a Chloé ensemble.