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South Korean smart dog collar tells owner what's in a bark

Shoppers washed their hands and sterilized their smartphones in the streets of Tokyo's posh Ginza district on Saturday (December 19) using handwashing stations that a Japanese start-up hopes will revolutionize access to clean water and better hygiene.

Tokyo shoppers clean hands, phones with high-tech wash stations

When the Chula Vista police receive a 911 call, they can dispatch a flying drone with the press of button.

On a recent afternoon, from a launchpad on the roof of the Chula Vista Police Department, they sent a drone across the city to a crowded parking lot where a young man was asleep in the front seat of a stolen car with drug paraphernalia on his lap.

When the man left the car, carrying a gun and a bag of heroin, a nearby police car had trouble following as he sprinted across the street and ducked behind a wall. But as he threw the gun into a dumpster and hid the bag of heroin, the drone, hovering above him, caught everything on camera. When he slipped through the back door of a strip mall, exited through the front door and ran down the sidewalk, it caught that, too.

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Watching the live video feed, an officer back at headquarters relayed the details to the police on the scene, who soon caught the man and took him into custody. Later, they retrieved the gun and the heroin. And after another press of the button, the drone returned, on its own, to the roof.

Each day, the Chula Vista police respond to as many as 15 emergency calls with a drone, launching more than 4,100 flights since the program began two years ago. Chula Vista, a Southern California city with a population of 270,000, is the first in the country to adopt such a program, called Drone as First Responder.

Over the last several months, three other cities — two in California and one in Georgia — have followed suit. Police agencies from Hawaii to New York have used drones for years, but mostly in simple, manually flown ways. Officers would carry a drone in the trunk of a car on patrol or drive it to a crime scene before launching it over a park or flying it inside a building.

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But the latest drone technology — mirroring technology that powers self-driving cars — has the power to transform everyday policing, just as it can transform package delivery, building inspections and military reconnaissance. Rather than spending tens of millions of dollars on large helicopters and pilots, even small police forces could operate tiny autonomous drones for a relative pittance.

That newfound automation, however, raises civil liberties concerns, especially as drones gain the power to track vehicles and people automatically. As the police use more drones, they could collect and store more video of life in the city, which could remove any expectation of privacy once you leave the home.

“Communities should ask hard questions about these programs. As the power and scope of this technology expands, so does the need for privacy protection,” said Jay Stanley, a senior policy analyst with the American Civil Liberties Union’s Project on Speech, Privacy and Technology. “Drones can be used to investigate known crimes. But they are also sensors that can generate offenses.”

With the pandemic still worsening, drones are a way of policing at a distance, said Rahul Sidhu, an officer in Redondo Beach, near Los Angeles, which started a program similar to the one in Chula Vista just after the virus reached the United States.

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“We’re just trying to limit our exposure to other people,” he said. “Sometimes, you can send a drone without sending an officer.”

But down the road, he said, as these small unmanned helicopters become cheaper and more powerful, they will provide more efficient ways of policing urban areas. That could aid police departments at a time when the number of recruits is on the wane across the country and many voices are calling for funding cuts after months of protests against police violence.

In Chula Vista, drones are already an integral part of the way the police respond to emergencies. After an emergency call comes in, officers give the drone a location, and it flies to that point on its own — before returning on its own, too.

FAA regulations aimed at protecting the flights of commercial planes and other aircraft prevent drones from being flown beyond the line of sight of their operators. But Chula Vista obtained a waiver from the FAA, so the pilot and officer can fly the drone as much as 3 miles from its launch site.

Each drone — including long-distance cameras, other sensors and software — costs the department about $35,000. But the overriding cost of the program lies in the many officers needed to operate the drones.

On another recent afternoon, when the Chula Vista police were alerted to a car turned upside down in an empty riverbed, they sent a new kind of drone into the ravine. Built by Skydio, a Silicon Valley company, it could avoid obstacles on its own thanks to many of the same technologies used by self-driving cars.

“An ordinary drone would have crashed by now, guaranteed,” Sgt. James Horst said as he watched a video of the drone swooping down into the riverbed and inspecting the inside of the car at close quarters.

The Chula Vista department treats drone video much as it does video from police bodycams, storing footage as evidence and publicly releasing it only with approval, Capt. Don Redmond said. The department does not use drones for routine patrols.

For privacy advocates like Stanley of the ACLU, the concern is that increasingly powerful technology will be used to target parts of the community — or strictly enforce laws that are out of step with social norms.

“It could allow law enforcement to enforce any area of the law against anyone they want,” Stanley said.

Drones, for instance, could easily be used to identify people and restrict activity during protests like those that have been so prevalent across the country in recent months. Redmond said the Chula Vista department did not deploy drones over Black Lives Matters protests because its policies forbade it.

The Chula Vista police do not require the approval of city officials to expand drone use, but, according to Redmond, they have publicly notified the community about the continued progress of the program.

Drone as first responder programs in places like Redondo Beach and Clovis, California, are seeking waivers that would allow them to fly beyond the operators’ line of sight.

In Clovis, near the middle of the state, the Police Department has found that its drones tend to overheat at the height of summer. “We were flying them four days a week until it got too hot,” Lt. James Munro said. “Then we had to ground them.”

But he thinks these and other technical obstacles will soon be overcome. “Drones are like iPhones,” he said. “As soon as you get one, a new one arrives with new technology.”

When the Chula Vista police receive a 911 call, they can dispatch a flying drone with the press of button. On a recent afternoon, from a launchpad on the roof of the Chula Vista Police Department, they sent a drone across the city to a crowded parking lot where a young man was asleep in the front seat of a stolen car with drug paraphernalia on his lap.

When the Chula Vista police receive a 911 call, they can dispatch a flying drone with the press of button. On a recent afternoon, from a launchpad on the roof of the Chula Vista Police Department, they sent a drone across the city to a crowded parking lot where a young man was asleep in the front seat of a stolen car with drug paraphernalia on his lap. When the man left the car, carrying a gun and a bag of heroin, a nearby police car had trouble following as he sprinted across the street and ducked behind a wall. But as he threw the gun into a dumpster and hid the bag of heroin, the drone, hovering above him, caught everything on camera. When he slipped through the back door of a strip mall, exited through the front door and ran down the sidewalk, it caught that, too. Also read| More than 1,400 Google employees protest against firing of Black researcher Watching the live video feed, an officer back at headquarters relayed the details to the police on the scene, who soon caught the man and took him into custody. Later, they retrieved the gun and the heroin. And after another press of the button, the drone returned, on its own, to the roof. Each day, the Chula Vista police respond to as many as 15 emergency calls with a drone, launching more than 4,100 flights since the program began two years ago. Chula Vista, a Southern California city with a population of 270,000, is the first in the country to adopt such a program, called Drone as First Responder. Over the last several months, three other cities — two in California and one in Georgia — have followed suit. Police agencies from Hawaii to New York have used drones for years, but mostly in simple, manually flown ways. Officers would carry a drone in the trunk of a car on patrol or drive it to a crime scene before launching it over a park or flying it inside a building. Also read| Apple faces lawsuits in Europe for slowing down old iPhones But the latest drone technology — mirroring technology that powers self-driving cars — has the power to transform everyday policing, just as it can transform package delivery, building inspections and military reconnaissance. Rather than spending tens of millions of dollars on large helicopters and pilots, even small police forces could operate tiny autonomous drones for a relative pittance. That newfound automation, however, raises civil liberties concerns, especially as drones gain the power to track vehicles and people automatically. As the police use more drones, they could collect and store more video of life in the city, which could remove any expectation of privacy once you leave the home. “Communities should ask hard questions about these programs. As the power and scope of this technology expands, so does the need for privacy protection,” said Jay Stanley, a senior policy analyst with the American Civil Liberties Union’s Project on Speech, Privacy and Technology. “Drones can be used to investigate known crimes. But they are also sensors that can generate offenses.” With the pandemic still worsening, drones are a way of policing at a distance, said Rahul Sidhu, an officer in Redondo Beach, near Los Angeles, which started a program similar to the one in Chula Vista just after the virus reached the United States. Also read| Twitter expands hate speech rules covering race, ethnicity and nationality “We’re just trying to limit our exposure to other people,” he said. “Sometimes, you can send a drone without sending an officer.” But down the road, he said, as these small unmanned helicopters become cheaper and more powerful, they will provide more efficient ways of policing urban areas. That could aid police departments at a time when the number of recruits is on the wane across the country and many voices are calling for funding cuts after months of protests against police violence. In Chula Vista, drones are already an integral part of the way the police respond to emergencies. After an emergency call comes in, officers give the drone a location, and it flies to that point on its own — before returning on its own, too. FAA regulations aimed at protecting the flights of commercial planes and other aircraft prevent drones from being flown beyond the line of sight of their operators. But Chula Vista obtained a waiver from the FAA, so the pilot and officer can fly the drone as much as 3 miles from its launch site. Each drone — including long-distance cameras, other sensors and software — costs the department about $35,000. But the overriding cost of the program lies in the many officers needed to operate the drones. On another recent afternoon, when the Chula Vista police were alerted to a car turned upside down in an empty riverbed, they sent a new kind of drone into the ravine. Built by Skydio, a Silicon Valley company, it could avoid obstacles on its own thanks to many of the same technologies used by self-driving cars. “An ordinary drone would have crashed by now, guaranteed,” Sgt. James Horst said as he watched a video of the drone swooping down into the riverbed and inspecting the inside of the car at close quarters. The Chula Vista department treats drone video much as it does video from police bodycams, storing footage as evidence and publicly releasing it only with approval, Capt. Don Redmond said. The department does not use drones for routine patrols. For privacy advocates like Stanley of the ACLU, the concern is that increasingly powerful technology will be used to target parts of the community — or strictly enforce laws that are out of step with social norms. “It could allow law enforcement to enforce any area of the law against anyone they want,” Stanley said. Drones, for instance, could easily be used to identify people and restrict activity during protests like those that have been so prevalent across the country in recent months. Redmond said the Chula Vista department did not deploy drones over Black Lives Matters protests because its policies forbade it. The Chula Vista police do not require the approval of city officials to expand drone use, but, according to Redmond, they have publicly notified the community about the continued progress of the program. Drone as first responder programs in places like Redondo Beach and Clovis, California, are seeking waivers that would allow them to fly beyond the operators’ line of sight. In Clovis, near the middle of the state, the Police Department has found that its drones tend to overheat at the height of summer. “We were flying them four days a week until it got too hot,” Lt. James Munro said. “Then we had to ground them.” But he thinks these and other technical obstacles will soon be overcome. “Drones are like iPhones,” he said. “As soon as you get one, a new one arrives with new technology.”

Police drones are starting to think for themselves

Archival tech company Storyfile has come up with an A.I. alternative, creating a website where children can ask Santa questions online instead.

Online Santa website uses A.I. to let children interact with St. Nick during covid

In Rochester, Michigan, Oakland University is preparing to hand out wearable devices to students that log skin temperature once a minute — or more than 1,400 times per day — in the hopes of pinpointing early signs of the coronavirus.

In Plano, Texas, employees at the headquarters of Rent-A-Center recently started wearing proximity detectors that log their close contacts with one another and can be used to alert them to possible virus exposure.

And in Knoxville, Tennessee, students on the University of Tennessee football team tuck proximity trackers under their shoulder pads during games — allowing the team’s medical director to trace which players may have spent more than 15 minutes near a teammate or an opposing player.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/coronavirus-mutations-appearing-in-siberia-russian-scientists-343820">Coronavirus mutations appearing in Siberia: Russian scientists</a>

The powerful new surveillance systems, wearable devices that continuously monitor users, are the latest high-tech gadgets to emerge in the battle to hinder the coronavirus. Some sports leagues, factories and nursing homes have already deployed them. Resorts are rushing to adopt them. A few schools are preparing to try them. And the conference industry is eyeing them as a potential tool to help reopen convention centers.

“Everyone is in the early stages of this,” said Laura Becker, a research manager focusing on employee experience at the International Data Corp., a market research firm. “If it works, the market could be huge because everyone wants to get back to some sense of normalcy.”

Companies and industry analysts say the wearable trackers fill an important gap in pandemic safety. Many employers and colleges have adopted virus screening tools like symptom-checking apps and temperature-scanning cameras. But they are not designed to catch the estimated 40% of people with COVID-19 infections who may never develop symptoms like fevers.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/human-to-human-transmission-of-rare-chapare-virus-in-bolivia-confirmed-by-scientists-343728">Human-to-human transmission of rare 'Chapare virus' in Bolivia confirmed by scientists</a>

Some offices have also adopted smartphone virus-tracing apps that detect users’ proximity. But the new wearable trackers serve a different audience: workplaces like factories where workers cannot bring their phones, or sports teams whose athletes spend time close together.

This spring, when coronavirus infections began to spike, many professional football and basketball teams in the United States were already using sports performance monitoring technology from Kinexon, a company in Munich whose wearable sensors track data like an athlete’s speed and distance. The company quickly adapted its devices for the pandemic, introducing SafeZone, a system that logs close contacts between players or coaches and emits a warning light if they get within 6 feet. The NFL began requiring players, coaches and staff to wear the trackers in September.

The data has helped trace the contacts of about 140 NFL players and personnel who have tested positive since September, including an outbreak among the Tennessee Titans, said Dr. Thom Mayer, the medical director of the NFL Players Association. The system is particularly helpful in ruling out people who spent less than 15 minutes near infected colleagues, he added.

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College football teams in the Southeastern Conference also use Kinexon trackers. Dr. Chris Klenck, the head team physician at the University of Tennessee, said the proximity data helped teams understand when the athletes spent more than 15 minutes close together. They discovered it was rarely on the field during games, but often on the sideline.

“We’re able to tabulate that data, and from that information we can help identify people who are close contacts to someone who’s positive,” Klenck said.

Civil rights and privacy experts warn that the spread of such wearable continuous-monitoring devices could lead to new forms of surveillance that outlast the pandemic — ushering into the real world the same kind of extensive tracking that companies like Facebook and Google have instituted online. They also caution that some wearable sensors could enable employers, colleges or law enforcement agencies to reconstruct people’s locations or social networks, chilling their ability to meet and speak freely. And they say these data-mining risks could disproportionately affect certain workers or students, like immigrants living in the country illegally or political activists.

“It’s chilling that these invasive and unproven devices could become a condition for keeping our jobs, attending school or taking part in public life,” said Albert Fox Cahn, executive director of the Surveillance Technology Oversight Project, a nonprofit in Manhattan. “Even worse, there’s nothing to stop police or ICE from requiring schools and employers to hand over this data.”

Executives at Kinexon and other companies that market the wearable trackers said in recent interviews that they had thought deeply about the novel data-mining risks and had taken steps to mitigate them.

Devices from Microshare, a workplace analytics company that makes proximity detection sensors, use Bluetooth technology to detect and log people wearing the trackers who come into close contact with one another for more than 10 or 15 minutes. But the system does not continuously monitor users’ locations, said Ron Rock, chief executive of Microshare. And it uses ID codes, not employees’ real names, to log close contacts.

Rock added that the system was designed for human resources managers or security officials at client companies to use to identify and alert employees who spent time near an infected person, not to map workers’ social connections.

Oakland University, a public research university near Detroit, is at the forefront of schools and companies preparing to making the leap to the BioButton, a novel coin-size sensor attached to the skin 24/7 that uses algorithms to try to detect possible signs of COVID-19.

Whether such continuous surveillance of students, a young and largely healthy population, is beneficial is not yet known. Researchers are only in the early phases of studying whether wearable technology could help flag signs of the disease.

David A. Stone, vice president for research at Oakland University, said school officials had carefully vetted the BioButton and concluded it was a low-risk device that, added to measures like social distancing and mask wearing, might help hinder the spread of the virus. The technology will alert campus health services to students with possible virus symptoms, he said, but the school will not receive specific data like their temperature readings.

“In an ideal world, we would love to be able to wait until this is an FDA-approved diagnostic,” Stone said. But, he added, “nothing about this pandemic has been in an ideal world.”

In Rochester, Michigan, Oakland University is preparing to hand out wearable devices to students that log skin temperature once a minute — or more than 1,400 times per day — in the hopes of pinpointing early signs of the coronavirus.

In Rochester, Michigan, Oakland University is preparing to hand out wearable devices to students that log skin temperature once a minute — or more than 1,400 times per day — in the hopes of pinpointing early signs of the coronavirus. In Plano, Texas, employees at the headquarters of Rent-A-Center recently started wearing proximity detectors that log their close contacts with one another and can be used to alert them to possible virus exposure. And in Knoxville, Tennessee, students on the University of Tennessee football team tuck proximity trackers under their shoulder pads during games — allowing the team’s medical director to trace which players may have spent more than 15 minutes near a teammate or an opposing player. Also read| Coronavirus mutations appearing in Siberia: Russian scientists The powerful new surveillance systems, wearable devices that continuously monitor users, are the latest high-tech gadgets to emerge in the battle to hinder the coronavirus. Some sports leagues, factories and nursing homes have already deployed them. Resorts are rushing to adopt them. A few schools are preparing to try them. And the conference industry is eyeing them as a potential tool to help reopen convention centers. “Everyone is in the early stages of this,” said Laura Becker, a research manager focusing on employee experience at the International Data Corp., a market research firm. “If it works, the market could be huge because everyone wants to get back to some sense of normalcy.” Companies and industry analysts say the wearable trackers fill an important gap in pandemic safety. Many employers and colleges have adopted virus screening tools like symptom-checking apps and temperature-scanning cameras. But they are not designed to catch the estimated 40% of people with COVID-19 infections who may never develop symptoms like fevers. Also read| Human-to-human transmission of rare 'Chapare virus' in Bolivia confirmed by scientists Some offices have also adopted smartphone virus-tracing apps that detect users’ proximity. But the new wearable trackers serve a different audience: workplaces like factories where workers cannot bring their phones, or sports teams whose athletes spend time close together. This spring, when coronavirus infections began to spike, many professional football and basketball teams in the United States were already using sports performance monitoring technology from Kinexon, a company in Munich whose wearable sensors track data like an athlete’s speed and distance. The company quickly adapted its devices for the pandemic, introducing SafeZone, a system that logs close contacts between players or coaches and emits a warning light if they get within 6 feet. The NFL began requiring players, coaches and staff to wear the trackers in September. The data has helped trace the contacts of about 140 NFL players and personnel who have tested positive since September, including an outbreak among the Tennessee Titans, said Dr. Thom Mayer, the medical director of the NFL Players Association. The system is particularly helpful in ruling out people who spent less than 15 minutes near infected colleagues, he added. Also read| Mouthwash can kill coronavirus within 30 seconds: Study College football teams in the Southeastern Conference also use Kinexon trackers. Dr. Chris Klenck, the head team physician at the University of Tennessee, said the proximity data helped teams understand when the athletes spent more than 15 minutes close together. They discovered it was rarely on the field during games, but often on the sideline. “We’re able to tabulate that data, and from that information we can help identify people who are close contacts to someone who’s positive,” Klenck said. Civil rights and privacy experts warn that the spread of such wearable continuous-monitoring devices could lead to new forms of surveillance that outlast the pandemic — ushering into the real world the same kind of extensive tracking that companies like Facebook and Google have instituted online. They also caution that some wearable sensors could enable employers, colleges or law enforcement agencies to reconstruct people’s locations or social networks, chilling their ability to meet and speak freely. And they say these data-mining risks could disproportionately affect certain workers or students, like immigrants living in the country illegally or political activists. “It’s chilling that these invasive and unproven devices could become a condition for keeping our jobs, attending school or taking part in public life,” said Albert Fox Cahn, executive director of the Surveillance Technology Oversight Project, a nonprofit in Manhattan. “Even worse, there’s nothing to stop police or ICE from requiring schools and employers to hand over this data.” Executives at Kinexon and other companies that market the wearable trackers said in recent interviews that they had thought deeply about the novel data-mining risks and had taken steps to mitigate them. Devices from Microshare, a workplace analytics company that makes proximity detection sensors, use Bluetooth technology to detect and log people wearing the trackers who come into close contact with one another for more than 10 or 15 minutes. But the system does not continuously monitor users’ locations, said Ron Rock, chief executive of Microshare. And it uses ID codes, not employees’ real names, to log close contacts. Rock added that the system was designed for human resources managers or security officials at client companies to use to identify and alert employees who spent time near an infected person, not to map workers’ social connections. Oakland University, a public research university near Detroit, is at the forefront of schools and companies preparing to making the leap to the BioButton, a novel coin-size sensor attached to the skin 24/7 that uses algorithms to try to detect possible signs of COVID-19. Whether such continuous surveillance of students, a young and largely healthy population, is beneficial is not yet known. Researchers are only in the early phases of studying whether wearable technology could help flag signs of the disease. David A. Stone, vice president for research at Oakland University, said school officials had carefully vetted the BioButton and concluded it was a low-risk device that, added to measures like social distancing and mask wearing, might help hinder the spread of the virus. The technology will alert campus health services to students with possible virus symptoms, he said, but the school will not receive specific data like their temperature readings. “In an ideal world, we would love to be able to wait until this is an FDA-approved diagnostic,” Stone said. But, he added, “nothing about this pandemic has been in an ideal world.”

The hot new COVID tech is wearable and constantly tracks you

The chief executive officers of Facebook Inc. and Twitter Inc. fielded the latest round of complaints from U.S. senators who remain divided on how to regulate the companies heading into 2021.

Mark Zuckerberg & Jack Dorsey defend their handling of misinformation

The Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), located in Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu has developed spin-off technologies that find applications in fields ranging from healthcare, defence, water management, agriculture among others. Director of the centre said that these spin-off technologies were ready to be transferred to start-ups and industries. The technologies were developed over the last decade.

According to the IGCAR, their major offerings for which Intent of MOU will be exchanged include Thermal Imaging technology for early detection of breast cancer, Autonomous Gamma Dose Logger (to measure radiation), Portable Air volume sampler (for pollution analysis) and Application of Ionising Radiations in Agriculture and Related areas to improve the shelf life of vegetables and fruits. The organization has said that the Intent of MOU will be exchanged for these technologies/products developed at IGCAR.

On Friday, KNVyas, Secretry, Department of Atomic Energy inaugurated a technology Incubation Centre at IGCAR, via the virtual mode. The Incubation center is meant to be catalytic in incubating technologies from IGCAR and also spin-off technologies from Bhabha Atomic Research Centre and other units of DAE in the Southern Part of the country through appropriate handholding with entrepreneurs and MSMEs. 30th October 2020 also marks the 111th Birth Anniversary of Dr Homi Jehangir Bhabha, the Father of the Indian Atomic Energy program.&nbsp;

A.K.Bhaduri, Director, IGCAR, spoke of some of the products their facility had developed, such as an explosive detector, narcotics detector, access control systems used for securing vital installations, greenhouse gas sensors and waste water management solutions among others. He emphasized that some of their offerings cost just 25 per cent of the imported ones.&nbsp;

The IGCAR signs up non-exclusive MoUs with interested parties, with a one-time technology transfer fee of Rs 5 lakh and there is also a provision of some share in the profits earned by the company.

When asked about the thermal imaging for detection fo breast cancer, IGCAR officials told Zee Media that they had developed a grading scale for a standard imaging device and that it was a portable system.&nbsp;

“By integrating three approaches, we have enhanced specificity and sensitivity. We have validated this product’s results with ultrasound and mammography in over 700 cases and it has 90% sensitivity. It is non-contact, non-harmful and not painful and can be used for detection in women below the age of 40(which is the usual age)” they said.

The Autonomous Gamma Dose Logger is a radiation monitor to measure environmental radiation in nuclear installations and other places, and it transmits data wirelessly. ICGAR says it is possible to have large deployments of these units including across rough terrains and it can be installed across borders to monitor movement of radioactive materials.

Portable Air volume sampler is a lightweight device made of fibre reinforced plastic, which is employed to collect airborne particulates in a filter paper. It can be used by pollution control boards for collecting suspended particulate matter in monitoring environmental pollution and in industries discharging particulate effluents.

ICGAR said that BARC has pioneered the application of radioisotopes and radiation technologies in agriculture, increasing the shelf life of agricultural products, food preservation and a host of other areas. The application cited was the use of radiation to significantly increase the shelf life of vegetables and other perishables.

The Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), located in Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu has developed spin-off technologies that find applications in fields ranging from healthcare, defence, water management, agriculture among others.

The Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), located in Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu has developed spin-off technologies that find applications in fields ranging from healthcare, defence, water management, agriculture among others. Director of the centre said that these spin-off technologies were ready to be transferred to start-ups and industries. The technologies were developed over the last decade. According to the IGCAR, their major offerings for which Intent of MOU will be exchanged include Thermal Imaging technology for early detection of breast cancer, Autonomous Gamma Dose Logger (to measure radiation), Portable Air volume sampler (for pollution analysis) and Application of Ionising Radiations in Agriculture and Related areas to improve the shelf life of vegetables and fruits. The organization has said that the Intent of MOU will be exchanged for these technologies/products developed at IGCAR. On Friday, KNVyas, Secretry, Department of Atomic Energy inaugurated a technology Incubation Centre at IGCAR, via the virtual mode. The Incubation center is meant to be catalytic in incubating technologies from IGCAR and also spin-off technologies from Bhabha Atomic Research Centre and other units of DAE in the Southern Part of the country through appropriate handholding with entrepreneurs and MSMEs. 30th October 2020 also marks the 111th Birth Anniversary of Dr Homi Jehangir Bhabha, the Father of the Indian Atomic Energy program. A.K.Bhaduri, Director, IGCAR, spoke of some of the products their facility had developed, such as an explosive detector, narcotics detector, access control systems used for securing vital installations, greenhouse gas sensors and waste water management solutions among others. He emphasized that some of their offerings cost just 25 per cent of the imported ones. The IGCAR signs up non-exclusive MoUs with interested parties, with a one-time technology transfer fee of Rs 5 lakh and there is also a provision of some share in the profits earned by the company. When asked about the thermal imaging for detection fo breast cancer, IGCAR officials told Zee Media that they had developed a grading scale for a standard imaging device and that it was a portable system. “By integrating three approaches, we have enhanced specificity and sensitivity. We have validated this product’s results with ultrasound and mammography in over 700 cases and it has 90% sensitivity. It is non-contact, non-harmful and not painful and can be used for detection in women below the age of 40(which is the usual age)” they said. The Autonomous Gamma Dose Logger is a radiation monitor to measure environmental radiation in nuclear installations and other places, and it transmits data wirelessly. ICGAR says it is possible to have large deployments of these units including across rough terrains and it can be installed across borders to monitor movement of radioactive materials. Portable Air volume sampler is a lightweight device made of fibre reinforced plastic, which is employed to collect airborne particulates in a filter paper. It can be used by pollution control boards for collecting suspended particulate matter in monitoring environmental pollution and in industries discharging particulate effluents. ICGAR said that BARC has pioneered the application of radioisotopes and radiation technologies in agriculture, increasing the shelf life of agricultural products, food preservation and a host of other areas. The application cited was the use of radiation to significantly increase the shelf life of vegetables and other perishables.

Atomic research facility IGCAR to transfer spin-off tech to start-ups, industries

Oracle Corp on Monday confirmed that it was being considered in a partnership with ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok.

If it goes through, Oracle will become a technology partner for the Chinese firm.

Earlier on Monday, US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin had claimed that the White House had received a proposal from Oracle over the weekend for a potential partnership.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/technology/china-says-tiktok-being-encircled-and-coerced-after-bytedance-drops-sale-327468" hreflang="en">China says TikTok being 'encircled' and 'coerced' after ByteDance drops sale</a>

Earlier, Microsoft was in talks to take over US operations of TikTok, but their offer was officially rejected on Monday.

"ByteDance let us know today they would not be selling TikTok's US operations to Microsoft," the US tech giant, in a statement, said, adding that their proposal was would have been "good" for TikTok users while "protecting national security interests".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/china-would-rather-see-tiktok-us-close-than-a-forced-sale-sources-say-326947" hreflang="en">China would rather see TikTok US close than a forced sale, sources say</a>

Earlier, Microsoft was amongst the major contenders to buy TikTok after US President Donald Trump last month gave a deadline to the video-platform company of September 15 to get sold or be banned.&nbsp;

The Washington Post reported that ByteDance has chosen Oracle as a "technology partner" and news agency Reuters quoted a source, claiming there would be a restructuring rather than a sale, with Oracle responsible for handling TikTok's data of US users.&nbsp;

Reuters also reported that Walmart is still interested in investing in TikTok and discussions with ByteDance have been ongoing.&nbsp;

Oracle Corp on Monday confirmed that it was being considered in a partnership with ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok. If it goes through, Oracle will become a technology partner for the Chinese firm.

Oracle Corp on Monday confirmed that it was being considered in a partnership with ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok. If it goes through, Oracle will become a technology partner for the Chinese firm. Earlier on Monday, US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin had claimed that the White House had received a proposal from Oracle over the weekend for a potential partnership. Also read: China says TikTok being 'encircled' and 'coerced' after ByteDance drops sale Earlier, Microsoft was in talks to take over US operations of TikTok, but their offer was officially rejected on Monday. "ByteDance let us know today they would not be selling TikTok's US operations to Microsoft," the US tech giant, in a statement, said, adding that their proposal was would have been "good" for TikTok users while "protecting national security interests". Also read: China would rather see TikTok US close than a forced sale, sources say Earlier, Microsoft was amongst the major contenders to buy TikTok after US President Donald Trump last month gave a deadline to the video-platform company of September 15 to get sold or be banned. The Washington Post reported that ByteDance has chosen Oracle as a "technology partner" and news agency Reuters quoted a source, claiming there would be a restructuring rather than a sale, with Oracle responsible for handling TikTok's data of US users. Reuters also reported that Walmart is still interested in investing in TikTok and discussions with ByteDance have been ongoing.

Oracle confirms proposal to be TikTok's 'tech partner' in the US

The Museo Camera is located in the Indian city of Gurugram. It houses a rare collection of antique cameras that date back to the 19th century - when photography was formally introduced. The museum is a treat for photography enthusiasts.

India's largest camera museum | Tech It Out

Smartphones have our life easier and faster, but some researchers have concluded that the invention has also brought extreme laziness in humans, especially I one of the countries.

Researchers have warned that laziness in the&nbsp;residents of the United Kingdom due to smartphones is alarmingly more than&nbsp;in any other major western European country.

The study was conducted for the period from 2007 to 2017, and interestingly the first iPhone was launched in Europe in 2007.&nbsp;Since then, there has been an alarming increase of 22 per cent in the&nbsp;levels of sedentary behaviour among adults in the UK, in a period of 10 years.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-boris-johnson-really-pleased-with-reopening-of-schools-323026">Also read|&nbsp;UK PM Boris Johnson 'really pleased' with reopening of schools</a>

The increase has majorly been due to the change in lifestyle of adults between the age range of 35 to 44. People in this age, who earlier used to move around and indulge in various activities, have now started spending&nbsp;their leisure time on their smartphones.

Europe, as a whole, saw an increase of about 8 per cent, with France following the UK at 17.8 per cent, followed by a 7.4 per cent increase in Germany, 3.9 per cent in Spain, and just 0.2 per cent in Italy. Adults in these countries spend more than four hours sitting down using their smartphones.

The increase in the laziness is being considered as dangerous as the inactivity usually leads to deadly long-term diseases such as type-2 diabetes and cancer. It has also been revealed that nearly 12 per cent (or&nbsp;70,000 deaths) in the UK are caused due to inactivity.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-to-ask-schools-to-reopen-by-september-reports-319158">Also read|&nbsp;Boris Johnson to ask schools to reopen by September: Reports</a>

The researchers are urging the respective government to encourage citizens to give up the temptation of sitting down and indulge in physical and healthy activities, other than gym trips.&nbsp;

The researchers feel this increase is majorly due to the advancement in technology, such as streaming platforms. Professor Xián Mayo Mauriz, who took part in the research at the King Juan Carlos University in Spain, said: "We propose that the observed increase in the prevalence of physical inactivity could be attributed to people increasingly interacting with technology such as smartphones and streaming services during work and leisure time.

“Our findings suggest that in addition to encouraging physical activity, governments should focus on reducing the amount of time people spend sitting per day."

The research was published in&nbsp;the journal BCM Public Health.

Another independent study in the UK last year had found out that people, on an average, spend nearly four hours every day on their phones, out of which nearly one hour is spent on social media.

Smartphones have our life easier and faster, but some researchers have concluded that the invention has also brought extreme laziness in humans, especially I one of the countries.

Smartphones have our life easier and faster, but some researchers have concluded that the invention has also brought extreme laziness in humans, especially I one of the countries. Researchers have warned that laziness in the residents of the United Kingdom due to smartphones is alarmingly more than in any other major western European country. The study was conducted for the period from 2007 to 2017, and interestingly the first iPhone was launched in Europe in 2007. Since then, there has been an alarming increase of 22 per cent in the levels of sedentary behaviour among adults in the UK, in a period of 10 years. Also read| UK PM Boris Johnson 'really pleased' with reopening of schools The increase has majorly been due to the change in lifestyle of adults between the age range of 35 to 44. People in this age, who earlier used to move around and indulge in various activities, have now started spending their leisure time on their smartphones. Europe, as a whole, saw an increase of about 8 per cent, with France following the UK at 17.8 per cent, followed by a 7.4 per cent increase in Germany, 3.9 per cent in Spain, and just 0.2 per cent in Italy. Adults in these countries spend more than four hours sitting down using their smartphones. The increase in the laziness is being considered as dangerous as the inactivity usually leads to deadly long-term diseases such as type-2 diabetes and cancer. It has also been revealed that nearly 12 per cent (or 70,000 deaths) in the UK are caused due to inactivity. Also read| Boris Johnson to ask schools to reopen by September: Reports The researchers are urging the respective government to encourage citizens to give up the temptation of sitting down and indulge in physical and healthy activities, other than gym trips. The researchers feel this increase is majorly due to the advancement in technology, such as streaming platforms. Professor Xián Mayo Mauriz, who took part in the research at the King Juan Carlos University in Spain, said: "We propose that the observed increase in the prevalence of physical inactivity could be attributed to people increasingly interacting with technology such as smartphones and streaming services during work and leisure time. “Our findings suggest that in addition to encouraging physical activity, governments should focus on reducing the amount of time people spend sitting per day." The research was published in the journal BCM Public Health. Another independent study in the UK last year had found out that people, on an average, spend nearly four hours every day on their phones, out of which nearly one hour is spent on social media.

Smartphones have made UK one of the laziest countries in Europe

Is too much screen-time putting a strain on your eyes? We test a gadget that's a treat for sore eyes.

Tech It Out: A portable eye massager

“Data is the new gold”;&nbsp;these words are echoed commonly in contemporary times, and aptly so.

Turns out, the United States law enforcement agencies have been buying data which includes one’s phone location, effectively terminating&nbsp;the need to issue a warrant to obtain such sensitive user details.

"Locate X"

A document recently released by Secret Service shows that the Secret Service purchased “Locate X” from Babel Street, a social media surveillance company.&nbsp;The details were divulged after “Motherboard” filed a request under the US Freedom of Information Act.

Locate X is a sophisticated tool which can effectively track a user’s locations and its real-time movements. The data which is collected by various apps on one’s phones is used by Locate X to ascertain a user’s location.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/google-sued-over-tracking-in-apps-even-when-users-opted-out-313354" hreflang="en">Google sued over tracking in apps even when users opted out</a>

Locate X allows government agencies to trace the movement of users not only in real time, but in any specific team period. In essence, it is a repository of all user data corresponding to the places they have visited and their movement patterns.

In fact, using Locate X, the Secret Service could track a user’s movement months before or after a certain event which they want to investigate.&nbsp;Reportedly, an internal document has revealed how the Secret Service paid $36,000 for a year-long subscription to the Locate X service, from September 27, 2017 upto the same date in 2018.&nbsp;This was part of a bigger $2 million deal with Babel Street to conduct surveillance on social media.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/apple-and-google-decide-to-ban-location-tracking-in-their-contact-tracing-apps-296868" hreflang="en">Apple and Google decide to ban location tracking in their contact tracing apps</a>

Earlier in March, “Protocol” had reported that Locate X was being used by US Customs and Border Patrol.&nbsp;

“Mashable” reported that the existence of Locate X is “confidential information”, implying it became public knowledge only after the request under the Act.

Law of land?

In an ideal situation in conjunction with law of land, law enforcement agencies in the US would require a warrant or at least a court order to track somebody’s movements so brazenly. If the information divulged after a request made under the Act is true, it means that authorities simply discarded protocol by buying a surveillance product.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/facebook-agrees-to-pay-650m-to-settle-facial-recognition-lawsuit-317458" hreflang="en">Facebook agrees to pay $650M to settle facial recognition lawsuit</a>

Many applications that don’t need access to one’s location demand it and store it. Most of this data is sold to third party companies to use as they please. Big companies like Facebook, Twitter claim that such data is used to provide a personalised advertising experience on their apps.

All this comes in the middle of US government openly accusing Chinese app TikTok of sharing data with the Chinese government. The company had hit back at the US saying local American companies like Facebook store more data than any Chinese company, implying the dangers enmeshed in such vast data collection.

“Data is the new gold”; these words are echoed commonly in contemporary times, and aptly so. Turns out, the United States law enforcement agencies have been buying data which includes one’s phone location, effectively terminating the need to issue a warrant to obtain such sensitive user details.

“Data is the new gold”; these words are echoed commonly in contemporary times, and aptly so. Turns out, the United States law enforcement agencies have been buying data which includes one’s phone location, effectively terminating the need to issue a warrant to obtain such sensitive user details. "Locate X" A document recently released by Secret Service shows that the Secret Service purchased “Locate X” from Babel Street, a social media surveillance company. The details were divulged after “Motherboard” filed a request under the US Freedom of Information Act. Locate X is a sophisticated tool which can effectively track a user’s locations and its real-time movements. The data which is collected by various apps on one’s phones is used by Locate X to ascertain a user’s location. Also read: Google sued over tracking in apps even when users opted out Locate X allows government agencies to trace the movement of users not only in real time, but in any specific team period. In essence, it is a repository of all user data corresponding to the places they have visited and their movement patterns. In fact, using Locate X, the Secret Service could track a user’s movement months before or after a certain event which they want to investigate. Reportedly, an internal document has revealed how the Secret Service paid $36,000 for a year-long subscription to the Locate X service, from September 27, 2017 upto the same date in 2018. This was part of a bigger $2 million deal with Babel Street to conduct surveillance on social media. Also read: Apple and Google decide to ban location tracking in their contact tracing apps Earlier in March, “Protocol” had reported that Locate X was being used by US Customs and Border Patrol. “Mashable” reported that the existence of Locate X is “confidential information”, implying it became public knowledge only after the request under the Act. Law of land? In an ideal situation in conjunction with law of land, law enforcement agencies in the US would require a warrant or at least a court order to track somebody’s movements so brazenly. If the information divulged after a request made under the Act is true, it means that authorities simply discarded protocol by buying a surveillance product. Also read: Facebook agrees to pay $650M to settle facial recognition lawsuit Many applications that don’t need access to one’s location demand it and store it. Most of this data is sold to third party companies to use as they please. Big companies like Facebook, Twitter claim that such data is used to provide a personalised advertising experience on their apps. All this comes in the middle of US government openly accusing Chinese app TikTok of sharing data with the Chinese government. The company had hit back at the US saying local American companies like Facebook store more data than any Chinese company, implying the dangers enmeshed in such vast data collection.

US law enforcement bought 'Locate X' to track user's phone location data without permit

Technology is no less magical and can change our lives in unimaginable ways. Watch the beautiful story and get inspired.

Superhero costumes for kids in wheelchair | Tech It Out

It's time to take a trip down memory lane.

Did you grow up playing these video games? | Tech It Out

The next geopolitical battleground is the technology and it is not just China that is a target. Countries around the world are building borders for their internet.

Cutting off access for everything. From apps to even manpower.&nbsp;

Trump along with the prime ministers of Australia, Germany and the United Kingdom is citing a threat to national security to strike at Chinese tech titans.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-aftershocks-of-the-pandemic-tech-sector-is-the-new-battleground-318195/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

But, what’s happening right now is no game. Technology companies are feeling the aftershock of the pandemic. It began with TikTok.

India banned it first and now the United States might break it up. US President Donald Trump is willing to allow a deal.&nbsp;

The United States is trying to get reimbursed or be paid a substantial amount of money.&nbsp;

Donald Trump dealt another big blow to techies. This time he is targeting IT professionals of Indian-origin and shutting off another door for employment via the H1-B visa.

Trump has signed an order reserving government jobs for Americans. Now, American government agencies won’t be allowed to contract or subcontract foreign workers...

He said: "Today i am signing an executive order to ensure that the federal government lives by a very simple rule: hire American. We've been doing it at a level that hasn't been done, maybe ever."

In Europe, the union is taking on three countries with cyber sanctions.

For the first time, the European Union has imposed sanctions for cyber attacks.

A total of six people and three groups have been punished.

This includes four Russians. Allegedly part of the Russian GRU military agency.

Two Chinese nationals have been sanctioned for operation cloud hopper.

A hack that targeted different companies across six continents.

Northern Korean firm Chosun expo is the sixth name on the list.

World leaders are laying the foundations for post-pandemic world order. One that will be dictated by optic fibres and not weapons.

Big tech is now a geopolitical force and technology companies around the world can’t afford to stay above the political fray.

The next geopolitical battleground is the technology and it is not just China that is a target. Countries around the world are building borders for their internet.

The next geopolitical battleground is the technology and it is not just China that is a target. Countries around the world are building borders for their internet. Cutting off access for everything. From apps to even manpower. Trump along with the prime ministers of Australia, Germany and the United Kingdom is citing a threat to national security to strike at Chinese tech titans. But, what’s happening right now is no game. Technology companies are feeling the aftershock of the pandemic. It began with TikTok. India banned it first and now the United States might break it up. US President Donald Trump is willing to allow a deal. The United States is trying to get reimbursed or be paid a substantial amount of money. Donald Trump dealt another big blow to techies. This time he is targeting IT professionals of Indian-origin and shutting off another door for employment via the H1-B visa. Trump has signed an order reserving government jobs for Americans. Now, American government agencies won’t be allowed to contract or subcontract foreign workers... He said: "Today i am signing an executive order to ensure that the federal government lives by a very simple rule: hire American. We've been doing it at a level that hasn't been done, maybe ever." In Europe, the union is taking on three countries with cyber sanctions. For the first time, the European Union has imposed sanctions for cyber attacks. A total of six people and three groups have been punished. This includes four Russians. Allegedly part of the Russian GRU military agency. Two Chinese nationals have been sanctioned for operation cloud hopper. A hack that targeted different companies across six continents. Northern Korean firm Chosun expo is the sixth name on the list. World leaders are laying the foundations for post-pandemic world order. One that will be dictated by optic fibres and not weapons. Big tech is now a geopolitical force and technology companies around the world can’t afford to stay above the political fray.

Technology: World's next geopolitical battleground

In a series of bad news for Twitter, the company could face a fine of over $250 million in the United States.

The company will have to pay US authorities for its unauthorised use of phone numbers and email addressed in order to increase the reach of advertisements.

Information compromised?

When authorities discovered the information leak, the Federal Trade Commission lodged a formal complaint against the company. On July 28, the FTC wrote that Twitter had used data promised to be used for security and safety purposes for targeting advertisement campaigning. “Data provided for safety and security purposes for targeted advertising during periods between 2013 and 2019”, it read.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/australian-envoy-continues-to-win-twitter-battle-against-chinese-ambassador-317934" hreflang="en">Australian envoy continues to win Twitter battle against Chinese ambassador</a>

Owing to this complaint, Twitter stands to lose between $150-$250 million.

Last year in October, Twitter admitted to have “inadvertently” used personal details like mobile phone numbers and email addressed for targeted advertisements. Upon joining, Twitter guarantees users that this data will only be used for security purposes.

No more private usage

Information such an email IDs and phone numbers are generally used to ensure security of the account, and for completing two-factor authentication.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/us-teenager-arrested-for-masterminding-massive-twitter-hack-317389" hreflang="en">US teenager arrested for masterminding massive Twitter hack</a>

Earlier, the FTC had lodged a formal complained against Facebook, and reached a $5 billion settlement in the aftermath, which marked the largest ever fine in the commission’s history. Facebook too, had been mishandling personal user data.

In 2020, Twitter reported revenues of over $638 million. In a time when millions have lost employment due to the economic slowdown triggered by coronavirus, tech companies have been inducting record amounts of profits.

In a series of bad news for Twitter, the company could face a fine of over $250 million in the United States. The company will have to pay US authorities for its unauthorised use of phone numbers and email addressed in order to increase the reach of advertisements.

In a series of bad news for Twitter, the company could face a fine of over $250 million in the United States. The company will have to pay US authorities for its unauthorised use of phone numbers and email addressed in order to increase the reach of advertisements. Information compromised? When authorities discovered the information leak, the Federal Trade Commission lodged a formal complaint against the company. On July 28, the FTC wrote that Twitter had used data promised to be used for security and safety purposes for targeting advertisement campaigning. “Data provided for safety and security purposes for targeted advertising during periods between 2013 and 2019”, it read. Also read: Australian envoy continues to win Twitter battle against Chinese ambassador Owing to this complaint, Twitter stands to lose between $150-$250 million. Last year in October, Twitter admitted to have “inadvertently” used personal details like mobile phone numbers and email addressed for targeted advertisements. Upon joining, Twitter guarantees users that this data will only be used for security purposes. No more private usage Information such an email IDs and phone numbers are generally used to ensure security of the account, and for completing two-factor authentication. Also read: US teenager arrested for masterminding massive Twitter hack Earlier, the FTC had lodged a formal complained against Facebook, and reached a $5 billion settlement in the aftermath, which marked the largest ever fine in the commission’s history. Facebook too, had been mishandling personal user data. In 2020, Twitter reported revenues of over $638 million. In a time when millions have lost employment due to the economic slowdown triggered by coronavirus, tech companies have been inducting record amounts of profits.

Twitter could face a fine of upto $250 million for unauthorised usage of user data

China's Huawei has overtaken Samsung to become the number-one smartphone seller worldwide in the second quarter, industry tracker Canalys said Thursday.

Huawei overtakes Samsung as top smartphone seller

Used and discarded phones have been a concern for environmentalists since phones became an intrinsic part of human lives.

Many opt for recycling, or simply exchanging their old phone for a new phone which also saves money.

Mail it in!

But France has come up with a solution of its kind. Now, people can send their phones via mail to get it recycled and/or refurbished by a charity group to be later put on sale.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/elon-musks-upcoming-neuralink-will-let-you-beam-music-directly-into-the-brain-314879" hreflang="en">Elon Musk's upcoming 'Neuralink' will let you beam music directly into the brain</a>

According to AFP estimates, over 50 to 110 million phones are simply sitting in the France. Recycling still remains elusive to many, and fears of data theft loom large in today’s time.

The NGO - Ecosystem claims that anybody can ship their phones to them in a paid-for envelope which can be procured from their website. Additionally, they may print out a pre-paid label.

To encourage reuse

Once mailed, the phones are kept in a processing centre, and assessed. The pilot step is erasing its data before it fixed or moved for sale.

The phones are mostly sold at charity shops. However, the majority of the phones (over 83 percent) are first disassembled and then recycled. This is done to rid the device of all polluting articles.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/drivers-approach-court-demanding-uber-to-disclose-algorithm-314772" hreflang="en">Drivers approach court demanding Uber to disclose algorithm</a>

As part of its redistribution scheme, the NGO will give away 100 refurbished phones during each of the 35 stages part of the 2020 Tour de France cycling race, which is set to begin on August 29.

Ecosystem collected over 62,000 tonnes of discarded material after people cleared their homes during the COVID-19 lockdown.&nbsp;

This move may encourage reusing old devices instead of simply discarding them, which produces a lot of waste.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/kfc-will-start-testing-its-environment-friendly-3d-printed-chicken-in-russia-by-end-of-2020-314872" hreflang="en">KFC will start testing its environment friendly 3D-printed chicken in Russia by end of 2020</a>

Used and discarded phones have been a concern for environmentalists since phones became an intrinsic part of human lives. Many opt for recycling, or simply exchanging their old phone for a new phone which also saves money.

Used and discarded phones have been a concern for environmentalists since phones became an intrinsic part of human lives. Many opt for recycling, or simply exchanging their old phone for a new phone which also saves money. Mail it in! But France has come up with a solution of its kind. Now, people can send their phones via mail to get it recycled and/or refurbished by a charity group to be later put on sale. Also read: Elon Musk's upcoming 'Neuralink' will let you beam music directly into the brain According to AFP estimates, over 50 to 110 million phones are simply sitting in the France. Recycling still remains elusive to many, and fears of data theft loom large in today’s time. The NGO - Ecosystem claims that anybody can ship their phones to them in a paid-for envelope which can be procured from their website. Additionally, they may print out a pre-paid label. To encourage reuse Once mailed, the phones are kept in a processing centre, and assessed. The pilot step is erasing its data before it fixed or moved for sale. The phones are mostly sold at charity shops. However, the majority of the phones (over 83 percent) are first disassembled and then recycled. This is done to rid the device of all polluting articles. Also read: Drivers approach court demanding Uber to disclose algorithm As part of its redistribution scheme, the NGO will give away 100 refurbished phones during each of the 35 stages part of the 2020 Tour de France cycling race, which is set to begin on August 29. Ecosystem collected over 62,000 tonnes of discarded material after people cleared their homes during the COVID-19 lockdown. This move may encourage reusing old devices instead of simply discarding them, which produces a lot of waste. Also read: KFC will start testing its environment friendly 3D-printed chicken in Russia by end of 2020

France may have found the perfect way to deal with discarded phones

WhatsApp now over 50 million users of its business app globally, of which more than 15 million are in India.

"As businesses across the world prepare to reopen and expand online, people need simple ways to get in touch with them to ask questions, get information or find something they might like to buy. Today we support more than 50 million WhatsApp Business app users," WhatsApp said in a statement.

In India, there are more than 15 million WhatsApp Business users every month, the company said.

WhatsApp Business was launched in 2018 to facilitate communication between businesses and customers. The company in its blog said that it's introducing new features to start a chat with a business on WhatsApp and see what goods and services they offer. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tech-news-whatsapp-news-brazils-central-bank-suspends-whatsapps-new-payments-system-308112">Also Read: Brazil's central bank suspends WhatsApp's new payments system</a>

"Now, people simply can scan the QR code a business displays on its storefront, product packaging or receipt to initiate a chat," WhatsApp said.

Scanning a QR code will open a chat with an optional pre-populated message created by the business to start the conversation.&nbsp;

WhatsApp's catalogs offering allows businesses to showcase and share the goods or services they offer, which can help them close sales. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/whatsapp-announces-new-features-including-animated-stickers-310133">Also Read: WhatsApp announces new features including animated stickers</a>

"To make it easier for people to discover products, we’re making catalogs and individual items available to be shared as links on websites, Facebook, Instagram and elsewhere. And if people want to share a catalog or item they find with friends or family, they can simply copy the link and send it on WhatsApp or other places as well," WhatsApp said.

WhatsApp now over 50 million users of its business app globally, of which more than 15 million are in India. "As businesses across the world prepare to reopen and expand online, people need simple ways to get in touch with them to ask questions, get information or find something they might like to buy.

WhatsApp now over 50 million users of its business app globally, of which more than 15 million are in India. "As businesses across the world prepare to reopen and expand online, people need simple ways to get in touch with them to ask questions, get information or find something they might like to buy. Today we support more than 50 million WhatsApp Business app users," WhatsApp said in a statement. In India, there are more than 15 million WhatsApp Business users every month, the company said. WhatsApp Business was launched in 2018 to facilitate communication between businesses and customers. The company in its blog said that it's introducing new features to start a chat with a business on WhatsApp and see what goods and services they offer. Also Read: Brazil's central bank suspends WhatsApp's new payments system "Now, people simply can scan the QR code a business displays on its storefront, product packaging or receipt to initiate a chat," WhatsApp said. Scanning a QR code will open a chat with an optional pre-populated message created by the business to start the conversation. WhatsApp's catalogs offering allows businesses to showcase and share the goods or services they offer, which can help them close sales. Also Read: WhatsApp announces new features including animated stickers "To make it easier for people to discover products, we’re making catalogs and individual items available to be shared as links on websites, Facebook, Instagram and elsewhere. And if people want to share a catalog or item they find with friends or family, they can simply copy the link and send it on WhatsApp or other places as well," WhatsApp said.

WhatsApp Business now has over 15 million users in India; introduces new features

Microsoft has announced a set of new features in its video conferencing&nbsp;app Teams that make virtual interactions more natural, more engaging.

Teams is getting a new feature called 'Together Mode' which will allow users to share the same background.

'It''s great for meetings in which multiple people will speak, such as brainstorms or roundtable discussions, because it makes it easier for participants to understand who is talking,'' Jared Spataro, Corporate Vice President for Microsoft 365, said in a statement.

Microsoft also announced to bring Video filters to Teams.

Before joining a meeting, people can use the filters to subtly adjust lighting levels and soften the focus of the camera to customize your appearance.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/microsoft-teams-now-lets-you-use-your-own-images-as-background-during-video-calls-306216">Also Read:&nbsp;Microsoft Teams now lets you use your own images as background during video calls</a>

Microsoft's virtual assistant, Cortana will also be available in Teams in the coming weeks. The users can ask Cortana to make a call, join a meeting, send chat messages, share files, and more.

Microsoft has also introduced Live Reactions which will be able to react during a meeting using emojis that will appear to all participants. "We are also bringing PowerPoint Live Presentations to Teams in the future, further enabling audience engagement right from Teams," the company said in its&nbsp;blog.

Last month, Microsoft Teams introduced a custom background option for video calls

The feature allows you to replace your background in Team meetings with your own custom images or with the ones provided online by Microsoft. Users also have the option to simply blur the background. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/facebook-and-microsoft-allows-employees-to-work-from-home-till-end-of-year-297640">Also Read:&nbsp;Facebook and Microsoft allows employees to work from home till end of year</a>

Videoconferencing has become necessary for work and social life as people around the world hunker down at home to avoid the spread coronavirus. 
&nbsp; 
Microsoft Teams allows users to chat, share files, make calls and hold web video conferences. Microsoft charges fees to businesses for its full versions of Teams, but there is a free version that can be used by consumers.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Microsoft has announced a set of new features in its video conferencing app Teams that make virtual interactions more natural, more engaging. Teams is getting a new feature called 'Together Mode' which will allow users to share the same background.

Microsoft has announced a set of new features in its video conferencing app Teams that make virtual interactions more natural, more engaging. Teams is getting a new feature called 'Together Mode' which will allow users to share the same background. 'It''s great for meetings in which multiple people will speak, such as brainstorms or roundtable discussions, because it makes it easier for participants to understand who is talking,'' Jared Spataro, Corporate Vice President for Microsoft 365, said in a statement. Microsoft also announced to bring Video filters to Teams. Before joining a meeting, people can use the filters to subtly adjust lighting levels and soften the focus of the camera to customize your appearance. Also Read: Microsoft Teams now lets you use your own images as background during video calls Microsoft's virtual assistant, Cortana will also be available in Teams in the coming weeks. The users can ask Cortana to make a call, join a meeting, send chat messages, share files, and more. Microsoft has also introduced Live Reactions which will be able to react during a meeting using emojis that will appear to all participants. "We are also bringing PowerPoint Live Presentations to Teams in the future, further enabling audience engagement right from Teams," the company said in its blog. Last month, Microsoft Teams introduced a custom background option for video calls The feature allows you to replace your background in Team meetings with your own custom images or with the ones provided online by Microsoft. Users also have the option to simply blur the background. Also Read: Facebook and Microsoft allows employees to work from home till end of year Videoconferencing has become necessary for work and social life as people around the world hunker down at home to avoid the spread coronavirus. Microsoft Teams allows users to chat, share files, make calls and hold web video conferences. Microsoft charges fees to businesses for its full versions of Teams, but there is a free version that can be used by consumers. (With inputs from agencies)

Microsoft Teams gets new features including Together Mode, Video Filter and Live Reactions

Are companies that claim to fight misinformation about coronavirus actually capitalising on it?&nbsp;

A new report reveals that major conglomerates like Google and Amazon will funnel $25 million in 2020 to websites that spread misinformation about COVID-19.&nbsp;For every fake news website that gets ad revenue, Google will $3 out of every $4. In total, this is expected to amount to over $19 million.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/amazon-founder-jeff-bezos-net-worth-zooms-to-1716-billion-amid-pandemic-ex-wife-mackenzie-becomes-second-richest-woman-310132" hreflang="en">Amazon founder Jeff Bezos net worth zooms to $171.6 billion amid pandemic; ex-wife Mackenzie becomes second richest woman</a>

Amazon will contribute almost $2 million to the fake news industry, which accounts for 7 per cent of the marketing spending that these sites receive.&nbsp;This report was recently released by the Global Disinformation Index.

According to its analysis between January and June in 2020, the GDI flagged 480 websites as publishers of misleading information, or very simply - fake news. Many of these ads were for mega companies like L’Oreal SA, and Canon Inc.

In conversation with Bloomberg, Google claimed that this report was “flawed”, for its “revenue calculations” were neither “transparent” nor “realistic”. Additionally, Google claimed to have strict policies to prevent harmful monetisation of content.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/ceos-of-apple-amazon-facebook-and-google-to-testify-in-congress-over-antitrust-issues-310090" hreflang="en">CEOs of Apple, Amazon, Facebook and Google to testify in Congress over antitrust issues</a>

The virus, which has killed over 544,000 around the globe and infected over 11.8 million is still being studied by experts. Just today, on July 8, many scientists claimed that the virus causes long-term brain damage even in the mildest of cases. However, this lack of information may have spurred misinformation surrounding the virus.

Google claims that it has removed advertisements from its sites that violate its policies.

Are companies that claim to fight misinformation about coronavirus actually capitalising on it? A new report reveals that major conglomerates like Google and Amazon will funnel $25 million in 2020 to websites that spread misinformation about COVID-19.

Are companies that claim to fight misinformation about coronavirus actually capitalising on it? A new report reveals that major conglomerates like Google and Amazon will funnel $25 million in 2020 to websites that spread misinformation about COVID-19. For every fake news website that gets ad revenue, Google will $3 out of every $4. In total, this is expected to amount to over $19 million. Also read: Amazon founder Jeff Bezos net worth zooms to $171.6 billion amid pandemic; ex-wife Mackenzie becomes second richest woman Amazon will contribute almost $2 million to the fake news industry, which accounts for 7 per cent of the marketing spending that these sites receive. This report was recently released by the Global Disinformation Index. According to its analysis between January and June in 2020, the GDI flagged 480 websites as publishers of misleading information, or very simply - fake news. Many of these ads were for mega companies like L’Oreal SA, and Canon Inc. In conversation with Bloomberg, Google claimed that this report was “flawed”, for its “revenue calculations” were neither “transparent” nor “realistic”. Additionally, Google claimed to have strict policies to prevent harmful monetisation of content. Also read: CEOs of Apple, Amazon, Facebook and Google to testify in Congress over antitrust issues The virus, which has killed over 544,000 around the globe and infected over 11.8 million is still being studied by experts. Just today, on July 8, many scientists claimed that the virus causes long-term brain damage even in the mildest of cases. However, this lack of information may have spurred misinformation surrounding the virus. Google claims that it has removed advertisements from its sites that violate its policies.

Survey says Amazon, Google pump millions into websites spreading misinformation about COVID-19

Apple Inc said on Wednesday it is expanding a program to supply repair parts, tools and manuals for iPhones to independent repair shops in 32 countries in Europe as well as Canada.

Apple began the program last year in the United States after years of lobbying against state-level "right to repair" bills that would have compelled it to provide parts to independent shops.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/ceos-of-apple-amazon-facebook-and-google-to-testify-in-congress-over-antitrust-issues-310090" hreflang="en">CEOs of Apple, Amazon, Facebook and Google to testify in Congress over antitrust issues</a>

Apple has long maintained a network of authorized service providers such as Best Buy Co Inc to perform warranty work, but smaller shops had complained that the program was too costly to join because of high volume commitments, leaving them without access to genuine Apple parts or the software tools needed to perform some repairs.

Apple launched its program for those independent shops last August, making it free to join if technicians complete a training program. Apple said Wednesday that 140 businesses with 700 locations have signed up for the program in the United States. Some of the independent shops, such as uBreakiFix, have multiple locations, while some are sole proprietorships.

"When a customer needs a repair, we want them to have a range of options that not only suits their needs but also guarantees safety and quality so their iPhone can be used for as long as possible," Jeff Williams, Apple's chief operating officer, said in a statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/apple-other-us-goods-from-china-held-up-at-indian-ports-308321" hreflang="en">Apple, other US goods from China held up at Indian ports</a>

Under the program, independent shops get access to Apple parts and tools to perform out-of-warranty repairs. They also get Apple parts at the same prices as authorized service centers and can still also use third-party after-market parts and set their own prices. The program only covers iPhones.&nbsp;

Independent shops must inform customers whether they are using genuine Apple parts and send any salvaged Apple parts back to the company, where they are either refurbished or recycled. Apple said it is also creating an online tool to verify whether an independent shop participates in its program.

Apple Inc said on Wednesday it is expanding a program to supply repair parts, tools and manuals for iPhones to independent repair shops in 32 countries in Europe as well as Canada.

Apple Inc said on Wednesday it is expanding a program to supply repair parts, tools and manuals for iPhones to independent repair shops in 32 countries in Europe as well as Canada. Apple began the program last year in the United States after years of lobbying against state-level "right to repair" bills that would have compelled it to provide parts to independent shops. Also read: CEOs of Apple, Amazon, Facebook and Google to testify in Congress over antitrust issues Apple has long maintained a network of authorized service providers such as Best Buy Co Inc to perform warranty work, but smaller shops had complained that the program was too costly to join because of high volume commitments, leaving them without access to genuine Apple parts or the software tools needed to perform some repairs. Apple launched its program for those independent shops last August, making it free to join if technicians complete a training program. Apple said Wednesday that 140 businesses with 700 locations have signed up for the program in the United States. Some of the independent shops, such as uBreakiFix, have multiple locations, while some are sole proprietorships. "When a customer needs a repair, we want them to have a range of options that not only suits their needs but also guarantees safety and quality so their iPhone can be used for as long as possible," Jeff Williams, Apple's chief operating officer, said in a statement. Also read: Apple, other US goods from China held up at Indian ports Under the program, independent shops get access to Apple parts and tools to perform out-of-warranty repairs. They also get Apple parts at the same prices as authorized service centers and can still also use third-party after-market parts and set their own prices. The program only covers iPhones. Independent shops must inform customers whether they are using genuine Apple parts and send any salvaged Apple parts back to the company, where they are either refurbished or recycled. Apple said it is also creating an online tool to verify whether an independent shop participates in its program.

Apple expands independent repair shop programme to Europe, Canada

US tech giants face a reckoning over how Hong Kong's security law will reshape their businesses, with their suspension of processing government requests for user data a stop-gap measure as they weigh options, people close to the industry say.

While Hong Kong is not a significant market for firms such as Facebook, Google, and Twitter, they have used it as a perch to reach deep-pocketed advertisers in mainland China, where many of their services are blocked.

But the companies are now in the crosshairs of a national security law that gives China authority to demand that they turn over user data or censor content seen to violate the law - even when posted from abroad.

"These companies have to totally reassess the liability of having a presence in Hong Kong," Charles Mok, a legislator who represents the technology industry in Hong Kong, told Reuters.&nbsp;

If they refuse to cooperate with government requests, he said, authorities "could go after them and take them to court and fine them, or imprison their principals in Hong Kong".

Facebook, Google, and Twitter have suspended processing government requests for user data in Hong Kong, they said on Monday, following China's imposition of the new national security law on the semi-autonomous city.

Facebook, which started operating in Hong Kong in 2010, last year opened a big new office in the city.

It sells more than $5 billion (roughly Rs. 37,510 crores) a year worth of ad space to Chinese businesses and government agencies looking to promote messages abroad, Reuters reported in January. That makes China Facebook's biggest country for revenue after the United States.

The US internet firms are no strangers to governments demands regarding content and user information, and generally say they are bound by local laws.

The companies have often used a technique known as "geo-blocking" to restrict content in a particular country without removing it altogether.

But the sweeping language of Hong Kong's new law could mean such measures won't be enough. Authorities will no longer need to get court orders before requesting assistance or information, analysts said.

Requests for data about overseas users would put the companies in an especially tough spot.

"It's a global law ... if they comply with national security law in Hong Kong then there is the problem that they may violate laws in other countries," said Francis Fong Po-kiu, honorary president of Hong Kong's Information Technology Federation.

Content question 
 
While the US social media services are blocked in mainland China, they have operated freely in Hong Kong.

Other US Internet platforms are also rich with content that is banned in mainland China and may now be judged illegal in Hong Kong.

US video streaming site Netflix, for example, carries Joshua: Teenager vs. Superpower, a 2017 documentary on activist Joshua Wong whose books were removed from Hong Kong public libraries last week.

Ten Years, a 2015 film that has been criticised by Chinese state media for portraying a dystopian future Hong Kong under Chinese Communist Party control, is also available on its platform.

Netflix declined to comment.

Google's YouTube is a popular platform for critics of Beijing. New York-based fugitive tycoon Guo Wengui has regularly voiced support for Hong Kong protesters in his videos. Google did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

None of these companies has yet said how they will handle requests from Hong Kong to block or remove content, and the risk of being caught in political crossfire looms large.

"The foreign content players have to rethink what they display in Hong Kong," said Duncan Clark, chairman at consultancy BDA China.

"The downside is very big if they get US senators on their backs for accommodating. Any move they make will be heavily scrutinised."

US tech giants face a reckoning over how Hong Kong's security law will reshape their businesses, with their suspension of processing government requests for user data a stop-gap measure as they weigh options, people close to the industry say.

US tech giants face a reckoning over how Hong Kong's security law will reshape their businesses, with their suspension of processing government requests for user data a stop-gap measure as they weigh options, people close to the industry say. While Hong Kong is not a significant market for firms such as Facebook, Google, and Twitter, they have used it as a perch to reach deep-pocketed advertisers in mainland China, where many of their services are blocked. But the companies are now in the crosshairs of a national security law that gives China authority to demand that they turn over user data or censor content seen to violate the law - even when posted from abroad. "These companies have to totally reassess the liability of having a presence in Hong Kong," Charles Mok, a legislator who represents the technology industry in Hong Kong, told Reuters. If they refuse to cooperate with government requests, he said, authorities "could go after them and take them to court and fine them, or imprison their principals in Hong Kong". Facebook, Google, and Twitter have suspended processing government requests for user data in Hong Kong, they said on Monday, following China's imposition of the new national security law on the semi-autonomous city. Facebook, which started operating in Hong Kong in 2010, last year opened a big new office in the city. It sells more than $5 billion (roughly Rs. 37,510 crores) a year worth of ad space to Chinese businesses and government agencies looking to promote messages abroad, Reuters reported in January. That makes China Facebook's biggest country for revenue after the United States. The US internet firms are no strangers to governments demands regarding content and user information, and generally say they are bound by local laws. The companies have often used a technique known as "geo-blocking" to restrict content in a particular country without removing it altogether. But the sweeping language of Hong Kong's new law could mean such measures won't be enough. Authorities will no longer need to get court orders before requesting assistance or information, analysts said. Requests for data about overseas users would put the companies in an especially tough spot. "It's a global law ... if they comply with national security law in Hong Kong then there is the problem that they may violate laws in other countries," said Francis Fong Po-kiu, honorary president of Hong Kong's Information Technology Federation. Content question While the US social media services are blocked in mainland China, they have operated freely in Hong Kong. Other US Internet platforms are also rich with content that is banned in mainland China and may now be judged illegal in Hong Kong. US video streaming site Netflix, for example, carries Joshua: Teenager vs. Superpower, a 2017 documentary on activist Joshua Wong whose books were removed from Hong Kong public libraries last week. Ten Years, a 2015 film that has been criticised by Chinese state media for portraying a dystopian future Hong Kong under Chinese Communist Party control, is also available on its platform. Netflix declined to comment. Google's YouTube is a popular platform for critics of Beijing. New York-based fugitive tycoon Guo Wengui has regularly voiced support for Hong Kong protesters in his videos. Google did not immediately respond to a request for comment. None of these companies has yet said how they will handle requests from Hong Kong to block or remove content, and the risk of being caught in political crossfire looms large. "The foreign content players have to rethink what they display in Hong Kong," said Duncan Clark, chairman at consultancy BDA China. "The downside is very big if they get US senators on their backs for accommodating. Any move they make will be heavily scrutinised."

US tech giants face hard choices under Hong Kong's new security law

Facebook Inc has not done enough to fight discrimination on its platform and some of its decisions were setbacks for civil rights, according to an independent audit commissioned by the company, the New York Times reported.

The auditors' findings are likely to add further pressure to the company which is already facing a boycott by some 900 advertisers, including major brands such as Coca-Cola, over what civil rights campaigners say is its promotion of hate speech.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/facebook-boycott-leaders-disappointed-after-meeting-with-ceo-zuckerberg-311586" hreflang="en">Facebook boycott leaders 'disappointed' after meeting with CEO Zuckerberg</a>

"Many in the civil rights community have become disheartened, frustrated and angry after years of engagement where they implored the company to do more to advance equality and fight discrimination, while also safeguarding free expression," the auditors wrote, according to the Times, which said it had obtained a prepublication report of the findings.

Facebook commissioned Laura Murphy, a former director of the American Civil Liberties Union's legislative office, to lead the audit of its civil rights policies in 2018. It was responding to a range of criticisms over issues such as data privacy, voter suppression, incitement of violence and a lack of transparency in political advertising.

A Facebook spokesperson said the audit "has been a deep analysis of how we can strengthen and advance civil rights at every level of our company – but it is the beginning of the journey, not the end.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/facebook-google-twitter-block-hong-kong-govt-from-accessing-user-data-311243" hreflang="en">Facebook, Google, Twitter block Hong Kong govt from accessing user data</a>

"What has become increasingly clear is that we have a long way to go. As hard as it has been to have our shortcomings exposed by experts, it has undoubtedly been a really important process for our company.”

The auditors said Facebook had been too willing to exempt politicians from abiding by its rules, allowing them to spread misinformation, harmful and divisive rhetoric, and even calls to violence.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/danger-to-society-vietnam-jails-man-for-8-years-citing-facebook-posts-critical-of-government-311367" hreflang="en">'Danger to society': Vietnam jails man for 8 years citing Facebook posts critical of government</a>

Facebook has taken a hands-off approach to political speech compared to rivals, notably leaving untouched a post by President Donald Trump in May which its rival Twitter flagged as an incitement to violence.

Organizers of the advertising boycott, including the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and the NAACP, met for more than an hour via video conference with Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg on Tuesday. After the meeting, activists said they saw "no commitment to action" from the company.

Facebook Inc has not done enough to fight discrimination on its platform and some of its decisions were setbacks for civil rights, according to an independent audit commissioned by the company, the New York Times reported.

Facebook Inc has not done enough to fight discrimination on its platform and some of its decisions were setbacks for civil rights, according to an independent audit commissioned by the company, the New York Times reported. The auditors' findings are likely to add further pressure to the company which is already facing a boycott by some 900 advertisers, including major brands such as Coca-Cola, over what civil rights campaigners say is its promotion of hate speech. Also read: Facebook boycott leaders 'disappointed' after meeting with CEO Zuckerberg "Many in the civil rights community have become disheartened, frustrated and angry after years of engagement where they implored the company to do more to advance equality and fight discrimination, while also safeguarding free expression," the auditors wrote, according to the Times, which said it had obtained a prepublication report of the findings. Facebook commissioned Laura Murphy, a former director of the American Civil Liberties Union's legislative office, to lead the audit of its civil rights policies in 2018. It was responding to a range of criticisms over issues such as data privacy, voter suppression, incitement of violence and a lack of transparency in political advertising. A Facebook spokesperson said the audit "has been a deep analysis of how we can strengthen and advance civil rights at every level of our company – but it is the beginning of the journey, not the end. Also read: Facebook, Google, Twitter block Hong Kong govt from accessing user data "What has become increasingly clear is that we have a long way to go. As hard as it has been to have our shortcomings exposed by experts, it has undoubtedly been a really important process for our company.” The auditors said Facebook had been too willing to exempt politicians from abiding by its rules, allowing them to spread misinformation, harmful and divisive rhetoric, and even calls to violence. Also read: 'Danger to society': Vietnam jails man for 8 years citing Facebook posts critical of government Facebook has taken a hands-off approach to political speech compared to rivals, notably leaving untouched a post by President Donald Trump in May which its rival Twitter flagged as an incitement to violence. Organizers of the advertising boycott, including the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and the NAACP, met for more than an hour via video conference with Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg on Tuesday. After the meeting, activists said they saw "no commitment to action" from the company.

Facebook not doing enough to fight discrimination, audit says

Italy is considering whether to exclude Chinese telecoms equipment maker Huawei Technologies from building its 5G network, La Repubblica reported, without citing sources.

Despite pressure from Washington, which says Huawei's equipment could be used to spy on the West, Italy has so far not ruled the Chinese company out its network plans.

No comment was immediately available from the Italian government. Huawei, which has repeatedly denied the U.S. allegations, declined to comment.&nbsp;

A political source said the issue was under discussion.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/us-sanctions-will-have-a-huge-impact-on-the-reliability-of-huawei-uk-minister-311010" hreflang="en">US sanctions will have a huge impact on the reliability of Huawei: UK minister</a>

"It's being considered at government level," the source told Reuters on Wednesday after the La Repubblica report, which said Italy's Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio met the U.S. ambassador in Rome last week for talks which included Huawei.

"The Italian government is preparing a change of course as are many of its European partners," the newspaper said, adding that Economy Minister Roberto Gualtieri and Defence Minister Lorenzo Guerini had brought up the issue informally.

"Guerini is certainly the one taking the most Atlanticist line," the political source told Reuters.

Even members of the anti-establishment 5 Star Movement, part of Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte's ruling coalition, who initially favoured Huawei, were rethinking, La Repubblica said.&nbsp;

It said Italian officials believed that even if Democratic Party candidate Joe Biden wins the November presidential election, Washington's stance on Huawei was unlikely to change.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/uk-to-end-use-of-huawei-technology-in-its-5g-network-report-310811" hreflang="en">UK to end use of Huawei technology in its 5G network: Report</a>

Last year, parliamentary security committee Copasir said Italy should consider blocking Chinese telecoms firms Huawei and ZTE from taking part in development of 5G networks.

Enrico Borghi, a member of the committee, told Reuters the fact that Italy was likely to use resources from the planned EU coronavirus Recovery Fund to develop its network meant a clear position was needed to exclude Chinese firms from the network.

"All the conditions are there to build 5G networks at European level without using Chinese technology," he said.

Italy is considering whether to exclude Chinese telecoms equipment maker Huawei Technologies from building its 5G network, La Repubblica reported, without citing sources.

Italy is considering whether to exclude Chinese telecoms equipment maker Huawei Technologies from building its 5G network, La Repubblica reported, without citing sources. Despite pressure from Washington, which says Huawei's equipment could be used to spy on the West, Italy has so far not ruled the Chinese company out its network plans. No comment was immediately available from the Italian government. Huawei, which has repeatedly denied the U.S. allegations, declined to comment. A political source said the issue was under discussion. Also read: US sanctions will have a huge impact on the reliability of Huawei: UK minister "It's being considered at government level," the source told Reuters on Wednesday after the La Repubblica report, which said Italy's Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio met the U.S. ambassador in Rome last week for talks which included Huawei. "The Italian government is preparing a change of course as are many of its European partners," the newspaper said, adding that Economy Minister Roberto Gualtieri and Defence Minister Lorenzo Guerini had brought up the issue informally. "Guerini is certainly the one taking the most Atlanticist line," the political source told Reuters. Even members of the anti-establishment 5 Star Movement, part of Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte's ruling coalition, who initially favoured Huawei, were rethinking, La Repubblica said. It said Italian officials believed that even if Democratic Party candidate Joe Biden wins the November presidential election, Washington's stance on Huawei was unlikely to change. Also read: UK to end use of Huawei technology in its 5G network: Report Last year, parliamentary security committee Copasir said Italy should consider blocking Chinese telecoms firms Huawei and ZTE from taking part in development of 5G networks. Enrico Borghi, a member of the committee, told Reuters the fact that Italy was likely to use resources from the planned EU coronavirus Recovery Fund to develop its network meant a clear position was needed to exclude Chinese firms from the network. "All the conditions are there to build 5G networks at European level without using Chinese technology," he said.

Italy considering whether to exclude Huawei from its 5G network

Instagram has launced&nbsp;the pinned comment feature to help users maximise their engagement with their friends and family members.

"We're rolling out pinned comments everywhere. That means you can a pin a few comments to the top of your feed post and better manage the conversation," the company said.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Today we’re rolling out pinned comments everywhere. 📌 
 
That means you can a pin a few comments to the top of your feed post and better manage the conversation. <a href="https://t.co/iPCMJVLxMh">pic.twitter.com/iPCMJVLxMh</a>
— Instagram (@instagram) <a href="https://twitter.com/instagram/status/1280534351680122881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

In addition to this,&nbsp;Instagram has begun testing the new Shops feature with select users to help set up a single online store. In the future, they will be able to view a business shop and make purchases right within a chat in WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger or Instagram Direct. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/chinese-apps-banned-instagram-set-to-launch-tiktok-rival-reels-in-india-311333">Also Read:&nbsp;Instagram set to launch TikTok rival 'Reels' in India</a>

The company is also planning to expand its new video-music remix feature Reels which offer TikTok-like functionalities to India. Instagram Reels is a video-editing tool to allow users to create short,15-second video clips set to music or other audio and share those on the platform.

&nbsp;"Reels is a fun, creative way for people to both express themselves and be entertained,” said a Facebook spokesperson. The app was first launched in Brazil and recently in France and Germany.

(With inputs from agencies)

Instagram has launced the pinned comment feature to help users maximise their engagement with their friends and family members. "We're rolling out pinned comments everywhere.

Instagram has launced the pinned comment feature to help users maximise their engagement with their friends and family members. "We're rolling out pinned comments everywhere. That means you can a pin a few comments to the top of your feed post and better manage the conversation," the company said. Today we’re rolling out pinned comments everywhere. 📌 That means you can a pin a few comments to the top of your feed post and better manage the conversation. pic.twitter.com/iPCMJVLxMh — Instagram (@instagram) July 7, 2020 × In addition to this, Instagram has begun testing the new Shops feature with select users to help set up a single online store. In the future, they will be able to view a business shop and make purchases right within a chat in WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger or Instagram Direct. Also Read: Instagram set to launch TikTok rival 'Reels' in India The company is also planning to expand its new video-music remix feature Reels which offer TikTok-like functionalities to India. Instagram Reels is a video-editing tool to allow users to create short,15-second video clips set to music or other audio and share those on the platform. "Reels is a fun, creative way for people to both express themselves and be entertained,” said a Facebook spokesperson. The app was first launched in Brazil and recently in France and Germany. (With inputs from agencies)

Instagram rolls out new features including pinned comments

WhatsApp on Wednesday announced many new features including adding contact through QR codes, animated stickers and dark mode for its web and desktop platforms.

The new features will start rolling over the next few weeks.&nbsp;

Animated stickers, which are one of the fastest-growing ways people communicate on WhatsApp, are even more fun and expressive.&nbsp;

Now, users will be able to scan QR codes to add others to their contacts. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tech-news-whatsapp-news-brazils-central-bank-suspends-whatsapps-new-payments-system-308112">Also Read: Brazil's central bank suspends WhatsApp's new payments system</a> 
 
"While our focus remains on providing a simple, reliable and private way for people to chat with friends and family - we also continue to push forward our product design to make sure WhatsApp remains the most useful way for anyone, anywhere to connect," the company said in a blog post.

WhatsApp said users can easily start a group video call with just one tap on a video icon in group chats of 8 or less.

"With now up to 8 people on a video call, the new feature will make it easier to focus on whoever you want by letting you press and hold to maximize a participant's video to full screen," WhatsApp said.

Furthermore, the company also extended its Dark Mode feature for web and desktop.

(With inputs from ANI)

WhatsApp on Wednesday announced many new features including adding contact through QR codes, animated stickers and dark mode for its web and desktop platforms. The new features will start rolling over the next few weeks.

WhatsApp on Wednesday announced many new features including adding contact through QR codes, animated stickers and dark mode for its web and desktop platforms. The new features will start rolling over the next few weeks. Animated stickers, which are one of the fastest-growing ways people communicate on WhatsApp, are even more fun and expressive. Now, users will be able to scan QR codes to add others to their contacts. Also Read: Brazil's central bank suspends WhatsApp's new payments system "While our focus remains on providing a simple, reliable and private way for people to chat with friends and family - we also continue to push forward our product design to make sure WhatsApp remains the most useful way for anyone, anywhere to connect," the company said in a blog post. WhatsApp said users can easily start a group video call with just one tap on a video icon in group chats of 8 or less. "With now up to 8 people on a video call, the new feature will make it easier to focus on whoever you want by letting you press and hold to maximize a participant's video to full screen," WhatsApp said. Furthermore, the company also extended its Dark Mode feature for web and desktop. (With inputs from ANI)

WhatsApp announces new features including animated stickers

Google said that it had removed search ads that charged users searching for voting information large fees for voter registration or harvested their personal data.

A Google spokeswoman told Reuters that the company’s misrepresentation policy barred such ads, which were found by the nonprofit watchdog Tech Transparency Project when searching for terms such as “register to vote,” “vote by mail,” and “where is my polling place.”

Tech Transparency Project said in a report on Monday that nearly a third of the more than 600 ads generated by its Google searches took users to sites that try to charge large fees for voter registration services, extract personal data for marketing purposes, install deceptive browser extensions, or serve other misleading ads.

The report said that the first ad in a Google search for “register to vote” directed users to a site from PrivacyWall.org that charged $129 for “same-day processing” of voter registration. US voters do not need to pay to register to vote.

PrivacyWall did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

A Google spokeswoman said the company did not yet know how the ads had got through its approval process, which uses a combination of automated and manual review.

“We have strict policies in place to protect users from false information about voting procedures, and when we find ads that violate our policies and present harm to users, we remove them and block advertisers from running similar ads in the future,” the spokeswoman said.

“Some people may find it difficult to distinguish Google ads from other kinds of content because as of January, search ads on Google feature the same type face and color scheme as organic search results,” the TTP report said.

Social media companies and online platforms, including Facebook Inc (FB.O) and Twitter (TWTR.N) are under pressure to curb misinformation on their sites in the run-up to the US presidential election in November.

Google said that it had removed search ads that charged users searching for voting information large fees for voter registration or harvested their personal data.

Google said that it had removed search ads that charged users searching for voting information large fees for voter registration or harvested their personal data. A Google spokeswoman told Reuters that the company’s misrepresentation policy barred such ads, which were found by the nonprofit watchdog Tech Transparency Project when searching for terms such as “register to vote,” “vote by mail,” and “where is my polling place.” Tech Transparency Project said in a report on Monday that nearly a third of the more than 600 ads generated by its Google searches took users to sites that try to charge large fees for voter registration services, extract personal data for marketing purposes, install deceptive browser extensions, or serve other misleading ads. The report said that the first ad in a Google search for “register to vote” directed users to a site from PrivacyWall.org that charged $129 for “same-day processing” of voter registration. US voters do not need to pay to register to vote. PrivacyWall did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. A Google spokeswoman said the company did not yet know how the ads had got through its approval process, which uses a combination of automated and manual review. “We have strict policies in place to protect users from false information about voting procedures, and when we find ads that violate our policies and present harm to users, we remove them and block advertisers from running similar ads in the future,” the spokeswoman said. “Some people may find it difficult to distinguish Google ads from other kinds of content because as of January, search ads on Google feature the same type face and color scheme as organic search results,” the TTP report said. Social media companies and online platforms, including Facebook Inc (FB.O) and Twitter (TWTR.N) are under pressure to curb misinformation on their sites in the run-up to the US presidential election in November.

Google removes misleading ads in voting-related searches

A man recently gained prominence on social media after erroneously ordering 28 Tesla cars worth $1.5 million.

Known as “Ballon-Man” on Reddit, the German man’s father reportedly ordered multiple Tesla Model 3s, even though the father-son duo wanted to order just one.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/business-economy/musks-tesla-becomes-most-valuable-automaker-beats-toyota-305019" hreflang="en">Musk's Tesla becomes most valuable automaker, beats Toyota</a>

According to the son, the family’s Ford Kuga had stopped working, triggering the father to buy a new car. This coincided with the German government’s decision to double the EV tax credit, which makes buying a Tesla easier.

The Model 3, which runs on autopilot is among the most-preferred Tesla cars. When the father clicked on “submit” after filling in all the details, the website said that the order placement was unsuccessful, owing to an alleged payment issue. Following this, the father-son duo kept retrying, exactly 28 times.

<h6><img alt="Tesla CEO Elon Musk gestures during the Tesla China-made Model 3 Delivery Ceremony in Shanghai. Tesla CEO Elon Musk presented the first batch of made-in-China cars to ordinary buyers on January 7, 2020 in a milestone for the company's new Shanghai &quot;giga-factory&quot;, but which comes as sales decelerate in the world's largest electric-vehicle market." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8decfc01-7226-445e-b1e7-c665cc013ba7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-3_24.jpg" /> 
Tesla CEO Elon Musk gestures during the Tesla China-made Model 3 Delivery Ceremony in Shanghai. Tesla CEO Elon Musk presented the first batch of made-in-China cars to ordinary buyers on January 7, 2020 in a milestone for the company's new Shanghai "giga-factory", but which comes as sales decelerate in the world's largest electric-vehicle market. | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

Turns out, other users were facing a similar lag on the website, which temporarily disabled order payment gateways. The multiple attempts translated into success eventually, when the website confirmed their order. However, there was a catch.

The rest of the 27 unsuccessful attempts were indeed, successful. The orders were getting logged on the Tesla website, however the notification response was not working as expected.

Owing to this, the family placed an order worth $1.57 million.

When the issue was resolved, 28 orders of the Tesla 3 were confirmed. Amounting to roughly ₹11.9 crore, each order had a minimum no-refund fee of 100 Euros, which amounted to over 2,800 Euros for all the orders. However, Tesla acknowledged the issue and cancelled the order without any charge.

A man recently gained prominence on social media after erroneously ordering 28 Tesla cars worth $1.5 million. Known as “Ballon-Man” on Reddit, the German man’s father reportedly ordered multiple Tesla Model 3s, even though the father-son duo wanted to order just one.

A man recently gained prominence on social media after erroneously ordering 28 Tesla cars worth $1.5 million. Known as “Ballon-Man” on Reddit, the German man’s father reportedly ordered multiple Tesla Model 3s, even though the father-son duo wanted to order just one. Also read: Musk's Tesla becomes most valuable automaker, beats Toyota According to the son, the family’s Ford Kuga had stopped working, triggering the father to buy a new car. This coincided with the German government’s decision to double the EV tax credit, which makes buying a Tesla easier. The Model 3, which runs on autopilot is among the most-preferred Tesla cars. When the father clicked on “submit” after filling in all the details, the website said that the order placement was unsuccessful, owing to an alleged payment issue. Following this, the father-son duo kept retrying, exactly 28 times. Tesla CEO Elon Musk gestures during the Tesla China-made Model 3 Delivery Ceremony in Shanghai. Tesla CEO Elon Musk presented the first batch of made-in-China cars to ordinary buyers on January 7, 2020 in a milestone for the company's new Shanghai "giga-factory", but which comes as sales decelerate in the world's largest electric-vehicle market. | AFP Turns out, other users were facing a similar lag on the website, which temporarily disabled order payment gateways. The multiple attempts translated into success eventually, when the website confirmed their order. However, there was a catch. The rest of the 27 unsuccessful attempts were indeed, successful. The orders were getting logged on the Tesla website, however the notification response was not working as expected. Owing to this, the family placed an order worth $1.57 million. When the issue was resolved, 28 orders of the Tesla 3 were confirmed. Amounting to roughly ₹11.9 crore, each order had a minimum no-refund fee of 100 Euros, which amounted to over 2,800 Euros for all the orders. However, Tesla acknowledged the issue and cancelled the order without any charge.

German man erroneously orders 28 Tesla cars worth $1.5 million

The Indian unit of Amazon.com Inc has eliminated all single-use plastic in its packaging across fulfillment centers in the country, in line with its target to weed out the packaging material by June, the e-commerce giant said on Monday.

The company said in addition to replacing packaging materials such as bubble wraps and air pillows with “paper cushions”, it had also swapped out packaging tapes with other bio-degradable options.

“We have successfully eliminated single-use plastic in all our fulfillment centers a 100%,” Akhil Saxena, vice-president of customer fulfillment for the APAC, LATAM and Middle East and North Africa regions, said in an interview.

Amazon, often criticised for using too much plastic and thermocol to wrap its billions of packages of shipments, had said last September that its India unit would replace single-use plastic in its packaging by June 2020.

Saxena said on Monday the COVID-19 pandemic had slowed down some of their work, but Amazon India managed to meet its target as the unit had started on the elimination project even before the national lockdown was imposed.

Last October, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had called on citizens to help end the usage of single-use plastic - seen as a pollutant - by 2022.

The Asian country of 1.3 billion does not have an organized system for management of plastic waste, leading to extensive littering.

Many Indian cities rank among the world’s most polluted, and waste generated from single-use plastic has been a growing problem.

Walmart Inc’s (WMT.N) India e-commerce unit Flipkart, a local rival to Amazon, said last month that it had cut down the usage of plastic packaging in its own supply chain to about 50%.

The Indian unit of Amazon.com Inc has eliminated all single-use plastic in its packaging across fulfillment centers in the country, in line with its target to weed out the packaging material by June, the e-commerce giant said on Monday.

The Indian unit of Amazon.com Inc has eliminated all single-use plastic in its packaging across fulfillment centers in the country, in line with its target to weed out the packaging material by June, the e-commerce giant said on Monday. The company said in addition to replacing packaging materials such as bubble wraps and air pillows with “paper cushions”, it had also swapped out packaging tapes with other bio-degradable options. “We have successfully eliminated single-use plastic in all our fulfillment centers a 100%,” Akhil Saxena, vice-president of customer fulfillment for the APAC, LATAM and Middle East and North Africa regions, said in an interview. Amazon, often criticised for using too much plastic and thermocol to wrap its billions of packages of shipments, had said last September that its India unit would replace single-use plastic in its packaging by June 2020. Saxena said on Monday the COVID-19 pandemic had slowed down some of their work, but Amazon India managed to meet its target as the unit had started on the elimination project even before the national lockdown was imposed. Last October, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had called on citizens to help end the usage of single-use plastic - seen as a pollutant - by 2022. The Asian country of 1.3 billion does not have an organized system for management of plastic waste, leading to extensive littering. Many Indian cities rank among the world’s most polluted, and waste generated from single-use plastic has been a growing problem. Walmart Inc’s (WMT.N) India e-commerce unit Flipkart, a local rival to Amazon, said last month that it had cut down the usage of plastic packaging in its own supply chain to about 50%.

Amazon India scraps single-use plastic in packaging across centers

Google has announced a new licensing programme to pay publishers for high-quality content.

To begin with, Google has signed partnerships with Spiegel Group in Germany, Schwartz media in Australia, and Diarios Associados in Brazil.

This programme will help participating publishers monetize their content through an enhanced storytelling experience. "Google will also offer to pay for free access for users to read paywalled articles on a publisher's site," the statement said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-will-no-longer-store-user-data-indefinitely-will-auto-delete-after-18-months-308359">Also Read: Google will auto-delete after 18 months</a>

The programme comes amid growing calls for internet tech titans&nbsp;to pay for content.

“We have been actively working with our publisher partners on this new product which will launch first on Google News and Discover. We are currently engaged in discussions with many more partners and plan to sign more in the coming months,” Google said in its blog post. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-extends-fact-checking-to-image-search-307990">Also Read: Google extends fact-checking to image search</a>

The initiative would build on the 2018 Google News Initiative, a $300 million project that aimed to tackle disinformation online and help news sites grow financially. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Google has announced a new licensing programme to pay publishers for high-quality content. To begin with, Google has signed partnerships with Spiegel Group in Germany, Schwartz media in Australia, and Diarios Associados in Brazil.

Google has announced a new licensing programme to pay publishers for high-quality content. To begin with, Google has signed partnerships with Spiegel Group in Germany, Schwartz media in Australia, and Diarios Associados in Brazil. This programme will help participating publishers monetize their content through an enhanced storytelling experience. "Google will also offer to pay for free access for users to read paywalled articles on a publisher's site," the statement said. Also Read: Google will auto-delete after 18 months The programme comes amid growing calls for internet tech titans to pay for content. “We have been actively working with our publisher partners on this new product which will launch first on Google News and Discover. We are currently engaged in discussions with many more partners and plan to sign more in the coming months,” Google said in its blog post. Also Read: Google extends fact-checking to image search The initiative would build on the 2018 Google News Initiative, a $300 million project that aimed to tackle disinformation online and help news sites grow financially. (With inputs from agencies)

Google to pay select publishers for 'high quality' news content

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