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The Indian alternative to TikTok, Chingari, has crossed over 3 million downloads.&nbsp;

The app, founded by Bengaluru-based programmers Biswatma Nayak and Siddharth Gautam last year, allows users to download and upload videos, chat with friends, interact with new people, share content and browse through the feed.&nbsp;

Biswatma Nayak&nbsp;said, "In the last few days, we have witnessed a 400 per cent growth in the subscribers of the app." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bans-59-chinese-apps-including-tiktok-shareit-uc-browser-citing-national-security-309464">Also Read: India bans 59 Chinese apps including TikTok, Shareit citing national security</a>

The app also rewards the users on the basis of how viral the video becomes. Chingari app can be downloaded through Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

The app is available in multiple languages including English, Hindi, Bangla, Gujarati, Marathi, Kannada, Punjabi, Malayalam, Tamil and Telugu. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/why-tiktok-is-a-threat-to-national-security-if-left-unchecked-300976">Also Read: Why TikTok is a threat to national security</a>

In the midst of ongoing tension at Sino-Indian border after a standoff with Chinese forces along the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh, the government of India on Monday took an unprecedented step and decided to ban at least 59 Chinese apps. 
 
"This move will safeguard the interests of crores of Indian mobile and internet users. This decision is a targeted move to ensure safety and sovereignty of Indian cyberspace," announced Ministry of Electronics and IT. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian alternative to TikTok, Chingari, has crossed over 3 million downloads. The app, founded by Bengaluru-based programmers Biswatma Nayak and Siddharth Gautam last year, allows users to download and upload videos, chat with friends, interact with new people, share content and browse through the feed.

The Indian alternative to TikTok, Chingari, has crossed over 3 million downloads. The app, founded by Bengaluru-based programmers Biswatma Nayak and Siddharth Gautam last year, allows users to download and upload videos, chat with friends, interact with new people, share content and browse through the feed. Biswatma Nayak said, "In the last few days, we have witnessed a 400 per cent growth in the subscribers of the app." Also Read: India bans 59 Chinese apps including TikTok, Shareit citing national security The app also rewards the users on the basis of how viral the video becomes. Chingari app can be downloaded through Google Play Store and Apple App Store. The app is available in multiple languages including English, Hindi, Bangla, Gujarati, Marathi, Kannada, Punjabi, Malayalam, Tamil and Telugu. Also Read: Why TikTok is a threat to national security In the midst of ongoing tension at Sino-Indian border after a standoff with Chinese forces along the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh, the government of India on Monday took an unprecedented step and decided to ban at least 59 Chinese apps. "This move will safeguard the interests of crores of Indian mobile and internet users. This decision is a targeted move to ensure safety and sovereignty of Indian cyberspace," announced Ministry of Electronics and IT. (With inputs from agencies)

TikTok's Indian alternative Chingari app crosses over 3 million downloads

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

Livinguard face masks are protective and prevent bacteria and viruses from spreading, benefiting both self and others in close proximity.

Livinguard Tech launches face mask; claims to disable COVID-19 virus

Organizers of a Facebook Inc advertising boycott campaign that has drawn support from a list of major companies are now preparing to take the battle global to increase pressure on the social media company to remove hate speech, reported news agency Reuters.

Organizers of a Facebook Inc advertising boycott campaign that has drawn support from a list of major companies are now preparing to take the battle global to increase pressure on the social media company to remove hate speech, reported news agency Reuters. The "Stop Hate for Profit" campaign will begin calling on major companies in Europe to join the boycott, Jim Steyer, chief executive of Common Sense Media, said in an interview with Reuters on Saturday. Since the campaign launched earlier this month, more than 160 companies, including Verizon Communications and Unilever Plc, have signed on to stop buying ads on the world’s largest social media platform for the month of July, the report said. Free Press and Common Sense, along with US civil rights groups Colour of Change and the Anti-Defamation League, launched the campaign following the death of George Floyd, an unarmed Black man killed by Minneapolis police. "The next frontier is global pressure," Steyer said, adding the campaign hopes to embolden regulators in Europe to take a harder stance on Facebook. The outrage in the United States over the death of Floyd has led to an unprecedented reaction from corporations around the world. Its impact has been felt beyond US borders. Unilever, for example, changed the name of a skin-lightening product popular in India called Fair and Lovely. Steyer said they will urge global advertisers such as Unilever and Honda, which have only committed to pausing US ads, to pull their Facebook ads globally. Annually, Facebook generates $70 billion in advertising sales and about a quarter of it comes from big companies such as Unilever with the vast majority of its revenue derived from small businesses. But the publicity around its hate speech policies have hurt its perception and stock. On Friday, Facebook's 8.3% decline in stock price wiped out $56 billion in market capitalization. The boycott has accelerated to include other digital advertising platforms such as Twitter. Starbucks said Sunday it would pause advertising on all social media platforms while it works with civil rights organizations to "stop the spread of hate speech." PepsiCo Inc will stop advertising on Facebook Inc, FOX Business Network reported, citing sources. The halt on advertising will run through July and August, the report said. Sources described the move as a "global boycott" on placing Facebook ads, the report said. The food and beverage company joins a growing number of companies pulling ad dollars from Facebook. (With inputs from Reuters)

Facebook ad boycott campaign to go global, Pepsi to stop ads on social media platform

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.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/amazon-to-use-ai-tech-in-its-warehouses-to-enforce-social-distancing-306310" hreflang="en">Amazon to use AI tech in its warehouses to enforce social distancing</a>

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.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/amazon-pledges-2-billion-venture-capital-fund-to-invest-in-clean-energy-308037" hreflang="en">Amazon pledges $2 billion venture capital fund to invest in clean energy</a>

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.&nbsp;

Walmart Inc's 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. Also read: Amazon to use AI tech in its warehouses to enforce social distancing 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. Also read: Amazon pledges $2 billion venture capital fund to invest in clean energy 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 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 centres

The government will launch a specialised e-marketplace for tribal artisans this Independence Day, connecting them to a larger national and international market.

Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED) staff, along with state government officials, will train the artisans and help them register on the website.

"We will launch the website – Tribes India e-Mart – on Independence Day on August 15. It will be similar to selling your products on e-commerce giants Amazon or Flipkart. The difference is just that it will be only for tribals,” Managing Director of TRIFED Praveer Krishna said.

TRIFED, which was set up in 1987, functions under the Union Tribal Affairs Ministry. The campaign is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of an Aatma Nirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant&nbsp;India). 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-makes-it-mandatory-for-sellers-to-mention-country-of-origin-on-products-for-gem-307921">Also Read: Government makes it mandatory for sellers to mention 'country of origin' on products for GeM</a>

The products of tribal sellers will undergo a strict quality check and a committee will fix prices for each item. There will be local collection centres from where the products will be supplied across the country.

Last week, the government procurement portal GeM has made it mandatory for sellers to mention ''country of origin'' on products they wish to sell through the platform, a move aimed at promoting Aatma Nirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India)

Government e-Marketplace (GEM) has also enabled a provision for the indication of the percentage of local content in products with a view to promote Make in India. 
 
(With inputs from PTI)

The government will launch a specialised e-marketplace for tribal artisans this Independence Day, connecting them to a larger national and international market. Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED) staff, along with state government officials, will train the artisans and help them register on the website.

The government will launch a specialised e-marketplace for tribal artisans this Independence Day, connecting them to a larger national and international market. Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED) staff, along with state government officials, will train the artisans and help them register on the website. "We will launch the website – Tribes India e-Mart – on Independence Day on August 15. It will be similar to selling your products on e-commerce giants Amazon or Flipkart. The difference is just that it will be only for tribals,” Managing Director of TRIFED Praveer Krishna said. TRIFED, which was set up in 1987, functions under the Union Tribal Affairs Ministry. The campaign is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of an Aatma Nirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India). Also Read: Government makes it mandatory for sellers to mention 'country of origin' on products for GeM The products of tribal sellers will undergo a strict quality check and a committee will fix prices for each item. There will be local collection centres from where the products will be supplied across the country. Last week, the government procurement portal GeM has made it mandatory for sellers to mention ''country of origin'' on products they wish to sell through the platform, a move aimed at promoting Aatma Nirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India) Government e-Marketplace (GEM) has also enabled a provision for the indication of the percentage of local content in products with a view to promote Make in India. (With inputs from PTI)

Government to launch an e-marketplace exclusively for tribal sellers

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 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

Microsoft has made an announcement on Friday that it will be closing down all of its stores and moving its retail online. The tech giant will not shut the doors in four locations and will be transforming them into "experience centres."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/covid-19-fortune-tencents-pony-ma-dethrones-alibabas-jack-ma-to-become-richest-in-china-308476" hreflang="en">COVID-19 fortune: Tencent's Pony Ma dethrones Alibaba's Jack Ma to become richest in China</a>

According to the statement released by Microsoft, over 80 stores will be closed due to the coronavirus pandemic and will not reopen as the tech giant enters "a new approach to retail."

"Microsoft will continue to invest in its digital storefronts on Microsoft.com, and stores in Xbox and Windows," the statement said.

The four locations, where these stores won't shutdown are London, New York, Sydney and at the company's Redmond, Washington headquarters.

Retail team members will "serve customers from Microsoft corporate facilities and remotely providing sales, training, and support," the company said.

The company will be setting $450 million to cover the costs of closing the locations. The total numbers of employees affected due to shutting down are not available.&nbsp;

"Our sales have grown online as our product portfolio has evolved to largely digital offerings, and our talented team has proven success serving customers beyond any physical location," said Microsoft corporate vice president David Porter.

Microsoft has made an announcement on Friday that it will be closing down all of its stores and moving its retail online. The tech giant will not shut the doors in four locations and will be transforming them into "experience centres.

Microsoft has made an announcement on Friday that it will be closing down all of its stores and moving its retail online. The tech giant will not shut the doors in four locations and will be transforming them into "experience centres." Also read: COVID-19 fortune: Tencent's Pony Ma dethrones Alibaba's Jack Ma to become richest in China According to the statement released by Microsoft, over 80 stores will be closed due to the coronavirus pandemic and will not reopen as the tech giant enters "a new approach to retail." "Microsoft will continue to invest in its digital storefronts on Microsoft.com, and stores in Xbox and Windows," the statement said. The four locations, where these stores won't shutdown are London, New York, Sydney and at the company's Redmond, Washington headquarters. Retail team members will "serve customers from Microsoft corporate facilities and remotely providing sales, training, and support," the company said. The company will be setting $450 million to cover the costs of closing the locations. The total numbers of employees affected due to shutting down are not available. "Our sales have grown online as our product portfolio has evolved to largely digital offerings, and our talented team has proven success serving customers beyond any physical location," said Microsoft corporate vice president David Porter.

Microsoft to shut down all 80 stores around the world; except four locations

Three men have been arrested in Iran on suspicion of trying to sell two babies on Instagram,&nbsp;semi-official ISNA news agency reported Thursday.

A 20-day-old baby and a two-month-old child were rescued from the online infant-selling ring, the news agency said.

Tehran Police Chief Hossein Rahimi said a third baby has been identified but is yet to be found, ISNA reported.

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The babies had already been bought from "poor families" for up to $500&nbsp;and were being resold for between $2,000 and $2,500.

One of those arrested allegedly said he was "getting babies from poor families" and "handing them over to families who could provide a better future".

Brig-Gen Rahimi told local media that police officers had been alerted to "ads on Instagram for selling babies".

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/instagram-will-overtake-twitter-as-source-of-news-study-306223">Instagram will overtake Twitter as source of news: Study</a>

The officers uncovered "10 to 15 such pages" on the photo-sharing service and found the two babies with the three men who were arrested, he said. The babies were handed over to social services.

The suspects claimed that they had bought the babies from poor families for a "small fee", according to the general.

In a video published by the Young Journalists' Club news agency, one of the men said: "This would have helped these babies have a better future."

This is not the first such case uncovered by the authorities in Iran.

Earlier this year, police in the province of Gorgan said they had arrested four women and a man who had allegedly been finding poor pregnant women and paying their hospital expenses, then taking away their babies after they gave birth.

In 2016, then Vice-President for Family and Women's Affairs Shahindokht Molaverdi expressed concern over what she said was the "high number" of expectant mothers selling their babies.

She said women were being forced to do so by "a variety of factors", including poverty, drug addiction, child marriage and homelessness.

A spokesperson for Facebook, which owns Instagram said&nbsp;that the company was investigating. "We do not allow content or behaviour on Instagram that may lead to human exploitation, which includes the sale of children for illegal adoption. We're aware of reports of this activity, and we're continuing to investigate," the statement said.

Facebook has a human exploitation&nbsp;policy, which covers harmful activities related to human exploitation and trafficking, and Instagram users are encouraged to report any concerning content using in-app tools or its&nbsp;reporting form.

Iran is among 21 "Tier Three" countries in the US State Department's annual Trafficking in Persons Report, which<a href="https://cnn.com/2019/06/20/politics/2019-state-department-tip-report/index.html" target="_blank">&nbsp;</a>ranks nations that comprise the worst offenders on human trafficking.

The countries listed in this tier do "not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking and (are) not making any efforts to do so," according to the report, which was published last year.

Three men have been arrested in Iran on suspicion of trying to sell two babies on Instagram, semi-official ISNA news agency reported Thursday. A 20-day-old baby and a two-month-old child were rescued from the online infant-selling ring, the news agency said.

Three men have been arrested in Iran on suspicion of trying to sell two babies on Instagram, semi-official ISNA news agency reported Thursday. A 20-day-old baby and a two-month-old child were rescued from the online infant-selling ring, the news agency said. Tehran Police Chief Hossein Rahimi said a third baby has been identified but is yet to be found, ISNA reported. Also read| Instagram in trouble as nearly 50 million users' data gets leaked online The babies had already been bought from "poor families" for up to $500 and were being resold for between $2,000 and $2,500. One of those arrested allegedly said he was "getting babies from poor families" and "handing them over to families who could provide a better future". Brig-Gen Rahimi told local media that police officers had been alerted to "ads on Instagram for selling babies". Also read| Instagram will overtake Twitter as source of news: Study The officers uncovered "10 to 15 such pages" on the photo-sharing service and found the two babies with the three men who were arrested, he said. The babies were handed over to social services. The suspects claimed that they had bought the babies from poor families for a "small fee", according to the general. In a video published by the Young Journalists' Club news agency, one of the men said: "This would have helped these babies have a better future." This is not the first such case uncovered by the authorities in Iran. Earlier this year, police in the province of Gorgan said they had arrested four women and a man who had allegedly been finding poor pregnant women and paying their hospital expenses, then taking away their babies after they gave birth. In 2016, then Vice-President for Family and Women's Affairs Shahindokht Molaverdi expressed concern over what she said was the "high number" of expectant mothers selling their babies. She said women were being forced to do so by "a variety of factors", including poverty, drug addiction, child marriage and homelessness. A spokesperson for Facebook, which owns Instagram said that the company was investigating. "We do not allow content or behaviour on Instagram that may lead to human exploitation, which includes the sale of children for illegal adoption. We're aware of reports of this activity, and we're continuing to investigate," the statement said. Facebook has a human exploitation policy, which covers harmful activities related to human exploitation and trafficking, and Instagram users are encouraged to report any concerning content using in-app tools or its reporting form. Iran is among 21 "Tier Three" countries in the US State Department's annual Trafficking in Persons Report, which ranks nations that comprise the worst offenders on human trafficking. The countries listed in this tier do "not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking and (are) not making any efforts to do so," according to the report, which was published last year.

Three men arrested in Iran for allegedly selling babies on Instagram

Japan’s COVID-19 contact-tracing app has been downloaded more than 4 million times since its launch a week ago as the government seeks to head off a second wave of infections now that businesses and schools have reopened.

Health ministry official Yasuyuki Sahara said while there was no target number for downloads, “we want to make as many people as possible to use this app”.

Apps such as this may be able to halt an epidemic if usage reaches 60 per cent&nbsp;of the population, according to an Oxford University study.

Yuki Furuse, a professor at Kyoto University, said there’s debate about whether usage has to be that high to be effective, but “the more people use the app, the more it would be effective for the outbreak response.”

Japan lifted a state of emergency in late May. It has weathered the epidemic better than most developed countries, with almost 18,000 infections and 969 deaths.

The app, named COCOA for Contact-Confirming Application, was designed by Microsoft Corp and is available for Apple Inc’s iPhone and devices using Google’s Android software.

It uses Bluetooth signals to detect contact with nearby users lasting 15 minutes or more. If a user later tests positive for the virus, their contacts can be traced and notified through the programme.

Numerous countries have rolled out contact-tracing apps, including Australia, Malaysia, Britain, India, Germany and Italy.

Singapore was among the first with its TraceTogether app launched in March, but privacy concerns hampered its uptake, prompting a switch to wearable devices.

The new coronavirus, which was first detected in China in late 2019, has infected more than 9.62 million people globally and 488,467​ have died, according to a Reuters tally.

Japan’s COVID-19 contact-tracing app has been downloaded more than 4 million times since its launch a week ago as the government seeks to head off a second wave of infections now that businesses and schools have reopened.

Japan’s COVID-19 contact-tracing app has been downloaded more than 4 million times since its launch a week ago as the government seeks to head off a second wave of infections now that businesses and schools have reopened. Health ministry official Yasuyuki Sahara said while there was no target number for downloads, “we want to make as many people as possible to use this app”. Apps such as this may be able to halt an epidemic if usage reaches 60 per cent of the population, according to an Oxford University study. Yuki Furuse, a professor at Kyoto University, said there’s debate about whether usage has to be that high to be effective, but “the more people use the app, the more it would be effective for the outbreak response.” Japan lifted a state of emergency in late May. It has weathered the epidemic better than most developed countries, with almost 18,000 infections and 969 deaths. The app, named COCOA for Contact-Confirming Application, was designed by Microsoft Corp and is available for Apple Inc’s iPhone and devices using Google’s Android software. It uses Bluetooth signals to detect contact with nearby users lasting 15 minutes or more. If a user later tests positive for the virus, their contacts can be traced and notified through the programme. Numerous countries have rolled out contact-tracing apps, including Australia, Malaysia, Britain, India, Germany and Italy. Singapore was among the first with its TraceTogether app launched in March, but privacy concerns hampered its uptake, prompting a switch to wearable devices. The new coronavirus, which was first detected in China in late 2019, has infected more than 9.62 million people globally and 488,467 have died, according to a Reuters tally.

Japan's COVID-19 app reaches 4 million downloads in the first week

A spat over the correct way to brew a cup of tea has boiled over, with both the UK and US ambassadors sticking their spoons in.

There have been more severe transatlantic bust-ups over a brew, such as the&nbsp;American Revolution, but few can have been quite so twee. Nearly 250 years after the Boston Tea Party, the British ambassador in Washington and her US counterpart in London are going at it over how to make a decent hot drink. And by Wednesday evening, the conflict was spilling over into mainland Europe.

Like many tense diplomatic standoffs, it began with a deliberate provocation. An American TikTok user going by the name of Michelle from North Carolina posted a video showing how to make what she describes as “hot tea”, which entails mixing milk with powdered lemonade, cinnamon, cloves, sugar and Tang, which turns out to be a soft drink.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@jchelle36/video/6822286603415850246" class="tiktok-embed" data-video-id="6822286603415850246" style="max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px;">
<section><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@jchelle36" target="_blank" title="@jchelle36">@jchelle36</a>

Hot tea “this American girl” likes 😊 <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/americanintheuk" target="_blank" title="americanintheuk">##americanintheuk</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/fyp" target="_blank" title="fyp">##fyp</a> @nichole.caroline
<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-6822286594125335301" target="_blank" title="♬ original sound - jchelle36">♬ original sound - jchelle36</a></section>
</blockquote>
<script async src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

As an afterthought she dunked a teabag, and then put the whole thing in the microwave. Her subsequent attempt at “British tea” involved&nbsp;cold water first. The British internet lost its marbles.

Michelle from North Carolina, who actually lives in Britain and has proven herself to be a supremely effective wind-up merchant with follow-ups including her recipe for “UK eggs”, quickly amassed 5m TikTok likes. Meanwhile, the UK’s powerful ability to get on its high horse about elevenses kicked into gear.

Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-an-entertainment-platform-or-chinese-propaganda-company-299518">TikTok: An entertainment platform or Chinese propaganda company?</a>

It was all too much for British users, who take great pride in their homespun national drink, with its leaves imported primarily from Kenya, India and Malawi.

The twin themes in the furious outpouring of comments were “war crime” and “diabetes”.

Undeterred, Michelle followed up with a guide to “British tea”.

It was with her video this week on British eggs, using canned whipped cream, that Michelle, who lives in the UK, confirmed suspicions that she is indeed very much in on the joke.

She has amassed more than five million likes so far for her efforts.

But she has also incited righteous anger in a nation close to a boiling point, and with a lot of time on its hands.

Calling in the military

So Dame Karen Pierce, British Ambassador to the United States in Washington, called in the military.

In a video posted on Monday, she got the boys from the British Army, Navy, and Air Force to demonstrate how to prepare tea, in a manner both patriotic and pukka.

There was even a nod to how to conduct high tea at high altitude.

Pierce had the armed forces behind her but when Woody Johnson, the US Ambassador to the United Kingdom got involved on Wednesday, he made like Dirty Harry and went in solo.

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The perfect cup of coffee, Ambassador <a href="https://twitter.com/KarenPierceUK?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KarenPierceUK</a> <a href="https://t.co/oEbSJNE2qw">https://t.co/oEbSJNE2qw</a> <a href="https://t.co/LfGE5w5Dc0">pic.twitter.com/LfGE5w5Dc0</a>
— Ambassador Johnson (@USAmbUK) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAmbUK/status/1275764884433756160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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His strategy was a smart one. He went after Britain's weakness: coffee. However,&nbsp;he makes what appears to be an absolutely terrible cup of coffee.

He commits the cardinal sin of using instant coffee, raising the hackles of any connoisseur faster than hot water dissolves a freeze-dried granule.

As people around the world have been upping their gourmet antics during lockdown, with their sourdough starters and their AeroPress cold brews, there can be just one message for Johnson. Do better.

There have no been no video responses yet from Raffaele Trombetta, Ambassador of Italy to the UK since 2018, and Armando Varricchio, Ambassador of Italy to the US for the past four years.

Nor have there been comments on TikTok tea from Liu Xiaoming, China's Ambassador to the UK, or Josephat Karanja and Gaitri I. Kumar, respectively Kenya and India's High Commissioners to the UK.

A spat over the correct way to brew a cup of tea has boiled over, with both the UK and US ambassadors sticking their spoons in. There have been more severe transatlantic bust-ups over a brew, such as the American Revolution, but few can have been quite so twee.

A spat over the correct way to brew a cup of tea has boiled over, with both the UK and US ambassadors sticking their spoons in. There have been more severe transatlantic bust-ups over a brew, such as the American Revolution, but few can have been quite so twee. Nearly 250 years after the Boston Tea Party, the British ambassador in Washington and her US counterpart in London are going at it over how to make a decent hot drink. And by Wednesday evening, the conflict was spilling over into mainland Europe. Like many tense diplomatic standoffs, it began with a deliberate provocation. An American TikTok user going by the name of Michelle from North Carolina posted a video showing how to make what she describes as “hot tea”, which entails mixing milk with powdered lemonade, cinnamon, cloves, sugar and Tang, which turns out to be a soft drink. @jchelle36 Hot tea “this American girl” likes 😊 ##americanintheuk ##fyp @nichole.caroline ♬ original sound - jchelle36 × As an afterthought she dunked a teabag, and then put the whole thing in the microwave. Her subsequent attempt at “British tea” involved cold water first. The British internet lost its marbles. Michelle from North Carolina, who actually lives in Britain and has proven herself to be a supremely effective wind-up merchant with follow-ups including her recipe for “UK eggs”, quickly amassed 5m TikTok likes. Meanwhile, the UK’s powerful ability to get on its high horse about elevenses kicked into gear. Also read| TikTok: An entertainment platform or Chinese propaganda company? It was all too much for British users, who take great pride in their homespun national drink, with its leaves imported primarily from Kenya, India and Malawi. The twin themes in the furious outpouring of comments were “war crime” and “diabetes”. Undeterred, Michelle followed up with a guide to “British tea”. It was with her video this week on British eggs, using canned whipped cream, that Michelle, who lives in the UK, confirmed suspicions that she is indeed very much in on the joke. She has amassed more than five million likes so far for her efforts. But she has also incited righteous anger in a nation close to a boiling point, and with a lot of time on its hands. Calling in the military So Dame Karen Pierce, British Ambassador to the United States in Washington, called in the military. In a video posted on Monday, she got the boys from the British Army, Navy, and Air Force to demonstrate how to prepare tea, in a manner both patriotic and pukka. There was even a nod to how to conduct high tea at high altitude. Pierce had the armed forces behind her but when Woody Johnson, the US Ambassador to the United Kingdom got involved on Wednesday, he made like Dirty Harry and went in solo. The perfect cup of coffee, Ambassador @KarenPierceUK https://t.co/oEbSJNE2qw pic.twitter.com/LfGE5w5Dc0 — Ambassador Johnson (@USAmbUK) June 24, 2020 × His strategy was a smart one. He went after Britain's weakness: coffee. However, he makes what appears to be an absolutely terrible cup of coffee. He commits the cardinal sin of using instant coffee, raising the hackles of any connoisseur faster than hot water dissolves a freeze-dried granule. As people around the world have been upping their gourmet antics during lockdown, with their sourdough starters and their AeroPress cold brews, there can be just one message for Johnson. Do better. There have no been no video responses yet from Raffaele Trombetta, Ambassador of Italy to the UK since 2018, and Armando Varricchio, Ambassador of Italy to the US for the past four years. Nor have there been comments on TikTok tea from Liu Xiaoming, China's Ambassador to the UK, or Josephat Karanja and Gaitri I. Kumar, respectively Kenya and India's High Commissioners to the UK.

'Military called in' after TikTok 'tea tutorial' triggers war between US and UK

It’s been over three months since I got a new analog watch. A watch which has been garnering me a lot of compliments. It’s a watch that, as a reviewer, I’ve had to wear on and off because of a couple of smartwatches and fitness bands that I still had to evaluate.&nbsp;

During the pandemic-induced lockdown though, I’ve tried to wear the watch as much as I can. During the day, while taking a shower and even when sleeping, the watch is on me at all times. Why may you ask that I’m wearing a watch (and not a smartwatch with all its fitness and sleep tracking) all day all night long? Well, let me step back a bit and explain.&nbsp;

Teslar watches - a blend of “American technology and Swiss precision” - have finally made it to the Indian shores. It’s a regular wristwatch fitted with a chip that protects you from harmful EMF (extreme medium frequencies) exposure. The wellness watches are encouraging a consciousness towards greater well-being.&nbsp; 
 
<img alt="Teslar Watch" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="57da9db2-7d35-44dd-b839-472c1bfb2f16" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Watch1%20%281%29.jpg" />

The watch houses a US-made quantum technology chip on the bottom, working in sync with a Swiss-made quartz movement and battery of the watch to replicate Earth’s natural frequency. By mimicking Earth’s natural frequency, it can reduce the negative effects of stress and help the human body “restore, revitalize and heal itself more effectively from the adverse effects of artificial, man-made electromagnetic pollution”. In theory, the watch should help promote a calmer and more relaxed mind, leading to more positivity in one’s life and even a better sleep pattern.&nbsp;

There are a couple of studies on the long-term negative effects that EMF exposure can have on the human body. Electromagnetic hypersensitivity isn’t a recognised medical condition though.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Enough technical jargon. I don’t understand much of what the watch does, and boy I don’t even know what the two buttons flanking the rotating crown do. It’s a watch that is eye-catching and that’s foremost why I loved wearing it outside the house.&nbsp;

That begs the question; why am I wearing the watch more during lockdown than before this pandemic hit us? It’s a simple, one-word answer; psychological.&nbsp; 
 
<img alt="Teslar Watch" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d636e3b4-4d9a-45ef-b812-83b090c310a5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Watch1.jpg" />

I feel great wearing the Teslar Re-Balance T-1 Chrono watch that I have. It’s in black and it’s every bit premium that you can imagine. From random strangers on the street to people next to me at a cafe I &nbsp;used to - pre-pandemic induced lockdowns - frequent, the watch has got glowing reviews from just about everyone. The watch suits my profile. What more can one ask from a watch that has a starting price of Rs 41,495?&nbsp;

Well, in a world of smartwatches, a whole lot more!&nbsp;

I’m generally a positive, optimistic (closer to realistic) and happy human being. I also sleep soundly, getting up very rarely in the middle of the night to visit the washroom or to have a couple of sips of water. With the pandemic raining down upon us, the thinking was that this watch would help me keep my chin up and not fall down with news of deaths spiralling on my computer screen streaming any number of news channels.&nbsp;

I was very sceptical of the ‘wellness’ benefits from the watch but, for the first week or so, I gave it the benefit of doubt.&nbsp;

For the first few days, I slept on average, a half-hour longer than I normally would have. I didn’t get up in the middle of the night and neither did I have trouble falling asleep. With the number of coronavirus cases approaching 50,000, we were only getting started with the negative news all around us. I spent my days writing, cooking, but sleeping a lot more during the day. It seemed like I had a routine going when wearing the watch, but turns out that was far from it.&nbsp;

On the seventh or eighth day of the lockdown, I woke up around five in the morning, went to the washroom, and came back only to fall asleep an hour later.&nbsp;

It was only in the second week that I noticed that my productivity wasn’t dipping. I had gone three whole days without wearing the watch. At first, I felt kind of empty and was brooding about the lack of an eye-catching and classy Swiss-made watch on my wrist. The moment I realised that my day was going along fine and I was sleeping well - despite globally reported coronavirus cases being well over 1 million - was when I didn’t have to flick my wrist every so often just to look at the time and smile at just how gorgeous a watch I was wearing. 
 
It was purely in my head that a watch could alter the way I was feeling on a day-to-day basis. I was smiling more often not because of the reduction of electromagnetic exposure in my day-to-day life but because of how elegant the watch was to look at.&nbsp; 
 
<img alt="Teslar Watch" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f5cd65a6-cfbb-4e9f-84e7-9b3057e3d1cb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Watch3.jpg" />

I keep going back to how gorgeous the watch is. The attention to detail is brilliant. There’s the T that’s etched into the crown and then the triangular second’s hand inside the lower subdial. It’s just what you expect from a Swiss-made wristwatch.&nbsp;

In the last week or so, I’ve given the watch another chance. In India, we’re about to cross the 5 lakh mark for confirmed COVID-19 cases. Worldwide, it is soon going to touch 10 million. There is no escaping the grim reality staring at us. Wearing the watch has surely lightened up my days but has done little beyond that to help soothe the nerves inside me on a daily basis.&nbsp;

My takeaway is this. The Teslar Re-Balance T-1 Chrono is an absolute must-have timepiece if one has the money to spare, apart from the fact that some may truly believe in the “wellness” aspect. It’s priced fairly decently for a well-made Swiss timepiece. One cannot call the wristwatch overpriced.&nbsp;&nbsp;

I just can’t recommend it for it’s ‘wellness’ benefits. I didn’t feel any upliftment upon wearing the way daily barring the dozens of compliments I’ve gotten which had stopped since I’ve had to hunker down thanks to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The watch has designs for both men and women but it’ll cost you a pretty penny.&nbsp;

It’s been over three months since I got a new analog watch. A watch which has been garnering me a lot of compliments. It’s a watch that, as a reviewer, I’ve had to wear on and off because of a couple of smartwatches and fitness bands that I still had to evaluate.

It’s been over three months since I got a new analog watch. A watch which has been garnering me a lot of compliments. It’s a watch that, as a reviewer, I’ve had to wear on and off because of a couple of smartwatches and fitness bands that I still had to evaluate. During the pandemic-induced lockdown though, I’ve tried to wear the watch as much as I can. During the day, while taking a shower and even when sleeping, the watch is on me at all times. Why may you ask that I’m wearing a watch (and not a smartwatch with all its fitness and sleep tracking) all day all night long? Well, let me step back a bit and explain. Teslar watches - a blend of “American technology and Swiss precision” - have finally made it to the Indian shores. It’s a regular wristwatch fitted with a chip that protects you from harmful EMF (extreme medium frequencies) exposure. The wellness watches are encouraging a consciousness towards greater well-being. The watch houses a US-made quantum technology chip on the bottom, working in sync with a Swiss-made quartz movement and battery of the watch to replicate Earth’s natural frequency. By mimicking Earth’s natural frequency, it can reduce the negative effects of stress and help the human body “restore, revitalize and heal itself more effectively from the adverse effects of artificial, man-made electromagnetic pollution”. In theory, the watch should help promote a calmer and more relaxed mind, leading to more positivity in one’s life and even a better sleep pattern. There are a couple of studies on the long-term negative effects that EMF exposure can have on the human body. Electromagnetic hypersensitivity isn’t a recognised medical condition though. Enough technical jargon. I don’t understand much of what the watch does, and boy I don’t even know what the two buttons flanking the rotating crown do. It’s a watch that is eye-catching and that’s foremost why I loved wearing it outside the house. That begs the question; why am I wearing the watch more during lockdown than before this pandemic hit us? It’s a simple, one-word answer; psychological. I feel great wearing the Teslar Re-Balance T-1 Chrono watch that I have. It’s in black and it’s every bit premium that you can imagine. From random strangers on the street to people next to me at a cafe I used to - pre-pandemic induced lockdowns - frequent, the watch has got glowing reviews from just about everyone. The watch suits my profile. What more can one ask from a watch that has a starting price of Rs 41,495? Well, in a world of smartwatches, a whole lot more! I’m generally a positive, optimistic (closer to realistic) and happy human being. I also sleep soundly, getting up very rarely in the middle of the night to visit the washroom or to have a couple of sips of water. With the pandemic raining down upon us, the thinking was that this watch would help me keep my chin up and not fall down with news of deaths spiralling on my computer screen streaming any number of news channels. I was very sceptical of the ‘wellness’ benefits from the watch but, for the first week or so, I gave it the benefit of doubt. For the first few days, I slept on average, a half-hour longer than I normally would have. I didn’t get up in the middle of the night and neither did I have trouble falling asleep. With the number of coronavirus cases approaching 50,000, we were only getting started with the negative news all around us. I spent my days writing, cooking, but sleeping a lot more during the day. It seemed like I had a routine going when wearing the watch, but turns out that was far from it. On the seventh or eighth day of the lockdown, I woke up around five in the morning, went to the washroom, and came back only to fall asleep an hour later. It was only in the second week that I noticed that my productivity wasn’t dipping. I had gone three whole days without wearing the watch. At first, I felt kind of empty and was brooding about the lack of an eye-catching and classy Swiss-made watch on my wrist. The moment I realised that my day was going along fine and I was sleeping well - despite globally reported coronavirus cases being well over 1 million - was when I didn’t have to flick my wrist every so often just to look at the time and smile at just how gorgeous a watch I was wearing. It was purely in my head that a watch could alter the way I was feeling on a day-to-day basis. I was smiling more often not because of the reduction of electromagnetic exposure in my day-to-day life but because of how elegant the watch was to look at. I keep going back to how gorgeous the watch is. The attention to detail is brilliant. There’s the T that’s etched into the crown and then the triangular second’s hand inside the lower subdial. It’s just what you expect from a Swiss-made wristwatch. In the last week or so, I’ve given the watch another chance. In India, we’re about to cross the 5 lakh mark for confirmed COVID-19 cases. Worldwide, it is soon going to touch 10 million. There is no escaping the grim reality staring at us. Wearing the watch has surely lightened up my days but has done little beyond that to help soothe the nerves inside me on a daily basis. My takeaway is this. The Teslar Re-Balance T-1 Chrono is an absolute must-have timepiece if one has the money to spare, apart from the fact that some may truly believe in the “wellness” aspect. It’s priced fairly decently for a well-made Swiss timepiece. One cannot call the wristwatch overpriced. I just can’t recommend it for it’s ‘wellness’ benefits. I didn’t feel any upliftment upon wearing the way daily barring the dozens of compliments I’ve gotten which had stopped since I’ve had to hunker down thanks to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. The watch has designs for both men and women but it’ll cost you a pretty penny.

Teslar watch review: An absolute must-have timepiece

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

The Pentagon put Huawei Technologies and Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology on a list of 20 companies it says are owned or controlled by China’s military, opening them up to potential additional US&nbsp;sanctions.

This list includes “entities owned by, controlled by, or affiliated with China’s government, military, or defense industry,” Pentagon spokesman Jonathan Hoffman said in a statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-national-security-adviser-takes-aim-warns-china-308404">Trump's national security adviser takes aim warns China</a>

“As the People’s Republic of China attempts to blur the lines between civil and military sectors, ‘knowing your supplier’ is critical,” Hoffman said. “We envision this list will be a useful tool for the US&nbsp;government, companies, investors, academic institutions, and like-minded partners to conduct due diligence with regard to partnerships with these entities, particularly as the list grows.”

In letters to lawmakers dated June 24, the Pentagon said it was providing a list of ''Communist Chinese military companies operating in the United States.''&nbsp;The list was first requested in the fiscal 1999 defense policy law.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-huawei-became-a-liability-for-china-amid-covid-19-crisis-301187">How Huawei became a liability for China amid COVID-19 crisis</a>

The DOD document also includes China Mobile Communications Group and China Telecommunications Corp as well as aircraft manufacturer Aviation Industry Corp of China.&nbsp;

The designations were drawn up by the Defense Department, which was mandated by a 1999 law to compile a list of Chinese military companies operating in the United States, including those ''owned or controlled''&nbsp;by the People’s Liberation Army that provide commercial services, manufacture, produce or export.

The Pentagon’s designations do not trigger penalties, but the law says the president may impose sanctions that could include blocking all property of the listed parties.&nbsp;

The move’s implications were not immediately clear. But it came as relations between the two superpowers continue to deteriorate, and as China has become an issue in the US&nbsp;election campaign. China has for the past year threatened to produce its own “unreliable entities” list, but has so far not done so.

The list of companies said to be affiliated with the Peoples Liberation Army was mandated under the Defense Authorization Act of 1999, but no administration ever put out the required report. Trump has the authority under the International Emergency Economics Powers Act of 1977 to level financial sanctions against those companies.

China’s foreign and defense ministries, as well as the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission, which oversees China’s government-run companies, didn’t immediately reply to a fax during a public holiday in the country. Huawei also didn’t immediately reply to a request for comment.

Hikvision called the U.S. move “baseless,” saying its ownership details have always been publicly available as a listed company and “independently operated enterprise.” It said it would continue to work with the U.S. government “to answer questions and correct misunderstandings about the company.”

“Hikvision strongly opposes the decision by the US&nbsp;government to misapply a never-used provision of a 21-year-old law,” a company spokesperson said. “Not only is Hikvision not a ‘Chinese military company,’ Hikvision has never participated in any R&amp;D work for military applications.”

“The list put out today by the Pentagon is a start but woefully inadequate to warn the American people about the state-owned and -directed companies that support the Chinese government and Communist Party’s activities threatening U.S. economic and national security,” Republican Senator Marco Rubio said in a statement.

Washington had placed Huawei and Hikvision on a trade blacklist last year over national security concerns and has led an international campaign to convince allies to exclude Huawei from their 5G networks.

The Pentagon put Huawei Technologies and Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology on a list of 20 companies it says are owned or controlled by China’s military, opening them up to potential additional US sanctions.

The Pentagon put Huawei Technologies and Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology on a list of 20 companies it says are owned or controlled by China’s military, opening them up to potential additional US sanctions. This list includes “entities owned by, controlled by, or affiliated with China’s government, military, or defense industry,” Pentagon spokesman Jonathan Hoffman said in a statement. Also read: Trump's national security adviser takes aim warns China “As the People’s Republic of China attempts to blur the lines between civil and military sectors, ‘knowing your supplier’ is critical,” Hoffman said. “We envision this list will be a useful tool for the US government, companies, investors, academic institutions, and like-minded partners to conduct due diligence with regard to partnerships with these entities, particularly as the list grows.” In letters to lawmakers dated June 24, the Pentagon said it was providing a list of ''Communist Chinese military companies operating in the United States.'' The list was first requested in the fiscal 1999 defense policy law. Also read: How Huawei became a liability for China amid COVID-19 crisis The DOD document also includes China Mobile Communications Group and China Telecommunications Corp as well as aircraft manufacturer Aviation Industry Corp of China. The designations were drawn up by the Defense Department, which was mandated by a 1999 law to compile a list of Chinese military companies operating in the United States, including those ''owned or controlled'' by the People’s Liberation Army that provide commercial services, manufacture, produce or export. The Pentagon’s designations do not trigger penalties, but the law says the president may impose sanctions that could include blocking all property of the listed parties. The move’s implications were not immediately clear. But it came as relations between the two superpowers continue to deteriorate, and as China has become an issue in the US election campaign. China has for the past year threatened to produce its own “unreliable entities” list, but has so far not done so. The list of companies said to be affiliated with the Peoples Liberation Army was mandated under the Defense Authorization Act of 1999, but no administration ever put out the required report. Trump has the authority under the International Emergency Economics Powers Act of 1977 to level financial sanctions against those companies. China’s foreign and defense ministries, as well as the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission, which oversees China’s government-run companies, didn’t immediately reply to a fax during a public holiday in the country. Huawei also didn’t immediately reply to a request for comment. Hikvision called the U.S. move “baseless,” saying its ownership details have always been publicly available as a listed company and “independently operated enterprise.” It said it would continue to work with the U.S. government “to answer questions and correct misunderstandings about the company.” “Hikvision strongly opposes the decision by the US government to misapply a never-used provision of a 21-year-old law,” a company spokesperson said. “Not only is Hikvision not a ‘Chinese military company,’ Hikvision has never participated in any R&D work for military applications.” “The list put out today by the Pentagon is a start but woefully inadequate to warn the American people about the state-owned and -directed companies that support the Chinese government and Communist Party’s activities threatening U.S. economic and national security,” Republican Senator Marco Rubio said in a statement. Washington had placed Huawei and Hikvision on a trade blacklist last year over national security concerns and has led an international campaign to convince allies to exclude Huawei from their 5G networks.

Pentagon names Huawei and Hikvision among 20 Chinese military-backed firms

Spain will try out a new app to contain the spread of coronavirus from Friday for two weeks.

The test run will be conducted on the Island of Gomera by injecting hundreds of false cases into the system. “The idea is that approximately 3,000 people download it and we will introduce around 300 simulators, beta testers, to mimic a pandemic among 10% of the population,” a government spokeswoman said.

It will use Bluetooth short-range radio to log contacts. During the trial period of two weeks, the government will decide whether the app could be rolled out across the country.

To guard against impinging on people’s privacy, contact records will be stored on individual devices rather than a central server, using a standard developed by Apple (AAPL.O) and Google (GOOGL.O).

Technology and defence company Indra (IDR.MC) has been contracted to manage the pilot at a cost of about $375,000.

Spain’s health ministry has reported over 28,000&nbsp;deaths. Britain and Spain are one of the worst-hit countries in terms of coronavirus outbreak. The country on Sunday ended its state of emergency that was imposed on March 14. 
 
(With inputs from Reuters) 
 
&nbsp;

Spain will try out a new app to contain the spread of coronavirus from Friday for two weeks. The test run will be conducted on the Island of Gomera by injecting hundreds of false cases into the system.

Spain will try out a new app to contain the spread of coronavirus from Friday for two weeks. The test run will be conducted on the Island of Gomera by injecting hundreds of false cases into the system. “The idea is that approximately 3,000 people download it and we will introduce around 300 simulators, beta testers, to mimic a pandemic among 10% of the population,” a government spokeswoman said. It will use Bluetooth short-range radio to log contacts. During the trial period of two weeks, the government will decide whether the app could be rolled out across the country. To guard against impinging on people’s privacy, contact records will be stored on individual devices rather than a central server, using a standard developed by Apple (AAPL.O) and Google (GOOGL.O). Technology and defence company Indra (IDR.MC) has been contracted to manage the pilot at a cost of about $375,000. Spain’s health ministry has reported over 28,000 deaths. Britain and Spain are one of the worst-hit countries in terms of coronavirus outbreak. The country on Sunday ended its state of emergency that was imposed on March 14. (With inputs from Reuters)

Spain to try new coronavirus tracing app for 2 weeks before rolling out nationwide

Brazil's central bank on Tuesday suspended a newly-launched system allowing users of Facebook Inc's WhatsApp messaging service to send money via chats, ordering Visa and Mastercard to halt payments and transfers via the system, according to Reuters.

Brazil's central bank on Tuesday suspended a newly-launched system allowing users of Facebook Inc's WhatsApp messaging service to send money via chats, ordering Visa and Mastercard to halt payments and transfers via the system, according to Reuters. While banning the WhatApp payment system, the central bank said in a statement that rolling out the service without previous analysis by the monetary authority could damage the Brazilian payments system in the areas of competition, efficiency and data privacy, the report added. The company launched its payment services last week in a nationwide rollout, allowed users to transfer funds to individuals or local businesses within a chat, attaching payments as they would a photo or video. The central bank's move is the latest setback in payments for owner Facebook, which pared back its plans for a global payments system called Libra after meeting stiff resistance from regulators. Also read: Supreme Court seeks RBI response in data localisation matter of WhatsApp payment service WhatsApp has over 120 million users in Brazil, its second-largest market after India, where it has also struggled to roll out a payments system. If Visa and Mastercard do not comply with the order, they would be subject to fines and administrative sanctions, the statement said. A WhatsApp spokesperson said the messaging service would continue working with "local partners" and the central bank to provide digital payments for its users in Brazil. Also read: Two years after testing in India, WhatsApp launches payment feature in Brazil Earlier on Tuesday, before Visa and Mastercard operations with WhatsApp were suspended, the central bank issued regulation saying it could require market participants to receive previous approval to operate in payments. WhatsApp launched its Brazil services without requesting central bank authorization, as it was operating as an intermediary between consumers and financial institutions. Some observers called the regulator's decision an overreaction, while others said WhatsApp presented a potential risk in terms of market concentration and privacy. "It is a bit odd that the central bank decided to suspend WhatsApp as the regulator is already able to oversee all market participants which joined WhatsApp," said Carlos Daltozo, co-head of equities at Eleven Financial. "Besides that, WhatsApp is open to form new partnerships." WhatsApp started its operations in Brazil in partnership with fintech Nubank, state-controlled lender Banco do Brasil SA, Visa, Mastercard and lender Sicredi. In a separate setback for the venture on Tuesday, Brazil's antitrust watchdog, Cade, blocked WhatsApp's partnership with credit and debit card operator Cielo to process the payments. As Cielo is already Brazil's largest payment processor, a partnership with the biggest messaging service could pose a market concentration risk, Cade said. Shares in Cielo soared 30% on the day WhatsApp announced payments service in Brazil. The central bank's move comes as the regulator prepared to launch its own instant payments system in November, called Pix, joining more than 980 participants.

Brazil's central bank suspends WhatsApp's new payments system

Apple on Monday previewed iOS 14 and host of other features at its first ever digital WWDC. According to Apple, iOS 14 will be available for everyone this fall with a public beta for users in July.

Apple on Monday previewed iOS 14 and host of other features at its first ever digital WWDC. According to Apple, iOS 14 will be available for everyone this fall with a public beta for users in July. The new iOS will work on the iPhone 6S and up just like iOS 13. iOS 14 whivh, Apple claimed, the biggest update ever to Home Screen pages with redesigned widgets and the App Library, The new widgets present timely information at a glance and can be pinned in different sizes on any Home Screen page. Users can also create a Smart Stack of widgets, which uses on-device intelligence to surface the right widget based on time, location, and activity, according to Apple website. Home Screen pages can display widgets that are customized for work, travel, sports, entertainment, and other areas of interest. The App Library at the end of the Home Screen pages will automatically organize all of a user’s apps into one simple, easy-to-navigate view, and intelligently surfaces apps that may be helpful in the moment, the website added. Users can also choose how many Home Screen pages to display and easily hide pages for quick access to the App Library. “iOS 14 transforms the most iconic elements of the iPhone experience, starting with the biggest update we’ve ever made to the Home Screen,” said Craig Federighi, Apple’s senior vice president of Software Engineering. “With beautifully redesigned widgets on the Home Screen, the App Library that automatically organizes all of your apps, and App Clips that are fast and easy to discover, iPhone becomes even more powerful and easier to use.” Apple has also introduced new privacy features for more transparency and control in iOS 14.

Apple unveils iOS 14 with redesigned home screen and host of features

The newly crowned world's fastest supercomputer is being deployed in quest of to identify potential treatments for coronavirus which continues to ravage the world.

Japan&nbsp;this week regained the top spot&nbsp;for the first time since 2011, ending years of US and Chinese dominance on the&nbsp;TOP500&nbsp;site, which tracks the evolution of computer processing power.

Top500 ranks the world's most powerful non-distributed computer systems.

Developed over the past six years by the Japanese technology giant Fujitsu and&nbsp;Riken, a government-backed research institute in the western city of Kobe, Fugaku includes 150,000 high-performance processing units and can test thousands of substances a week.

Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-crucial-step-towards-vaccine-powered-by-ai-supercomputer-287500">COVID-19: Crucial step towards vaccine powered by AI supercomputer</a>

Supercomputers, which are more than 1,000 times faster than a regular&nbsp;computer, can be used to simulate nuclear explosions, perform virtual weapons testing and model climate systems.

In&nbsp;seismically active&nbsp;Japan, Fugaku will model the impact of an earthquake and tsunami, and map out escape routes, according to the Nikkei business newspaper.

Although it will not be fully operational until next year, experts are hoping the 130 billion yen supercomputer will help identify treatments for Covid-19 from about 2,000 existing drugs, including those that have yet to reach the clinical trial stage.

Fugaku has already been put to work on fighting the coronavirus, simulating how droplets would spread in office spaces with partitions installed or in packed trains with the windows open.

<aside data-component="rich-link" data-link-name="rich-link-1 | 1">When it is fully operational next year, experts are hoping the machine will also be able to help narrow down the search for effective treatments for the virus.</aside>

The room-sized machine lives in the city of Kobe and was developed over six years by Japanese technology firm Fujitsu and the government-backed Riken Institute. Its name is another way of saying Mount Fuji.

Its performance was measured at 415.53 petaflops, 2.8 times faster than second-place Summit's 148.6 petaflops. The US machine is housed at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee. A supercomputer is classified by being more than 1,000 times faster than a regular computer.

"I hope that the leading-edge IT developed for it will contribute to major advances on difficult social challenges such as Covid-19," said Satoshi Matsuoka, the head of Riken's Center for Computational Science.

Third place in the list went to another IBM system, at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in California, while the fourth and fifth places were taken by computers in China.

Fugaku also topped other supercomputer performance rankings, becoming the first to simultaneously sit atop the Graph500, HPCG, and HPL-AI lists.

The newly crowned world's fastest supercomputer is being deployed in quest of to identify potential treatments for coronavirus which continues to ravage the world.

The newly crowned world's fastest supercomputer is being deployed in quest of to identify potential treatments for coronavirus which continues to ravage the world. Japan this week regained the top spot for the first time since 2011, ending years of US and Chinese dominance on the TOP500 site, which tracks the evolution of computer processing power. Top500 ranks the world's most powerful non-distributed computer systems. Developed over the past six years by the Japanese technology giant Fujitsu and Riken, a government-backed research institute in the western city of Kobe, Fugaku includes 150,000 high-performance processing units and can test thousands of substances a week. Also read| COVID-19: Crucial step towards vaccine powered by AI supercomputer Supercomputers, which are more than 1,000 times faster than a regular computer, can be used to simulate nuclear explosions, perform virtual weapons testing and model climate systems. In seismically active Japan, Fugaku will model the impact of an earthquake and tsunami, and map out escape routes, according to the Nikkei business newspaper. Although it will not be fully operational until next year, experts are hoping the 130 billion yen supercomputer will help identify treatments for Covid-19 from about 2,000 existing drugs, including those that have yet to reach the clinical trial stage. Fugaku has already been put to work on fighting the coronavirus, simulating how droplets would spread in office spaces with partitions installed or in packed trains with the windows open. When it is fully operational next year, experts are hoping the machine will also be able to help narrow down the search for effective treatments for the virus. The room-sized machine lives in the city of Kobe and was developed over six years by Japanese technology firm Fujitsu and the government-backed Riken Institute. Its name is another way of saying Mount Fuji. Its performance was measured at 415.53 petaflops, 2.8 times faster than second-place Summit's 148.6 petaflops. The US machine is housed at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee. A supercomputer is classified by being more than 1,000 times faster than a regular computer. "I hope that the leading-edge IT developed for it will contribute to major advances on difficult social challenges such as Covid-19," said Satoshi Matsuoka, the head of Riken's Center for Computational Science. Third place in the list went to another IBM system, at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in California, while the fourth and fifth places were taken by computers in China. Fugaku also topped other supercomputer performance rankings, becoming the first to simultaneously sit atop the Graph500, HPCG, and HPL-AI lists.

World's fastest supercomputer deployed to find 'cure' for coronavirus

Apple Inc said it will now switch to its own chips for Mac computers. The move will end the company's reliance on Intel Corp to supply processors for its flagship laptops and desktop.

Apple Chief Executive Tim Cook said it marked the beginning of a major new era for a product line that powered the company’s rise in the 1980s and its resurgence in the late 1990s.

Cook said the first of the new Mac computers will be shipping by the end of the year and that the change would help lead to "a common architecture for all of our products."

Apple Inc further said it would let software developers “challenge” the guidelines that govern its app review process and will end its practice of blocking routine bug fixes over minor violations. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/apple-unveils-ios-14-with-redesigned-home-screen-and-host-of-features-307862">Also Read:&nbsp;Apple unveils iOS 14 with redesigned home screen and host of features</a>

Apple’s App Store is the only way for developers to distribute their software to consumers’ iPhones and iPads. Apple keeps between 15 per cent and 30 per cent of revenues generated by developers in the store, making it a key part of its growth strategy as the pace of iPhone upgrades has slowed.

At the event, Apple also previewed iOS 14 which will work on the iPhone 6S and up just like iOS 13.. According to Apple, iOS 14 will be available for everyone this fall with a public beta for users in July.&nbsp;

iOS 14, Apple claimed, the biggest update ever to Home Screen pages with redesigned widgets and the App Library. 
 
(With inputs from Reuters)

Apple Inc said it will now switch to its own chips for Mac computers. The move will end the company's reliance on Intel Corp to supply processors for its flagship laptops and desktop.

Apple Inc said it will now switch to its own chips for Mac computers. The move will end the company's reliance on Intel Corp to supply processors for its flagship laptops and desktop. Apple Chief Executive Tim Cook said it marked the beginning of a major new era for a product line that powered the company’s rise in the 1980s and its resurgence in the late 1990s. Cook said the first of the new Mac computers will be shipping by the end of the year and that the change would help lead to "a common architecture for all of our products." Apple Inc further said it would let software developers “challenge” the guidelines that govern its app review process and will end its practice of blocking routine bug fixes over minor violations. Also Read: Apple unveils iOS 14 with redesigned home screen and host of features Apple’s App Store is the only way for developers to distribute their software to consumers’ iPhones and iPads. Apple keeps between 15 per cent and 30 per cent of revenues generated by developers in the store, making it a key part of its growth strategy as the pace of iPhone upgrades has slowed. At the event, Apple also previewed iOS 14 which will work on the iPhone 6S and up just like iOS 13.. According to Apple, iOS 14 will be available for everyone this fall with a public beta for users in July. iOS 14, Apple claimed, the biggest update ever to Home Screen pages with redesigned widgets and the App Library. (With inputs from Reuters)

Apple breaks up with Intel, switches to its own chips for Mac computers

Microsoft has rolled out, in preview, the personal version of its video calling app Teams for both Android and iOS and it will be fully rolled out in the coming weeks.

Users can opt for this feature by adding their personal account or signing up using the phone number. Microsoft Teams will allow users to switch between personal and work accounts. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/microsoft-teams-now-lets-you-use-your-own-images-as-background-during-video-calls-306216">Also Read: Microsoft Teams now lets you use your own images as background during video calls</a>

"Just like you do with Teams at work, you can stay connected with friends and loved ones through messaging and video calling. Create groups to chat and call, so you can stay connected with your family, your book club, your virtual Friday happy hour group, or whoever your group may be. You can also chat or call one-on-one. Our goal is that Teams will become the messaging hub for all your personal chats and video and voice calls, with fun features like sharing GIFs, photos, videos, documents, and even location already integrated," read the official Microsoft blog. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/facebook-and-microsoft-allows-employees-to-work-from-home-till-end-of-year-297640">Also Read: Facebook and Microsoft allows employees to work from home till end of year</a>

Earlier this 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.

Furthermore, Teams users can now put on live captions during their calls and meetings. The company is working on introducing AI-based real-time noise suppression in Teams meetings later this year.

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 has rolled out, in preview, the personal version of its video calling app Teams for both Android and iOS and it will be fully rolled out in the coming weeks.

Microsoft has rolled out, in preview, the personal version of its video calling app Teams for both Android and iOS and it will be fully rolled out in the coming weeks. Users can opt for this feature by adding their personal account or signing up using the phone number. Microsoft Teams will allow users to switch between personal and work accounts. Also Read: Microsoft Teams now lets you use your own images as background during video calls "Just like you do with Teams at work, you can stay connected with friends and loved ones through messaging and video calling. Create groups to chat and call, so you can stay connected with your family, your book club, your virtual Friday happy hour group, or whoever your group may be. You can also chat or call one-on-one. Our goal is that Teams will become the messaging hub for all your personal chats and video and voice calls, with fun features like sharing GIFs, photos, videos, documents, and even location already integrated," read the official Microsoft blog. Also Read: Facebook and Microsoft allows employees to work from home till end of year Earlier this 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. Furthermore, Teams users can now put on live captions during their calls and meetings. The company is working on introducing AI-based real-time noise suppression in Teams meetings later this 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 now available for personal use

Twitter, a social media platform that allows people to share their thoughts with the world, has been more than once misused by people for their own personal benefits, knowingly or unknowingly.

Twitter believes that people usually tend to share articles without reading the whole article, and only judging&nbsp;by the headline.

This has, sometimes, led to spreading of fake news and misinformation. To make sure that more such instances don't happen, Twitter is now trying out a new feature that will reconfirm from people before they share any unread article.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/now-aladdin-breakfast-at-tiffanys-to-run-with-disclaimer-outdated-attitude-on-tv-307761">Also read|&nbsp;Now 'Aladdin,' 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' to run with disclaimer 'outdated attitude' on TV</a>

“Sharing an article can spark conversation, so you may want to read it before you tweet it," Twitter said in a statement. “To help promote informed discussion, we’re testing a new prompt on Android – when you retweet an article that you haven’t opened on Twitter, we may ask if you’d like to open it first.”

Following this, for some selected users, a prompt&nbsp;asking people if they really want to retweet a link that they have not tapped on will be shown before they retweet. The trial is right now only for Android users.

The action was taken after a&nbsp;2016 study from computer scientists at Columbia University and Microsoft found that 59 per cent of links posted on Twitter are never clicked.

Twitter has made it clear that such tweets will not be blocked or deleted, but will only be given a 'friendly' warning.

Twitter, a social media platform that allows people to share their thoughts with the world, has been more than once misused by people for their own personal benefits, knowingly or unknowingly.

Twitter, a social media platform that allows people to share their thoughts with the world, has been more than once misused by people for their own personal benefits, knowingly or unknowingly. Twitter believes that people usually tend to share articles without reading the whole article, and only judging by the headline. This has, sometimes, led to spreading of fake news and misinformation. To make sure that more such instances don't happen, Twitter is now trying out a new feature that will reconfirm from people before they share any unread article. Also read| Now 'Aladdin,' 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' to run with disclaimer 'outdated attitude' on TV “Sharing an article can spark conversation, so you may want to read it before you tweet it," Twitter said in a statement. “To help promote informed discussion, we’re testing a new prompt on Android – when you retweet an article that you haven’t opened on Twitter, we may ask if you’d like to open it first.” Following this, for some selected users, a prompt asking people if they really want to retweet a link that they have not tapped on will be shown before they retweet. The trial is right now only for Android users. The action was taken after a 2016 study from computer scientists at Columbia University and Microsoft found that 59 per cent of links posted on Twitter are never clicked. Twitter has made it clear that such tweets will not be blocked or deleted, but will only be given a 'friendly' warning.

Read before retweeting: Twitter aims to limit sharing unread articles

Snapchat took down a "Juneteenth"-themed filter and apologised to users for the lens, which drew criticism for being insensitive, the photo messaging app's parent Snap Inc&nbsp;said on Friday.

The filter used Pan-African flag as a backdrop and prompted users to smile, which caused chains to appear behind them and then break.

Snap Inc. sought to show Black users it cared about them by releasing an interactive camera filter to commemorate Juneteenth. But the filter and social media outcry that followed only reminded the world of the company’s history of racist or insensitive blunders and lack of internal diversity.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dating-app-grindr-to-remove-ethnicity-filter-in-solidarity-with-black-lives-matter-movement-302532">Dating app Grindr to remove ethnicity filter in solidarity with Black Lives Matter movement</a>

''We deeply apologize to the members of the Snapchat community who found this Lens offensive,''&nbsp;the company said. ''A diverse group of Snap team members were involved in developing the concept, but a version of the Lens that went live for Snapchatters this morning had not been approved through our review process.''

Juneteenth marks the anniversary of the day in 1865 when the last enslaved Black Americans in Galveston, Texas, were freed 2 and half&nbsp;years after the Emancipation Proclamation.

The filter,&nbsp;prompting users to ''smile'' in order to break digital chains, debuted Friday morning on Snapchat. Within a few hours, the company had pulled it and apologized.

Noting that the company has published similarly offensive filters in the past, three former employees said the tone of the Juneteenth filter illustrates a lack of effort and attention to issues of race and diversity.

Several companies, including Twitter Inc &lt;TWTR.N&gt; and Nike Inc &lt;NKE.N&gt;, have declared June 19 a paid holiday for employees or reduced operating hours to commemorate Juneteenth.

Snapchat took down a "Juneteenth"-themed filter and apologised to users for the lens, which drew criticism for being insensitive, the photo messaging app's parent Snap Inc said on Friday.

Snapchat took down a "Juneteenth"-themed filter and apologised to users for the lens, which drew criticism for being insensitive, the photo messaging app's parent Snap Inc said on Friday. The filter used Pan-African flag as a backdrop and prompted users to smile, which caused chains to appear behind them and then break. Snap Inc. sought to show Black users it cared about them by releasing an interactive camera filter to commemorate Juneteenth. But the filter and social media outcry that followed only reminded the world of the company’s history of racist or insensitive blunders and lack of internal diversity. Also read: Dating app Grindr to remove ethnicity filter in solidarity with Black Lives Matter movement ''We deeply apologize to the members of the Snapchat community who found this Lens offensive,'' the company said. ''A diverse group of Snap team members were involved in developing the concept, but a version of the Lens that went live for Snapchatters this morning had not been approved through our review process.'' Juneteenth marks the anniversary of the day in 1865 when the last enslaved Black Americans in Galveston, Texas, were freed 2 and half years after the Emancipation Proclamation. The filter, prompting users to ''smile'' in order to break digital chains, debuted Friday morning on Snapchat. Within a few hours, the company had pulled it and apologized. Noting that the company has published similarly offensive filters in the past, three former employees said the tone of the Juneteenth filter illustrates a lack of effort and attention to issues of race and diversity. Several companies, including Twitter Inc <TWTR.N> and Nike Inc <NKE.N>, have declared June 19 a paid holiday for employees or reduced operating hours to commemorate Juneteenth.

Snapchat removes Juneteenth photo filter and apologises after backlash

Social media companies are increasingly regulating political speech in the United States and their biggest and common target is President Donald Trump.

On Thursday, Trump tweeted a video, showing two toddlers, one black and one white, running around. Through the video, he wanted to show how the American media allegedly twists the facts on racism.&nbsp;

But this video was doctored and it carried a fake headline wrongly attributed to CNN. Twitter has flagged this tweet by President Donald Trump, with a warning that it contained ''manipulated media'' designed to mislead people. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/twitter-labels-trump-tweet-about-racist-baby-as-manipulated-307017">Also Read: Twitter labels Trump tweet about 'racist baby' as 'manipulated'</a>

Another social media giant Facebook has removed a number of posts and ads run by Donald Trump’s re-election campaign that featured a symbol used by the Nazis for violating its “policy against organised hate”.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-are-facebook-twitter-uniting-against-trump-307193/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We removed these posts and ads for violating our policy against organized hate. Our policy prohibits using a banned hate group's symbol to identify political prisoners without the context that condemns or discusses the symbol," Andy Stone, a Facebook spokesperson said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/facebook-takes-down-trump-ads-for-violating-its-policy-against-organised-hate-306951">Also Read:&nbsp;Facebook takes down Trump ads for violating its policy against 'organised hate'</a>

These events mark another flashpoint in the increasingly contentious debate on political disinformation.

Facebook and Twitter have massive reach and they've become engines of the narrative. Both social media companies have the potential to influence political outcomes. Censorship is a double-edged sword, and Twitter and Facebook must call out both sides for harmful content. 
 
&nbsp;

Social media companies are increasingly regulating political speech in the United States and their biggest and common target is President Donald Trump. On Thursday, Trump tweeted a video, showing two toddlers, one black and one white, running around.

Social media companies are increasingly regulating political speech in the United States and their biggest and common target is President Donald Trump. On Thursday, Trump tweeted a video, showing two toddlers, one black and one white, running around. Through the video, he wanted to show how the American media allegedly twists the facts on racism. But this video was doctored and it carried a fake headline wrongly attributed to CNN. Twitter has flagged this tweet by President Donald Trump, with a warning that it contained ''manipulated media'' designed to mislead people. Also Read: Twitter labels Trump tweet about 'racist baby' as 'manipulated' Another social media giant Facebook has removed a number of posts and ads run by Donald Trump’s re-election campaign that featured a symbol used by the Nazis for violating its “policy against organised hate”. "We removed these posts and ads for violating our policy against organized hate. Our policy prohibits using a banned hate group's symbol to identify political prisoners without the context that condemns or discusses the symbol," Andy Stone, a Facebook spokesperson said. Also Read: Facebook takes down Trump ads for violating its policy against 'organised hate' These events mark another flashpoint in the increasingly contentious debate on political disinformation. Facebook and Twitter have massive reach and they've become engines of the narrative. Both social media companies have the potential to influence political outcomes. Censorship is a double-edged sword, and Twitter and Facebook must call out both sides for harmful content.

Social media companies must ensure unbiased policing

Twitter users have give US President Donald Trump's Tulsa rally a new name ''coronapalooza'' after&nbsp;Oklahoma's Supreme Court gave his rally a go-ahead.

A legal bid to stop the rally due to increasing coronavirus fears was rejected by the court.

The judgement came&nbsp;just as&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;announced that a curfew in the city had been lifted for the rally.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oklahomas-supreme-court-gives-go-ahead-to-trumps-rally-to-proceed-as-planned-307200" hreflang="en">Oklahoma's Supreme Court gives go ahead to Trump's rally</a>

Many medical experts fear the rally could&nbsp;cause a spike in COVID-19 cases. The event will be held in a 19,000-seat indoor arena at a time when Oklahoma has seen a recent increase in coronavirus infections.

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Grim reaper to open for Trump at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronapalooza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronapalooza</a> this week, should be Sick! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TrumpRallyTulsa?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TrumpRallyTulsa</a> <a href="https://t.co/se0ixN8BZb">pic.twitter.com/se0ixN8BZb</a>
— Jason Spatafora (@WolfOfWeedST) <a href="https://twitter.com/WolfOfWeedST/status/1274086311377489924?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Human sacrifices are needed to please <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BunkerBaby?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BunkerBaby</a> at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Coronapalooza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Coronapalooza</a>. <a href="https://t.co/hMNf2WXGT9">https://t.co/hMNf2WXGT9</a>
— D Villella ❄️ (@dvillella) <a href="https://twitter.com/dvillella/status/1274079063066529793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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What a perfect name for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TrumpRally?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TrumpRally</a> 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronapalooza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronapalooza</a>. 
I hope everyone not attending stays safe and avoids the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVIDIOTS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVIDIOTS</a>.
— Michele C. Hollow (@michelechollow) <a href="https://twitter.com/michelechollow/status/1274087438965714944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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However, many Twitter users found the coronapalooza hashtag useful for some sick burns at the president’s expense.

Donald Trump supporters who attend the US President's upcoming election rally must sign a waiver promising not to sue if they catch COVID-19 at the event, according to his campaign website.

Twitter users have give US President Donald Trump's Tulsa rally a new name ''coronapalooza'' after Oklahoma's Supreme Court gave his rally a go-ahead. A legal bid to stop the rally due to increasing coronavirus fears was rejected by the court.

Twitter users have give US President Donald Trump's Tulsa rally a new name ''coronapalooza'' after Oklahoma's Supreme Court gave his rally a go-ahead. A legal bid to stop the rally due to increasing coronavirus fears was rejected by the court. The judgement came just as Trump announced that a curfew in the city had been lifted for the rally. Also read: Oklahoma's Supreme Court gives go ahead to Trump's rally Many medical experts fear the rally could cause a spike in COVID-19 cases. The event will be held in a 19,000-seat indoor arena at a time when Oklahoma has seen a recent increase in coronavirus infections. Grim reaper to open for Trump at #coronapalooza this week, should be Sick! #TrumpRallyTulsa pic.twitter.com/se0ixN8BZb — Jason Spatafora (@WolfOfWeedST) June 19, 2020 × Human sacrifices are needed to please #BunkerBaby at the #Coronapalooza. https://t.co/hMNf2WXGT9 — D Villella ❄️ (@dvillella) June 19, 2020 × What a perfect name for the #TrumpRally #coronapalooza. I hope everyone not attending stays safe and avoids the #COVIDIOTS. — Michele C. Hollow (@michelechollow) June 19, 2020 × However, many Twitter users found the coronapalooza hashtag useful for some sick burns at the president’s expense. Donald Trump supporters who attend the US President's upcoming election rally must sign a waiver promising not to sue if they catch COVID-19 at the event, according to his campaign website.

Coronapalooza: Twitter users give another name to Trump's Tulsa rally

A new device that fits on to the existing air vents inside an airplane cabin could help reduce the risk of inflight coronavirus transmission.

The simple device is called AirShield.

Seattle-based technology company Teague says the device enhances air flows that help minimise the spread of germs on board, creating an invisible 'shield' around passengers.

AirShield is a 3D-printed component that fits onto the Passenger Service Unit above each passenger in an airplane cabin. The unit usually contains a reading light and vents, known as air gaspers, which send air downward onto the seat occupant.

AirShield sculpts the flow into blades that ensure any respiratory droplets are retained within a single passenger's space, and shouldn't be breathed in by the occupant of a neighbouring seat.

The passenger can control the direction and velocity of the air that's blasting onto them in the same way that they can also decide if they want their light on or off.

Normally, air on board a passenger plane is fed in through the top of the cabin and then extracted by floor vents to be fed through high-efficiency particulate absorbing (HEPA) filters that take out 99.9% of microbial content.

This makes the air that's coming back through the gaspers freshly purified.

AirShield is the latest in a slew of designs aim to reassure returning fliers in the wake of the pandemic. It received patent clearance earlier this month.

 
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A new device that fits on to the existing air vents inside an airplane cabin could help reduce the risk of inflight coronavirus transmission. The simple device is called AirShield.

A new device that fits on to the existing air vents inside an airplane cabin could help reduce the risk of inflight coronavirus transmission. The simple device is called AirShield. Seattle-based technology company Teague says the device enhances air flows that help minimise the spread of germs on board, creating an invisible 'shield' around passengers. AirShield is a 3D-printed component that fits onto the Passenger Service Unit above each passenger in an airplane cabin. The unit usually contains a reading light and vents, known as air gaspers, which send air downward onto the seat occupant. AirShield sculpts the flow into blades that ensure any respiratory droplets are retained within a single passenger's space, and shouldn't be breathed in by the occupant of a neighbouring seat. The passenger can control the direction and velocity of the air that's blasting onto them in the same way that they can also decide if they want their light on or off. Normally, air on board a passenger plane is fed in through the top of the cabin and then extracted by floor vents to be fed through high-efficiency particulate absorbing (HEPA) filters that take out 99.9% of microbial content. This makes the air that's coming back through the gaspers freshly purified. AirShield is the latest in a slew of designs aim to reassure returning fliers in the wake of the pandemic. It received patent clearance earlier this month.

Could this invisible air shield protect fliers from coronavirus transmission?

Tech giant Twitter&nbsp;has once again flagged a tweet by President Donald Trump, with the social network warning that it contained ''manipulated media''&nbsp;designed to mislead people.

The tweet showed a video with a CNN-style chyron that read “Terrified Todler Runs From Racist Baby,” created by an account describing itself as a “memesmith.” It showed two children, one Black and one White, on a sidewalk.

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<a href="https://t.co/vnRpk0zl5y">pic.twitter.com/vnRpk0zl5y</a>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1273770669214490626?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Twitter later put a “manipulated media” link in blue letters below the video. That led to a message saying, “Multiple journalists confirmed that the video, which was shared by President Trump, is edited and features a fake CNN chyron.

<img alt="Trump" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="92fc6c44-769e-44e3-919a-f3e59a6177bb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/manipulation-trump_0.png" />

The original CNN story, which is from 2019, reported on a friendship between two toddlers”.

The company's policies prohibit sharing videos, photos or audio that "have been deceptively altered or fabricated" to trick viewers and have the potential to cause harm. It was the first time Twitter used that particular label on one of Trump's posts.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-doubles-down-dares-twitter-to-block-another-trumps-tweet-301891">White House doubles down &amp; dares Twitter to block another Trump's tweet</a>

The move is likely to reignite tensions between Trump and the social media service, which the president uses multiple times a day to broadcast messages to his more than 82 million followers.

Most recently, the company also removed a Floyd tribute video tweeted by the Trump campaign because of a copyright infringement claim. 
 
The back-and-forth has fuelled a debate about the responsibilities that social media companies have for what is posted on their sites. Facebook has also been under pressure to remove some of Trump's posts but has said that it will not do so because it is not an arbiter of speech.

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Tech giant Twitter has once again flagged a tweet by President Donald Trump, with the social network warning that it contained ''manipulated media'' designed to mislead people.

Tech giant Twitter has once again flagged a tweet by President Donald Trump, with the social network warning that it contained ''manipulated media'' designed to mislead people. The tweet showed a video with a CNN-style chyron that read “Terrified Todler Runs From Racist Baby,” created by an account describing itself as a “memesmith.” It showed two children, one Black and one White, on a sidewalk. pic.twitter.com/vnRpk0zl5y — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 19, 2020 × Twitter later put a “manipulated media” link in blue letters below the video. That led to a message saying, “Multiple journalists confirmed that the video, which was shared by President Trump, is edited and features a fake CNN chyron. The original CNN story, which is from 2019, reported on a friendship between two toddlers”. The company's policies prohibit sharing videos, photos or audio that "have been deceptively altered or fabricated" to trick viewers and have the potential to cause harm. It was the first time Twitter used that particular label on one of Trump's posts. Also read: White House doubles down & dares Twitter to block another Trump's tweet The move is likely to reignite tensions between Trump and the social media service, which the president uses multiple times a day to broadcast messages to his more than 82 million followers. Most recently, the company also removed a Floyd tribute video tweeted by the Trump campaign because of a copyright infringement claim. The back-and-forth has fuelled a debate about the responsibilities that social media companies have for what is posted on their sites. Facebook has also been under pressure to remove some of Trump's posts but has said that it will not do so because it is not an arbiter of speech.

Twitter labels Trump tweet about 'racist baby' as 'manipulated'

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