The world’s largest soccer ball

The Massachusetts Port Authority plans to build the world’s largest soccer ball in celebration of the FIFA World Cup. The giant ball will measure 45 feet across, beating the current Guinness World Record set in Qatar in 2013, which was just under 40 feet wide.

The giant ball will sit at Piers Park II from June 12 to 18, with a fun community event planned for June 13. The project celebrates the upcoming World Cup matches that will be played at Boston Stadium in Foxborough during June and July. Massport CEO Rich Davey said the display will help welcome visitors and bring people together during the tournament.

‘V’ sign selfies may expose fingerprints

Security experts are warning that making the popular “V” hand sign in high-quality selfies could expose your fingerprints to theft. Chinese security expert Li Chang demonstrated how fingerprints can easily be copied from close-up photos taken within 1.5 metres, using AI and photo software to sharpen blurry images.

While modern high-definition cameras make this possible, experts say stealing fingerprints is still quite difficult. The process depends heavily on good lighting, sharp focus and clear image quality. Thieves would also likely need multiple photos to get an accurate copy. To stay safe, blur or edit your fingertips before posting selfies online.

The world’s largest car carrier

The new Glovis Leader has become the world’s largest car and truck carrier, capable of transporting up to 10,800 vehicles across 14 decks. Built by Guangzhou Shipyard International for South Korean automaker Hyundai, the 230-metre-long ship can carry electric vehicles, hydrogen-powered vehicles and heavy trucks.

The ship beats the previous record-holder, Hoegh Aurora, which could transport 9,100 vehicles. The Glovis Leader uses a special dual-fuel system powered by liquefied natural gas and regular fuel. It also uses energy-saving technology designed to reduce pollution and save fuel. The vessel sets a new standard in global shipping and highlights China’s growing strength in building advanced ships.

A bookless bookstore, really?

Audiobook company Audible has opened what it calls the first “bookless bookstore” in New York. The month-long pop-up shop is called “Audible Story House.” Instead of regular books, it features “story tiles” that let visitors listen to clips through headphones and unlock full stories on the Audible app.

The store also includes a speaker room for listening without headphones and a “Listening Bar”, where staff help visitors find great audiobooks. It was created to bring audio storytelling to life and offer a fun offline experience.

According to the Audio Publishers Association, US audiobook sales reached $2.22 billion in 2024, nearly double what they were five years ago.

Published in Dawn, Young World, June 6th, 2026