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<p>Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has acknowledged that their new social media platform ‘Threads’ has witnessed a drastic fall in the number of its users within a month of its launch.</p>

<p>Make no mistake, the X rival rocketed to 100 million users within five days of its launch in early July; however, Threads failed to retain even half of them before the end of the month.</p>

<p>"If you have more than 100 million people sign up, ideally it would be awesome if all of them or even half of them stuck around. We're not there yet," Zuckerberg was quoted as saying by BBC.</p>

<p>The Meta CEO reportedly made these comments during a call to employees, who referred to the situation as “normal”.</p>

<h2><strong>Company focusing on adding more features</strong></h2>

<p>Meta is now focusing on adding more features to Threads to increase engagement on the platform, and thus retain as many users as it could.</p>

<p>The company's chief product officer, Chris Cox, told employees that they were adding more “retention-driving hooks” to the app to draw people back to the platform.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Meta reported double digit growth since the end of 2021</strong></p>

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<p>Features like "following" and "for you"' feeds have already been introduced to the app. Furthermore, the translation tool is also being overhauled to offer the increased scope of translation and boost reach.</p>

<p>While talking about another feature, Cox gave an example of "making sure people who are on the Instagram app can see important Threads".</p>

<h2><strong>Other plans by Meta</strong></h2>

<p>During the call, Zuckerberg also discussed the company's significant investment in a virtual reality world called the Metaverse.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He mentioned that progress on augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technology was on track, although not drastically ahead of schedule. He expects it to reach mainstream adoption in the next decade.</p>

<p>Some concerns have been raised about Meta's allocation of time and money to the Metaverse, as its Reality Labs division, responsible for VR products, has incurred substantial losses.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/metas-q2-results-exceed-expectations-with-11-revenue-growth-619780"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Meta`s Q2 results exceed expectations with 11% revenue growth</strong></a></p>

<p>Nevertheless, the company as a whole remains financially strong, having reported a profit of $7.79 billion in the last quarter.</p>

<p>Addressing another headline, Zuckerberg commented on the proposed cage fight with Elon Musk. While both have expressed interest in the past, he's uncertain whether it will actually happen. Zuckerberg said he was "not sure if it's going to come together".</p>

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Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has acknowledged that their new social media platform ‘Threads’ has witnessed a drastic fall in the number of its users within a month of its launch.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has acknowledged that their new social media platform ‘Threads’ has witnessed a drastic fall in the number of its users within a month of its launch. Make no mistake, the X rival rocketed to 100 million users within five days of its launch in early July; however, Threads failed to retain even half of them before the end of the month. "If you have more than 100 million people sign up, ideally it would be awesome if all of them or even half of them stuck around. We're not there yet," Zuckerberg was quoted as saying by BBC. The Meta CEO reportedly made these comments during a call to employees, who referred to the situation as “normal”. Company focusing on adding more features Meta is now focusing on adding more features to Threads to increase engagement on the platform, and thus retain as many users as it could. The company's chief product officer, Chris Cox, told employees that they were adding more “retention-driving hooks” to the app to draw people back to the platform. Watch: Meta reported double digit growth since the end of 2021 × Features like "following" and "for you"' feeds have already been introduced to the app. Furthermore, the translation tool is also being overhauled to offer the increased scope of translation and boost reach. While talking about another feature, Cox gave an example of "making sure people who are on the Instagram app can see important Threads". Other plans by Meta During the call, Zuckerberg also discussed the company's significant investment in a virtual reality world called the Metaverse. He mentioned that progress on augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technology was on track, although not drastically ahead of schedule. He expects it to reach mainstream adoption in the next decade. Some concerns have been raised about Meta's allocation of time and money to the Metaverse, as its Reality Labs division, responsible for VR products, has incurred substantial losses. Also read: Meta`s Q2 results exceed expectations with 11% revenue growth Nevertheless, the company as a whole remains financially strong, having reported a profit of $7.79 billion in the last quarter. Addressing another headline, Zuckerberg commented on the proposed cage fight with Elon Musk. While both have expressed interest in the past, he's uncertain whether it will actually happen. Zuckerberg said he was "not sure if it's going to come together". WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Meta boss Zuckerberg admits Threads failed to retain even half of initial users

<p>Texas has taken a path-breaking step into the realm of innovative housing. The US state has unveiled the world's largest community of 3D-printed homes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The first completed house in this groundbreaking project, which features wall "printed" using a concrete-based material, was recently showcased. This marks the beginning of a grand plan to construct 100 such homes, which will reportedly welcome residents starting September.</p>

<h2><strong>Wolf Ranch</strong></h2>

<p>The community, as per a CNN report, is part of a larger development known as Wolf Ranch.</p>

<p>A joint collaboration between the Texas-based construction firm ICON, homebuilding company Lennar, and Danish architecture practice Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), it is situated in Georgetown, Texas, approximately 30 miles north of the state capital, Austin.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/tech-friendly-couple-moves-into-europes-first-3d-printed-house-381746">Tech friendly: Couple moves into Europe's first 3D-Printed house</a></strong></p>

<p>The recently revealed model home boasts bright interiors and curved gray walls, made from a concrete-based material called Lavacrete. The walls are created using 46-foot-wide robotic printers, and once those are complete, the doors, windows, and roofs — all equipped with solar panels — are installed.</p>

<p>As&nbsp;per ICON, over a third of the homes' walls have been printed. The 3D-printed homes range in size from 1,500 to 2,100 square feet and consist of three to four bedrooms and are priced between $475,000 and $599,000.</p>

<h2><strong>A watershed moment</strong></h2>

<p>The project was introduced in 2021. Back then, Jason Ballard, co-founder, and CEO of ICON, described the project as a "watershed moment in the history of community-scale development."&nbsp;</p>

<p>3D-printing, he asserted, enables the construction of high-quality homes at a faster and more affordable pace compared to conventional building methods.</p>

<p>The innovative use of 3D printing in housing has the potential to address pressing environmental concerns and also the deficit the United States faces in terms&nbsp;of housing.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/medieval-seal-that-can-help-fast-track-a-persons-entry-into-heaven-to-put-on-display-in-uk-620365">Medieval seal that can help fast track a person's entry into heaven to put on display in UK</a></strong></p>

<p>Independent research, as per the CNN report, has shown that 3D-printed homes can reduce carbon dioxide emissions and construction waste. By eliminating the need for formwork, a material-intensive concrete mould, the overall use of concrete is significantly reduced.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Cement accounts for around 8 per cent of annual global CO2 emissions. 3D printed homes, as per a 2020 study, are also significantly cheaper.</p>

<h2><strong>What the critics say</strong></h2>

<p>While the project is a step forward in affordable housing and environmental impact, critics point out that 3D-printed homes still rely on carbon-intensive concrete. They also say that building codes addressing the safety and stability of these structures have not yet been widely adopted.</p>

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Texas has taken a path-breaking step into the realm of innovative housing. The US state has unveiled the world's largest community of 3D-printed homes. The first completed house in this groundbreaking project, which features wall "printed" using a concrete-based material, was recently showcased.

Texas has taken a path-breaking step into the realm of innovative housing. The US state has unveiled the world's largest community of 3D-printed homes. The first completed house in this groundbreaking project, which features wall "printed" using a concrete-based material, was recently showcased. This marks the beginning of a grand plan to construct 100 such homes, which will reportedly welcome residents starting September. Wolf Ranch The community, as per a CNN report, is part of a larger development known as Wolf Ranch. A joint collaboration between the Texas-based construction firm ICON, homebuilding company Lennar, and Danish architecture practice Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), it is situated in Georgetown, Texas, approximately 30 miles north of the state capital, Austin. Also read | Tech friendly: Couple moves into Europe's first 3D-Printed house The recently revealed model home boasts bright interiors and curved gray walls, made from a concrete-based material called Lavacrete. The walls are created using 46-foot-wide robotic printers, and once those are complete, the doors, windows, and roofs — all equipped with solar panels — are installed. As per ICON, over a third of the homes' walls have been printed. The 3D-printed homes range in size from 1,500 to 2,100 square feet and consist of three to four bedrooms and are priced between $475,000 and $599,000. A watershed moment The project was introduced in 2021. Back then, Jason Ballard, co-founder, and CEO of ICON, described the project as a "watershed moment in the history of community-scale development." 3D-printing, he asserted, enables the construction of high-quality homes at a faster and more affordable pace compared to conventional building methods. The innovative use of 3D printing in housing has the potential to address pressing environmental concerns and also the deficit the United States faces in terms of housing. Also read | Medieval seal that can help fast track a person's entry into heaven to put on display in UK Independent research, as per the CNN report, has shown that 3D-printed homes can reduce carbon dioxide emissions and construction waste. By eliminating the need for formwork, a material-intensive concrete mould, the overall use of concrete is significantly reduced. Cement accounts for around 8 per cent of annual global CO2 emissions. 3D printed homes, as per a 2020 study, are also significantly cheaper. What the critics say While the project is a step forward in affordable housing and environmental impact, critics point out that 3D-printed homes still rely on carbon-intensive concrete. They also say that building codes addressing the safety and stability of these structures have not yet been widely adopted. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US: Texas unveils world's largest community of 3D-printed homes

<p>The European Union (EU) has initiated an antitrust investigation concerning Microsoft's practice of bundling its collaboration and communication software, Teams, with its popular cloud-based productivity suites for businesses, Office 365 and Microsoft 365.</p>

<p>This investigation comes after rival company Slack lodged a complaint with the EU, alleging that Microsoft was unfairly tying Teams with its productivity suites, thereby restricting competition in the European Economic Area (EEA) for communication and collaboration products.</p>

<h2><strong>EU's concerns&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>“The Commission is concerned that Microsoft may be abusing and defending its market position in productivity software by restricting competition in the European Economic Area (‘EEA’) for communication and collaboration products,” European Commission said while announcing the probe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-support-to-taliban-regime-emboldens-terror-inside-its-borders-un-report-619894">Pakistan's support to Taliban regime emboldens terror inside its borders: UN report</a></p>

<p>“In particular, the Commission is concerned that Microsoft may grant Teams a distribution advantage by not giving customers the choice on whether or not to include access to that product when they subscribe to their productivity suites and may have limited the interoperability between its productivity suites and competing offerings," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Microsoft's response</strong></h2>

<p>Microsoft acknowledged the European Commission's action and expressed its commitment to cooperate with the investigation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/typhoon-doksuri-lashes-philippines-as-china-and-taiwan-stay-alert-619883">Typhoon Doksuri lashes Philippines as China and Taiwan stay alert&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>"We respect the European Commission’s work on this case and take our own responsibilities very seriously. We will continue to cooperate with the Commission and remain committed to finding solutions that will address its concerns," Microsoft reportedly said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Background of the complaint</strong></h2>

<p>In July 2020, Slack publicly accused Microsoft of illegally tying Teams to its dominant Office productivity suite. Slack claimed that Microsoft had forcibly installed Teams for millions of users, made it challenging to remove, and obscured its true cost to enterprise customers.</p>

<p>Microsoft countered the allegations, citing the surge in Teams' adoption during the COVID-19 pandemic due to increased demand for video conferencing and digital communication tools.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russian defence minister's Pyongyang visit | Putin to meet African leaders&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The EU's approach to regulating digital giants is evolving, with the introduction of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) providing additional antitrust enforcement powers.</p>

<p>The DMA targets powerful digital intermediaries or "gatekeepers" and imposes upfront obligations and restrictions on their core platform services to prevent self-favoring practices like bundling or tying.</p>

<p>Microsoft's business could fall under the scope of the DMA, and the regulation might apply to areas relevant to Slack's complaint, such as communications and cloud services.</p>

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The European Union (EU) has initiated an antitrust investigation concerning Microsoft's practice of bundling its collaboration and communication software, Teams, with its popular cloud-based productivity suites for businesses, Office 365 and Microsoft 365.

The European Union (EU) has initiated an antitrust investigation concerning Microsoft's practice of bundling its collaboration and communication software, Teams, with its popular cloud-based productivity suites for businesses, Office 365 and Microsoft 365. This investigation comes after rival company Slack lodged a complaint with the EU, alleging that Microsoft was unfairly tying Teams with its productivity suites, thereby restricting competition in the European Economic Area (EEA) for communication and collaboration products. EU's concerns “The Commission is concerned that Microsoft may be abusing and defending its market position in productivity software by restricting competition in the European Economic Area (‘EEA’) for communication and collaboration products,” European Commission said while announcing the probe. Also Read | Pakistan's support to Taliban regime emboldens terror inside its borders: UN report “In particular, the Commission is concerned that Microsoft may grant Teams a distribution advantage by not giving customers the choice on whether or not to include access to that product when they subscribe to their productivity suites and may have limited the interoperability between its productivity suites and competing offerings," it added. Microsoft's response Microsoft acknowledged the European Commission's action and expressed its commitment to cooperate with the investigation. Also Read | Typhoon Doksuri lashes Philippines as China and Taiwan stay alert "We respect the European Commission’s work on this case and take our own responsibilities very seriously. We will continue to cooperate with the Commission and remain committed to finding solutions that will address its concerns," Microsoft reportedly said. Background of the complaint In July 2020, Slack publicly accused Microsoft of illegally tying Teams to its dominant Office productivity suite. Slack claimed that Microsoft had forcibly installed Teams for millions of users, made it challenging to remove, and obscured its true cost to enterprise customers. Microsoft countered the allegations, citing the surge in Teams' adoption during the COVID-19 pandemic due to increased demand for video conferencing and digital communication tools. Watch | Russian defence minister's Pyongyang visit | Putin to meet African leaders × The EU's approach to regulating digital giants is evolving, with the introduction of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) providing additional antitrust enforcement powers. The DMA targets powerful digital intermediaries or "gatekeepers" and imposes upfront obligations and restrictions on their core platform services to prevent self-favoring practices like bundling or tying. Microsoft's business could fall under the scope of the DMA, and the regulation might apply to areas relevant to Slack's complaint, such as communications and cloud services. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

European Union launches antitrust investigation into Microsoft's bundling of Teams

<p>As the 20th anniversary of Concorde's final flight approaches, the world of ultrafast air travel is poised to enter a new phase. It is poised on the verge of&nbsp;a revolution in aviation, with suborbital and supersonic technologies offering the potential to dramatically reduce global travel times, ushering in a new era of&nbsp;air travel.</p>

<p>Concorde, the first supersonic commercial airliner, was renowned for its remarkable speed, allowing passengers to travel from New York to London in under three hours. However, the high maintenance costs and a high-profile crash in 2000 eventually led to the end of Concorde&nbsp;era.</p>

<h2><strong>Son of Concorde and the future</strong></h2>

<p>Now, NASA's X-59, nicknamed "Son of Concorde"&nbsp;has caught the spotlight with its experimental supersonic aircraft.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The supersonic aircraft, as per a New York Post, may soon be ready for its first test flights, which can potentially reduce the New York to London journey time to about three and a half hours.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandrayaan-3-successfully-completes-final-earth-orbit-raising-manoeuvre-isro-619262">Chandrayaan-3 successfully completes final Earth orbit-raising manoeuvre: ISRO</a></strong></p>

<p>While smaller and slower than its predecessor, the X-59 can still reach speeds of 925 mph.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Earth to Earth' flights</strong></h2>

<p>While impressive, X-59 is not "it". As per the report, even more, groundbreaking advancements are on the horizon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to recent research by Britain's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), a flight from London to Sydney, which currently takes 22 hours, could be reduced to just two hours by 2033.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The answer lies in suborbital "Earth to Earth" flights that use rockets to propel passengers up to 125 miles into space at speeds exceeding 3,500 mph. Using rockets similar to Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin and Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic jet programs, the craft then rapidly descends to the final destination, thereby significantly cutting journey times.</p>

<p>Aviation moguls, and visionaries like Elon Musk, are already investing in suborbital travel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Musk's SpaceX's in 2020 revealed plans for its Starship rocket to transport 100 passengers between continents in less than an hour.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/webb-telescope-detects-presence-of-water-in-inner-disk-around-young-star-research-619251">Webb Telescope detects presence of water in inner disk around young star: Research</a></strong></p>

<p>Not only this, recently Chinese company Space Transportation also announced that it intends to conduct suborbital testing with its reusable "rocket with wings," aiming for a test flight by 2024 and a crewed flight by 2025.</p>

<p>They estimate that their suborbital spacecraft called Tianxing I can potentially complete a 4,300-mile (6,920 kilometres) trip in about an hour. &nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Potential market and the risks</strong></h2>

<p>The potential market for suborbital flights is immense. As per Switzerland's UBS, if just 5 per cent of the 150 million annual flights lasting over 10 hours transitioned to point-to-point suborbital space travel, the market could exceed $20 billion per year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>UBS estimates that the total value of the subsonic market could reach $805 billion by 2030.</p>

<p>However, despite the prospects, suborbital flights face numerous challenges. Safety remains paramount, particularly given the higher risks associated with rocket propulsion fuels like the liquified natural gas used by Blue Origin, or the liquid oxygen and liquid methane used by Starship — which are more prone to exploding than typical aviation fuel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Environmental concerns also surround rocket-propelled aircraft, reports New York Post, as their emissions are under little or no regulations.</p>

<p>Another major concern revolves around the impact of G-forces on the human body during launch and reentry. As per Dr Ryan Anderton, the medical lead of the Civil Aviation Authority's space team, While suborbital journeys will be relatively short, "the main challenge faced will be the exposure to G-forces on launch and reentry."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking to the post, he said: We know this can affect the flow of blood around the body and to the head and it can sometimes generate abnormal heart rhythms."</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


As the 20th anniversary of Concorde's final flight approaches, the world of ultrafast air travel is poised to enter a new phase. It is poised on the verge of a revolution in aviation, with suborbital and supersonic technologies offering the potential to dramatically reduce global travel times, ushering in a new era of air travel.

As the 20th anniversary of Concorde's final flight approaches, the world of ultrafast air travel is poised to enter a new phase. It is poised on the verge of a revolution in aviation, with suborbital and supersonic technologies offering the potential to dramatically reduce global travel times, ushering in a new era of air travel. Concorde, the first supersonic commercial airliner, was renowned for its remarkable speed, allowing passengers to travel from New York to London in under three hours. However, the high maintenance costs and a high-profile crash in 2000 eventually led to the end of Concorde era. Son of Concorde and the future Now, NASA's X-59, nicknamed "Son of Concorde" has caught the spotlight with its experimental supersonic aircraft. The supersonic aircraft, as per a New York Post, may soon be ready for its first test flights, which can potentially reduce the New York to London journey time to about three and a half hours. Also read | Chandrayaan-3 successfully completes final Earth orbit-raising manoeuvre: ISRO While smaller and slower than its predecessor, the X-59 can still reach speeds of 925 mph. 'Earth to Earth' flights While impressive, X-59 is not "it". As per the report, even more, groundbreaking advancements are on the horizon. According to recent research by Britain's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), a flight from London to Sydney, which currently takes 22 hours, could be reduced to just two hours by 2033. The answer lies in suborbital "Earth to Earth" flights that use rockets to propel passengers up to 125 miles into space at speeds exceeding 3,500 mph. Using rockets similar to Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin and Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic jet programs, the craft then rapidly descends to the final destination, thereby significantly cutting journey times. Aviation moguls, and visionaries like Elon Musk, are already investing in suborbital travel. Musk's SpaceX's in 2020 revealed plans for its Starship rocket to transport 100 passengers between continents in less than an hour. Also read | Webb Telescope detects presence of water in inner disk around young star: Research Not only this, recently Chinese company Space Transportation also announced that it intends to conduct suborbital testing with its reusable "rocket with wings," aiming for a test flight by 2024 and a crewed flight by 2025. They estimate that their suborbital spacecraft called Tianxing I can potentially complete a 4,300-mile (6,920 kilometres) trip in about an hour. Potential market and the risks The potential market for suborbital flights is immense. As per Switzerland's UBS, if just 5 per cent of the 150 million annual flights lasting over 10 hours transitioned to point-to-point suborbital space travel, the market could exceed $20 billion per year. UBS estimates that the total value of the subsonic market could reach $805 billion by 2030. However, despite the prospects, suborbital flights face numerous challenges. Safety remains paramount, particularly given the higher risks associated with rocket propulsion fuels like the liquified natural gas used by Blue Origin, or the liquid oxygen and liquid methane used by Starship — which are more prone to exploding than typical aviation fuel. Environmental concerns also surround rocket-propelled aircraft, reports New York Post, as their emissions are under little or no regulations. Another major concern revolves around the impact of G-forces on the human body during launch and reentry. As per Dr Ryan Anderton, the medical lead of the Civil Aviation Authority's space team, While suborbital journeys will be relatively short, "the main challenge faced will be the exposure to G-forces on launch and reentry." Talking to the post, he said: We know this can affect the flow of blood around the body and to the head and it can sometimes generate abnormal heart rhythms."

Ultrafast air travel soon? NASA's supersonic X-59 and suborbital rockets lead the way

<p>Samsung has unveiled the latest iterations of its foldable phones. The new devices – Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 – have been announced at the Unpacked 2023 event in Seoul. We have got our hands on both devices. Having spent some time with the new Samsung phones, here’s what we think about them.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Galaxy Z Flip 5: Hands-on with the new Flip phone&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The new Galaxy Z Flip 5 has a form factor similar to its predecessor, but it is the cover display on the phone that makes it different from the previous-generation model. The cover display, also called the Flex Window, is 3.78 times larger than the previous version. It measures 3.4 inches. Interestingly, the bigger cover display offers a wide range of new capabilities. According to Samsung, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 allows users to do almost everything from the cover screen that they can do from the primary screen. Now, on the Flex Window, users can get access to a plethora of widgets, quick settings, and other interesting features.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also, the fifth-generation Flip phone is said to be the slimmest and sleekest Flip mobile ever.&nbsp;</p>

<p>We like the camera functionality of the phone. According to Samsung, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 has the most powerful camera on a Flip phone. We have tested its cameras, although briefly, and the initial results are promising. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Also, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 comes with new AI improvements in the camera. The AI-powered image signal processing algorithm is said to correct any visual noise that typically spoils low-light images while enhancing details and colour tone. &nbsp;</p>

<p>We, however, can talk about the full potential of its cameras after we put them to use in different conditions and environments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Not to our surprise, the phone is light in weight. So, one can easily operate it for long hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Its 6.2-inch HD+ Dynamic AMOLED display is a treat to the eyes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The new Galaxy Z Flip 5 will be available in four colours - Mint, Graphite, Cream, and Lavender – at a price of $999.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5: Hands-on with the new Fold phone</strong></h2>

<p>Much like the Galaxy Z Flip 5, Samsung has made some significant improvements in the Fold 5 as well. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Interestingly, the Fold 5 is 10 grams lighter than its predecessor. While the difference in weight may look negligible, it does add to the comfort and ease of handling the phone.&nbsp;As Samsung claims, the Fold 5 is also the thinnest Foldable phone yet.</p>

<p>Like earlier versions, the large main screen of the Fold 5 provides an expansive viewing experience.</p>

<p>Also, the new Fold packs a brighter screen.&nbsp;In the new version of the Galaxy Fold, the peak brightness has increased by more than 30%, which makes the screen appropriate for an optimal viewing experience outdoors even under bright sunlight.&nbsp;The screen is vibrant and produces crisp details.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of the major additions to the Fold is the ability to have faster access to recent apps. The improved taskbar enables dynamic productivity by allowing users to quickly switch between frequently-used apps.</p>

<p>Gamers would be excited to know that the Galaxy Z Fold 5 is claimed to comfortably handle marathon gaming sessions with its advanced cooling system. We can comment on it after testing it for a longer period.</p>

<p>The phone will be available in three colours – Icy Blue, Phantom Black, and Cream – at a price of $1,799.</p>

<p>Both phones will be available for pre-order in select markets from July 26, with general availability starting on August 11.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Samsung has unveiled the latest iterations of its foldable phones. The new devices – Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 – have been announced at the Unpacked 2023 event in Seoul.

Samsung has unveiled the latest iterations of its foldable phones. The new devices – Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 – have been announced at the Unpacked 2023 event in Seoul. We have got our hands on both devices. Having spent some time with the new Samsung phones, here’s what we think about them. Galaxy Z Flip 5: Hands-on with the new Flip phone The new Galaxy Z Flip 5 has a form factor similar to its predecessor, but it is the cover display on the phone that makes it different from the previous-generation model. The cover display, also called the Flex Window, is 3.78 times larger than the previous version. It measures 3.4 inches. Interestingly, the bigger cover display offers a wide range of new capabilities. According to Samsung, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 allows users to do almost everything from the cover screen that they can do from the primary screen. Now, on the Flex Window, users can get access to a plethora of widgets, quick settings, and other interesting features. Also, the fifth-generation Flip phone is said to be the slimmest and sleekest Flip mobile ever. We like the camera functionality of the phone. According to Samsung, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 has the most powerful camera on a Flip phone. We have tested its cameras, although briefly, and the initial results are promising. Also, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 comes with new AI improvements in the camera. The AI-powered image signal processing algorithm is said to correct any visual noise that typically spoils low-light images while enhancing details and colour tone. We, however, can talk about the full potential of its cameras after we put them to use in different conditions and environments. Not to our surprise, the phone is light in weight. So, one can easily operate it for long hours. Its 6.2-inch HD+ Dynamic AMOLED display is a treat to the eyes. The new Galaxy Z Flip 5 will be available in four colours - Mint, Graphite, Cream, and Lavender – at a price of $999. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5: Hands-on with the new Fold phone Much like the Galaxy Z Flip 5, Samsung has made some significant improvements in the Fold 5 as well. Interestingly, the Fold 5 is 10 grams lighter than its predecessor. While the difference in weight may look negligible, it does add to the comfort and ease of handling the phone. As Samsung claims, the Fold 5 is also the thinnest Foldable phone yet. Like earlier versions, the large main screen of the Fold 5 provides an expansive viewing experience. Also, the new Fold packs a brighter screen. In the new version of the Galaxy Fold, the peak brightness has increased by more than 30%, which makes the screen appropriate for an optimal viewing experience outdoors even under bright sunlight. The screen is vibrant and produces crisp details. One of the major additions to the Fold is the ability to have faster access to recent apps. The improved taskbar enables dynamic productivity by allowing users to quickly switch between frequently-used apps. Gamers would be excited to know that the Galaxy Z Fold 5 is claimed to comfortably handle marathon gaming sessions with its advanced cooling system. We can comment on it after testing it for a longer period. The phone will be available in three colours – Icy Blue, Phantom Black, and Cream – at a price of $1,799. Both phones will be available for pre-order in select markets from July 26, with general availability starting on August 11. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Fold 5: First impressions

<p>Elon Musk has given Twitter a major makeover, replacing the iconic blue bird logo with the letter “X”.</p>

<p>Hours before the announcement, Twitter CEO Linda Yaccarino said that ‘X’ is “the future state of unlimited interactivity” and that it “will connect us all in ways we’re just beginning to imagine".</p>

<p>“For years, fans and critics alike have pushed Twitter to dream bigger, to innovate faster, and to fulfil our great potential. X will do that and more. We’ve already started to see X take shape over the past 8 months through our rapid feature launches, but we’re just getting started.”</p>

<p>“There’s absolutely no limit to this transformation. X will be the platform that can deliver, well….everything. Elon Musk and I are looking forward to working with our teams and every single one of our partners to bring X to the world.”</p>

<p>The decision to rebrand the social media platform is just one of the many steps in Musk’s grandiose plan to make Twitter, or rather “X”, an all-in-one application, which he calls "the everything app"— that can be used for digital transactions, booking a cab and other financial services, just like China’s WeChat.</p>

<p>The makeover was expected as Musk has betting big on the social media platform after he bought it for a record $44 billion last year.</p>

<p>However, there is one interesting aspect of the Twitter makeover. Elon Musk’s obsession with the letter ‘X’. Turns out there is a historical context to it.</p>

<p>Before buying Twitter in 2022, Musk had said, “Buying Twitter is an accelerant to creating X, the everything app”.</p>

<p>In April this year, a filing in a federal court case in California revealed Twitter had been renamed to X Corp. In the same month, Musk tweeted only the letter ‘X’ to his millions of followers.</p>

<h2><strong>Musk’s first venture</strong></h2>

<p>In 1999, Musk came out with his first venture known as X.com—an online banking and financial services platform. A year later, he was forced to step down as the CEO of the firm.</p>

<p>“Everyone tried to talk him out of naming the company that back then because of the sexual innuendos, but he really liked it and stuck with it,” said Ashlee Vance, the author of Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future, about the X.com domain, according to NPR.</p>

<p>Three years later, Musk earned $165 million when the site, which was merged with PayPal by then, was bought by eBay.</p>

<p>Author Walter Isaacson also shared his thoughts on the whole matter by quoting excerpts from his upcoming biography on Musk.</p>

<p>&nbsp;“His concept for X.com was grand. It would be a one-stop everything-store for all financial needs: banking, digital purchases, checking, credit cards, investments, and loans. Transactions would be handled instantly, with no waiting for payments to clear. His insight was that money is simply an entry into a database, and he wanted to devise a way that all transactions were securely recorded in real-time.”</p>

<p>Musk would later buy the domain X.com back from PayPal in 2017. That site now directs people to Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Thanks PayPal for allowing me to buy back X.com! No plans right now, but it has great sentimental value to me,” Musk wrote on Twitter in 2017,&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, that was the first time Musk used the letter X as the domain name, but it was not his last.</p>

<h2><strong>‘X’ doesn’t stop there</strong></h2>

<p>Musk also affixed the letter “X” to his space company’s brand name.</p>

<p>SpaceX, formally known as Space Exploration Technologies Corporation, was founded by Musk in 2002.</p>

<p>The company recently launched its $3 billion&nbsp;test flight which was deemed a great success&nbsp;even after it burst into a spectacular ball of flames.</p>

<p>And even in Musk’s “bestselling” Tesla car, the letter X can be witnessed.</p>

<p>Model X, launched in 2015, was the “first SUV ever to earn 5-star safety ratings in every category and sub-category in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s tests,” as per the website.</p>

<p>And it doesn’t end here. The letter X also features in the name of Elon Musk’s son — X AE A-XII. The billionaire recently celebrated his 4th birthday.</p>

<p>Earlier this month, Musk launched his artificial intelligence startup named xAI. According to the company’s website, its goal is to “understand the true nature of the universe”.</p>

<h2><strong>But why X?</strong></h2>

<p>Musk earlier said that he chose “X” to replace Twitter’s brand because he wanted something that “embodies the imperfections in us all that make us unique”.</p>

<p>Canadian artist Claire Boucher, who shares two children with now separated Musk, recently explained why her baby is named ‘X’. She says it connotes the “unknown variable” in algebra.</p>

<p>According to writer Leon F Seltzer, the word ‘X’ has become the most “nihilistic” of letters.</p>

<p>In his piece for Psychology Today, Seltzer suggested that Musk appreciates X’s malleability—how it can be birth and death, cancellation and multiplication, nothing and everything.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Elon Musk has given Twitter a major makeover, replacing the iconic blue bird logo with the letter “X”. Hours before the announcement, Twitter CEO Linda Yaccarino said that ‘X’ is “the future state of unlimited interactivity” and that it “will connect us all in ways we’re just beginning to imagine".

Elon Musk has given Twitter a major makeover, replacing the iconic blue bird logo with the letter “X”. Hours before the announcement, Twitter CEO Linda Yaccarino said that ‘X’ is “the future state of unlimited interactivity” and that it “will connect us all in ways we’re just beginning to imagine". “For years, fans and critics alike have pushed Twitter to dream bigger, to innovate faster, and to fulfil our great potential. X will do that and more. We’ve already started to see X take shape over the past 8 months through our rapid feature launches, but we’re just getting started.” “There’s absolutely no limit to this transformation. X will be the platform that can deliver, well….everything. Elon Musk and I are looking forward to working with our teams and every single one of our partners to bring X to the world.” The decision to rebrand the social media platform is just one of the many steps in Musk’s grandiose plan to make Twitter, or rather “X”, an all-in-one application, which he calls "the everything app"— that can be used for digital transactions, booking a cab and other financial services, just like China’s WeChat. The makeover was expected as Musk has betting big on the social media platform after he bought it for a record $44 billion last year. However, there is one interesting aspect of the Twitter makeover. Elon Musk’s obsession with the letter ‘X’. Turns out there is a historical context to it. Before buying Twitter in 2022, Musk had said, “Buying Twitter is an accelerant to creating X, the everything app”. In April this year, a filing in a federal court case in California revealed Twitter had been renamed to X Corp. In the same month, Musk tweeted only the letter ‘X’ to his millions of followers. Musk’s first venture In 1999, Musk came out with his first venture known as X.com—an online banking and financial services platform. A year later, he was forced to step down as the CEO of the firm. “Everyone tried to talk him out of naming the company that back then because of the sexual innuendos, but he really liked it and stuck with it,” said Ashlee Vance, the author of Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future, about the X.com domain, according to NPR. Three years later, Musk earned $165 million when the site, which was merged with PayPal by then, was bought by eBay. Author Walter Isaacson also shared his thoughts on the whole matter by quoting excerpts from his upcoming biography on Musk. “His concept for X.com was grand. It would be a one-stop everything-store for all financial needs: banking, digital purchases, checking, credit cards, investments, and loans. Transactions would be handled instantly, with no waiting for payments to clear. His insight was that money is simply an entry into a database, and he wanted to devise a way that all transactions were securely recorded in real-time.” Musk would later buy the domain X.com back from PayPal in 2017. That site now directs people to Twitter. “Thanks PayPal for allowing me to buy back X.com! No plans right now, but it has great sentimental value to me,” Musk wrote on Twitter in 2017, Notably, that was the first time Musk used the letter X as the domain name, but it was not his last. ‘X’ doesn’t stop there Musk also affixed the letter “X” to his space company’s brand name. SpaceX, formally known as Space Exploration Technologies Corporation, was founded by Musk in 2002. The company recently launched its $3 billion test flight which was deemed a great success even after it burst into a spectacular ball of flames. And even in Musk’s “bestselling” Tesla car, the letter X can be witnessed. Model X, launched in 2015, was the “first SUV ever to earn 5-star safety ratings in every category and sub-category in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s tests,” as per the website. And it doesn’t end here. The letter X also features in the name of Elon Musk’s son — X AE A-XII. The billionaire recently celebrated his 4th birthday. Earlier this month, Musk launched his artificial intelligence startup named xAI. According to the company’s website, its goal is to “understand the true nature of the universe”. But why X? Musk earlier said that he chose “X” to replace Twitter’s brand because he wanted something that “embodies the imperfections in us all that make us unique”. Canadian artist Claire Boucher, who shares two children with now separated Musk, recently explained why her baby is named ‘X’. She says it connotes the “unknown variable” in algebra. According to writer Leon F Seltzer, the word ‘X’ has become the most “nihilistic” of letters. In his piece for Psychology Today, Seltzer suggested that Musk appreciates X’s malleability—how it can be birth and death, cancellation and multiplication, nothing and everything. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained | Why is Elon Musk so obsessed with the letter ‘X’?

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid9kjojMaM31b0" /><meta charset="utf-8" />Elon Musk on Monday (July 24) explained his decision to rebrand Twitter as 'X' and strip the social media platform of its iconic blue-bird logo. After a user wrote about the companies that had changed their name over the years, Musk responded and cleared it was not 'simply' a renaming process.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a post on X, Musk said acquiring Twitter was to ensure freedom of speech as well as "act as an accelerant for X - the everything app."</p>

<p>"This is not simply a company renaming itself, but doing the same thing," Musk wrote, adding that Twitter had served its purpose and that it had evolved past its name.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Twitter name made sense when it was just 140 character messages going back and forth – like birds tweeting – but now you can post almost anything, including several hours of video," wrote Musk.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The billionaire also hinted at the big changes that were coming,&nbsp;including transformation of the platform into a financial app.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the months to come, we will add comprehensive communications and the ability to conduct your entire financial world. The Twitter name does not make sense in that context, so we must bid adieu to the bird," Musk emphasised.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Twitter was acquired by X Corp both to ensure freedom of speech and as an accelerant for X, the everything app. This is not simply a company renaming itself, but doing the same thing.<br />
<br />
The Twitter name made sense when it was just 140 character messages going back and forth – like…</p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1683656350046232578?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/elon-musk-rebrands-twitter-to-x-in-brand-overhaul-618789"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Elon Musk rebrands Twitter to ‘X’ in brand overhaul</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Musk's long-term dream&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>This is not the first instance when Musk has explained his rationale. Even before completing the $44 billion deal for Twitter in 2022, Musk said, “Buying Twitter is an accelerant to creating X, the everything app."</p>

<p>In April this year, a filing in a federal court case in California revealed Twitter had been renamed to X Corp. In the same month, Musk tweeted only the letter ‘X’ to his millions of followers.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/explained-why-is-elon-musk-so-obsessed-with-the-letter-x-619050" target="_blank"><strong>Explained | Why is Elon Musk so obsessed with the letter ‘X’?</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>The X connection to Musk’s first venture</strong></h2>

<p>For long, Musk had&nbsp;been obsessed with the letter 'X'. The rebranding of Twitter to X is the culmination of a long-term desire of the billionaire. In 1999, Musk named his first venture as&nbsp;X.com—an online banking and financial services platform. A year later, he was forced to step down as the CEO of that firm.</p>

<p>“Everyone tried to talk him out of naming the company that back then because of the sexual innuendos, but he really liked it and stuck with it,” said Ashlee Vance, the author of <em>Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future</em>, according to NPR.</p>

<p>However, Musk persevered and 24 years later, he has the opportunity to use Twitter's existing mass user base to catapult his 'everything app'&nbsp;idea.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Elon Musk on Monday (July 24) explained his decision to rebrand Twitter as 'X' and strip the social media platform of its iconic blue-bird logo. After a user wrote about the companies that had changed their name over the years, Musk responded and cleared it was not 'simply' a renaming process.

Elon Musk on Monday (July 24) explained his decision to rebrand Twitter as 'X' and strip the social media platform of its iconic blue-bird logo. After a user wrote about the companies that had changed their name over the years, Musk responded and cleared it was not 'simply' a renaming process. In a post on X, Musk said acquiring Twitter was to ensure freedom of speech as well as "act as an accelerant for X - the everything app." "This is not simply a company renaming itself, but doing the same thing," Musk wrote, adding that Twitter had served its purpose and that it had evolved past its name. "The Twitter name made sense when it was just 140 character messages going back and forth – like birds tweeting – but now you can post almost anything, including several hours of video," wrote Musk. The billionaire also hinted at the big changes that were coming, including transformation of the platform into a financial app. "In the months to come, we will add comprehensive communications and the ability to conduct your entire financial world. The Twitter name does not make sense in that context, so we must bid adieu to the bird," Musk emphasised. Twitter was acquired by X Corp both to ensure freedom of speech and as an accelerant for X, the everything app. This is not simply a company renaming itself, but doing the same thing. The Twitter name made sense when it was just 140 character messages going back and forth – like… — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 25, 2023 × Watch | Elon Musk rebrands Twitter to ‘X’ in brand overhaul × Musk's long-term dream This is not the first instance when Musk has explained his rationale. Even before completing the $44 billion deal for Twitter in 2022, Musk said, “Buying Twitter is an accelerant to creating X, the everything app." In April this year, a filing in a federal court case in California revealed Twitter had been renamed to X Corp. In the same month, Musk tweeted only the letter ‘X’ to his millions of followers. Explained | Why is Elon Musk so obsessed with the letter ‘X’? The X connection to Musk’s first venture For long, Musk had been obsessed with the letter 'X'. The rebranding of Twitter to X is the culmination of a long-term desire of the billionaire. In 1999, Musk named his first venture as X.com—an online banking and financial services platform. A year later, he was forced to step down as the CEO of that firm. “Everyone tried to talk him out of naming the company that back then because of the sexual innuendos, but he really liked it and stuck with it,” said Ashlee Vance, the author of Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future, according to NPR. However, Musk persevered and 24 years later, he has the opportunity to use Twitter's existing mass user base to catapult his 'everything app' idea. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Elon Musk explains why Twitter had to rebrand itself to 'X' and dump the blue bird

<p>Britain's data regulator said on Tuesday it will examine Worldcoin, a project by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman where users provide their iris scans in exchange for a digital identification and free cryptocurrency.</p>

<p>"We note the launch of WorldCoin in the UK and will be making further enquiries," a spokesperson for the Information Commissioner's Office told Reuters.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/what-is-worldcoin-unique-iris-scanning-cryptocurrency-backed-by-chatgpt-ceo-sam-altman-heres-how-it-works-593731">What is Worldcoin? Unique iris-scanning cryptocurrency backed by ChatGPT CEO Sam Altman- Here's how it works</a></strong></p>

<p>Worldcoin launched on Monday with two million users from its trial, with the crypto project scaling up eyeball-scanning operations in 20 countries, including at sites in London.</p>

<p>Described on its website as a "new identity and financial network", the Worldcoin project assigns people who sign up a digital ID which it says would distinguish humans from artificial intelligence online.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sam-altman-of-openai-launches-worldcoin-crypto-project-619146">Sam Altman of OpenAI launches Worldcoin crypto project</a></strong></p>

<p>Its cryptocurrency, called the Worldcoin token, will be allocated to users who sign up in some countries, according to the website.</p>

<p>The Worldcoin token initially rose after its launch on Monday, hitting a peak of $3.30, and on Tuesday was at $2.01 according to market tracker CoinGecko.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Britain's data regulator said on Tuesday it will examine Worldcoin, a project by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman where users provide their iris scans in exchange for a digital identification and free cryptocurrency.

Britain's data regulator said on Tuesday it will examine Worldcoin, a project by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman where users provide their iris scans in exchange for a digital identification and free cryptocurrency. "We note the launch of WorldCoin in the UK and will be making further enquiries," a spokesperson for the Information Commissioner's Office told Reuters. ALSO READ | What is Worldcoin? Unique iris-scanning cryptocurrency backed by ChatGPT CEO Sam Altman- Here's how it works Worldcoin launched on Monday with two million users from its trial, with the crypto project scaling up eyeball-scanning operations in 20 countries, including at sites in London. Described on its website as a "new identity and financial network", the Worldcoin project assigns people who sign up a digital ID which it says would distinguish humans from artificial intelligence online. ALSO READ | Sam Altman of OpenAI launches Worldcoin crypto project Its cryptocurrency, called the Worldcoin token, will be allocated to users who sign up in some countries, according to the website. The Worldcoin token initially rose after its launch on Monday, hitting a peak of $3.30, and on Tuesday was at $2.01 according to market tracker CoinGecko. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK data watchdog to make enquiries about Worldcoin crypto project: Report

<p>Spotify has hiked rates of its subscription plans in several countries for the first time since 2011 as uncertainty in global economic outlook drives the music streaming giant to boost its profits.</p>

<p>“The market landscape has continued to evolve since we launched. So that we can keep innovating, we are changing our Premium prices across a number of markets around the world. These updates will help us continue to deliver value to fans and artists on our platform,” Spotify said in a blogpost on Monday (July 24).</p>

<p>From Monday, Spotify’s Premium Individual plan in US would cost $10.99, up from $9.99, while the Premium Duo plan has increased to $14.99 from $12.99.</p>

<p>The Premium Family plan will now be priced at $16.99, up from $15.99, and the Student plan will cost $5.99, up from $4.99.</p>

<h2><strong>Prices hiked in 54 countries</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The price hike has been extended to 53 other countries, including Canada, France, the UK, Mexico, and Australia.</p>

<p>Existing subscribers would be notified of the changes via email and will be given a one-month grace period before the new prices take effect, “unless they cancel before the grace period ends”, Spotify said.</p>

<p>The move follows a similar decision taken by rival services Apple and Amazon.com and Tidal, who all increased prices this year, while YouTube increased its monthly and annual premium plans in the US last week for the first time since the subscription service was launched in 2018.</p>

<h2><strong>Dwindling profits&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Spotify’s decision to hike subscription plans comes close on the heels of the company registering pre-tax losses of $265 million over the three months compared to a $99 m loss in the same period last year. Sales rose to $3.41 billion but missed analysts' expectations of $3.5 billion, according to BBC.</p>

<p>It is due to report its results for the second quarter on Tuesday.</p>

<p>In January, Spotify sacked 600 people, or 6 per cent of its workforce, saying that it expanded too quickly during the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandrayaan-3-successfully-completes-final-earth-orbit-raising-manoeuvre-isro-619262">Chandrayaan-3 successfully completes final Earth orbit-raising manoeuvre: ISRO</a></p>

<p>Co-founder and chief executive Daniel Ek said he had been “too ambitious in investing ahead of our revenue growth”.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-suggest-alien-spaceship-may-have-crash-landed-on-mars-618923">Scientists suggest alien spaceship 'may have crash-landed on Mars’</a></p>

<p>In an April earnings call, Ek said the company would "like to raise prices in 2023".</p>

<p>"When the timing is right, we will raise it and that price increase will go down well because we're delivering a lot of value for our customers," Ek said.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Spotify has hiked rates of its subscription plans in several countries for the first time since 2011 as uncertainty in global economic outlook drives the music streaming giant to boost its profits.

Spotify has hiked rates of its subscription plans in several countries for the first time since 2011 as uncertainty in global economic outlook drives the music streaming giant to boost its profits. “The market landscape has continued to evolve since we launched. So that we can keep innovating, we are changing our Premium prices across a number of markets around the world. These updates will help us continue to deliver value to fans and artists on our platform,” Spotify said in a blogpost on Monday (July 24). From Monday, Spotify’s Premium Individual plan in US would cost $10.99, up from $9.99, while the Premium Duo plan has increased to $14.99 from $12.99. The Premium Family plan will now be priced at $16.99, up from $15.99, and the Student plan will cost $5.99, up from $4.99. Prices hiked in 54 countries The price hike has been extended to 53 other countries, including Canada, France, the UK, Mexico, and Australia. Existing subscribers would be notified of the changes via email and will be given a one-month grace period before the new prices take effect, “unless they cancel before the grace period ends”, Spotify said. The move follows a similar decision taken by rival services Apple and Amazon.com and Tidal, who all increased prices this year, while YouTube increased its monthly and annual premium plans in the US last week for the first time since the subscription service was launched in 2018. Dwindling profits Spotify’s decision to hike subscription plans comes close on the heels of the company registering pre-tax losses of $265 million over the three months compared to a $99 m loss in the same period last year. Sales rose to $3.41 billion but missed analysts' expectations of $3.5 billion, according to BBC. It is due to report its results for the second quarter on Tuesday. In January, Spotify sacked 600 people, or 6 per cent of its workforce, saying that it expanded too quickly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Also read | Chandrayaan-3 successfully completes final Earth orbit-raising manoeuvre: ISRO Co-founder and chief executive Daniel Ek said he had been “too ambitious in investing ahead of our revenue growth”. Also read | Scientists suggest alien spaceship 'may have crash-landed on Mars’ In an April earnings call, Ek said the company would "like to raise prices in 2023". "When the timing is right, we will raise it and that price increase will go down well because we're delivering a lot of value for our customers," Ek said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Spotify raises premium subscription price plans in many countries

<p>Popular social media platform, Meta-owned Instagram, suffered a massive outage Tuesday (July 25) globally, a record third time in a month. Reports said more than 50,000 users faced problems while accessing several features on Instagram.</p>

<p>Several users took to X (formerly Twitter) to vent their frustration and wrote that they were unable to upload images on the social media platform.</p>

<p>The outage was not limited to a particular server or region. Meta is yet to disclose what caused the outage.</p>

<p><br />
Several users later reported Instagram was working fine for them again.</p>

<h2><strong>Third outage within a month</strong></h2>

<p>Instagram has been facing a number of issues of late. On July 11, all major platforms of Meta, including WhatsApp and Facebook, went down for a couple of hours.</p>

<p>The second outage came on July 20, when thousands of Instagram users worldwide struggled to access the platform. The outage affected multiple regions globally.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Zuckerberg-Musk fight is on: Instagram launches 'Threads' to rival Twitter</strong></p>

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<p>Now, the third outage was reported today (July 25) at 8:28 AM IST. The outage peaked at 8:47 AM. Around 87 per cent of users faced issues while logging in to the app.</p>

<h2><strong>Instagram’s ‘Threads’ problem</strong></h2>

<p>Instagram recently unveiled its latest creation, the Threads app, making a bold move to compete with X (formerly Twitter). Threads, which stands as a separate entity, brings together elements from both X and Instagram to form a unique and fresh social media experience.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/meta-layoffs-10000-job-cuts-facebook-whatsapp-instagram-indians-affected-facebook-layoffs-584200"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Meta begins layoffs; to leave 10000 without jobs across Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp</strong></a></p>

<p>Users of Threads can engage in various activities, including creating text-based posts, sharing photos, and uploading videos.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, after an explosive launch, the app has been facing a steady decline in the number of active monthly users. The app has witnessed a substantial 70 per cent decline in daily active users since reaching its peak on July 7.</p>

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Popular social media platform, Meta-owned Instagram, suffered a massive outage Tuesday (July 25) globally, a record third time in a month. Reports said more than 50,000 users faced problems while accessing several features on Instagram.

Popular social media platform, Meta-owned Instagram, suffered a massive outage Tuesday (July 25) globally, a record third time in a month. Reports said more than 50,000 users faced problems while accessing several features on Instagram. Several users took to X (formerly Twitter) to vent their frustration and wrote that they were unable to upload images on the social media platform. The outage was not limited to a particular server or region. Meta is yet to disclose what caused the outage. Several users later reported Instagram was working fine for them again. Third outage within a month Instagram has been facing a number of issues of late. On July 11, all major platforms of Meta, including WhatsApp and Facebook, went down for a couple of hours. The second outage came on July 20, when thousands of Instagram users worldwide struggled to access the platform. The outage affected multiple regions globally. Watch: Zuckerberg-Musk fight is on: Instagram launches 'Threads' to rival Twitter × Now, the third outage was reported today (July 25) at 8:28 AM IST. The outage peaked at 8:47 AM. Around 87 per cent of users faced issues while logging in to the app. Instagram’s ‘Threads’ problem Instagram recently unveiled its latest creation, the Threads app, making a bold move to compete with X (formerly Twitter). Threads, which stands as a separate entity, brings together elements from both X and Instagram to form a unique and fresh social media experience. Also read: Meta begins layoffs; to leave 10000 without jobs across Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp Users of Threads can engage in various activities, including creating text-based posts, sharing photos, and uploading videos. However, after an explosive launch, the app has been facing a steady decline in the number of active monthly users. The app has witnessed a substantial 70 per cent decline in daily active users since reaching its peak on July 7. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Instagram down! Popular Meta platform suffers outage again, third within a month

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<p>Elon Musk's decision to rebrand social media giant Twitter as X could have legal complications,&nbsp;as companies including Meta and Microsoft already have intellectual property rights to the same letter. According to a report by the news agency Reuters on Tuesday (July 25), X is so widely used and cited in trademarks that it has become a candidate for legal challenges.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US trademark attorney Josh Gerben said, "There's a 100% chance that Twitter is going to get sued over this (its new name) by somebody." Gerben added that he counted nearly 900 active American trademark registrations that already cover the letter X in a wide range of industries.</p>

<p>Owners of trademarks can claim infringement if other branding would cause consumer confusion. Remedies range from monetary damages to blocking use.</p>

<h2><strong>The 'X' owned by Meta and Microsoft&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Meta owns a federal trademark registered in 2019 covering a blue-and-white letter "X" for fields including software and social media. Microsoft, on the other hand, has owned an X trademark related to communications about its Xbox video game system since 2003.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/elon-musk-explains-why-twitter-had-to-rebrand-itself-to-x-and-dump-the-blue-bird-619150">Elon Musk explains why Twitter had to rebrand itself to 'X' and dump the bluebird</a></strong></p>

<p>Attorney Gerben said that Meta and Microsoft likely would not sue unless they feel threatened that Twitter's X encroaches on brand equity they built in the letter.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Twitter sign starts coming down at San Francisco HQ for rebranding&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>On Monday, the Twitter sign started coming down at the company's San Francisco headquarters, as part of the rebranding process. A stylised white X on a black background became the new logo on Twitter's website. However, the bluebird was still seen on the mobile app on Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The new logo of the social media giant has garnered mixed reactions from users and sparked confusion about what tweets would now be called. Marketing and branding experts meanwhile, said, that rebranding risked throwing away years of Twitter's name recognition.</p>

<p>"Only a few brands have become verbs or seen themselves referred to in global news outlets as often as Twitter has. Anything that makes it harder for people to find, or want to open the app on their cluttered phone screens risks harming usage," Matt Rhodes, strategy lead at creative agency House 337, told Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Elon Musk's decision to rebrand social media giant Twitter as X could have legal complications, as companies including Meta and Microsoft already have intellectual property rights to the same letter.

Elon Musk's decision to rebrand social media giant Twitter as X could have legal complications, as companies including Meta and Microsoft already have intellectual property rights to the same letter. According to a report by the news agency Reuters on Tuesday (July 25), X is so widely used and cited in trademarks that it has become a candidate for legal challenges. US trademark attorney Josh Gerben said, "There's a 100% chance that Twitter is going to get sued over this (its new name) by somebody." Gerben added that he counted nearly 900 active American trademark registrations that already cover the letter X in a wide range of industries. Owners of trademarks can claim infringement if other branding would cause consumer confusion. Remedies range from monetary damages to blocking use. The 'X' owned by Meta and Microsoft Meta owns a federal trademark registered in 2019 covering a blue-and-white letter "X" for fields including software and social media. Microsoft, on the other hand, has owned an X trademark related to communications about its Xbox video game system since 2003. Also read | Elon Musk explains why Twitter had to rebrand itself to 'X' and dump the bluebird Attorney Gerben said that Meta and Microsoft likely would not sue unless they feel threatened that Twitter's X encroaches on brand equity they built in the letter. Twitter sign starts coming down at San Francisco HQ for rebranding On Monday, the Twitter sign started coming down at the company's San Francisco headquarters, as part of the rebranding process. A stylised white X on a black background became the new logo on Twitter's website. However, the bluebird was still seen on the mobile app on Monday. The new logo of the social media giant has garnered mixed reactions from users and sparked confusion about what tweets would now be called. Marketing and branding experts meanwhile, said, that rebranding risked throwing away years of Twitter's name recognition. "Only a few brands have become verbs or seen themselves referred to in global news outlets as often as Twitter has. Anything that makes it harder for people to find, or want to open the app on their cluttered phone screens risks harming usage," Matt Rhodes, strategy lead at creative agency House 337, told Reuters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Musk's decision to rebrand Twitter as X could have legal complications. Here's how

<p>India's nodal agency for computer security-related threats has issued a warning to citizens and organisations about the emergence of a new ransomware called 'Akira'.&nbsp;Union government's Computer Emergency Response Team-India (CERT-In) issued the critical advisory on Monday, stating that the ransomware was targeting both Windows and Linux-based operating systems.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The agency informed that the group responsible for the ransomware compromised the users via VPN services, particularly when the users had&nbsp;not&nbsp;enabled multi-factor authentication. It also hoodwinked the users through tools such as AnyDesk, WinRAR, and PC Hunter, to download benign-looking files.</p>

<p>Once inside the system, the ransomware turns itself on and encrypts all sensitive information and converts them into files with .akira extensions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The attack process begins when a sample of the Akira ransomware is executed. Upon execution, Akira deletes the Windows Shadow Volume Copies on the targeted device. The ransomware then encrypts files with a predefined set of extensions. A '.akira' extension is appended to each encrypted file's name during this encryption process," noted the agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ransomware-attack-on-aiims-server-is-the-world-prepared-to-fight-a-cyber-war-537227"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas | 'Ransomware' attack on AIIMS server: Is the world prepared to fight a cyber war?</strong></a></p>

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<p>Once the data is harvested, the victims are threatened to pay a ransom or else the content, explicit in some instances, will be posted on social media platforms. Meanwhile, corporate companies are threatened that their trade secrets will be sold on the dark web to the highest bidder.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What you can do to avoid ransomware attacks&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The ransomware has been active in the cyber world since March 2023, most often breaching corporate networks. To avoid becoming a victim, CERT-In advises the users to follow basic internet hygiene and protection protocols,&nbsp;</p>

<p>Maintaining official backups of critical data is highly recommended to avoid data loss even when the bad actors get their hands on it.</p>

<p>To ensure hackers have no way in,&nbsp;strong password policies and multi-factor authentication (MFA) should be enforced religiously.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Similarly, a strict External Device (USB drive) usage policy and data-at-rest and data-in-transit encryption should be used. Attachments with file types such as&nbsp;exe, pif, tmp, url, vb, vbe, scr, reg, cer, pst, md among others should be blocked</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/chinese-hackers-target-foreign-government-officials-using-a-new-malware-514835"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Chinese hackers target foreign government officials using a new malware</strong></a></p>

<p>Additionally, conduct Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing (VAPT) and information security audits of critical networks/systems, especially database servers, from CERT-IN empanelled auditors. Repeat audits at regular intervals</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong>:&nbsp;</p>

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India's nodal agency for computer security-related threats has issued a warning to citizens and organisations about the emergence of a new ransomware called 'Akira'.

India's nodal agency for computer security-related threats has issued a warning to citizens and organisations about the emergence of a new ransomware called 'Akira'. Union government's Computer Emergency Response Team-India (CERT-In) issued the critical advisory on Monday, stating that the ransomware was targeting both Windows and Linux-based operating systems. The agency informed that the group responsible for the ransomware compromised the users via VPN services, particularly when the users had not enabled multi-factor authentication. It also hoodwinked the users through tools such as AnyDesk, WinRAR, and PC Hunter, to download benign-looking files. Once inside the system, the ransomware turns itself on and encrypts all sensitive information and converts them into files with .akira extensions. "The attack process begins when a sample of the Akira ransomware is executed. Upon execution, Akira deletes the Windows Shadow Volume Copies on the targeted device. The ransomware then encrypts files with a predefined set of extensions. A '.akira' extension is appended to each encrypted file's name during this encryption process," noted the agency. Watch | Gravitas | 'Ransomware' attack on AIIMS server: Is the world prepared to fight a cyber war? × Once the data is harvested, the victims are threatened to pay a ransom or else the content, explicit in some instances, will be posted on social media platforms. Meanwhile, corporate companies are threatened that their trade secrets will be sold on the dark web to the highest bidder. What you can do to avoid ransomware attacks The ransomware has been active in the cyber world since March 2023, most often breaching corporate networks. To avoid becoming a victim, CERT-In advises the users to follow basic internet hygiene and protection protocols, Maintaining official backups of critical data is highly recommended to avoid data loss even when the bad actors get their hands on it. To ensure hackers have no way in, strong password policies and multi-factor authentication (MFA) should be enforced religiously. Similarly, a strict External Device (USB drive) usage policy and data-at-rest and data-in-transit encryption should be used. Attachments with file types such as exe, pif, tmp, url, vb, vbe, scr, reg, cer, pst, md among others should be blocked Also read | Chinese hackers target foreign government officials using a new malware Additionally, conduct Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing (VAPT) and information security audits of critical networks/systems, especially database servers, from CERT-IN empanelled auditors. Repeat audits at regular intervals (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Government warns of 'Akira' ransomware targeting Windows and Linux users

<p>After Meta, we have a new giant player entering the microblogging space—TikTok. To rival X (formerly Twitter) and Meta’s newly launched Threads, TikTok has declared it will offer text-only posts on its platform.</p>

<p>TikTok has embedded the new feature in its original app only, against Meta’s separate app. The Chinese company said in a statement that the text-only post option will expand the “boundaries of content creation” on the platform and tap into the “creativity seen in captions and comments”.</p>

<h2><strong>What is TikTok’s text-only post feature?</strong></h2>

<p>The service is similar to what Instagram already offers in 'Stories' feature. The users can generate posts using text on solid colour backgrounds, use music or sound, use stickers and location. Also, the ready-to-post content can be reposted as a video as well.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;TikTok's attempts to reassure government</strong></p>

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<p>Due to TikTok’s massive popularity in the US (150 million users), the new feature is expected to disrupt the microblogging space. Its launch comes after Meta launched its Threads app and US billionaire Elon Musk rebranded his Twitter brand to X, thus further creating ripples on the internet.</p>

<h2><strong>Why TikTok is wading into the microblogging space</strong></h2>

<p>It started after Musk took over Twitter before rebranding it as X, and started implementing changes that ended up confusing and even irritating its users. The users have specifically expressed their frustration with the paid-only features and ‘view limits’ applied to unverified profiles.</p>

<p>Other major threats looming over X are diminishing valuation, major outages and plummeting revenues. However, none of them has led to a drop in X’s popularity among its users.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-700000-tiktok-turkish-accounts-were-hacked-ahead-of-presidential-elections-report-617276"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Turkey: 700,000 TikTok accounts were hacked ahead of presidential elections, says report</strong></a></p>

<p>Subsequently, a couple of competitors garnered interest, such as Mastodon and the more recent Bluesky.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Meta’s Threads: A flop show?</strong></h2>

<p>Meta's Threads, which was launched earlier this month, was perceived as the first significant contender to pose a real threat to Twitter. Threads boasts integration with Instagram and achieved unprecedented growth, attracting over 100 million users within a mere five days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, its initial success was short-lived, witnessing a substantial 70 per cent decline in daily active users since reaching its peak on July 7. This setback has dampened its explosive launch, potentially paving the way for new competitors like TikTok to step in, introducing text features and presenting a formidable challenge to X (Twitter).</p>

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After Meta, we have a new giant player entering the microblogging space—TikTok. To rival X (formerly Twitter) and Meta’s newly launched Threads, TikTok has declared it will offer text-only posts on its platform.

After Meta, we have a new giant player entering the microblogging space—TikTok. To rival X (formerly Twitter) and Meta’s newly launched Threads, TikTok has declared it will offer text-only posts on its platform. TikTok has embedded the new feature in its original app only, against Meta’s separate app. The Chinese company said in a statement that the text-only post option will expand the “boundaries of content creation” on the platform and tap into the “creativity seen in captions and comments”. What is TikTok’s text-only post feature? The service is similar to what Instagram already offers in 'Stories' feature. The users can generate posts using text on solid colour backgrounds, use music or sound, use stickers and location. Also, the ready-to-post content can be reposted as a video as well. Watch: TikTok's attempts to reassure government × Due to TikTok’s massive popularity in the US (150 million users), the new feature is expected to disrupt the microblogging space. Its launch comes after Meta launched its Threads app and US billionaire Elon Musk rebranded his Twitter brand to X, thus further creating ripples on the internet. Why TikTok is wading into the microblogging space It started after Musk took over Twitter before rebranding it as X, and started implementing changes that ended up confusing and even irritating its users. The users have specifically expressed their frustration with the paid-only features and ‘view limits’ applied to unverified profiles. Other major threats looming over X are diminishing valuation, major outages and plummeting revenues. However, none of them has led to a drop in X’s popularity among its users. Also read: Turkey: 700,000 TikTok accounts were hacked ahead of presidential elections, says report Subsequently, a couple of competitors garnered interest, such as Mastodon and the more recent Bluesky. Meta’s Threads: A flop show? Meta's Threads, which was launched earlier this month, was perceived as the first significant contender to pose a real threat to Twitter. Threads boasts integration with Instagram and achieved unprecedented growth, attracting over 100 million users within a mere five days. However, its initial success was short-lived, witnessing a substantial 70 per cent decline in daily active users since reaching its peak on July 7. This setback has dampened its explosive launch, potentially paving the way for new competitors like TikTok to step in, introducing text features and presenting a formidable challenge to X (Twitter). WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

After Meta’s fledgling attempt, TikTok takes on X by offering text-only posts

<p>Twitter owner Elon Musk and Chief Executive Officer Linda Yaccarino, announced a branding overhaul of the social media platform in one of the most significant changes to a crucial part of the social media ecosystem this year.</p>

<p>They revealed that the iconic bird logo will be replaced, and the platform will be renamed "X." This transformation is expected to steer Twitter into new territories, focusing on payments, banking, and commerce, all powered by Artificial Intelligence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Linda Yaccarino expressed her enthusiasm for the future of "X," stating that it will revolutionise the way people connect with each other, incorporating cutting-edge features such as audio, video, messaging, and more.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/elon-musk-looks-to-change-twitter-logo-with-focus-on-branding-overhaul-618572">Elon Musk looks to change Twitter logo with focus on branding overhaul</a></strong></p>

<p>Elon Musk, in a tweet over the weekend, confirmed the branding overhaul and bid farewell to the Twitter brand and its Larry the bird imagery.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The billionaire business magnate shared a picture of the Twitter bird over a black and white marbled background, emphasising the shift towards the "X" identity.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Twitter set to replace its iconic bird logo, Elon Musk shares new design</strong></p>

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<p>Since Musk's acquisition of Twitter last year, the platform has faced challenges in its advertising business, leading to the exploration of new revenue streams. The introduction of payments and commerce appears to be a way to counterbalance the declining advertisement revenues.</p>

<h2><strong>So will you still tweet on Twitter successor 'X'?</strong></h2>

<p>No, you won't. You won't tweet on Twitter any longer. Under the new identity, posts on the platform will be referred to as "an X," and a suitable Art Deco-style logo is being sought.</p>

<p>A tweet has been fundamentally the voice of Larry the bird that has symbolised Twitter the social media platform and the expressions of people on the platform.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With Musk's branding overhaul, the platform's association with birds will come to an end.</p>

<h2><strong>Is there any past precursor to X?</strong></h2>

<p>Yes, there is.</p>

<p>Elon Musk has been vocal about his vision for "X" to be an all-encompassing app, reminiscent of the X.com venture he founded in the past, which eventually evolved into PayPal.</p>

<p>Despite having around 200 million daily active users, Twitter has faced technical issues and user backlash since Musk's takeover. The imposition of charges for previously free services, changes to content moderation, and the return of previously banned accounts have received negative responses.</p>

<p>In light of Meta's recent launch of Threads, a text-based platform with a substantial user base, Twitter faces competition in the social media landscape.</p>

<p>With "X," Musk aims to create a global marketplace, bringing together ideas, goods, services, and opportunities in a limitless and interactive ecosystem.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Twitter owner Elon Musk and Chief Executive Officer Linda Yaccarino, announced a branding overhaul of the social media platform in one of the most significant changes to a crucial part of the social media ecosystem this year.

Twitter owner Elon Musk and Chief Executive Officer Linda Yaccarino, announced a branding overhaul of the social media platform in one of the most significant changes to a crucial part of the social media ecosystem this year. They revealed that the iconic bird logo will be replaced, and the platform will be renamed "X." This transformation is expected to steer Twitter into new territories, focusing on payments, banking, and commerce, all powered by Artificial Intelligence. Linda Yaccarino expressed her enthusiasm for the future of "X," stating that it will revolutionise the way people connect with each other, incorporating cutting-edge features such as audio, video, messaging, and more. Also read | Elon Musk looks to change Twitter logo with focus on branding overhaul Elon Musk, in a tweet over the weekend, confirmed the branding overhaul and bid farewell to the Twitter brand and its Larry the bird imagery. The billionaire business magnate shared a picture of the Twitter bird over a black and white marbled background, emphasising the shift towards the "X" identity. Also watch | Twitter set to replace its iconic bird logo, Elon Musk shares new design × Since Musk's acquisition of Twitter last year, the platform has faced challenges in its advertising business, leading to the exploration of new revenue streams. The introduction of payments and commerce appears to be a way to counterbalance the declining advertisement revenues. So will you still tweet on Twitter successor 'X'? No, you won't. You won't tweet on Twitter any longer. Under the new identity, posts on the platform will be referred to as "an X," and a suitable Art Deco-style logo is being sought. A tweet has been fundamentally the voice of Larry the bird that has symbolised Twitter the social media platform and the expressions of people on the platform. With Musk's branding overhaul, the platform's association with birds will come to an end. Is there any past precursor to X? Yes, there is. Elon Musk has been vocal about his vision for "X" to be an all-encompassing app, reminiscent of the X.com venture he founded in the past, which eventually evolved into PayPal. Despite having around 200 million daily active users, Twitter has faced technical issues and user backlash since Musk's takeover. The imposition of charges for previously free services, changes to content moderation, and the return of previously banned accounts have received negative responses. In light of Meta's recent launch of Threads, a text-based platform with a substantial user base, Twitter faces competition in the social media landscape. With "X," Musk aims to create a global marketplace, bringing together ideas, goods, services, and opportunities in a limitless and interactive ecosystem. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Logo change on way: Tweet your last one because on Musk's Twitter, you will post an 'X'

<p>Photo apps digitally undressing women, sexualized text-to-image prompts creating "AI girls" and manipulated images fueling "sextortion" rackets -- a boom in deepfake porn is outpacing US and European efforts to regulate the technology.</p>

<p>Artificial intelligence-enabled deepfakes are typically associated with fake viral images of well-known personalities such as Pope Francis in a puffer coat or Donald Trump under arrest, but experts say they are more widely used for generating non-consensual porn that can destroy ordinary lives.</p>

<p>Women are a particular target of AI tools and apps -- widely available for free and requiring no technical expertise -- that allow users to digitally strip off clothing from their pictures, or insert their faces into sexually explicit videos.</p>

<p>"The rise of AI-generated porn and deepfake porn normalizes the use of a woman's image or likeness without her consent," Sophie Maddocks, a researcher at the University of Pennsylvania tracking image-based sexual abuse, told AFP.</p>

<p>"What message do we send about consent as a society when you can virtually strip any woman?"</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Can Artificial Intelligence lead to human extinction?</strong></p>

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<p>In a tearful video, an American Twitch streamer who goes by QTCinderella lamented the "constant exploitation and objectification" of women as she became the victim of deepfake porn. She was harassed, she added, by people sending her copies of the deepfakes depicting her.</p>

<p>The scandal erupted in January during a livestream by fellow streamer Brandon Ewing, who was caught looking at a website that contained deepfaked sexual images of several women including QTCinderella.</p>

<p>"It's not as simple as 'just' being violated. It's so much more than that," she wrote on Twitter, adding that the experience had "ruined" her.</p>

<h2><strong>'Hyper-real'</strong></h2>

<p>The proliferation of online deepfakes underscores the threat of AI-enabled disinformation, which can damage reputations and lead to bullying or harassment.</p>

<p>While celebrities such as singer Taylor Swift and actress Emma Watson have been victims of deepfake porn, women not in the public eye are also targeted.</p>

<p>American and European media are filled with first-hand testimonies of women -- from academics to activists -- who were shocked to discover their faces in deepfake porn.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/artificial-intelligence-confronting-challenges-in-cybersecurity-614139">Artificial Intelligence: Confronting challenges in cybersecurity</a></strong></p>

<p>Some 96 percent of deepfake videos online are non-consensual pornography, and most of them depict women, according to a 2019 study by the Dutch AI company Sensity.</p>

<p>"The previously private act of sexual fantasy, which takes place inside someone's mind, is now transferred to technology and content creators in the real world," Roberta Duffield, director of intelligence at Blackbird.AI, told AFP.</p>

<p>"The ease of access and lack of oversight -- alongside the growing professionalization of the industry -- entrenches these technologies into new forms of exploiting and diminishing women."<br />
Among a new crop of text-to-art generators are free apps that can create "hyper-real AI girls" -- avatars from real photos, customizing them with prompts such as "dark skin" and "thigh strap."</p>

<p>New technologies such as Stable Diffusion, an open-source AI model developed by Stability AI, have made it possible to conjure up realistic images from text descriptions.</p>

<h2><strong>'Dark corner'</strong></h2>

<p>The tech advancements have given rise to what Duffield called an "expanding cottage industry" around AI-enhanced porn, with many deepfake creators taking paid requests to generate content featuring a person of the customer's choice.</p>

<p>Last month, the FBI issued a warning about "sextortion schemes," in which fraudsters capture photos and videos from social media to create "sexually themed" deepfakes that are then used to extort money.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/artificial-intelligence-wont-take-over-world-or-permanently-destroy-jobs-says-one-of-godfathers-of-ai-605312">Artificial intelligence won't take over world or permanently destroy jobs, says one of 'godfathers' of AI</a></strong></p>

<p>The victims, the FBI added, included minor children and non-consenting adults.</p>

<p>The proliferation of AI tools has outstripped regulation.</p>

<p>"This is not some dark corner of the internet where these images are being created and shared," Dan Purcell, chief executive and founder of the AI brand protection company Ceartas, told AFP.</p>

<p>"It's right under our noses. And yes, the law needs to catch up."</p>

<p>In Britain, the government has proposed a new Online Safety Bill that seeks to criminalize the sharing of pornographic deepfakes.</p>

<p>Four US states, including California and Virginia, have outlawed the distribution of deepfake porn, but victims often have little legal recourse if the perpetrators live outside these jurisdictions.</p>

<p>In May, a US lawmaker introduced the Preventing Deepfakes of Intimate Images Act that would make sharing non-consensual deepfake pornography illegal.</p>

<p>Popular online spaces such as Reddit have also sought to regulate its burgeoning AI porn communities.</p>

<p>"The internet is one jurisdiction with no borders, and there needs to be a unified international law to protect people against this form of exploitation," Purcell said.</p>

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Photo apps digitally undressing women, sexualized text-to-image prompts creating "AI girls" and manipulated images fueling "sextortion" rackets -- a boom in deepfake porn is outpacing US and European efforts to regulate the technology.

Photo apps digitally undressing women, sexualized text-to-image prompts creating "AI girls" and manipulated images fueling "sextortion" rackets -- a boom in deepfake porn is outpacing US and European efforts to regulate the technology. Artificial intelligence-enabled deepfakes are typically associated with fake viral images of well-known personalities such as Pope Francis in a puffer coat or Donald Trump under arrest, but experts say they are more widely used for generating non-consensual porn that can destroy ordinary lives. Women are a particular target of AI tools and apps -- widely available for free and requiring no technical expertise -- that allow users to digitally strip off clothing from their pictures, or insert their faces into sexually explicit videos. "The rise of AI-generated porn and deepfake porn normalizes the use of a woman's image or likeness without her consent," Sophie Maddocks, a researcher at the University of Pennsylvania tracking image-based sexual abuse, told AFP. "What message do we send about consent as a society when you can virtually strip any woman?" Watch | Can Artificial Intelligence lead to human extinction? × In a tearful video, an American Twitch streamer who goes by QTCinderella lamented the "constant exploitation and objectification" of women as she became the victim of deepfake porn. She was harassed, she added, by people sending her copies of the deepfakes depicting her. The scandal erupted in January during a livestream by fellow streamer Brandon Ewing, who was caught looking at a website that contained deepfaked sexual images of several women including QTCinderella. "It's not as simple as 'just' being violated. It's so much more than that," she wrote on Twitter, adding that the experience had "ruined" her. 'Hyper-real' The proliferation of online deepfakes underscores the threat of AI-enabled disinformation, which can damage reputations and lead to bullying or harassment. While celebrities such as singer Taylor Swift and actress Emma Watson have been victims of deepfake porn, women not in the public eye are also targeted. American and European media are filled with first-hand testimonies of women -- from academics to activists -- who were shocked to discover their faces in deepfake porn. Also Read | Artificial Intelligence: Confronting challenges in cybersecurity Some 96 percent of deepfake videos online are non-consensual pornography, and most of them depict women, according to a 2019 study by the Dutch AI company Sensity. "The previously private act of sexual fantasy, which takes place inside someone's mind, is now transferred to technology and content creators in the real world," Roberta Duffield, director of intelligence at Blackbird.AI, told AFP. "The ease of access and lack of oversight -- alongside the growing professionalization of the industry -- entrenches these technologies into new forms of exploiting and diminishing women." Among a new crop of text-to-art generators are free apps that can create "hyper-real AI girls" -- avatars from real photos, customizing them with prompts such as "dark skin" and "thigh strap." New technologies such as Stable Diffusion, an open-source AI model developed by Stability AI, have made it possible to conjure up realistic images from text descriptions. 'Dark corner' The tech advancements have given rise to what Duffield called an "expanding cottage industry" around AI-enhanced porn, with many deepfake creators taking paid requests to generate content featuring a person of the customer's choice. Last month, the FBI issued a warning about "sextortion schemes," in which fraudsters capture photos and videos from social media to create "sexually themed" deepfakes that are then used to extort money. Also Read | Artificial intelligence won't take over world or permanently destroy jobs, says one of 'godfathers' of AI The victims, the FBI added, included minor children and non-consenting adults. The proliferation of AI tools has outstripped regulation. "This is not some dark corner of the internet where these images are being created and shared," Dan Purcell, chief executive and founder of the AI brand protection company Ceartas, told AFP. "It's right under our noses. And yes, the law needs to catch up." In Britain, the government has proposed a new Online Safety Bill that seeks to criminalize the sharing of pornographic deepfakes. Four US states, including California and Virginia, have outlawed the distribution of deepfake porn, but victims often have little legal recourse if the perpetrators live outside these jurisdictions. In May, a US lawmaker introduced the Preventing Deepfakes of Intimate Images Act that would make sharing non-consensual deepfake pornography illegal. Popular online spaces such as Reddit have also sought to regulate its burgeoning AI porn communities. "The internet is one jurisdiction with no borders, and there needs to be a unified international law to protect people against this form of exploitation," Purcell said. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

In age of AI, women battle rise of deepfake porn

<p>Twitter owner Elon Musk has said he was looking to change Twitter's logo, tweeting: "And soon we shall bid adieu to the twitter brand and, gradually, all the birds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a tweet on Sunday, the billionaire business magnate added: "If a good enough X logo is posted tonight, we'll make go live worldwide tomorrow."&nbsp;</p>

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<p>With Musk at the helm of affairs&nbsp;since he bought the social media platform last&nbsp;October, the company has changed its business name to X Corp.</p>

<p>Musk aims to create a "super app" like China's WeChat.</p>

<p>Twitter's bird was temporarily replaced in April by Dogecoin's Shiba Inu dog, following which a surge in the meme coin's market value was recorded.</p>

<p>Recently, the&nbsp;company was widely criticised by users and&nbsp;marketing professionals alike when Musk announced that Twitter would limit how many tweets per day various accounts can read.</p>

<p>Twitter's most recent woe&nbsp;was a lawsuit filed earlier this week that&nbsp;claimed the firm owes at least $500 million in severance pay to former employees. Twitter has laid off more than half its workforce to cut costs since Musk's takeover of the platform.</p>

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Twitter owner Elon Musk has said he was looking to change Twitter's logo, tweeting: "And soon we shall bid adieu to the twitter brand and, gradually, all the birds.

Twitter owner Elon Musk has said he was looking to change Twitter's logo, tweeting: "And soon we shall bid adieu to the twitter brand and, gradually, all the birds. In a tweet on Sunday, the billionaire business magnate added: "If a good enough X logo is posted tonight, we'll make go live worldwide tomorrow." pic.twitter.com/IwcbqMnQtA — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 23, 2023 × With Musk at the helm of affairs since he bought the social media platform last October, the company has changed its business name to X Corp. Musk aims to create a "super app" like China's WeChat. Twitter's bird was temporarily replaced in April by Dogecoin's Shiba Inu dog, following which a surge in the meme coin's market value was recorded. Recently, the company was widely criticised by users and marketing professionals alike when Musk announced that Twitter would limit how many tweets per day various accounts can read. Twitter's most recent woe was a lawsuit filed earlier this week that claimed the firm owes at least $500 million in severance pay to former employees. Twitter has laid off more than half its workforce to cut costs since Musk's takeover of the platform. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Elon Musk looks to change Twitter logo with focus on branding overhaul

<p>China has announced its plans to develop and launch a next-generation crewed spacecraft by 2027, capable of transporting astronauts to the moon and beyond. Yang Liwei, deputy chief designer of China's human spaceflight program, revealed the country's ambitious goals during a talk at a university, as reported by the state-run Guangzhou Daily.</p>

<h2><strong>The next gen spacecraft</strong></h2>

<p>According to Yang, the new spacecraft will be utilised for crewed lunar missions, the construction of China's space station, and deep-space exploration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the future, a new generation of spacecraft will be used on crewed lunar missions, to build our space station and for deep-space exploration," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/mysterious-stellar-object-emitting-a-five-minute-pulse-every-22-minutes-leaves-scientists-puzzled-618111">Mysterious stellar object emitting a five-minute pulse every 22 minutes leaves scientists puzzled</a></strong></p>

<p>The initial flights of the spacecraft are projected to occur between 2027 and 2028. In 2020, China conducted a test launch using a boilerplate version of the spacecraft to loft space station modules. The return capsule from this test has been put on public display.</p>

<h2><strong>Taikonauts on the moon</strong></h2>

<p>China's plan to put 'Taikonauts' or Chinese astronauts on the moon by 2030 is a driving force behind the development of this new spacecraft.</p>

<p>As per Space.com, the spacecraft will feature partial reusability, and a new rocket, known as the Long March 10, which is currently being developed to facilitate its launch.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-hubble-telescope-spots-stunning-cloud-of-space-rocks-made-from-asteroid-smashing-dart-mission-618047">NASA's Hubble telescope spots stunning 'cloud of space rocks' made from asteroid-smashing DART mission</a></strong></p>

<p>The deep-space variant of the spacecraft will have the capacity to carry three astronauts into lunar transfer orbit, while a low Earth orbit version will be capable of transporting four to seven astronauts to China's recently completed Tiangong space station.</p>

<p>Currently, China employs the Shenzhou spacecraft to send up to three astronauts to low Earth orbit. Yang Liwei himself became China's first astronaut in orbit during the Shenzhou 5 mission in 2003.</p>

<p>At present, the crew of Shenzhou 16 is stationed aboard the Tiangong space station. The three astronauts arrived at the station on May 30 and were expected to stay for approximately six months.</p>

<p>China's advancements in space exploration and its plans for crewed lunar missions demonstrate the country's commitment to expanding its presence in space. The development of a next-generation spacecraft can be&nbsp;a significant milestone in China's ambitious space program, and help position the nation as a key player in future lunar and deep-space exploration endeavours.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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China has announced its plans to develop and launch a next-generation crewed spacecraft by 2027, capable of transporting astronauts to the moon and beyond. Yang Liwei, deputy chief designer of China's human spaceflight program, revealed the country's ambitious goals during a talk at a university, as reported by the state-run Guangzhou Daily.

China has announced its plans to develop and launch a next-generation crewed spacecraft by 2027, capable of transporting astronauts to the moon and beyond. Yang Liwei, deputy chief designer of China's human spaceflight program, revealed the country's ambitious goals during a talk at a university, as reported by the state-run Guangzhou Daily. The next gen spacecraft According to Yang, the new spacecraft will be utilised for crewed lunar missions, the construction of China's space station, and deep-space exploration. "In the future, a new generation of spacecraft will be used on crewed lunar missions, to build our space station and for deep-space exploration," he said. Also read | Mysterious stellar object emitting a five-minute pulse every 22 minutes leaves scientists puzzled The initial flights of the spacecraft are projected to occur between 2027 and 2028. In 2020, China conducted a test launch using a boilerplate version of the spacecraft to loft space station modules. The return capsule from this test has been put on public display. Taikonauts on the moon China's plan to put 'Taikonauts' or Chinese astronauts on the moon by 2030 is a driving force behind the development of this new spacecraft. As per Space.com, the spacecraft will feature partial reusability, and a new rocket, known as the Long March 10, which is currently being developed to facilitate its launch. Also read | NASA's Hubble telescope spots stunning 'cloud of space rocks' made from asteroid-smashing DART mission The deep-space variant of the spacecraft will have the capacity to carry three astronauts into lunar transfer orbit, while a low Earth orbit version will be capable of transporting four to seven astronauts to China's recently completed Tiangong space station. Currently, China employs the Shenzhou spacecraft to send up to three astronauts to low Earth orbit. Yang Liwei himself became China's first astronaut in orbit during the Shenzhou 5 mission in 2003. At present, the crew of Shenzhou 16 is stationed aboard the Tiangong space station. The three astronauts arrived at the station on May 30 and were expected to stay for approximately six months. China's advancements in space exploration and its plans for crewed lunar missions demonstrate the country's commitment to expanding its presence in space. The development of a next-generation spacecraft can be a significant milestone in China's ambitious space program, and help position the nation as a key player in future lunar and deep-space exploration endeavours. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China ambitious space programme will send taikonauts to Moon with new gen spacecraft

<p>Netflix has started cracking down on account sharing in India starting July 20 months after it implemented the same policy in the American and European markets. The streaming platform started sending emails to its subscribers announcing that they could only share their Netflix account within their household.</p>

<h2><strong>Netflix India password sharing crackdown: How does it look like?</strong></h2>

<p>In the emails sent to its subscribers in India, the company said that one Netflix account can only be shared within a household.</p>

<p>"Your Netflix account is for you and the people you live with – your household," it said in the email. This is the definition of a 'household' for Netflix. yourself and the people you live with.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Netflix’s revenue reality check</strong></p>

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<p>Netflix subscribers in India, including this author&nbsp;— who until July 20 shared its Netflix with four of his friends&nbsp;— received the same email. At the time of filing this report, the other four individuals were logged out of Netflix from their respective devices in an automated way.</p>

<p><em>Netflix sent the email informing its subscribers they could share their account only within their household&nbsp;</em></p>

<h2><strong>'Extra member' feature not rolled out in India</strong></h2>

<p>Netflix has not rolled out the 'extra member' feature in India, in which subscribers could add on another non-household user for a price on the same account.</p>

<p>In a letter to shareholders, Netflix explained that it will not offer the 'extra member' option in these markets due to recent price cuts and relatively low penetration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, Netflix had reduced its prices in India by 20-60 per cent in December 2021, leading to a significant increase in engagement by nearly 30 per cent on a&nbsp;year-on-year basis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, despite the price cuts, Netflix remains one of the more expensive video streaming services in India.</p>

<h2><strong>Netflix subscribers surge after password-sharing crackdown</strong></h2>

<p>The company observed that revenue and paid memberships in these regions increased after the paid sharing launch, with new member sign-ups surpassing cancellations.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/netflix-slashes-subscription-costs-with-focus-on-asia-latin-america-565196">Netflix slashes subscription costs with focus on Asia and Latin America</a></strong></p>

<p>During the second quarter of 2023, Netflix added 5.9 million paid members, a significant improvement compared to losing almost one million members in the same quarter the previous year. Their total subscriber base reached 238.4 million subscribers for the quarter.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/netflix-adds-nearly-6mn-new-subscribers-amid-widening-password-sharing-crackdown-617654">Netflix adds nearly 6mn new subscribers as password-sharing crackdown widens</a></strong></p>

<p>While the impact of the account sharing initiative on Netflix's revenues was limited during the second quarter of 2023, the company is optimistic about its potential financial dividends in later quarters.</p>

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Netflix has started cracking down on account sharing in India starting July 20 months after it implemented the same policy in the American and European markets. The streaming platform started sending emails to its subscribers announcing that they could only share their Netflix account within their household.

Netflix has started cracking down on account sharing in India starting July 20 months after it implemented the same policy in the American and European markets. The streaming platform started sending emails to its subscribers announcing that they could only share their Netflix account within their household. Netflix India password sharing crackdown: How does it look like? In the emails sent to its subscribers in India, the company said that one Netflix account can only be shared within a household. "Your Netflix account is for you and the people you live with – your household," it said in the email. This is the definition of a 'household' for Netflix. yourself and the people you live with. Also watch | Netflix’s revenue reality check × Netflix subscribers in India, including this author — who until July 20 shared its Netflix with four of his friends — received the same email. At the time of filing this report, the other four individuals were logged out of Netflix from their respective devices in an automated way. Netflix sent the email informing its subscribers they could share their account only within their household 'Extra member' feature not rolled out in India Netflix has not rolled out the 'extra member' feature in India, in which subscribers could add on another non-household user for a price on the same account. In a letter to shareholders, Netflix explained that it will not offer the 'extra member' option in these markets due to recent price cuts and relatively low penetration. Earlier, Netflix had reduced its prices in India by 20-60 per cent in December 2021, leading to a significant increase in engagement by nearly 30 per cent on a year-on-year basis. However, despite the price cuts, Netflix remains one of the more expensive video streaming services in India. Netflix subscribers surge after password-sharing crackdown The company observed that revenue and paid memberships in these regions increased after the paid sharing launch, with new member sign-ups surpassing cancellations. Also read | Netflix slashes subscription costs with focus on Asia and Latin America During the second quarter of 2023, Netflix added 5.9 million paid members, a significant improvement compared to losing almost one million members in the same quarter the previous year. Their total subscriber base reached 238.4 million subscribers for the quarter. Also read | Netflix adds nearly 6mn new subscribers as password-sharing crackdown widens While the impact of the account sharing initiative on Netflix's revenues was limited during the second quarter of 2023, the company is optimistic about its potential financial dividends in later quarters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Netflix implements password-sharing crackdown in India with focus on 'households'

<p>The White House said on Friday (July 21) that OpenAI and other tech giants in the artificial intelligence race have committed that they would make their technology safer with features like watermarks on fabricated images.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"These commitments, which the companies have chosen to undertake immediately, underscore three principles that must be fundamental to the future of AI -- safety, security, and trust -- and mark a critical step toward developing responsible AI," the White House said in a release.</p>

<p>Later on Friday, representatives from Amazon, Anthropic, Google, Inflection, Meta,&nbsp;Microsoft and Open AI were due to join&nbsp;US President Joe Biden to announce the commitments. These include developing &nbsp;"robust technical mechanisms" like watermarking systems to ensure that users get to know which content is AI-generated.</p>

<p>There are worries that images or audios generated by artificial intelligence will be used to deceive people and to commit fraud along with spreading misinformation as the tech improves in the run up to 2024 US Presidential Election.</p>

<p>Ways to tell when audio or imagery have been generated artificially are being sought to prevent people from being duped by fakes that look or sound real.</p>

<p>"They're committing to setting up a broader regime towards making it easier for consumers to know whether content is AI-generated or not," a White House official said, as quoted by AFP</p>

<p>"There is technical work to be done, but the point here is that it applies to audio and visual content, and it will be part of a broader system."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Astronomers find new type of stellar object that challenges understanding of neutron star physics</strong></p>

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<p>The goal is for it to be easy for people to tell when online content is created by AI, the official added.</p>

<p>The White House has said that commitments these companies have made include independent testing of AI systems for risks &nbsp;when it comes to biosecurity, cybersecurity, or "societal effects."</p>

<p>Common Sense Media, a review and rating organisation commended the White House for its "commitment to establishing critical policies to regulate AI technology," according to its chief execurtive James Steyer.</p>

<p>"That said, history would indicate that many tech companies do not actually walk the walk on a voluntary pledge to act responsibly and support strong regulations."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ai-powered-sex-robots-may-eliminate-need-for-human-partners-claims-former-google-executive-617766">Robots for sex? Expert warns AI might soon be able to simulate sex just like a human</a></strong></p>

<p>US President Joe Biden is also working on an executive order which is intended to ensure that AI is safe and trustworthy.</p>

<p>Watermarks for AI-generated content were among the topics EU commissioner Thierry Breton discussed with OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman during a June visit to San Francisco.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The White House said on Friday (July 21) that OpenAI and other tech giants in the artificial intelligence race have committed that they would make their technology safer with features like watermarks on fabricated images.

The White House said on Friday (July 21) that OpenAI and other tech giants in the artificial intelligence race have committed that they would make their technology safer with features like watermarks on fabricated images. "These commitments, which the companies have chosen to undertake immediately, underscore three principles that must be fundamental to the future of AI -- safety, security, and trust -- and mark a critical step toward developing responsible AI," the White House said in a release. Later on Friday, representatives from Amazon, Anthropic, Google, Inflection, Meta, Microsoft and Open AI were due to join US President Joe Biden to announce the commitments. These include developing "robust technical mechanisms" like watermarking systems to ensure that users get to know which content is AI-generated. There are worries that images or audios generated by artificial intelligence will be used to deceive people and to commit fraud along with spreading misinformation as the tech improves in the run up to 2024 US Presidential Election. Ways to tell when audio or imagery have been generated artificially are being sought to prevent people from being duped by fakes that look or sound real. "They're committing to setting up a broader regime towards making it easier for consumers to know whether content is AI-generated or not," a White House official said, as quoted by AFP "There is technical work to be done, but the point here is that it applies to audio and visual content, and it will be part of a broader system." Watch | Astronomers find new type of stellar object that challenges understanding of neutron star physics × The goal is for it to be easy for people to tell when online content is created by AI, the official added. The White House has said that commitments these companies have made include independent testing of AI systems for risks when it comes to biosecurity, cybersecurity, or "societal effects." Common Sense Media, a review and rating organisation commended the White House for its "commitment to establishing critical policies to regulate AI technology," according to its chief execurtive James Steyer. "That said, history would indicate that many tech companies do not actually walk the walk on a voluntary pledge to act responsibly and support strong regulations." Also Read | Robots for sex? Expert warns AI might soon be able to simulate sex just like a human US President Joe Biden is also working on an executive order which is intended to ensure that AI is safe and trustworthy. Watermarks for AI-generated content were among the topics EU commissioner Thierry Breton discussed with OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman during a June visit to San Francisco. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Tech companies promise watermark to differentiate AI creations: White House

<p>OpenAI's chief of the trust and safety department tendered his resignation Friday (July 21) citing pressure on his family life. In a LinkedIn post, Dave Willner wrote that his work was affecting his family life. However, he added that he will be available for advisory work.</p>

<p>Trust and safety departments across the tech industry have come under intense scrutiny amid fears of increasing hate speech, misinformation and other harmful content on social media platforms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>OpenAI is yet to release a statement following Willner’s resignation. Also, it was not clear whether or not his resignation was accepted.</p>

<h2><strong>OpenAI’s official to prioritise family</strong></h2>

<p>In his LinkedIn post, Willner wrote, “Anyone with young children and a super intense job can relate to that tension, I think, and these past few months have really crystallised for me that I was going to have to prioritise one or the other."</p>

<p>“I've moved teaching the kids to swim and ride their bikes to the top of my OKRs (objectives and key results) this summer,” he added.</p>

<p>Willner joined OpenAI in February 2022, after having worked at Airbnb and Meta.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His role in the company was to build “the processes and capabilities to prevent misuse and abuse of AI technologies".&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>OpenAI’s GPT-4 conundrum</strong></h2>

<p>Willner’s resignation comes amid rising concerns at OpenAI about the potential misuse of its multimodal version of GPT-4 that comes with image-recognition support.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;AI in the newsroom: Associated Press and OpenAI join hands</strong></p>

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<p>As of now, its public access is being curtailed, a New York Times revealed Tuesday (July 18).</p>

<p>The model can not only generate and process text but it can also analyse and interpret images, opening up a new dimension of interaction with Artificial Intelligence.</p>

<p>OpenAI is concerned that these features if made available to the public, could potentially run afoul of laws in regions like Europe, where the use of biometric information requires explicit consent.</p>

<h2><strong>OpenAI facing class action lawsuit over privacy concerns</strong></h2>

<p>A federal class action lawsuit was filed against the company this week in California, alleging that it engaged in the misappropriation of personal information for training purposes.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/openai-faces-regulatory-threat-as-ftc-investigates-potential-violations-of-consumer-protection-laws-615250"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;OpenAI faces regulatory threat as FTC investigates potential violations of consumer protection laws</strong></a></p>

<p>The complaint was lodged in the Northern District of California and comprises 15 different causes of action. Among the allegations are violations of the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act, the Electronic Communications Privacy Act, as well as various state consumer rights laws and common-law torts.</p>

<p>The crux of the claims is the contention that OpenAI purportedly obtained the plaintiffs' private information without consent, effectively "stealing" it to develop a highly valuable product without providing any form of compensation.</p>

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OpenAI's chief of the trust and safety department tendered his resignation Friday (July 21) citing pressure on his family life. In a LinkedIn post, Dave Willner wrote that his work was affecting his family life.

OpenAI's chief of the trust and safety department tendered his resignation Friday (July 21) citing pressure on his family life. In a LinkedIn post, Dave Willner wrote that his work was affecting his family life. However, he added that he will be available for advisory work. Trust and safety departments across the tech industry have come under intense scrutiny amid fears of increasing hate speech, misinformation and other harmful content on social media platforms. OpenAI is yet to release a statement following Willner’s resignation. Also, it was not clear whether or not his resignation was accepted. OpenAI’s official to prioritise family In his LinkedIn post, Willner wrote, “Anyone with young children and a super intense job can relate to that tension, I think, and these past few months have really crystallised for me that I was going to have to prioritise one or the other." “I've moved teaching the kids to swim and ride their bikes to the top of my OKRs (objectives and key results) this summer,” he added. Willner joined OpenAI in February 2022, after having worked at Airbnb and Meta. His role in the company was to build “the processes and capabilities to prevent misuse and abuse of AI technologies". OpenAI’s GPT-4 conundrum Willner’s resignation comes amid rising concerns at OpenAI about the potential misuse of its multimodal version of GPT-4 that comes with image-recognition support. Watch: AI in the newsroom: Associated Press and OpenAI join hands × As of now, its public access is being curtailed, a New York Times revealed Tuesday (July 18). The model can not only generate and process text but it can also analyse and interpret images, opening up a new dimension of interaction with Artificial Intelligence. OpenAI is concerned that these features if made available to the public, could potentially run afoul of laws in regions like Europe, where the use of biometric information requires explicit consent. OpenAI facing class action lawsuit over privacy concerns A federal class action lawsuit was filed against the company this week in California, alleging that it engaged in the misappropriation of personal information for training purposes. Also read: OpenAI faces regulatory threat as FTC investigates potential violations of consumer protection laws The complaint was lodged in the Northern District of California and comprises 15 different causes of action. Among the allegations are violations of the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act, the Electronic Communications Privacy Act, as well as various state consumer rights laws and common-law torts. The crux of the claims is the contention that OpenAI purportedly obtained the plaintiffs' private information without consent, effectively "stealing" it to develop a highly valuable product without providing any form of compensation. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

OpenAI’s head of trust and safety dept resigns citing pressure on family life

<p>Kevin Mitnick, who was once dubbed as the 'World's Most Famous Hacker' passed away at the age of 59. He left for his heavy abode on July 16 after a 14-month-long battle with pancreatic cancer and leaving behind a wife, who is pregnant with their first child.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mitnick has been once one of the "most wanted" cybercriminals of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).&nbsp;</p>

<p>He became notoriously famous in the 1990s for a string of computer break-ins, absconding with data files and credit card numbers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Media reports have mentioned that in his obituary, it was mentioned that the federal prosecutor in his trial "offered his testimony that Kevin never tried to take one dime from any of his 'victims'."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was arrested in a high-profile 1995 and remained in prison for five years for several computer and communications-related crimes. He had pleaded guilty to computer and wire fraud.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After he was released, he was not allowed to use a computer or cell phone without the permission of his probation officer for three years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mitnick became a consultant and public speaker as he used his skills to hack on behalf of companies. He even became part owner and chief hacking officer of KnowBe4, which is a security awareness firm.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a blog post, the company wrote: "Kevin inspired KnowBe4’s training curriculum from the moment he agreed to be our 'Chief Hacking Officer' and was critical in elevating KnowBe4's brand awareness in the industry. His extensive experience with social engineering is forever woven into KnowBe4's DNA."&nbsp;</p>

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Kevin Mitnick, who was once dubbed as the 'World's Most Famous Hacker' passed away at the age of 59. He left for his heavy abode on July 16 after a 14-month-long battle with pancreatic cancer and leaving behind a wife, who is pregnant with their first child.

Kevin Mitnick, who was once dubbed as the 'World's Most Famous Hacker' passed away at the age of 59. He left for his heavy abode on July 16 after a 14-month-long battle with pancreatic cancer and leaving behind a wife, who is pregnant with their first child. Mitnick has been once one of the "most wanted" cybercriminals of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). He became notoriously famous in the 1990s for a string of computer break-ins, absconding with data files and credit card numbers. Media reports have mentioned that in his obituary, it was mentioned that the federal prosecutor in his trial "offered his testimony that Kevin never tried to take one dime from any of his 'victims'." He was arrested in a high-profile 1995 and remained in prison for five years for several computer and communications-related crimes. He had pleaded guilty to computer and wire fraud. After he was released, he was not allowed to use a computer or cell phone without the permission of his probation officer for three years. Mitnick became a consultant and public speaker as he used his skills to hack on behalf of companies. He even became part owner and chief hacking officer of KnowBe4, which is a security awareness firm. In a blog post, the company wrote: "Kevin inspired KnowBe4’s training curriculum from the moment he agreed to be our 'Chief Hacking Officer' and was critical in elevating KnowBe4's brand awareness in the industry. His extensive experience with social engineering is forever woven into KnowBe4's DNA." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kevin Mitnick, the 'world's most famous hacker, dies aged 59

<p>The Indian government has been aggressively pushing the Digital India framework and forging ahead with the campaign to even the most remote part of the nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The government aims to improve online infrastructure across the nation and, with better internet connectivity, the government and other services will be made available efficiently.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the spread of the internet comes with online security and cybercrimes, and in order to tackle such threats, there's a need to establish measures and regulations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hence, India is planning to enforce Digital India Act (currently a draft), which will seek to ensure that the internet in India is open, free from user harm and criminality. It will also look after establishing the institutional mechanism of accountability.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is Digital India Act (DIA)?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>DIA has been introduced to replace the Information Technology Act, which came into being in October 2000.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The government said that the Digital India Act, of 2023 is a future-ready legislation that aims to provide a strong legal framework to support India's tech goals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A statement published by PIB read, "It constitutes a significant part of the Global Standard Cyber laws being formulated by the Narendra Modi Government for catalysing India's digital economy."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement also added that Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, the National Data Governance Framework policy, the recent amendments to the IT Rules, and CERT-In guidelines are important elements of this legal framework.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Today, the nation is the world's largest "digitally connected democracy" with 830 million internet users.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The government argues that the internet is mostly managed under the 23-year-old IT Act, which lacks provisions on user rights, trust, and safety, among other issues, and is ill-equipped to deal with emerging, sophisticated forms of cybercrime such as doxxing, cyberstalking, and online trolling, among others.</p>

<h2><strong>Technology has pros and cons</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>From the internet to mobile phones to artificial intelligence (AI), several waves in information technology have come with immense benefits for humankind. But there have been associated issues as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For example, many hail ChatGPT, and other tools like it, as the "next big thing". ChatGPT is an AI-powered language model, which is capable of generating human-like text based on context and past conversations. It is developed by OpenAI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Its usage spread like a virus across the world, threatening jobs, and more. But the tool has also been condemned by experts. Recently, US regulators have asked OpenAI how it's addressing the potential for ChatGPT to generate false and misleading statements about real people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>AI-powered tech can help with efficiency and productivity gains, improved speed of business, and more, but there's also a need to establish control over the tech o keep it in check.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Washington Post reported that the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) sent a letter to OpenAI this week requesting specific information about how the company addresses the potential risk for ChatGPT "to generate statements about real individuals that are false, misleading, disparaging, or harmful."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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The Indian government has been aggressively pushing the Digital India framework and forging ahead with the campaign to even the most remote part of the nation. The government aims to improve online infrastructure across the nation and, with better internet connectivity, the government and other services will be made available efficiently.

The Indian government has been aggressively pushing the Digital India framework and forging ahead with the campaign to even the most remote part of the nation. The government aims to improve online infrastructure across the nation and, with better internet connectivity, the government and other services will be made available efficiently. But the spread of the internet comes with online security and cybercrimes, and in order to tackle such threats, there's a need to establish measures and regulations. Hence, India is planning to enforce Digital India Act (currently a draft), which will seek to ensure that the internet in India is open, free from user harm and criminality. It will also look after establishing the institutional mechanism of accountability. What is Digital India Act (DIA)? DIA has been introduced to replace the Information Technology Act, which came into being in October 2000. The government said that the Digital India Act, of 2023 is a future-ready legislation that aims to provide a strong legal framework to support India's tech goals. A statement published by PIB read, "It constitutes a significant part of the Global Standard Cyber laws being formulated by the Narendra Modi Government for catalysing India's digital economy." The statement also added that Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, the National Data Governance Framework policy, the recent amendments to the IT Rules, and CERT-In guidelines are important elements of this legal framework. Today, the nation is the world's largest "digitally connected democracy" with 830 million internet users. The government argues that the internet is mostly managed under the 23-year-old IT Act, which lacks provisions on user rights, trust, and safety, among other issues, and is ill-equipped to deal with emerging, sophisticated forms of cybercrime such as doxxing, cyberstalking, and online trolling, among others. Technology has pros and cons From the internet to mobile phones to artificial intelligence (AI), several waves in information technology have come with immense benefits for humankind. But there have been associated issues as well. For example, many hail ChatGPT, and other tools like it, as the "next big thing". ChatGPT is an AI-powered language model, which is capable of generating human-like text based on context and past conversations. It is developed by OpenAI. Its usage spread like a virus across the world, threatening jobs, and more. But the tool has also been condemned by experts. Recently, US regulators have asked OpenAI how it's addressing the potential for ChatGPT to generate false and misleading statements about real people. AI-powered tech can help with efficiency and productivity gains, improved speed of business, and more, but there's also a need to establish control over the tech o keep it in check. The Washington Post reported that the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) sent a letter to OpenAI this week requesting specific information about how the company addresses the potential risk for ChatGPT "to generate statements about real individuals that are false, misleading, disparaging, or harmful." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Digital India Act': New Delhi's proposed plan to ensure online safety

<p>Delhi prison authorities have announced the installation of Artificial Intelligence-based CCTV cameras within prison premises. The purpose is to bolster security measures and address blind spots where traditional cameras are not yet installed, reported the Hindustan Times.</p>

<p>These blind spots have been exploited by incarcerated criminals to engage in illegal activities, such as smuggling contraband items and communicating through unauthorised mobile phones.</p>

<h2><strong>Reinforcing security against mobile phone usage</strong></h2>

<p>In response to the rampant use of mobile phones by inmates, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal approved the formation of an expert committee comprising ten members, led by the director general of prisons. This committee's primary task is to select the most effective signal jammers capable of preventing inmates from using mobile devices inside Delhi's jails.</p>

<p>Delhi houses three major prison complexes: Tihar, the Rohini complex, and the Mandoli complex, accommodating approximately 13,000 inmates collectively. The surge in illegal mobile phone usage within the prison walls, often smuggled in through various means, has necessitated stricter security protocols.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/data-lab-india-and-ai-are-we-ahead-of-the-curve-588533">Data Lab | India and AI: Are we ahead of the curve?</a></p>

<p>According to a senior Delhi Police officer, an alarming average of 10 mobile phones are illicitly smuggled into Tihar jail every day. Visitors of inmates have been found to be the primary means of smuggling these devices, using ingenious methods such as concealing them in food plates or packets of clothing.</p>

<p>Previously, efforts to install mobile phone jammers within Tihar prison faced resistance from nearby residents' welfare associations. They frequently complained about network disruptions and inconsistent connectivity resulting from the jammers' operation.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;'AI to impact all sectors in India,' says Prof B Ravindran in conversation&nbsp;with&nbsp;WION</strong></p>

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<p>In light of the connectivity concerns, the new AI-driven jammers offer a sophisticated solution. These advanced devices can precisely target and restrict network signals without causing disruptions in the surrounding neighbourhoods. The technology ensures that only the intended areas within the prison are affected by the signal restriction.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Delhi prison authorities have announced the installation of Artificial Intelligence-based CCTV cameras within prison premises. The purpose is to bolster security measures and address blind spots where traditional cameras are not yet installed, reported the Hindustan Times.

Delhi prison authorities have announced the installation of Artificial Intelligence-based CCTV cameras within prison premises. The purpose is to bolster security measures and address blind spots where traditional cameras are not yet installed, reported the Hindustan Times. These blind spots have been exploited by incarcerated criminals to engage in illegal activities, such as smuggling contraband items and communicating through unauthorised mobile phones. Reinforcing security against mobile phone usage In response to the rampant use of mobile phones by inmates, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal approved the formation of an expert committee comprising ten members, led by the director general of prisons. This committee's primary task is to select the most effective signal jammers capable of preventing inmates from using mobile devices inside Delhi's jails. Delhi houses three major prison complexes: Tihar, the Rohini complex, and the Mandoli complex, accommodating approximately 13,000 inmates collectively. The surge in illegal mobile phone usage within the prison walls, often smuggled in through various means, has necessitated stricter security protocols. Also read | Data Lab | India and AI: Are we ahead of the curve? According to a senior Delhi Police officer, an alarming average of 10 mobile phones are illicitly smuggled into Tihar jail every day. Visitors of inmates have been found to be the primary means of smuggling these devices, using ingenious methods such as concealing them in food plates or packets of clothing. Previously, efforts to install mobile phone jammers within Tihar prison faced resistance from nearby residents' welfare associations. They frequently complained about network disruptions and inconsistent connectivity resulting from the jammers' operation. Also watch | 'AI to impact all sectors in India,' says Prof B Ravindran in conversation with WION In light of the connectivity concerns, the new AI-driven jammers offer a sophisticated solution. These advanced devices can precisely target and restrict network signals without causing disruptions in the surrounding neighbourhoods. The technology ensures that only the intended areas within the prison are affected by the signal restriction. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Next-gen surveillance: This Indian prison is adopting AI-powered CCTV cameras

<p>New artificial intelligence tools are being explored by Google which can write news articles and the tech giant is in talks with news organisations to use the tools to assist journalists, said a company spokesperson late on Wednesday (July 19).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The name of the publishers in talks was not revealed by the spokesperson, however, the New York Times reported that discussions are being held by Google with Wall Street Journal-owner News Corp, the Washington Post, and even the New York Times, among others.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This has led to worries that AI might soon replace journalists in the newsrooms, leading to several job losses. As of now, the Google spokesperson claimed that these new AI tools can assist journalists by providing different writing styles and different options for headlines, in a way that "enhances their work and productivity", adding that it was in the "earliest stages of exploring ideas".</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/next-gen-surveillance-indian-prison-to-adopt-ai-powered-cctv-cameras-617630">Next-gen surveillance: This Indian prison is adopting AI-powered CCTV cameras</a></p>

<p>"Quite simply these tools are not intended to, and cannot, replace the essential role journalists have in reporting, creating, and fact-checking their articles," stated the spokesperson.</p>

<p>However, a few executives who went through the pitch of Google described it as unsettling, said the NYT, adding that the executives did not wish to be identified.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>AI tool to generate news copies using information&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The AI tool, which was pitched in front of the executives, was called Genesis internally at Google, reported&nbsp;NYT, citing officials familiar with the matter.</p>

<p>As per the report, the tool can take in information like details of current events and generate news copies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A spokesperson of News Corp refused to comment on the &nbsp;AI tool or NYT report, but said, "We have an excellent relationship with Google, and we appreciate (Google CEO) Sundar Pichai's long-term commitment to journalism."</p>

<p>Media commentator and journalism professor Jeff Jarvis said the new tool of Google has potential upsides and downsides.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Suella Braverman expresses concern as UNSC meets to discuss AI</strong></p>

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<p>“If this technology can deliver factual information reliably, journalists should use the tool,” said Jarvis, who is the director of the Tow-Knight Center for Entrepreneurial Journalism at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at the City University of New York.</p>

<p>“If, on the other hand, it is misused by journalists and news organisations on topics that require nuance and cultural understanding, then it could damage the credibility not only of the tool but of the news organisations that use it," he said.</p>

<p>The report was published days after the Associated Press said that it will be partnering with ChatGPT-owner OpenAI to explore the use of generative AI in news.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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New artificial intelligence tools are being explored by Google which can write news articles and the tech giant is in talks with news organisations to use the tools to assist journalists, said a company spokesperson late on Wednesday (July 19).

New artificial intelligence tools are being explored by Google which can write news articles and the tech giant is in talks with news organisations to use the tools to assist journalists, said a company spokesperson late on Wednesday (July 19). The name of the publishers in talks was not revealed by the spokesperson, however, the New York Times reported that discussions are being held by Google with Wall Street Journal-owner News Corp, the Washington Post, and even the New York Times, among others. This has led to worries that AI might soon replace journalists in the newsrooms, leading to several job losses. As of now, the Google spokesperson claimed that these new AI tools can assist journalists by providing different writing styles and different options for headlines, in a way that "enhances their work and productivity", adding that it was in the "earliest stages of exploring ideas". ALSO READ | Next-gen surveillance: This Indian prison is adopting AI-powered CCTV cameras "Quite simply these tools are not intended to, and cannot, replace the essential role journalists have in reporting, creating, and fact-checking their articles," stated the spokesperson. However, a few executives who went through the pitch of Google described it as unsettling, said the NYT, adding that the executives did not wish to be identified. AI tool to generate news copies using information The AI tool, which was pitched in front of the executives, was called Genesis internally at Google, reported NYT, citing officials familiar with the matter. As per the report, the tool can take in information like details of current events and generate news copies. A spokesperson of News Corp refused to comment on the AI tool or NYT report, but said, "We have an excellent relationship with Google, and we appreciate (Google CEO) Sundar Pichai's long-term commitment to journalism." Media commentator and journalism professor Jeff Jarvis said the new tool of Google has potential upsides and downsides. WATCH | Suella Braverman expresses concern as UNSC meets to discuss AI “If this technology can deliver factual information reliably, journalists should use the tool,” said Jarvis, who is the director of the Tow-Knight Center for Entrepreneurial Journalism at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at the City University of New York. “If, on the other hand, it is misused by journalists and news organisations on topics that require nuance and cultural understanding, then it could damage the credibility not only of the tool but of the news organisations that use it," he said. The report was published days after the Associated Press said that it will be partnering with ChatGPT-owner OpenAI to explore the use of generative AI in news. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Google is getting AI to write news stories now. Are jobs at stake?

<p>Streaming giant Netflix said that it added 5.9 million new subscribers globally in the second quarter of 2023 amid its password-sharing crackdown.</p>

<p>The subscribers from the United States and Canada made up 1.17 million in the newly added 5.9 million pie of subscribers of the leading streaming platform.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Netflix's password sharing crackdown</strong></h2>

<p>The platform rolled out its password-sharing crackdown in the United States in late May. Each extra Netflix user out of a household started costing $7.99 per month. The password-sharing ban has been put into place by the streaming platform in India starting July 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How Netflix increased its subscriber base</strong></h2>

<p>The revenue in each of Netflix's regions has now risen substantially, with new signups outnumbering cancellations. The streaming giant observed a positive trend of non-paying households transitioning into full-fledged Netflix memberships and an increasing number of users adding extra members to their accounts.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/netflix-to-launch-paid-password-sharing-feature-after-subscriber-numbers-hit-record-high-583882">Netflix to launch paid password-sharing feature after subscriber numbers hit record high</a></strong></p>

<p>Netflix's Chief Financial Officer Spencer Neumann highlighted that the majority of the company's revenue growth in the current year is expected to come from the new paid memberships, which can be largely attributed to the password-sharing crackdown rollout.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Netflix revenue and cash flow</strong></h2>

<p>Netflix generated $8.2 billion in revenue during the quarter. For 2023, the company now anticipates having at least $5 billion in free cash flow&nbsp;as opposed to the previous estimate of $3.5 billion.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Netflix reduces subscription prices in over 30 countries</strong></p>

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<p>The increased amount is attributed to "lower cash content spend in 2023 than originally anticipated" due to the ongoing Hollywood writers' and actors' strikes, which has caused disruptions in content production for popular shows like <em>Stranger Things</em>, <em>Big Mouth</em> and <em>Emily in Paris</em>.</p>

<h2><strong>Netflix ad-supported tier</strong></h2>

<p>An additional factor to&nbsp;Netflix's revenue growth is its $6.99 per month ad-supported tier. It saw a 3 per cent year-over-year increase.</p>

<p>The ad-supported tier gained momentum in May, reaching 5 million users globally after Netflix added support for 1080p video and the option to watch two streams simultaneously. As compared to its competitors,&nbsp;Netflix remains profitable, while Disney+, Paramount Plus and other rival streaming services are still losing money.&nbsp;</p>

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Streaming giant Netflix said that it added 5.9 million new subscribers globally in the second quarter of 2023 amid its password-sharing crackdown. The subscribers from the United States and Canada made up 1.

Streaming giant Netflix said that it added 5.9 million new subscribers globally in the second quarter of 2023 amid its password-sharing crackdown. The subscribers from the United States and Canada made up 1.17 million in the newly added 5.9 million pie of subscribers of the leading streaming platform. Netflix's password sharing crackdown The platform rolled out its password-sharing crackdown in the United States in late May. Each extra Netflix user out of a household started costing $7.99 per month. The password-sharing ban has been put into place by the streaming platform in India starting July 2023. How Netflix increased its subscriber base The revenue in each of Netflix's regions has now risen substantially, with new signups outnumbering cancellations. The streaming giant observed a positive trend of non-paying households transitioning into full-fledged Netflix memberships and an increasing number of users adding extra members to their accounts. Also read | Netflix to launch paid password-sharing feature after subscriber numbers hit record high Netflix's Chief Financial Officer Spencer Neumann highlighted that the majority of the company's revenue growth in the current year is expected to come from the new paid memberships, which can be largely attributed to the password-sharing crackdown rollout. Netflix revenue and cash flow Netflix generated $8.2 billion in revenue during the quarter. For 2023, the company now anticipates having at least $5 billion in free cash flow as opposed to the previous estimate of $3.5 billion. Also watch | Netflix reduces subscription prices in over 30 countries × The increased amount is attributed to "lower cash content spend in 2023 than originally anticipated" due to the ongoing Hollywood writers' and actors' strikes, which has caused disruptions in content production for popular shows like Stranger Things, Big Mouth and Emily in Paris. Netflix ad-supported tier An additional factor to Netflix's revenue growth is its $6.99 per month ad-supported tier. It saw a 3 per cent year-over-year increase. The ad-supported tier gained momentum in May, reaching 5 million users globally after Netflix added support for 1080p video and the option to watch two streams simultaneously. As compared to its competitors, Netflix remains profitable, while Disney+, Paramount Plus and other rival streaming services are still losing money. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Netflix adds nearly 6mn new subscribers as password-sharing crackdown widens

<p>Tata Group, the owner of Jaguar Land Rover, is set to unveil its plans for a prominent electric car battery factory in Somerset, UK, in a significant boost to the country's automotive industry. The plant is expected to generate up to 9,000 jobs.</p>

<p>The official announcement is expected on Wednesday (July 19), with reports suggesting substantial government subsidies have been provided to support the project, reported the BBC.</p>

<h2><strong>Creating job opportunities and transforming the industry</strong></h2>

<p>The investment in the battery factory could potentially generate up to 9,000 jobs in the Bridgwater area.</p>

<p>Notably, this initiative holds immense importance for the automotive sector as it shifts from traditional petrol and diesel vehicles to the production of electric cars.</p>

<h2><strong>Addressing the need for strong industrial strategy</strong></h2>

<p>Criticism has been directed towards the UK government for its perceived lack of a clear industrial strategy and for falling behind the US and EU in attracting investments in low-carbon technologies.</p>

<p>The Tata battery investment is expected to serve as a catalyst, encouraging further investments in battery manufacturing within the UK.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/infosys-rides-the-ai-wave-with-jaw-dropping-2-billion-pact-616980">Infosys rides the AI wave with jaw-dropping $2 billion pact</a></p>

<h2><strong>Existing battery manufacturing landscape and the EU comparison</strong></h2>

<p>Presently, the UK has only one operational battery plant located near Nissan's Sunderland factory, with another facility in the early stages of development in Northumberland.</p>

<p>In contrast, the European Union boasts 35 operating, under-construction, or planned battery plants. Closing this gap in battery production capacity is crucial for the UK.</p>

<p>The UK government has outlined ambitious net zero goals, including a ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars starting in 2030.</p>

<p>The establishment of the Somerset factory will facilitate the supply of batteries for a new lineup of electric Jaguar and Land Rover models, supporting the country's transition to cleaner transportation.</p>

<h2><strong>Choosing the UK over Spain</strong></h2>

<p>While Tata Group, an Indian multinational, did consider an alternative site in Spain for the battery plant, its decision to select the UK is seen as a major victory for the British government. This choice reinforces the attractiveness of the UK as an investment destination for global companies.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Tata group to become India's first iPhone make</strong></p>

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<p>Reports suggest that a substantial level of subsidies, in the form of cash grants, energy cost discounts, and funding for training and research, has been provided to Tata for this project.</p>

<p>The specific details and size of the incentive package have not been disclosed. Furthermore, the UK government is expected to offer approximately £300 million (over US$39 million)&nbsp;to subsidise, upgrade, and decarbonise Tata's steel operations, including the Port Talbot plant in South Wales.</p>

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Tata Group, the owner of Jaguar Land Rover, is set to unveil its plans for a prominent electric car battery factory in Somerset, UK, in a significant boost to the country's automotive industry.

Tata Group, the owner of Jaguar Land Rover, is set to unveil its plans for a prominent electric car battery factory in Somerset, UK, in a significant boost to the country's automotive industry. The plant is expected to generate up to 9,000 jobs. The official announcement is expected on Wednesday (July 19), with reports suggesting substantial government subsidies have been provided to support the project, reported the BBC. Creating job opportunities and transforming the industry The investment in the battery factory could potentially generate up to 9,000 jobs in the Bridgwater area. Notably, this initiative holds immense importance for the automotive sector as it shifts from traditional petrol and diesel vehicles to the production of electric cars. Addressing the need for strong industrial strategy Criticism has been directed towards the UK government for its perceived lack of a clear industrial strategy and for falling behind the US and EU in attracting investments in low-carbon technologies. The Tata battery investment is expected to serve as a catalyst, encouraging further investments in battery manufacturing within the UK. Also read | Infosys rides the AI wave with jaw-dropping $2 billion pact Existing battery manufacturing landscape and the EU comparison Presently, the UK has only one operational battery plant located near Nissan's Sunderland factory, with another facility in the early stages of development in Northumberland. In contrast, the European Union boasts 35 operating, under-construction, or planned battery plants. Closing this gap in battery production capacity is crucial for the UK. The UK government has outlined ambitious net zero goals, including a ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars starting in 2030. The establishment of the Somerset factory will facilitate the supply of batteries for a new lineup of electric Jaguar and Land Rover models, supporting the country's transition to cleaner transportation. Choosing the UK over Spain While Tata Group, an Indian multinational, did consider an alternative site in Spain for the battery plant, its decision to select the UK is seen as a major victory for the British government. This choice reinforces the attractiveness of the UK as an investment destination for global companies. Also watch | Tata group to become India's first iPhone make Reports suggest that a substantial level of subsidies, in the form of cash grants, energy cost discounts, and funding for training and research, has been provided to Tata for this project. The specific details and size of the incentive package have not been disclosed. Furthermore, the UK government is expected to offer approximately £300 million (over US$39 million) to subsidise, upgrade, and decarbonise Tata's steel operations, including the Port Talbot plant in South Wales. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Jaguar Land Rover owner Tata to build UK battery factory, creating 9,000 new jobs

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