I am introducing cryptography.
Cryptography is used to secure and protect data during communication. Encryption is a process which transforms the original information into an unrecognizable form. Decryption is a process of converting encoded/encrypted data in a form that is readable and understood by a human or a computer.
Researchers from the International Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) Hyderabad revealed a newly discovered attack, named AutoSpill, during a presentation at the Black Hat Europe 2023 conference.
AutoSpill targets popular Android password managers, potentially exposing usernames and passwords.
The attack takes advantage of Android’s WebView framework, commonly utilized by services like Microsoft, Google, and Apple to open web pages within apps, allowing users to log in quickly without using the main browser.
Android password managers also leverage the WebView framework to automatically input account credentials on login pages.
AutoSpill exploits this process when an app prompts users to log in using WebView, enabling the interception and theft of usernames and passwords.
The researchers attribute this vulnerability to the lack of clear guidelines in Android regarding the handling of autofill data, providing an avenue for threat actors to acquire sensitive information discreetly.
The study conducted tests on devices running Android 10, 11, and 12, revealing vulnerabilities in popular password managers like 1Password, Keeper, Enpass, Keepass2Android, and LastPass without requiring JavaScript injection.
However, Google Smart Lock and DashLane proved to be immune to AutoSpill due to their use of a different mechanism. Nevertheless, all mentioned password managers could be exploited if JavaScript injection is employed.
The researchers responsibly shared their findings with the Android security team and password manager developers, and both parties acknowledged the validity of the discovered vulnerabilities. This collaboration aims to address and rectify the identified issues to enhance the security of Android password managers.
(With inputs from agencies)
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Pros:
– Excellent display
– Awesome speakers
– Solid build quality
– Dependable performance
– Good bunch of accessories
– Strong value proposition
Cons:
– Below-average cameras
– Average battery life with only 20W charging
– No cellular connectivity option
– Should have come with an included stylus
Rating: Starts at Rs 26,999 for the 8GB+128GB variant Price: 4/5
Over the course of the year, we have seen several Android tablets flooding the market that promise great value. However, most of them make some compromises or the other. They will either come with a terrible screen that just sucks the joy out of using a tablet, or they will be nerfed by the hardware that it packs internally and offer terrible performance.
In this regard, Lenovo’s latest release, the Tab P12, comes closest to solving the problem that many consumers are facing. It combines affordability with a generous screen size and pretty good performance.
For the P12, Lenovo has not merely focused on the tablet’s internal components but has also revamped its aesthetics as well/ We get a much larger display than its previous gen 11 series, Furthermore, under the hood, Lenovo has opted for a different SoC for the Tab P12. Sporting the MediaTek Dimensity 7050, a relatively new processor, the tablet offers a significant boost in performance.
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Despite these changes, the Tab P12 maintains its versatility, supporting various accessories such as a stylus and keyboard, which makes it even more functional. In this comprehensive review, we explore whether this overall package justifies its price tag.
Lenovo Tab P12 Review: Design
The Tab P12, boasting a 12.7-inch display, showcases an aluminium case with a slim 6.9-mm profile reminiscent of Lenovo’s business laptops, featuring a sophisticated two-tone Storm Gray design.
Although weighing 690 grams, making it not the lightest in its category, the XXL tablet provides a comfortable grip. The 8-mm frame surrounding the device contributes to an 87 per cent display-to-surface ratio, ensuring a secure hold without unintended touches to the screen.
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The seamless transition between the display, frame, and back cover imparts a premium feel to the Lenovo Tab P12, striking a balance between quality and stability suitable for family use. While the case can be bent with relative ease, resulting in some creaking, this is unlikely to be a concern in typical usage. Notably, the tablet lacks an IP certification for water and dust resistance.
In terms of features, the Tab P12 incorporates a fingerprint sensor embedded in the power button, offering fast and responsive unlocking. The convenience extends to registering multiple fingers for unlocking in various orientations. Additionally, the left side houses a microSD slot along with the power button.
A significant highlight is the tablet’s compatibility with the folio keyboard case, effectively transforming it into a laptop-like device and introducing a dedicated desktop mode. Users can even pair a wireless mouse for enhanced functionality.
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For prospective buyers, investing in the official folio keyboard case is highly recommended, as it seamlessly connects via the pins located on the tablet’s bottom. Furthermore, the tablet’s four speakers, with Dolby Atmos support, are strategically positioned in pairs along both short sides. The Pogo PIN connection with three contact points at the device’s bottom serves as a dock for the optional keyboard, enhancing its versatility.
Lenovo Tab P12 Review: Display
The standout feature of the Tab P12 that makes it worth considering is undoubtedly its impressive display. Boasting a 12.7-inch screen, it is pretty substantial in size. The Tab P12’s display is among the best I’ve encountered in the sub-40,000 price range.
The tablet sports a 3K resolution screen with HDR10 support and a 60Hz refresh rate, which, while respectable, falls short of some competitors offering a 120Hz refresh rate at a lower price point. Despite not reaching 4K resolution and featuring an unconventional resolution, the Tab P12’s display limitations are evident when streaming on most OTT platforms, restricted to 1080p content, with native 4K content confined to YouTube.
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However, the Tab P12 excels in video upscaling during playback, enhancing the sharpness and vibrancy of even 1080p content. Notably, the display settings menu includes an “video quality enhancement” option that, when enabled, optimizes the viewing experience.
The tablet’s colour reproduction, particularly for hues like red and green, is commendable, delivering ample contrast without sacrificing naturalness. In summary, the Tab P12 proves itself as a reliable choice for immersive movie-watching and reading experiences.
Despite its impressive features, it’s essential to note a couple of drawbacks with the Tab P12. The tablet’s substantial weight, which is 600 grams, can lead to discomfort when held for extended periods.
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Another notable concern is the screen’s tendency to reflect a significant amount of light because of its glossy finish, particularly in daylight. This hinders the viewing experience and may require users to adjust their position or seek shaded environments for optimal visibility.
Lenovo Tab P12 Review: Audio & Camera
The Tab P12 boasts Dolby Atmos certification and incorporates a quad-speaker setup from JBL, ensuring a robust audio experience even at higher volume levels. The tablet provides an immersive and joyous audio experience when enjoying well-crafted content.
Optimized for Dolby Atmos, the Tab P12 elevates the watching experience for movies and TV shows. Notably, viewing a film like Birdbox showcases the tablet’s ability to deliver sound as intended by the director, providing an impressive level of audio quality. While it may not match the excellence of Apple’s spatial sound, the Tab P12’s speaker setup performs admirably, especially considering its price point.
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However, a notable drawback is the absence of a 3.5mm jack. While this omission may be acceptable for some users, it can be a cause for concern, particularly for a device heavily focused on content consumption like a tablet. The absence of a traditional audio jack limits users’ flexibility in connecting wired headphones or external speakers, impacting the versatility of the tablet for certain users.
The Lenovo P12 is also equipped with a single 13MP rear camera and an 8MP selfie camera, the Lenovo Tab P12 delivers average camera performance, particularly under controlled lighting conditions. In optimal settings, the camera produces satisfactory results; however, challenges arise in low-light environments.
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Photos captured in low light exhibit noticeable noise and muted colors, indicating limitations in low-light performance. The overall sharpness of images in such conditions is compromised, likely to mitigate the impact of noise.
While the microphones function adequately for video calling, there is room for improvement in image quality. Enhancements in the camera system could elevate the overall photography and video-calling experience on the Tab P12. Users should be aware of these camera limitations when considering the tablet for tasks that require advanced imaging capabilities.
Lenovo Tab P12 Review: Performance, Software and Features
The Lenovo Tab P12 is powered by MediaTek’s Dimensity 7050 SoC and comes with 8GB of LPPDR4X RAM and 256GB of UFS 2.2 storage in the variant under review.
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Performance across various benchmarks is commendable, with the Dimensity 7050 SoC proving to be a stable chipset in throttle tests. However, it’s worth noting that the Xiaomi Pad 6, featuring the Snapdragon 870 SoC, outperformed the Tab P12 in most performance-oriented benchmarks.
In day-to-day use, the Lenovo Tab P12 proves reliable, particularly for multimedia consumption. While there may be some noticeable stutters when switching between apps, they are not significant. Running on Android 13-based Lenovo ZUI 15, the tablet offers a mostly clean user interface, with a few pre-installed apps. Notably, the Lenovo Freestyle app stands out, allowing users to mirror their PC screen on the tablet. Lenovo promises two years of Android updates and four years of security updates, which is respectable in this segment.
Gaming on the Tab P12 is smooth, and the four surround sound speakers contribute to an immersive audio experience. For instance, in PUBG Mobile, the tablet maintains a stable 40 FPS in HD/Ultra settings. The device also handles less GPU-demanding games like Armajet and Subway Surfers well, though the 60Hz display limits the frame rate.
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The tablet runs on stock Android 13 for tablets, featuring a user-friendly interface with an iPad-like dock for quick app switching. Lenovo includes first-party apps like Lenovo Freestyle, facilitating screen and data sharing. The “Tide” app offers wellness features, including exercises for focus improvement and anxiety reduction, making the software experience refreshing and straightforward.
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While the Lenovo Tab P12 can serve as a laptop substitute for light browsing and schoolwork with Google apps, it’s advisable not to expect high-end laptop performance. Additionally, the separately sold Lenovo Tab Pen Plus at Rs 5,000 (MRP) adds versatility, enabling doodling and quick picture-taking, but professional creators may find its capabilities limited.
Lenovo Tab P12 Review: Battery
The Lenovo Tab P12 boasts an impressive battery life, thanks to its massive 10,200mAh battery. Although it comes with a 20W charger, users have the flexibility to leverage faster charging using a 45W USB-PD charger.
On a single charge, the Lenovo Tab P12 consistently delivered over seven to eight hours of battery life, making it well-suited for extended usage. For the average user, the tablet should easily last through an entire work shift without encountering any battery-related issues.
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However, the noteworthy battery performance is somewhat tempered by the tablet’s slow charging capability. Using the provided 20W charger, the Lenovo Tab P12 reached approximately 25 percent battery in the first 30 minutes of charging. A complete charge can take over to two hours.
Lenovo Tab P12 Review: Verdict
While the Lenovo Tab P12 may not be a perfect tablet, its price-to-performance ratio is remarkable. The combination of excellent speakers and a large, high-resolution display positions it as an outstanding entertainment tablet. While the performance may not reach the highest levels, it is sufficient for playing many games at medium graphics settings.
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The tablet offers a nearly pure Android experience, promising two version updates, and features like a reliable stylus and keyboard, along with amenities such as a fingerprint reader. The only drawback appears to be the fact that the stylus is an optional extra.
However, considering its asking price, the Lenovo Tab P12 impresses with its solid build, exceptional screen, and remarkable speakers. While not a performance powerhouse, it stands out as one of the best tablets in its budget range, particularly excelling in content consumption.
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India is set to embark on a new mission that will combine the powers of AI with healthcare and agriculture. This will also bolster India’s computing capabilities, with a specific focus on providing support to small businesses and startups, announced Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Speaking at the inaugural session of the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) Summit 2023, Modi outlined the mission’s objective to establish robust AI computing power within the country, facilitating improved facilities for innovators and startups.
“This will help India’s innovators and startups get better facilities. Under this mission, AI applications in agriculture, healthcare and education-related sectors will be promoted,” said the Prime Minister.
Underlining the importance of inclusivity in AI technology, Modi emphasized the need for development guided by human and democratic values.
He stated, “The more inclusive the development journey of AI, the more inclusive will be the results.” The Prime Minister also highlighted the significance of incorporating emotions, ethics, and efficiency in the direction of AI development. “The direction of AI development will totally depend on human and democratic values. It is up to us to keep a place for emotions along with efficiency, ethics along with effectiveness,” he said.
Prime Minister Modi also raised concerns about the potential misuse of AI, emphasizing the dual nature of the technology as both a tool for development and a potential threat.
He highlighted challenges such as deep fake technology, cybersecurity risks, data theft, and the possibility of terrorists exploiting AI tools.
“While AI can become the biggest tool for development, it can also play a vital role in destroying the 21st century. The entire world is facing the challenge of deep fake. Apart from this, cybersecurity, data theft and terrorists getting hold of AI tools also present grave dangers for the world,” Modi said.
Ashwini Vaishnaw, the union minister for electronics and information technology, shared India’s commitment to harnessing AI for inclusive growth.
Vaishnaw outlined the vision for AI applications in sectors such as native language-based citizen services, accessible healthcare, and precision agriculture techniques to enhance crop yield.
“India believes in harnessing the potential of AI for inclusive growth. This vision translates into AI use in sectors such as serving citizens through native language, making healthcare accessible and improving yield through precision agriculture techniques,” Vaishnaw said.
Addressing the event, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, the minister of state for electronics and information technology, acknowledged the accelerated pace of AI development in the last 18 months.
He stressed the importance of transparency and bias-free algorithms in AI models to build trust among users.
The GPAI, a global alliance consisting of 29 countries including the US, the UK, the EU, Germany, Israel, Singapore, Australia, Belgium, and France, aims to guide the responsible development and use of artificial intelligence.
The alliance is grounded in principles such as human rights, inclusion, diversity, innovation, and economic growth. The GPAI Summit 2023 marks a pivotal moment in international collaboration on shaping the future of AI.
(With inputs from agencies)
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In response to the ongoing growth in the cryptocurrency market, Google has announced revisions to its advertising policies, permitting crypto coin trusts to display advertisements.
However, this comes with certain terms and conditions as the tech giant aims to balance promotional content with investor protection.
Starting January 29, 2024, advertisers of cryptocurrency coin trusts will be allowed to market their products in the United States through Google ads. Despite this move, Google emphasises that advertisers must comply with local laws and be certified by Google.
The certification process involves meeting local licensing requirements and ensuring adherence to legal standards in the respective country or region.
Google clarified that advertisers promoting cryptocurrency exchanges or wallets are also allowed to advertise through Google Ads but must undergo certification and comply with local legal requirements.
Cryptocurrency coin trusts, as defined by Google, refer to financial products enabling investors to trade shares via trusts holding significant amounts of digital currencies.
Examples include Bitcoin and Ether exchange-traded funds (ETFs), which may or may not receive approval in the US next year. ETFs allow individuals to invest in cryptocurrencies through traditional market exchanges rather than being limited to cryptocurrency exchanges.
The announcement aligns with the broader trend of increasing regulatory scrutiny around the crypto sector globally.
Governments and tech giants have been cautious about promotional content related to digital assets to safeguard investors amid the high-risk nature of these investments.
The lack of regulatory clarity has also deterred advertisers from participating in significant advertising spaces.
The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is expected to deliver a verdict on Bitcoin and Ether ETFs in January 2024, coinciding with Google’s planned implementation of changes to its advertising policies.
The move signals a cautious yet evolving approach by major platforms to accommodate the growing presence of cryptocurrencies while prioritizing regulatory compliance and investor protection.
(With inputs from agencies)
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In a significant development, a federal jury in California has ruled that Google’s mobile app store, the Play store, holds a monopoly in the market for program distribution and payments on its Android software.
The decision is a setback for Google in its high-stakes antitrust battle with Epic Games Inc. The jury found that Google willfully wields a monopoly through anticompetitive conduct in the operation of its Play store.
The verdict, reached after less than four hours of deliberation following a month-long trial in San Francisco, raises concerns for Google’s app store revenue, potentially jeopardizing billions of dollars.
US District Judge James Donato, overseeing the trial, will determine whether Google must allow alternative payment and app distribution methods outside its own app store in light of the ruling that Google Play policies are unlawful.
Epic Games, the maker of Fortnite, initiated a legal challenge against Google three years ago, alleging that the tech giant monopolized the Android app distribution market through exclusive deals with rivals and using its resources to stifle competition.
Google argued that its partnerships were aimed at helping Android-based phones better compete with Apple’s iPhone in the smartphone market.
Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic, celebrated the ruling on social network “X.” The trial featured testimony from both Sweeney and Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai, along with high-ranking executives from Google and antitrust law experts.
Confidential internal emails and presentations from Google were presented as evidence, providing insight into the company’s efforts to develop Google Play and its Android mobile operating system business.
Notably, Epic was the sole party challenging Alphabet at trial, as the company had recently reached settlements with consumers, state attorneys general, and Match Group Inc., who had all raised concerns about Google Play policies.
This ruling comes two years after Epic largely lost a similar antitrust challenge against Apple over its app store.
During the trial, Alphabet counterclaimed against Epic, alleging breach of contract and bad faith for attempting to establish its own app store in 2020 as a workaround to the Google Play billing system. However, the judge ordered the jury to skip ruling on Google’s counterclaims after Epic executives admitted to attempting to bypass the Play store.
The outcome of this case may have far-reaching implications for the broader landscape of app store competition and antitrust scrutiny in the technology industry. Legal experts and analysts, however, claim that Google is bound to appeal the ruling.
(With inputs from agencies)
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A US District Judge, Robert Pitman, has upheld Texas’ ban on the use of the Chinese-owned short video app TikTok by state employees, including those working in public universities, on state-owned devices or networks.
The decision comes after the Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia University filed a lawsuit in July, asserting that the TikTok ban in Texas was impeding faculty research related to the platform.
Judge Pitman rejected the lawsuit, stating that the Texas ban was motivated by legitimate data protection concerns. He deemed the restriction on access to TikTok as “reasonable” in light of the state’s worries about data security.
In his ruling, Pitman clarified that public university faculty and all public employees are free to use TikTok on their personal devices, as long as those devices do not access state networks.
This decision contrasts with a recent case in Montana, where a US judge blocked the state’s attempt to ban all TikTok use starting January 1. The judge in Montana ruled that the ban violated the Constitution and exceeded the state’s power.
TikTok had previously sued Montana in May, arguing that the state ban infringed upon the First Amendment free speech rights of both the company and its users.
The issue of TikTok bans extends beyond Texas and Montana, with more than 30 states and federal agencies in the US, including the White House, Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, and the State Department, prohibiting TikTok use on government devices.
A federal ban on TikTok for government devices, mandated by Congress in December 2022, includes exceptions for national security, law enforcement, or security research activities.
TikTok, owned by China-based ByteDance, has faced scrutiny globally due to concerns over its ties to the Chinese government and the handling of user data worldwide. Despite having over 150 million users in the United States, TikTok denies any improper use of US data. The ongoing legal battles underscore the complex challenges surrounding the popular social media platform’s operations in the country.
(With inputs from agencies)
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In a groundbreaking move, Apple has reportedly diverted its product development focus for the iPad to Vietnam, signalling a significant shift in the Southeast Asian nation’s role as an alternative manufacturing hub outside of China, according to a report by Nikkei Asia.
Nikkei reports sources familiar have said that Apple is collaborating with China’s BYD, a key iPad assembler, to relocate New Product Introduction (NPI) resources to Vietnam.
NPI involves the collaborative design and development of new products with suppliers to ensure the feasibility of blueprints. This marks the first time that Apple has transferred NPI resources to Vietnam for a core device.
The engineering verification process for test production of a new iPad model is set to commence around mid-February next year. The model is expected to hit the market in the second half of the following year. It’s worth noting that BYD was the initial Apple supplier to assist in relocating iPad assembly to Vietnam in 2022, as reported by Nikkei.
This particular shift of NPI engineering resources is concentrated on entry-level iPad models rather than the premium iPad Pro. NPI entails substantial resources from both the tech company and its suppliers, including engineers and investments in lab equipment for testing new features and functions.
While the majority of Apple’s NPI activities have historically taken place in China, recent geopolitical uncertainties have compelled the company to reconsider its approach. Additionally, Apple plans to extend some NPI processes for the iPhone to India, as previously reported by Nikkei Asia.
As the world’s leading tablet manufacturer, Apple currently commands a market share of 36.6% in the first three quarters of 2023, according to IDC data. Counterpoint Research estimates that approximately 10 per cent of all iPads were manufactured in Vietnam this year, with the majority still produced in China.
Vietnam has emerged as a crucial tech manufacturing hub for Apple, with the company urging suppliers to establish new capacity for nearly all its products, excluding the iPhone.
This move positions non-China hubs, including Vietnam, as genuine alternative manufacturing bases. Industry executives and experts assert that Vietnam consistently plays a crucial and strategic role in manufacturing, potentially evolving into one of the next global manufacturing centers.
Ivan Lam, a tech analyst at Counterpoint Research, emphasized Vietnam’s pivotal role, stating, “Apple’s recent supply chain mapping has demonstrated the capability of its production site in Vietnam to manufacture the iPad and scale up production.” Lam added that, given the maturation of production conditions and the reduced difficulty level of iPad manufacturing in Vietnam, it’s only a matter of time before this becomes a reality, with an initial focus on non-pro models.
Although several analysts acknowledge the emergence of India and Vietnam as pivotal manufacturing ecosystems, they also emphasise that despite US-China tensions, Apple will continue to collaborate closely with Chinese suppliers during its supply chain transition.
(With inputs from agencies)
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It seems that OpenAI has some massive plans for India. The AI giant, led by Sam Altman, is forging a collaboration with Rishi Jaitly, former head of Twitter India, to gain insights into the complexities of India’s AI policies and regulations.
Jaitly has joined OpenAI as a senior advisor, with a focus on facilitating discussions with the Indian government regarding AI policies. This strategic partnership aims to navigate the intricate landscape of AI governance in India.
According to a report by TechCrunch, OpenAI also has plans to establish a local team in India, which signals an effort to engage with the rapidly growing AI ecosystem in the country.
Rishi Jaitly brings a wealth of experience to this collaboration, having previously served as the head of the public-private partnership for Google in India from 2007 to 2009. Subsequently, he joined Twitter in 2012 as the company’s first employee in India, where he joined as the Founding Managing Director, and left in 2016 as Vice President, Asia Pacific, Middle East & North Africa.
While OpenAI currently does not have an official presence in India, Sam Altman had a significant interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to the country in June. The discussions focused on India’s growing tech landscape and the potential benefits of AI for the country.
The collaboration with Rishi Jaitly and the establishment of a local team reflect OpenAI’s commitment to understanding and contributing to India’s evolving AI landscape.
Anna Makanju, OpenAI’s vice president of global affairs, is set to participate in the upcoming Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence summit in Delhi. The event, titled “Collaborative AI for Global Partnership (CAIGP) – Global Cooperation for Equitable AI,” will feature discussions with industry experts and international leaders. According to sources quoted by TechCrunch, Jaitly played a role in arranging Makanju’s involvement in the summit.
During a June event in New Delhi, Sam Altman, OpenAI’s CEO, responded to a question about building foundational models with a $10 million budget, stating it was “hopeless.”
Despite facing criticism from Indian entrepreneurs, Altman clarified that his remarks were taken out of context. He emphasized the challenge of competing with well-funded organizations like OpenAI with a limited budget and encouraged startups to focus on innovative contributions.
India, as the world’s most populous country and the second-largest internet market, offers growth opportunities. Altman expressed OpenAI’s interest in India during his visit to IIIT Delhi, acknowledging the country’s enthusiasm for embracing AI and other technologies.
While OpenAI has not disclosed any investments in India, an investor mentioned that the company views India as a key market and is exploring opportunities to expand its presence. However, the pace of OpenAI’s move into the Indian market remains uncertain.
With a more aligned board supporting OpenAI’s commercial initiatives, regulation appears to be one of the few obstacles in the company’s path. Working on the regulatory front may be a crucial focus for the company at this juncture.
In contrast, Microsoft, OpenAI’s major investor and strategic partner, has a significant presence in India, with a strong foothold established since 1990s. The software giant operates one of its largest R&D centres in Bengaluru, along with three data centres across the country. With over 20,000 employees in 10 Indian cities, Microsoft actively invests in Indian startups, showcasing a robust presence in the region.
(With inputs from agencies)
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Since the abrupt removal of Sam Altman from the OpenAI board two weeks ago, the circumstances leading to this dramatic event remain shrouded in mystery.
Altman, who swiftly returned to the CEO position after his ouster, has maintained silence about the incident, and Microsoft, a significant OpenAI backer, has offered no insights. Even former board members, who resigned in the aftermath of Altman’s departure, have refrained from public disclosure.
Speculations abound, with various theories emerging to explain Altman’s sudden exit. Reports have surfaced, alleging manipulative and double-crossing behavior by Altman, including attempts to get a co-worker fired.
Recent coverage from the Washington Post claims that complaints were lodged with the OpenAI board, accusing Altman of “psychologically abusive” and “toxic” conduct, leading to internal debates among board members about addressing his behaviour.
Citing unnamed sources, the Washington Post suggests that these complaints played a significant role in the board’s decision to fire Altman.
The sources assert that Altman’s behaviour would have made it challenging for the board to effectively oversee the CEO. Additionally, Altman was accused of lying to the board in an attempt to have another board member, Helen Toner, ousted.
Another report sheds light on the conflict between Altman and Toner, who disagreed on the direction OpenAI should take. Toner, an academic, had co-authored a paper critical of OpenAI’s decision to release ChatGPT at a specific time.
Allegedly, Altman accused her of harming OpenAI and actively sought support from other board members to have her fired.
While the prevailing theory initially pointed to disagreements over the pace of AI technology commercialization, evidence now suggests that Altman’s personality and behaviour were substantial factors in his ousting.
Toner, commenting on Altman’s firing, stated that the decision aimed to strengthen OpenAI and align with the organization’s original mission.
Despite Altman’s reinstatement as CEO, the aftermath has left lingering questions. The Washington Post report notes that Altman’s removal jeopardized an investment deal that allowed long-time employees to sell their stock back to OpenAI, impacting the company’s internal dynamics.
OpenAI and Altman have resumed operations, with Microsoft integrating the startup’s tools into its Copilot virtual assistant. However, Altman’s image may have sustained lasting damage, requiring time for the repercussions to fully unfold and clarity to emerge from the unresolved situation.
(With inputs from agencies)
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In a significant milestone toward establishing the world’s inaugural comprehensive artificial intelligence (AI) regulation, the European Union (EU) has achieved a provisional agreement that imposes restrictions on the operations of cutting-edge AI models, including the highly advanced ChatGPT.
As outlined in a document obtained by Bloomberg, developers of general-purpose AI systems, characterized by their versatility across various applications, are mandated to adhere to fundamental transparency criteria. Notably, these requirements do not apply to models offered as free and open-source software.
The stipulations include the implementation of an acceptable-use policy, the maintenance of updated information on model training methodologies, the submission of a comprehensive data summary used in training, and the establishment of a policy to uphold copyright laws.
The regulations escalate for models identified as presenting a “systemic risk,” a determination based on the computing power employed during training. Models exceeding the threshold of 10 trillion-trillion or septillion operations per second fall into this category, with experts highlighting OpenAI’s GPT-4 as the sole model automatically meeting this criterion. The EU’s executive arm reserves the authority to designate other models based on factors such as dataset size, EU business users, and end-user registration.
Highly capable models must commit to a code of conduct while the European Commission refines more cohesive and enduring controls. Failure to sign onto the code compels models to demonstrate compliance with the AI Act to the commission. Notably, the exemption for open-source models does not apply to those posing systemic risks.
Additional obligations for these models include the disclosure of energy consumption, internal or external adversarial testing, assessment and mitigation of systemic risks, reporting incidents, implementation of cybersecurity controls, divulging information used in model fine-tuning, and adherence to energy-efficient standards if developed.
Despite the tentative agreement, final approval is pending from the European Parliament and the EU’s 27 member states. Previous reservations voiced by France and Germany about potentially stifling regulation for general-purpose AI models, thereby disadvantaging European competitors like Mistral AI in France and Aleph Alpha in Germany, still linger.
Spain’s Secretary of State, Carme Artigas, indicated that Mistral AI, currently in the research and development phase, may not be immediately subject to general-purpose AI controls. The evolving landscape of AI regulations remains a focal point as the EU navigates the complexities of balancing innovation and oversight.
(With inputs from agencies)
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G42, a leading artificial intelligence company based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has announced its decision to sever ties with Chinese hardware suppliers in favour of US counterparts.
This move is seen as a response to the growing geopolitical tensions surrounding new technology, with G42 aiming to secure access to US-made chips and address concerns raised by American partners, including Microsoft and OpenAI.
Peng Xiao, the CEO of G42, emphasised the necessity of choosing due to commercial considerations, stating, “We cannot work with both sides. We can’t.”
The decision is part of G42’s efforts to assure its American partners, comply with Washington’s rules on advanced chip exports, and maintain access to US-manufactured chips.
Recent reports have highlighted G42’s deep links to China, raising concerns among US officials about the company’s association with telecom giant Huawei.
There are worries that G42 could serve as a conduit for the transfer of US AI technology and genetic data to the Chinese government and companies.
Xiao revealed that G42 is gradually phasing out hardware from Huawei, including servers and data centre networking gear. The company aims to distance itself from Chinese partnerships to align with the cautious approach advised by the US government and maintain its relationship with American partners.
G42, known for ventures such as the launch of an Arabic large language model, has investments from Mubadala, the Abu Dhabi sovereign wealth fund, and US private equity group Silver Lake.
The decision to cut ties with some Chinese connections reflects the broader competition between China and the US in the rapidly advancing field of artificial intelligence.
Despite controversies surrounding G42, including its alleged involvement in the creation of ToTok, a UAE chat app used for alleged government spying, the company maintains its positive contributions to AI governance, ethics, and regulation.
G42’s partnerships with Sinopharm and BGI during the COVID-19 pandemic highlight its extensive international network, which it claims is no different from that of other global technology companies.
The UAE’s strategic positioning in the evolving multipolar world and its pursuit of technological advancements underscore the challenges faced by companies like G42 in navigating the complex landscape of global AI competition.
(With inputs from agencies)
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Before there were prancing horses and raging bulls in the form of fast SUVs, it was Porsche who made and defined the concept that we know today as the super-fast SUV. It was in 2002-03 that Porche first introduced the Cayenne.
Since then, they have shown that SUVs, apart from going into ungodly terrain and taking on unforgiving surfaces, can also be properly quick, and exhilaratingly fast.
Seventy years after they first started making cars, Porsche has given the third generation of the Cayenne, a facelift, and that too a major one. The 3rd Generation of the Cayenne has been around for a good five years and is due for an update in 2026 when it will ditch its petrol-powered drivetrain and go completely electric instead.
So as part of their 70th Anniversary celebrations, Porsche gave the third-gen Cayenne a major facelift. But does it work for one of the best sellers Porsche has in its roster?
Porsche Cayenne 2023 Review: Styling
At first glance, you still get the classic Cayenne shape. However, the changes, as subtle as they are, add up to a whole new experience. Cayennes always had that sporty vibe, but the 2023 facelift takes it up a notch.
You can customize the Cayenne with almost 12 colors and 24 wheel options. The slanting roof and fresh tail-lamp pattern bring a new flair. Size-wise, the Cayenne is still a pretty big SUV and really stands out on the Indian roads.
Up front, we get a set of new Matrix LED headlights that look awesome. The bumper and bonnet got a makeover too. From the front, as well as the rear, the Cayenne seems to have a sleek and minimal look that’ll stay fresh for a long time.
Image Credit: Firstpost | Mehul Reuben Das
The side view hasn’t changed much, rocking that simple rounded glass and straightforward body. You do get some fresh wheel designs in 20 to 22-inch options. The one in our test unit, the Cayenne Exclusive Design 21-inch wheels is one of the best of the bunch in our opinion. it looks just right and is very comfortable on Indian roads.
The Matrix LED headlights are a dead giveaway that you’re looking at the new 2023 Cayenne, The headlights are more angular and inspired by the all-electric Taycan. They sit at the flanks of a simpler grille with straight lines and bigger openings, giving this big SUV a slightly tight, and aggressive look.
The flatter bonnet adds to this aggressive vibe. They’ve toned the flares and bulges down and made the bonnet more angular, but it all fits the look.
The windshield’s got more edge, and the full-width lighting at the back is slimmer and more detailed, adding a touch of sharpness. The new boot lid has a cool deep indent, and shifting the number plate to the bumper. And let’s not forget those squarish chrome-tipped exhausts – always turning heads.
Porsche Cayenne 2023 Review: Interiors
Inside the updated Porsche Cayenne, we see some major changes, the first of which are the swanky new screens. You can get up to a total of three screens – a curved 12.6-inch digital instrument cluster a 12.3-inch touchscreen in the centre, and a new 10.9-inch passenger display, which is an optional extra.
The 12.3-inch touchscreen is a breeze to use, along with the haptic control and clear menus. Because the display is so big, most functions are now placed there, clearing out the centre console of buttons. Plus, Porsche had the foresight to not keep the controls of the air conditioning and the vents through the display, but using physical buttons.
Image Credit: Firstpost | Mehul Reuben Das
You also get some cool chamfered toggles for climate control. The gear selector is now this stubby toggle lever on the dash, which is in a new position. It feels great but can be a little difficult to locate when you’re getting used to the car for the first couple of drives.
You also get a new push button to start and shut the car.
The dash layout mirrors the Cayenne’s outer style – simple, and clean, with a flat top, an upright panel, and sleek air vents. The air vents not only operate smoothly but have this cool intricate adjustment mechanism. You also get the signature Cayenne grab handles along the centre console.
For those in the back, the seating is pretty good. The seats are roomy, the backrest is solid and great, and it even reclines to make things quite comfortable. Thigh support is on point, and there’s ample leg and headroom, even if you’re freakishly tall. Even with that sloping roofline, the Cayenne surprises with its generous headroom at the back. It’s a practical setup overall.
The panoramic sunroof adds a sense of openness. Plus you might want to tick off those powered rear sunshades from the options list. Our unit also came with the handy four-zone climate function as a fitted option.
What’s really great about the third-generation Cayenne is the options. Although it is a bit on the expensive side, the customisation options are endless. You get tons to choose from — four-zone climate control, heated/cooled seats, a 360-degree camera, soft-close doors, a thumping Bose audio system, and a whole lot more.
With Cayennes you are not be cocooned in a world of luxury, in general. Nonetheless, you are sitting in one of the best and most well-put-together interiors out there, and the same holds true for the 2023 facelift. You will be surprised to know just how barebones most premium SUVs are, especially when you’re dropping some serious money on them. You get some really good seats, a decent infotainment system, maybe a sunroof, and that’s it. The Cayenne, in comparison, feels like you’re sitting in an expensive and posh club.
Porsche Cayenne 2023 Review: Drive
Porsche equipped the latest Cayenne with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine that churns out 353 bhp and 500 Nm of torque. This is paired up with an 8-speed torque converter automatic.
The engine is very refined, and the ride is dialled up on the comfort side in Normal mode — a major plus in our books. When you rev it up over the 2000 rpm mark you get the engine’s sporty kick, though the sound is a tad muted.
In Normal mode, the gearbox is very smooth. The Sport and Sport Plus modes give the gearbox a slightly more raw character, but it’s subtle. The gear changes continue to be smooth and linear, with no jarring upshifts or downshifts.
Image Credit: Firstpost | Mehul Reuben Das
You can flip through drive modes with the nifty steering wheel switch and see that the 2023 Cayenne is no slouch even for a big, bulky SUV. If you opt for the optional Sport Chrono Package, you’ll hit 0-100 kmph in 5.7s; without it, it’s still a cool 6.0s. The top speed? A cool 248 kmph.
Now, let’s talk about the star of the show – the ride and handling. Cayennes already have a reputation for their impressive ride comfort, and the 2023 version takes it up a notch. The air suspension makes low-speed rides more forgiving on our roads. You can even jack up the ground clearance in case you do decide to take the Cayenne off the road.
With that being said, the Cayenne still has that firm feel to it, sticking to its sporty vibes, but it’s softer over rough patches. It glides on the road and feels surprisingly nimble for its size. Moreover, the AWD system keeps the traction game strong.
The steering feel is on point. It is precise and will not leave you second-guessing yourself. Our only complaint would be with how thin the steering wheel is. We feel that maybe a slightly beefier steering wheel for an SUV this big and fast would have worked better. But then again, that’s just personal preference.
Even though you have a ton of power at your disposal under your right foot, the car doesn’t force you to trample the accelerator to go fast — it is, very simply, quick by its nature. Moreover, the car doesn’t compel you to drive the car fast, all the time. Instead, it lets you enjoy the experience of the drive, and not just the speed.
When you come across a twisted section of the road, the car handles itself beautifully. You can’t beauty physics, so there is just a hint of a body roll, which, given the size and bulk of the car, shows how cleverly engineered it is.
Porsche Cayenne 2023 Review: Verdict
The Cayenne is where the idea of the super-fast SUV came into the zeitgeist. My first proper encounter with the Cayenne was on a road trip from Gurugam to Ajmer, Udaipur and back to Gurugram, where I was travelling with a close friend’s family, in 2018.
Mr M*, who was my host, was really proud of the performance of his 2014 Cayenne Turbo S, and would frequently just smash the throttle to the floor, whenever he saw an empty stretch of a highway. The result was, that we would often zoom past the speed limit in the blink of an eye. During one of our very few tea breaks, I asked him, why would you want such a big, bulky SUV that can almost touch 290kmph, and that too in the blink of an eye?
Mr M* had a very simple answer. “Because you can, and it’s great fun.”
Image Credit: Firstpost | Mehul Reuben Das
The 2023 Cayenne follows the same philosophy. It may not have the top speed of the Cayenne Turbo S, and it isn’t the fastest Cayenne to have ever been made. At its core though it still is a proper Porsche — a practical, quick, beast of a machine that can be your daily car if you have the money to spare.
The Cayenne 2023 draws attention. Our Carmine Red coloured test unit certainly did. During our test drive in and around Noida, there were times when people stopped in their tracks and made way for us, looking at the car with awe. That’s something that you can’t put a price on.
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Apple’s cybersecurity team engaged in discussions with India’s cybersecurity watchdog, CERT-In, addressing concerns related to warning notifications received by certain opposition leaders.
The meeting aimed to explore the allegations made by several political figures who claimed to have received alerts from Apple, cautioning them about potential “state-sponsored attackers” attempting to compromise their iPhones remotely. These leaders have raised suspicions of government involvement in alleged hacking incidents.
Rajeev Chandrasekhar, the Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology (Meity), emphasized the need for Apple to respond to the notice, highlighting the responsibility of their global cybersecurity team in this matter.
The meeting between the Apple team and CERT-In took was scheduled to take place by the end of November. An official source revealed that the CERT-In will now compile a comprehensive report based on their findings from the meeting.
“There is no fixed deadline for the submission of the report. CERT-In will submit the report after completing their investigation,” stated the official.
Among the Members of Parliament (MPs) who reported receiving the warning notifications on their iPhones are notable figures such as Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, Shashi Tharoor, Pawan Khera, K C Venugopal, Supriya Shrinate, T S Singhdeo, Bhupinder S Hooda, Mahua Moitra of Trinamool Congress,
Sitaram Yechury of CPI(M), and Akhilesh Yadav of SP. Additionally, alerts were received by Priyanka Chaturvedi of Shiv Sena (UBT), Raghav Chadha of Aam Aadmi Party, Asaduddin Owaisi of AIMIM, and associates of Congress MP Rahul Gandhi.
This ongoing investigation raises concerns about the intersection of cybersecurity, politics, and technology, as authorities work to ensure the security and privacy of public figures in the digital age.
(With inputs from agencies)
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Microsoft Corporation’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard Inc. for a staggering $69 billion faces scrutiny from an appeals court currently reviewing the Federal Trade Commission’s challenge to a ruling that had initially cleared the deal earlier this year.
Jennifer Sung of the San Francisco appeals court probed Microsoft’s attorney during a hearing, repeatedly questioning whether the company’s plan to release Activision titles on the cloud, in addition to video-game consoles, adequately addressed antitrust concerns.
Sung expressed scepticism, stating, “That’s not actually pro-competitive. That might benefit some consumers, but you can’t equate a benefit to some consumers to a pro-competitive effect.” Despite Microsoft and Activision finalizing the largest-ever gaming deal on October 13 after a two-year struggle with global regulators, the appeals court’s decision could impact an ongoing in-house trial initiated by the FTC.
While the court cannot retroactively block the completed merger, a favourable ruling for the FTC in the appeals court may strengthen its position in the in-house proceedings, possibly leading to attempts to unwind the deal. This course of action, though uncommon, has precedent, as demonstrated by the agency’s efforts to reverse Illumina Inc.’s 2021 acquisition of cancer detection startup Grail.
The court proceedings on Wednesday lasted nearly 90 minutes, with judges extensively questioning the lawyers. Notably, Judge Daniel Collins pointed out Microsoft’s dominance in both subscription and cloud-based gaming, emphasizing evidence from a related private suit indicating Microsoft’s aim to “spend Sony out of business.” Judge Danielle Forrest echoed this sentiment, focusing on Microsoft’s prowess in the cloud market, stating, “Microsoft’s gonna get there first, and it’s gonna get there big because it’s got the best infrastructure.”
Microsoft’s lawyer, Rakesh Kilaru, argued that the FTC is shifting its arguments from the summer trial, contending that the agency did not previously assert Microsoft’s purchase would lead to a monopoly in cloud and subscription gaming.
FTC attorney Imad Abyad directed attention to Judge Jacqueline Scott Corley’s decision, arguing that she resolved factual disputes instead of temporarily blocking the deal to allow the agency’s in-house trial to unfold. Abyad also highlighted concerns about the UK settlement, where Microsoft agreed to sell the cloud rights of Activision games released over the next 15 years to Ubisoft Entertainment SA, questioning its enforceability and effectiveness in the US market.
(With inputs from agencies)
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The European Union is on the brink of finalizing a groundbreaking regulation that is poised to be the most comprehensive and far-reaching legislation on artificial intelligence (AI) in the western world.
Negotiators have reached an agreement on controls for generative AI tools, including OpenAI Inc.’s ChatGPT and Google’s Bard, capable of producing content on command.
Delegates from the European Commission, the European Parliament, and 27 member countries worked through an extended meeting, bringing them closer to a formal agreement on a broader legislative piece known as the AI Act.
Formal adoption soon
This development signifies a crucial step in establishing a landmark AI policy that will set the standard for regulating generative AI tools in the absence of significant action by the US government or any other major government.
The agreement is particularly significant as policymakers aim to finalize the AI Act’s language and secure passage before the European elections in June, anticipating potential changes with the arrival of a new commission and parliament that could impact the legislation.
The protracted discussions highlight the contentious nature of the AI regulation debate, which has divided global leaders and tech executives.
Finding a balance
The EU, like other governments, is grappling with finding a balance between safeguarding its AI startups and addressing potential societal risks associated with generative tools like ChatGPT and Bard.
The negotiations faced challenges, with countries like France and Germany expressing concerns about rules that could potentially disadvantage local companies.
Despite these obstacles, officials were optimistic about reaching a deal, recognizing the need to address the rapid rise in popularity of generative AI tools.
The proposed plan by EU policymakers outlines requirements for developers of AI models, such as those supporting tools like ChatGPT.
Developers would need to maintain information on model training, summarize copyrighted material used, and appropriately label AI-generated content. AI systems deemed to pose “systemic risks” would be subject to an industry code of conduct, requiring cooperation with the commission, incident monitoring, and reporting.
The technical details of the act will be discussed in subsequent meetings following the anticipated agreement. The European Commission has not yet responded to requests for comments on the matter.
The proposed systems to regulate AI
AI systems, also known as foundation models, serve as a base for developers to create new applications.
Researchers have been surprised by some AI behaviours, such as ChatGPT occasionally providing false but convincing answers. The underlying model is trained to predict sentences, sometimes leading to misleading responses. Quirks in a foundation model’s code may result in unexpected outcomes in different situations.
EU proposals for regulating foundation models suggest companies should transparently document their system’s training data and capabilities, demonstrate efforts to reduce risks, and undergo audits by external researchers.
However, in recent weeks, influential EU countries like France, Germany, and Italy have contested these proposals. They argue that makers of generative AI models should have the freedom to self-regulate instead of adhering to strict rules.
They believe stringent regulations would hamper European companies’ competitiveness against major U.S. players like Google and Microsoft. Interestingly, smaller companies using OpenAI code would face more stringent rules compared to providers like OpenAI themselves.
(With inputs from agencies)
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Google has introduced a powerful new model called Gemini on Wednesday, calling it their “most capable and general” creation yet. Sundar Pichai, Google’s CEO, mentioned that this marks a significant effort in science and engineering for the company’s AI advancements.
Pichai explained, “With Gemini, our most advanced model, we’re moving forward as an AI-first company, achieving top-notch performance across various benchmarks.” The initial version, Gemini 1.0, comes in different sizes: Ultra, Pro, and Nano, representing the first models of the Gemini era and fulfilling the vision set when Google DeepMind was established earlier this year.
Starting now, Google’s AI platform, Bard, will use a refined version of Gemini Pro, available in English across 170 countries, including India.
Google classifies Gemini models across three categories: Ultra as the largest and most capable for complex tasks, Pro as the best for a wide range of tasks, and Nano as the most efficient for on-device tasks.
Demis Hassabis, CEO of Google DeepMind, highlighted Gemini as a result of collaborative efforts across Google, including Google Research. He emphasized Gemini’s flexibility, running efficiently from data centres to mobile devices, enhancing how developers and businesses work with AI.
Hassabis shared, “Bard will now use a fine-tuned version of Gemini Pro for advanced reasoning, planning, understanding, and more. This major upgrade will be available in English across more than 170 countries, with plans for expansion to different modes and support for new languages soon.”
Google is integrating Gemini into Pixel, making the Pixel 8 Pro the first phone engineered to run Gemini Nano. This powers new features like Summarize in the Recorder app and Smart Reply in Gboard, starting with WhatsApp and expanding to more messaging apps next year.
In the coming months, Google plans to include Gemini in more products like Search, Ads, Chrome, and Duet AI.
Experiments with Gemini in Search have already begun, resulting in a 40% reduction in latency for the Search Generative Experience (SGE) in English in the U.S., with improved quality.
Starting December 13, developers and enterprise customers can access Gemini Pro through the Gemini API in Google AI Studio or Google Cloud Vertex AI.
Gemini Ultra is undergoing extensive trust and safety checks before broad availability. Select customers, developers, partners, safety, and responsibility experts will have early access for experimentation and feedback.
Google announced Bard Advanced, a new AI experience launching early next year, offering users access to Google’s top models, starting with Gemini Ultra.
Gemini 1.0 was trained on Google’s AI-optimized infrastructure using Tensor Processing Units (TPUs) v4 and v5e. Gemini shows significantly faster performance on TPUs compared to earlier models. Google also unveiled Cloud TPU v5p, its most powerful and efficient TPU system to date, designed to accelerate Gemini’s development, enabling faster training of large-scale generative AI models for quicker product delivery.
(With inputs from agencies)
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In a recent report by Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, it has been revealed that Apple is actively exploring the integration of 6G connectivity in its forthcoming devices.
The Cupertino-based tech giant, which has encountered obstacles in developing its proprietary 5G modem, is now concentrating on advancing 6G technology to reduce dependency on external chip manufacturers such as Qualcomm.
Gurman shares these insights in the most recent edition of his weekly Power On newsletter.
According to Gurman, Apple is not only dedicating efforts to 6G technology but is also bolstering its workforce for this ambitious project. The company has posted a job listing on its official website seeking a modem systems software architect to join the Wireless Technologies and Ecosystems (WTE) team.
The primary responsibility of the prospective cellular platform architects will be to lead the coordination of 6G reference architecture development, coupled with prototype implementations.
The job description indicates that Apple aims to evaluate the incorporation of 6G technology in its upcoming devices.
Engineers hired for this critical role will collaborate closely with the company’s research and development teams as well as external partners.
Apple insists that candidates possess a minimum of 10 years of relevant work experience and hold a master’s or PhD degree in electrical engineering.
As Apple continues to navigate the challenges of the ever-evolving connectivity landscape, this move towards 6G signifies the company’s commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements.
(With inputs from agencies)
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When Elon Musk unveiled the Cybertruck in 2019, people worldwide were really excited about the futuristic-looking electric truck, so much so that Tesla was inundated with preorders.
However, it seems that Tesla fans and customers in the EU may not get the Cybertruck after all, or at least a very different Cybertruck.
Elon Musk officially launched the Cybertruck last week with great enthusiasm among Tesla fans, even though the car underdelivers on what Musk had previously promised, and is considerably more expensive than what it set out to be. Nevertheless, the buzz online has been considerably high.
Automotive experts think, that Elon Musk, may have made a mistake, because of which the Cybertruck may be considered illegal in the EU.
At several instances, Musk has sung praises of just how strong the Cybertruck really is, saying, “If you’re in an argument with another car, you’ll win.” This is just another way of saying that the car has great durability and is pretty much indestructible, in a more hyperbolic way.
The EU is very stringent about its laws, especially those that govern automotive. One of the most important rules that all carmakers who want to do business in the EU must follow, is that the front of the car cannot be stiff, meaning it has to have a proper crumple zone to reduce the impact of the crash.
Although they may render the car as a total loss or downright irreparable after an accident, crumple zones are vital to keep pedestrians safe in case there is an accident.
While the pointy corners and sharp edges of the Tesla Cybertruck may be fine by European standards, the way it is constructed, and the fact that it lacks a proper crumple zone and has no way to reduce the impact of an accident, makes it illegal for the road.
The Cybertruck is made out of high-grade stainless steel that is almost impossible to dent unless it is in a very severe crash, and downright impossible to scratch in any meaningful manner.
This means in case of a crash, the people inside the truck will be perfectly safe. People of the outside, though, would be crushed in a manner far worse, if they had been hit by some other car.
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Apple has informed the Indian government about potential disruptions to its local production targets if New Delhi proceeds with adopting the European Union’s mandate for universal charging ports on existing iPhone models, as per a report by Reuters.
The US tech giant is actively lobbying for an exemption or a delay in the implementation of the rule.
India is considering the adoption of a European Union regulation that requires smartphones to have a universal USB-C charging port.
Discussions with manufacturers have been ongoing, and the plan is to implement this requirement in India by June 2025, six months after the EU deadline. While other manufacturers, including Samsung, have agreed to comply with India’s plan, Apple is resisting the move.
Apple has long featured a proprietary lightning connector port on its iPhones. The EU estimates that a standardized charging solution could save consumers approximately $271 million (approximately Rs. 2,259 crore), and India contends that the change will reduce e-waste and benefit users.
According to meeting minutes from a closed-door session on November 28 chaired by India’s IT ministry, Apple urged officials to exempt existing iPhone models from the regulations.
Apple cautioned that failure to do so would hinder the company’s ability to meet production targets set under India’s production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme, a significant initiative of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The PLI scheme offers fiscal incentives to electronic manufacturers in India for new investments and incremental phone sales each year. Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn, have extensively used the scheme to expand iPhone manufacturing in the country.
During the meeting, Apple’s regulatory and product compliance executives expressed concerns about meeting PLI targets if the regulations applied to earlier models of mobile phones. The IT ministry, however, decided to review Apple’s request and make a decision at a later date.
While Apple did not provide specific details about the production impact in the meeting, analysts believe that India is a crucial growth market for the company.
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo estimates that 12-14 per cent of iPhone production in 2023 will come from India, potentially rising to 25 per cent next year.
In terms of market share, Apple currently holds 6 per cent of India’s smartphone market, compared to about 2 per cent four years ago. Apple suppliers, manufacturing most iPhone 12, 13, 14, and 15 models in India for local sales and exports, have expanded their facilities, according to Counterpoint Research estimates.
However, Apple’s older generation iPhones remain popular in India’s price-conscious market. Prabhu Ram, Head of the Industry Intelligence Group at CyberMedia Research, notes that “Apple’s fortunes in India have primarily been tied to older generation iPhones.”
The EU’s charging port regulations are scheduled to take effect in December 2024, with India aiming for compliance by June 2025. Apple assured Indian officials in the meeting that it can adhere to this timeline if existing models are exempted from the rules but would need an additional 18 months beyond 2024 if they are not.
(With inputs from agencies)
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In a decisive move against financial fraud, the Government of India has launched a comprehensive initiative to ban over 100 Chinese-operated investment scam websites that have been preying on Indian citizens, in a fashion similar to the predatory loan apps previously traced back to China.
Although the facade of these investment scam sites presented an Indian identity, investigations revealed that the proceeds ultimately flowed into the hands of Chinese operators. In a report by News18 that cites sources in the government, the Ministry of Home Affairs has formally communicated with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology to enforce the blocking of these websites.
The identification of these fraudulent platforms was a result of extensive efforts by central agencies, involving multiple analyses that prompted the government to initiate the process of banning them. Additional sites are likely to be added to the ban list in the coming weeks.
These websites were found to be intricately linked to multiple bank accounts, with funds being transferred between accounts to confound investigating agencies. The money, in turn, was converted into cryptocurrency to further obfuscate the trail.
Concerns about such scams affecting the country’s financial system were raised by various states, prompting the government to take proactive measures.
Hyderabad Police uncovered one of the largest scams of this nature, where a Chinese-operated scheme amassed approximately Rs 712 crore. Victims were enticed through the Telegram app with promises of lucrative part-time jobs. A complainant informed the Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police that he fell victim to a ‘Rate and Review’ job posted on Telegram.
Initially, victims engaged in simple tasks, investing small amounts and completing assignments for promised profits. Gradually, they found themselves ensnared in larger investments, lured by deceptive assurances of substantial returns, ultimately falling prey to the scam.
These fraudulent activities increasingly exploit instant messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram for their operations. Notably, some cryptocurrency wallet transactions associated with this fraud were traced back to a Hezbollah wallet, according to Hyderabad police officials. Hezbollah is a Lebanese militia group.
Another instance of fraud was reported in Kollam, Thiruvananthapuram, where a victim lost approximately Rs 1.2 crore to Chinese scammers. Similar cases have also been reported in Uttarakhand and Delhi.
CloudSEK, a cybersecurity company, had a month ago revealed in an investigation that scammers are successfully evading detection by law enforcement agencies with the assistance of Chinese payment gateways and Indian money mules.
“A notable trend we’ve observed is scammers exploiting Chinese payment gateways due to their relative ease of use and limited regulatory scrutiny. These gateways offer a convenient bridge to funnel funds outside India, leveraging sophisticated techniques that blur jurisdictional lines, making it challenging to track and intercept the money trail,” commented Sparsh Kulshrestha, a senior security analyst.
In recent years, the Government of India has taken action against approximately 250 Chinese apps, citing concerns related to the sovereignty, integrity, defence, security, and public order of the country.
Popular apps such as TikTok, Xender, Shein, and Camscanner, with millions of downloads in India, were among those banned. Authorities argued that these apps were allegedly collecting sensitive user data and seeking unnecessary permissions, with servers in foreign nations misusing the acquired data.
(With inputs from agencies)
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In a surprising move on Tuesday, industry stalwarts IBM, Intel, Sony, and Dell, joined forces with the younger Meta, several prominent universities, and a cohort of tech startups and foundations to announce the establishment of an “AI Alliance.”
This strategic collaboration appears to be a concerted effort to disrupt the perceived dominance of established players such as OpenAI, Microsoft, Google, and Amazon in the field of artificial intelligence (AI).
The announcement comes amid discussions about the notable absence of traditional computing leaders in conversations at the forefront of the AI landscape.
Dario Gil, a senior vice president at IBM and head of the company’s research lab, expressed concern about the narrow focus on a handful of institutions in the past year’s discourse on AI. Gil emphasized, “The reality is that this field is much, much larger than that.”
When pressed about the specific institutions he was alluding to, Gil chose not to name them directly, stating, “You know who.”
The AI Alliance aligns with a longstanding debate within the developer community regarding the merits of “open” versus “closed” development of AI. Despite its name, OpenAI, backed primarily by Microsoft, has kept its AI algorithms under tight control, allowing access only with permission.
Similarly, other leading AI developers like Google and Amazon have not fully open-sourced their models, citing competition and safety concerns.
This proprietary approach has sparked debates within the research community and among competing businesses. The formation of the AI Alliance signals a departure from this closed model, with over 50 participants rallying around shared goals.
These objectives include establishing common frameworks for evaluating AI algorithm strength, allocating capital to AI research funds, and collaborating on open-source models.
The diverse group comprises corporate giants, chip manufacturers such as AMD and Cerebras, AI startups like Hugging Face and Stability AI, and esteemed universities like Yale, Cornell, and Dartmouth.
Darío Gil highlighted examples of the alliance’s commitment to openness, citing IBM’s collaboration with NASA on an open-sourced AI model trained on geospatial data. This model is designed to track deforestation and predict crop yields.
Gil also revealed IBM’s substantial financial commitment of approximately $100 million to support AI research projects at universities over the next five years. Additionally, IBM collaborated with Meta to develop an open-source toolkit for AI development.
Regarding governance, Gil mentioned that the alliance is still finalizing details, focusing initially on defining objectives and building a coalition.
The next steps involve establishing “technical working groups” for the diverse participants and designing a governance structure, potentially leading to the creation of an external nonprofit.
(With inputs from agencies)
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Foxconn, the Taiwanese company responsible for manufacturing Apple iPhones, has temporarily ceased production at its facility near Chennai, India, due to the impact of heavy rains caused by Cyclone Michaung. The decision on whether to resume production on Tuesday remains pending, as reported by Reuters. Foxconn began iPhone production at its Sriperumbudur plant in August. Reports suggest that Pegatron has also suspended production.
Foxconn plans to restart production as soon as by the end of Tuesday but is unlikely to do so if the weather continues to be this bad.
The relentless rainfall associated with Cyclone Michaung has disrupted normal life in Chennai and neighbouring districts of Tamil Nadu. Streets are submerged, and both airport runways and railway tracks are inundated. The cyclonic storm has hovered near Chennai and Puducherry, prompting significant waterlogging and challenges for the residents.
In response to the adverse weather conditions, the government under Chief Minister MK Stalin has ordered the closure of all educational institutions in Chennai on Tuesday, anticipating further heavy rainfall. The state government has also advised private companies to allow employees in affected regions to work from home on December 5.
While essential services such as police, fire service, local bodies, medical facilities, power supply, and transportation will continue to function, the situation has prompted a precautionary closure of educational institutions and remote work arrangements.
Cabinet ministers Udhayanidhi Stalin and Ma Subramanian visited the affected areas in Chennai, overseeing relief activities. The government has deployed ten teams comprising 250 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel for rescue efforts in the affected districts.
Chennai’s airport operations were significantly impacted, with a suspension of services from 9:40 am to 11 pm. Around 70 flights arriving or departing were cancelled due to the continuous rainfall, causing waterlogging on the runway and tarmac. The Airport Authority of India confirmed the closure, emphasizing the need to address the waterlogging issue before resuming normal operations.
(With inputs from agencies)
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Just hours before the trailer of GTA VI was leaked online, a different leak emerged, which gave fans of the GTA series a sneak peek into what could be the game’s setting. The leak, originating from a TikTok account named ‘azzarossi,’ showcased a brief panoramic view of a location presumed to be the fictionalized Miami, also known as Vice City in the GTA universe.
GTABase.com on Twitter reported the leak, highlighting a potential connection to the extensive data leak from the previous year, which unveiled over 90 clips from the in-development game.
The leaked video, which has since been made private, included a glimpse of a Pisswasser billboard, an iconic in-game beer brand featured in previous GTA titles. Despite the authenticity of the footage remaining unverified, significant landmarks align with information disclosed in the prior data leak.
Adding to the intrigue, ‘azzarossi’ posted a photo alongside Aaron Garbut, the head of development and co-studio head at Rockstar North, sparking speculation that the leaker may be a relative of the Rockstar Games employee. The timing of the leak, just ahead of the official trailer release, led to discussions about potential repercussions for the alleged insider.
Notably, Rockstar has not released any official statement regarding the leaks, and social media users are advised to use keyword filters to avoid spoilers. The TikTok user’s swift decision to make their account private following the leak has fueled discussions reminiscent of the infamous “my dad works at Rockstar/Xbox/PlayStation” meme, highlighting the potential reality behind such claims.
Rockstar aims for groundbreaking features in GTA 6, including the introduction of the first playable Latina female protagonist and an increased number of interactive indoor locations for enhanced immersion. The trailer revealed two protagonists, a criminal couple reminiscent of the infamous Bonnie and Clyde, known for their bank and store robberies during the Great Depression.
Leading up to the GTA 6 trailer launch, Rockstar rebranded its logo and removed the ‘Social Club’ branding, while the online multiplayer component remains unaffected. Additionally, the studio plans to release the remastered Grand Theft Auto trilogy on Netflix on December 14, offering subscribers graphical and mechanical upgrades.
While the specific release date for Grand Theft Auto 6 remains unknown, it is set to be launched in 2025, as the trailer indicated. Following the pattern of previous Rockstar game releases, one can speculate that it will be launched sometime around Thanksgiving 2025.
(With inputs from agencies)
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Rockstar Games has finally dropped the highly anticipated first trailer for Grand Theft Auto VI, or GTA VI as it will be called by literally everyone. The trailer offers fans a tantalizing glimpse into the game’s atmosphere and features, and comes loaded with several easter eggs, and homages to GTA games of the past.
What’s unhinged about this trailer reveal is that hours before Rockstar was supposed to launch the trailer, someone already leaked it online. As a result, Rockstar couldn’t go for the big reveal as they had planned.
Nevertheless, the 90-second teaser primarily focuses on setting the tone and showcasing the graphics engine, leaving eager gamers craving more surprises in future previews, up until the launch the game in 2025, almost two years from now.
The latest trailer for Grand Theft Auto VI strategically focuses on setting the game’s tone and showcasing its graphics engine, maintaining the suspense with a teaser-like approach. While Rockstar Games keeps surprises under wraps for future previews, fans are already captivated by the trailer’s tantalizing details. Here are some of the major easter-eggs that you might have missed
Nostalgic Nod: Tom Petty’s Return Sets the Tone
The first trailer of GTA VI pays homage to GTA: San Andreas. Set against Tom Petty’s energetic “Love is a Long Road” from 1989, the trailer seamlessly reintroduces players to the sunlit streets of Vice City, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. This move echoes Rockstar’s earlier use of Tom Petty tracks in the GTA series, showcasing a thoughtful touch.
Florida’s Transformation: Hello, Leonida
The trailer acts as the formal confirmation of the rumour that the Grand Theft Auto series will be returning to Vice City. Furthermore, the trailer reveals a potential fictional renaming of Florida to “Leonida.” Clues scattered throughout the official trailer, including social media posts and news reports, suggest that the US state has been renamed. There’s even an homage to the crazy and viral Florida Man meme, scaterrred throughout the trailer. Essentially, if Miami was Vice City, Florida, has been turned into Leonida.
Image Credit: Rockstar Games
Nightlife Resurgence: Pole Position Club’s Comeback
Nightclubs have been a hallmark of the GTA franchise, and GTA 6 continues the tradition with the potential return of the Pole Position Club. The trailer showcases a modernized version of the exotic dancing hotspot from Grand Theft Auto: Vice City promising immersive nightlife experiences for players with updated graphics and scandalous details.
Social Media Takes Center Stage: A Modernized Approach
Grand Theft Auto VI introduces a more immersive approach to social media within the game world. Clips in the trailer depict in-game social media apps resembling real-world platforms like Facebook Live, TikTok, Instagram Reels, and Snapchat. The use of these features suggests a central role in the game’s storytelling, potentially allowing players to engage in a more realistic and dynamic virtual world.
Image Credit: Rockstar Games
Classic Returns: The Cheetah’s Revival
The trailer confirms the return of the fan-favorite Cheetah vehicle, signalling the potential comeback of other beloved vehicles from the Grand Theft Auto franchise. With the contemporary setting of GTA VI, players might encounter modern-day vehicles, including possible nods to real-world cars like Tesla’s Cybertruck.
Image Credit: Rockstar Games
Malibu Club’s Possible Resurgence: Teasing Locations
The debut trailer hints at the possible return of the iconic Malibu Club, a beloved location from GTA: Vice City. While not explicitly confirmed, the nightclub scene in the trailer sparks speculation, and fans are left wondering if this marks the contemporary comeback of the iconic venue, adding an extra layer of excitement and nostalgia.
Image Credit: Rockstar Games
As fans dissect every frame of the Grand Theft Auto: VI trailer, the anticipation for the game’s release in 2025 continues to grow. Rockstar Games appears to be banking on mix of nostalgia and innovation, promising an exciting and immersive experience for players in the next instalment of this iconic gaming series.
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