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It's that time of the year again.

We sit with family members in living rooms and talk of the new iPhones and their exorbitant prices.&nbsp;We give unsolicited advice to colleagues in meeting rooms about whether to buy the new Apple Watch or not.

We raise eyebrows at the Indian prices of iPhones but look at EMI options nonetheless.&nbsp;From Bollywood celebrities, commentators, Hollywood personalities to political pundits, everyone had something to say about Apple's California streaming event.&nbsp;

Everyone is an expert or a critic when it comes to the new iPhone.

So what does that tell us?

Despite running into privacy controversies and supply chain issues, Apple continues to spark interest and conversation about its new iPhones, iPads and of course, the Apple Watch.&nbsp;

More than two million people watched Apple's California streaming event on YouTube on September 14th and waited for those famous words which are part of the late CEO Steve Jobs' legacy.

"One more thing..."

But this time around, there was no "one more thing"!&nbsp;

Instead, Apple stuck to the basics and released the new iPhone 13 series, a new iPad, an iPad mini and its fitness smartwatch, the Apple Watch Series 7.

And yet, here we are talking about them because the aspirational value of owning an Apple product, especially in India, is still strong.

One of the biggest takeaways for India, you ask?&nbsp;

News flash, you won't have to wait for the new goodies for long. In a first, the phones will be available for pre-order in India on September 17th with sales starting on September 24. This shows what a significant market India is for Apple as the iPhone-maker aims to take advantage of its growth momentum in the country.&nbsp;The new iPhones will arrive in India at the same time as Australia, Canada, China, Germany, Japan, the UK, the US&nbsp;and other big markets.

In another noteworthy aspect, the pricing of the iPhones in India remains the same as last year. Apple offers you improved camera features, longer-lasting battery and of course, a faster processor, the mighty A15 Bionic chipset. For most, the USP remains the jaw-dropping storage option of 1TB for the Pro models.

"India is the second-largest smartphone market in the world and continues to be an important market for Apple. Apple has only a 2 per cent&nbsp;market share in the world’s second-largest market as compared to the 14 per cent&nbsp;it has in the world’s largest market-China," says Tarun Pathak, Research Director, Counterpoint Research.&nbsp;

Pathak adds that Apple would like to keep a closer eye on India through recent actions like "increased local assembly, channel expansion, early launches, aggressive marketing.”

Commenting on Apple's decision to maintain its India pricing from last year, Pathak calls it "a good move", attributing the decision to strong competition for iPhones in the ultra-premium segment. Pathak also expects iPhone sales to go up in the upcoming festive season in India.

So here's a round-up Apple's new launches with India prices if you're looking to upgrade to the new gadgets.

<img alt="iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max (Photo Courtesy: Apple)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ea9f1db4-d4f2-4fcf-bfec-82b887c77232" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IPhone1.JPG" />

iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max (Photo Courtesy: Apple)

Meet the iPhone 13s with massive storage

iPhone 13 Pro Max starts at $1,099 
India Price: Rs 1,29,900

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 250px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>A15 Bionic Chip</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Storage capacity of 1 TB</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Triple rear camera</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Longer battery life than predecessor</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Cinematic mode for portrait setting in video</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>iOS 15</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

&nbsp;

iPhone 13 Pro&nbsp;starts at $999 
India Price: Rs 1,19,900

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 250px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>A15 Bionic Chip</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Storage capacity of 1TB</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Triple rear camera</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Longer battery life than predecessor</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Cinematic mode for portrait setting in video</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>&nbsp;iOS 15</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

&nbsp;

<img alt="iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini (Photo Courtesy: Apple)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b27dcbbc-eb17-442a-bd1b-242d027f70a4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Mini1.JPG" />

&nbsp;

iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini (Photo Courtesy: Apple)

iPhone 13: Starts at $799

India Price: Rs 79,900

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 250px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Dual camera, Cinematic mode in video</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>A15 Bionic chip</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Longer battery life than predecessor</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>iOS 15</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

&nbsp;

iPhone 13 Mini&nbsp;starts at $699

India Price: Rs 69,900

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 250px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>5.4-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Dual camera, Cinematic mode in video</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>A15 Bionic chip</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Longer battery life than predecessor</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>iOS 15</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<img alt="iPad mini (Photo Courtesy: Apple)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="eacaf6e5-1a21-4575-a55b-c16030b37929" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Om1.JPG" />

iPad mini (Photo Courtesy: Apple)

&nbsp;

A sweet surprise: Meet the new iPads

iPad: Starts at $329

India Price: Starts at Rs&nbsp;30,900 for&nbsp;Wi-Fi only

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 250px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>10.2-inch Retina display</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>A13 chip</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>12MP ultrawide camera with Center Stage feature</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

&nbsp;

iPad Mini

India price: Starts at Rs 46,900 for Wi-fi only

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 250px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>8.3-inch Liquid Retina display</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>A15 Bionic chip</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Support for Apple pencil</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>USB-C support</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>12MP ultrawide camera with Center Stage feature</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

&nbsp;

<img alt="Apple Watch" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8124ed4d-c54f-4f72-bb29-01d80aaa3a22" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/AppleWa1.jpg" />

Meet&nbsp;the new Apple watch

Apple Watch Series 7: starts at&nbsp;$399

India Price: Not announced

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 250px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Always-on Retina Display</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>WatchOS 8</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>IP6X dust-resistant,&nbsp;swim-proof</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>20% more screen area than predecessor</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Faster charging</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

&nbsp;

It's that time of the year again. We sit with family members in living rooms and talk of the new iPhones and their exorbitant prices. We give unsolicited advice to colleagues in meeting rooms about whether to buy the new Apple Watch or not.

It's that time of the year again. We sit with family members in living rooms and talk of the new iPhones and their exorbitant prices. We give unsolicited advice to colleagues in meeting rooms about whether to buy the new Apple Watch or not. We raise eyebrows at the Indian prices of iPhones but look at EMI options nonetheless. From Bollywood celebrities, commentators, Hollywood personalities to political pundits, everyone had something to say about Apple's California streaming event. Everyone is an expert or a critic when it comes to the new iPhone. So what does that tell us? Despite running into privacy controversies and supply chain issues, Apple continues to spark interest and conversation about its new iPhones, iPads and of course, the Apple Watch. More than two million people watched Apple's California streaming event on YouTube on September 14th and waited for those famous words which are part of the late CEO Steve Jobs' legacy. "One more thing..." But this time around, there was no "one more thing"! Instead, Apple stuck to the basics and released the new iPhone 13 series, a new iPad, an iPad mini and its fitness smartwatch, the Apple Watch Series 7. And yet, here we are talking about them because the aspirational value of owning an Apple product, especially in India, is still strong. One of the biggest takeaways for India, you ask? News flash, you won't have to wait for the new goodies for long. In a first, the phones will be available for pre-order in India on September 17th with sales starting on September 24. This shows what a significant market India is for Apple as the iPhone-maker aims to take advantage of its growth momentum in the country. The new iPhones will arrive in India at the same time as Australia, Canada, China, Germany, Japan, the UK, the US and other big markets. In another noteworthy aspect, the pricing of the iPhones in India remains the same as last year. Apple offers you improved camera features, longer-lasting battery and of course, a faster processor, the mighty A15 Bionic chipset. For most, the USP remains the jaw-dropping storage option of 1TB for the Pro models. "India is the second-largest smartphone market in the world and continues to be an important market for Apple. Apple has only a 2 per cent market share in the world’s second-largest market as compared to the 14 per cent it has in the world’s largest market-China," says Tarun Pathak, Research Director, Counterpoint Research. Pathak adds that Apple would like to keep a closer eye on India through recent actions like "increased local assembly, channel expansion, early launches, aggressive marketing.” Commenting on Apple's decision to maintain its India pricing from last year, Pathak calls it "a good move", attributing the decision to strong competition for iPhones in the ultra-premium segment. Pathak also expects iPhone sales to go up in the upcoming festive season in India. So here's a round-up Apple's new launches with India prices if you're looking to upgrade to the new gadgets. iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max (Photo Courtesy: Apple) Meet the iPhone 13s with massive storage iPhone 13 Pro Max starts at $1,099 India Price: Rs 1,29,900 A15 Bionic Chip Storage capacity of 1 TB 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion Triple rear camera Longer battery life than predecessor Cinematic mode for portrait setting in video iOS 15 iPhone 13 Pro starts at $999 India Price: Rs 1,19,900 A15 Bionic Chip Storage capacity of 1TB 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion Triple rear camera Longer battery life than predecessor Cinematic mode for portrait setting in video iOS 15 iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini (Photo Courtesy: Apple) iPhone 13: Starts at $799 India Price: Rs 79,900 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display Dual camera, Cinematic mode in video A15 Bionic chip Longer battery life than predecessor iOS 15 iPhone 13 Mini starts at $699 India Price: Rs 69,900 5.4-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display Dual camera, Cinematic mode in video A15 Bionic chip Longer battery life than predecessor iOS 15 iPad mini (Photo Courtesy: Apple) A sweet surprise: Meet the new iPads iPad: Starts at $329 India Price: Starts at Rs 30,900 for Wi-Fi only 10.2-inch Retina display A13 chip 12MP ultrawide camera with Center Stage feature iPad Mini India price: Starts at Rs 46,900 for Wi-fi only 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display A15 Bionic chip Support for Apple pencil USB-C support 12MP ultrawide camera with Center Stage feature Meet the new Apple watch Apple Watch Series 7: starts at $399 India Price: Not announced Always-on Retina Display WatchOS 8 IP6X dust-resistant, swim-proof 20% more screen area than predecessor Faster charging

Will India bite into Apple's new offerings?

Apple launched the latest and most awaited new iPhone model, called the iPhone 13, to over 2 million viewers on YouTube on Tuesday. The tech giants released four variants of the iPhone 13. They are the iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/apple-event-2021-dum-maro-dum-tune-sparks-social-media-frenzy-413144" hreflang="en">Apple Event 2021: 'Dum Maro Dum' tune sparks social media frenzy</a>

According to Apple, the iPhone 13 sports a smaller display cutout, or "notch," at the top of the screen, as well as larger batteries that deliver between 1.5 and 2.5 hours of battery life, depending on device size, over last year's models.&nbsp;

However, Apple did not go for a radical change in the phone's design due to which it drew a lot of comparisons from its predecessor the iPhone 12. Twitteratis trolled the design&nbsp;of the iPhone 13&nbsp;and found it difficult to spot any differences from iPhone 12.&nbsp;

Check out some of the hilarious tweets on the phone's similar design:&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Me looking at the difference between iPhone 12 and 13 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AppleEvent?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AppleEvent</a> <a href="https://t.co/9EGdw1EWDW">pic.twitter.com/9EGdw1EWDW</a>
— daniel 🥞 (@manieldad) <a href="https://twitter.com/manieldad/status/1437834410016088069?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
iPhone 12 users upgraded to iPhone 13 be like : <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AppleEvent?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AppleEvent</a> <a href="https://t.co/6Z4nNS1W7L">pic.twitter.com/6Z4nNS1W7L</a>
— 𝓝 (@IhrVortrag) <a href="https://twitter.com/IhrVortrag/status/1437952133123297281?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Me trying to spot the difference between iPhone 12 Pro Max and iPhone 13 pro max <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AppleEvent?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AppleEvent</a> <a href="https://t.co/vdAgMBxfgg">pic.twitter.com/vdAgMBxfgg</a>
— Jsemfrajeeer (@jsemfrajeeer) <a href="https://twitter.com/jsemfrajeeer/status/1437900031412080640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Iphone 12 users upgrading to Iphone 13 💀🤑 
 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AppleEvent?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AppleEvent</a> <a href="https://t.co/JNPAVfIlFc">pic.twitter.com/JNPAVfIlFc</a>
— Shehroz :) (@JattBruce) <a href="https://twitter.com/JattBruce/status/1437863871960731649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The iPhone 13 will be available in five colours and will contain a new chip called the A15 Bionic, which will enable functions such as automatically detecting when the phone's camera is directed at text.&nbsp;

The iPad Mini has also been updated with 5G connection and a new design that resembles the higher-end iPad Air and Pro versions.

Apple also added a new camera to its base-model iPad, allowing users to work and learn from home.

The iPad starts at $329 for the standard model and $499 for the Mini.

Next week, both will be available for sale.

Apple launched the latest and most awaited new iPhone model, called the iPhone 13, to over 2 million viewers on YouTube on Tuesday. The tech giants released four variants of the iPhone 13.

Apple launched the latest and most awaited new iPhone model, called the iPhone 13, to over 2 million viewers on YouTube on Tuesday. The tech giants released four variants of the iPhone 13. They are the iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max. ALSO READ: Apple Event 2021: 'Dum Maro Dum' tune sparks social media frenzy According to Apple, the iPhone 13 sports a smaller display cutout, or "notch," at the top of the screen, as well as larger batteries that deliver between 1.5 and 2.5 hours of battery life, depending on device size, over last year's models. However, Apple did not go for a radical change in the phone's design due to which it drew a lot of comparisons from its predecessor the iPhone 12. Twitteratis trolled the design of the iPhone 13 and found it difficult to spot any differences from iPhone 12. Check out some of the hilarious tweets on the phone's similar design: Me looking at the difference between iPhone 12 and 13 #AppleEvent pic.twitter.com/9EGdw1EWDW — daniel 🥞 (@manieldad) September 14, 2021 × iPhone 12 users upgraded to iPhone 13 be like : #AppleEvent pic.twitter.com/6Z4nNS1W7L — 𝓝 (@IhrVortrag) September 15, 2021 × Me trying to spot the difference between iPhone 12 Pro Max and iPhone 13 pro max #AppleEvent pic.twitter.com/vdAgMBxfgg — Jsemfrajeeer (@jsemfrajeeer) September 14, 2021 × Iphone 12 users upgrading to Iphone 13 💀🤑 #AppleEvent pic.twitter.com/JNPAVfIlFc — Shehroz :) (@JattBruce) September 14, 2021 × The iPhone 13 will be available in five colours and will contain a new chip called the A15 Bionic, which will enable functions such as automatically detecting when the phone's camera is directed at text. The iPad Mini has also been updated with 5G connection and a new design that resembles the higher-end iPad Air and Pro versions. Apple also added a new camera to its base-model iPad, allowing users to work and learn from home. The iPad starts at $329 for the standard model and $499 for the Mini. Next week, both will be available for sale.

What's the difference? Netizens wonder as new iPhone 13 is almost like iPhone 12

Xiaomi unveiled a new visual identity for its premium line of goods on Monday.

The premium "Mi" series products will now be replaced with the new "Xiaomi" branding in order to unify the company's global brand presence.

The company said in a news release that with the introduction of the new brand identity, there will be two unique product lines under the parent corporate name.

The ‘Mi' brand will be retained on the business or corporate side, which means stores and corporate offices will have the same orange-colored logo as before.

However, under the Mi branding, its product portfolio will shift to the prefix "Xiaomi" and a new logo (that simply reads Xiaomi).

Redmi-branded goods would continue to bear the same name and emblem, according to the Chinese tech business.&nbsp;

"Being a leading technology brand with a strong presence across the globe, our aim is to have a unified presence. With this new logo shift, we envision bridging the perception gap between our brand and products."

"The new Xiaomi logo will be used for our premium products that represent the pinnacle of technology and offer a premium experience. Ushering in the festive season, Xiaomi's premium product series Mi will be renamed to Xiaomi'," Jaskaran Singh Kapany, Head of Marketing, Xiaomi India, said in a statement.

The Xiaomi Mi 1, the first Mi-branded smartphone, was released in August 2011, making the brand almost ten years old.

Under the Mi brand, the business has released tablets, TVs, smart gadgets, audio accessories, and other products over the years.

According to a recent Counterpoint Research survey, Xiaomi overcame Samsung and Apple to become the world's number one smartphone brand for the first time in June.

Xiaomi's sales increased by 26% month over month in June, making it the month's fastest-growing brand.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Xiaomi unveiled a new visual identity for its premium line of goods on Monday. The premium "Mi" series products will now be replaced with the new "Xiaomi" branding in order to unify the company's global brand presence.

Xiaomi unveiled a new visual identity for its premium line of goods on Monday. The premium "Mi" series products will now be replaced with the new "Xiaomi" branding in order to unify the company's global brand presence. The company said in a news release that with the introduction of the new brand identity, there will be two unique product lines under the parent corporate name. The ‘Mi' brand will be retained on the business or corporate side, which means stores and corporate offices will have the same orange-colored logo as before. However, under the Mi branding, its product portfolio will shift to the prefix "Xiaomi" and a new logo (that simply reads Xiaomi). Redmi-branded goods would continue to bear the same name and emblem, according to the Chinese tech business. "Being a leading technology brand with a strong presence across the globe, our aim is to have a unified presence. With this new logo shift, we envision bridging the perception gap between our brand and products." "The new Xiaomi logo will be used for our premium products that represent the pinnacle of technology and offer a premium experience. Ushering in the festive season, Xiaomi's premium product series Mi will be renamed to Xiaomi'," Jaskaran Singh Kapany, Head of Marketing, Xiaomi India, said in a statement. The Xiaomi Mi 1, the first Mi-branded smartphone, was released in August 2011, making the brand almost ten years old. Under the Mi brand, the business has released tablets, TVs, smart gadgets, audio accessories, and other products over the years. According to a recent Counterpoint Research survey, Xiaomi overcame Samsung and Apple to become the world's number one smartphone brand for the first time in June. Xiaomi's sales increased by 26% month over month in June, making it the month's fastest-growing brand. (With inputs from agencies)

Xiaomi junks ‘Mi’ on its gadgets, officially drops decade old branding

A US judge on Friday ordered Apple to loosen control over its App Store payment system, a blow to the global tech giant sparked by its anti-trust battle with Fortnite maker Epic Games.

In a ruling with significant potential to alter the digital economy, Apple will no longer be allowed to force developers to use its tightly-controlled sales tool.

It's a change loudly demanded by app producers because of the up to 30 percent commission on purchases, however the judge also ruled that Epic had not proved its claim of illegal monopoly -- which prompted a sigh of relief from Apple.

Lawsuits, rules and probes have piled up for the iPhone maker, but it was noncommittal about challenging the ruling and instead lauded the anti-trust portion by saying: "We consider this a huge win for Apple."

Epic for its part branded the judgement as essentially a loss for app developers who rely on the App Store in the multi-billion-dollar mobile gaming industry, and for consumers.

"We will fight on," Epic CEO Tim Sweeney tweeted, and a company spokesperson later confirmed they would appeal.

Friday's order says Apple is permanently barred from prohibiting developers from including in their apps "external links or other calls to action that direct customers to purchasing mechanisms."

"Apple enjoys considerable market share of over 55 percent and extraordinarily high profit margins... (but) Success is not illegal," California federal Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers wrote.&nbsp;

"Epic Games failed in its burden to demonstrate Apple is an illegal monopolist," she added.

The decision noted that Apple violated California's laws against unfair competition, however.

The two firms clashed in a lawsuit over whether Apple has the right to set ground rules, control payment systems and kick out apps from its marketplace that fail to comply.

Also at stake was Apple's slice of revenue from iPhone apps of as much as 30 percent.

Apple booted Fortnite from its online mobile marketplace after Epic released an update that dodged revenue sharing with the iPhone maker.

A win for Apple?

However, even before Friday's decision Apple started to cede ground on its App Store dominance, including in an agreement with Japanese regulators.

It also faces the legislation adopted by South Korean lawmakers, which banned Apple and Google from forcing app developers to use the tech giants' payment systems.&nbsp;

Analyst Carolina Milanesi noted the anti-trust aspect of the case was what really had Apple's attention, with a ruling against it potentially opening the doors for challenges from lawmakers and prosecutors.

"For me, it is a win for Apple in that the judge clearly said they are not engaging in monopolistic behavior," she told AFP. "I don't think it is a problem for Apple from a revenue perspective."

Some US lawmakers also noted the anti-trust aspect of the case could not be ignored, noting courts have not tackled the issue.

"Congress must enact rules of the road to ensure free and fair competition online," said the joint statement from representatives Jerrold Nadler and David Cicilline.

"It is clear that courts continue to narrowly interpret the antitrust laws in favor of monopolies and against consumers, workers, and small businesses," the added.&nbsp;

Apple opened its App Store in July 2008, a year after the release of the first iPhone.

The shop, stocked with mobile apps tailored for devices powered by iOS mobile software, was quickly imitated by rival smartphone makers.

It ignited an entire economy where developers big or small could make money with "an app for that," from games or social networking to summoning car rides or ordering food.

The App Store -- the lone gateway onto the more than one billion iPhones in use around the world -- has grown to include more than 1.8 million apps.

A US judge on Friday ordered Apple to loosen control over its App Store payment system, a blow to the global tech giant sparked by its anti-trust battle with Fortnite maker Epic Games.

A US judge on Friday ordered Apple to loosen control over its App Store payment system, a blow to the global tech giant sparked by its anti-trust battle with Fortnite maker Epic Games. In a ruling with significant potential to alter the digital economy, Apple will no longer be allowed to force developers to use its tightly-controlled sales tool. It's a change loudly demanded by app producers because of the up to 30 percent commission on purchases, however the judge also ruled that Epic had not proved its claim of illegal monopoly -- which prompted a sigh of relief from Apple. Lawsuits, rules and probes have piled up for the iPhone maker, but it was noncommittal about challenging the ruling and instead lauded the anti-trust portion by saying: "We consider this a huge win for Apple." Epic for its part branded the judgement as essentially a loss for app developers who rely on the App Store in the multi-billion-dollar mobile gaming industry, and for consumers. "We will fight on," Epic CEO Tim Sweeney tweeted, and a company spokesperson later confirmed they would appeal. Friday's order says Apple is permanently barred from prohibiting developers from including in their apps "external links or other calls to action that direct customers to purchasing mechanisms." "Apple enjoys considerable market share of over 55 percent and extraordinarily high profit margins... (but) Success is not illegal," California federal Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers wrote. "Epic Games failed in its burden to demonstrate Apple is an illegal monopolist," she added. The decision noted that Apple violated California's laws against unfair competition, however. The two firms clashed in a lawsuit over whether Apple has the right to set ground rules, control payment systems and kick out apps from its marketplace that fail to comply. Also at stake was Apple's slice of revenue from iPhone apps of as much as 30 percent. Apple booted Fortnite from its online mobile marketplace after Epic released an update that dodged revenue sharing with the iPhone maker. A win for Apple? However, even before Friday's decision Apple started to cede ground on its App Store dominance, including in an agreement with Japanese regulators. It also faces the legislation adopted by South Korean lawmakers, which banned Apple and Google from forcing app developers to use the tech giants' payment systems. Analyst Carolina Milanesi noted the anti-trust aspect of the case was what really had Apple's attention, with a ruling against it potentially opening the doors for challenges from lawmakers and prosecutors. "For me, it is a win for Apple in that the judge clearly said they are not engaging in monopolistic behavior," she told AFP. "I don't think it is a problem for Apple from a revenue perspective." Some US lawmakers also noted the anti-trust aspect of the case could not be ignored, noting courts have not tackled the issue. "Congress must enact rules of the road to ensure free and fair competition online," said the joint statement from representatives Jerrold Nadler and David Cicilline. "It is clear that courts continue to narrowly interpret the antitrust laws in favor of monopolies and against consumers, workers, and small businesses," the added. Apple opened its App Store in July 2008, a year after the release of the first iPhone. The shop, stocked with mobile apps tailored for devices powered by iOS mobile software, was quickly imitated by rival smartphone makers. It ignited an entire economy where developers big or small could make money with "an app for that," from games or social networking to summoning car rides or ordering food. The App Store -- the lone gateway onto the more than one billion iPhones in use around the world -- has grown to include more than 1.8 million apps.

Apple takes app payment hit in Epic court fight

Facebook&nbsp;Inc launched its first smart glasses on Thursday in a step toward its aim of offering true augmented-reality spectacles.

The glasses, which were created in partnership with Ray-Ban maker EssilorLuxottica, allow wearers to listen to music, take calls or capture photos and short videos and share them across&nbsp;Facebook's services using a companion app.&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;said the glasses line, called "Ray-Ban Stories," would start at $299.

The social media giant, which reported revenue of about $86 billion in 2020, makes most of its money from advertising but has invested heavily in virtual and augmented reality, developing hardware such as its Oculus VR headsets and working on wristband technologies&nbsp;to support augmented reality glasses.

Facebook's chief scientist said last year the company was five to 10 years away from being able to bring to market "true" AR glasses, which would superimpose virtual objects onto the wearer's view of the real world.

Major tech firms including Amazon.com Inc, Alphabet Inc's Google, Microsoft Corp, Apple Inc, and Snap Inc have raced to develop various smart glasses products, but early offerings like Google Glass proved difficult to sell to consumers put off by high price points and design issues.

Snap, which unveiled its smart Spectacles in 2016, this year launched AR glasses but they are not for sale and are offered only to AR creators. Snap's CEO, Evan Spiegel, said in 2019 that he expected it would be a decade before consumers widely adopted AR smart glasses.

Facebook's CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, recently announced the company was setting up a team to work on building the metaverse, a shared virtual environment which it is betting will be the successor to the mobile internet.

"We’ve believed for a long time that glasses are going to be an important part of building the next computing platform," said Zuckerberg in a video posted on his&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;page on Thursday.

Facebook, which has been criticized over its handling of user data, said it would not access the media used by its smart-glasses customers without their consent.

The company also said it would not use the content of the photos or videos captured using the glasses and stored in the&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;View app for personalizing ads, and said the glasses would be an "ads-free experience."

The glasses include an optional virtual assistant so photos and videos can be captured hands-free through voice commands.&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;said an LED light on the glasses would show when the camera is on, to make other people aware when a wearer is taking a photo or video.

It published a guide outlining how to use the glasses responsibly, for example turning them off in private spaces like public bathrooms and not using them for illegal actions like harassment or capturing sensitive information such as PIN codes.

Facebook Inc launched its first smart glasses on Thursday in a step toward its aim of offering true augmented-reality spectacles. The glasses, which were created in partnership with Ray-Ban maker EssilorLuxottica, allow wearers to listen to music, take calls or capture photos and short videos and share them across Facebook's services using a companion app.

Facebook Inc launched its first smart glasses on Thursday in a step toward its aim of offering true augmented-reality spectacles. The glasses, which were created in partnership with Ray-Ban maker EssilorLuxottica, allow wearers to listen to music, take calls or capture photos and short videos and share them across Facebook's services using a companion app. Facebook said the glasses line, called "Ray-Ban Stories," would start at $299. The social media giant, which reported revenue of about $86 billion in 2020, makes most of its money from advertising but has invested heavily in virtual and augmented reality, developing hardware such as its Oculus VR headsets and working on wristband technologies to support augmented reality glasses. Facebook's chief scientist said last year the company was five to 10 years away from being able to bring to market "true" AR glasses, which would superimpose virtual objects onto the wearer's view of the real world. Major tech firms including Amazon.com Inc, Alphabet Inc's Google, Microsoft Corp, Apple Inc, and Snap Inc have raced to develop various smart glasses products, but early offerings like Google Glass proved difficult to sell to consumers put off by high price points and design issues. Snap, which unveiled its smart Spectacles in 2016, this year launched AR glasses but they are not for sale and are offered only to AR creators. Snap's CEO, Evan Spiegel, said in 2019 that he expected it would be a decade before consumers widely adopted AR smart glasses. Facebook's CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, recently announced the company was setting up a team to work on building the metaverse, a shared virtual environment which it is betting will be the successor to the mobile internet. "We’ve believed for a long time that glasses are going to be an important part of building the next computing platform," said Zuckerberg in a video posted on his Facebook page on Thursday. Facebook, which has been criticized over its handling of user data, said it would not access the media used by its smart-glasses customers without their consent. The company also said it would not use the content of the photos or videos captured using the glasses and stored in the Facebook View app for personalizing ads, and said the glasses would be an "ads-free experience." The glasses include an optional virtual assistant so photos and videos can be captured hands-free through voice commands. Facebook said an LED light on the glasses would show when the camera is on, to make other people aware when a wearer is taking a photo or video. It published a guide outlining how to use the glasses responsibly, for example turning them off in private spaces like public bathrooms and not using them for illegal actions like harassment or capturing sensitive information such as PIN codes.

Facebook unveils its first-generation smart glasses

Mercedes-Benz unveiled a car&nbsp;that performs tasks as the driver thinks about it based on "Brain Computer Interface" (BCI)&nbsp;technology.

The ultra high-tech car has been put on display&nbsp;at the IAA Mobility 2021 show in Munich, Germany.

The car plans to seamlessly merge man and machine allowing humans to perform "intuitive interaction" with the car. The concept works on "Brain Computer Interface" (BCI). The interface picks brainwaves and sends signals to the onboard computer and then the computer performs the function.

The BCI technology allows passengers to change the music in the car without lifting a finger. The wearable electrodes attached to the passenger's head allows the car to perform multiple functions without disturbing anyone inside.

The technology measures the brain function as the user focuses on light on the dashboard, it picks the signal and performs the task.

The revolutionary new car is based on Mercedes Benz "Vision AVTR" refers to the Avatar movie which had&nbsp;a "neuro-inspired approach" allowing the neural connection.

The intuitive interaction is considered to be the biggest step in car design even as self-driven cars have become a rage. The new concept is based on "Advanced Vehicle Transformation".

Mercedes had earlier displayed the Vision AVTR at CES 2020. The German car giant has now gone a step further and unveiled the&nbsp;BCI model at Munich. However, the technology will not be in use right away although future passengers can test the model at the IAA show underway currently.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Mercedes-Benz unveiled a car that performs tasks as the driver thinks about it based on "Brain Computer Interface" (BCI) technology. The ultra high-tech car has been put on display at the IAA Mobility 2021 show in Munich, Germany.

Mercedes-Benz unveiled a car that performs tasks as the driver thinks about it based on "Brain Computer Interface" (BCI) technology. The ultra high-tech car has been put on display at the IAA Mobility 2021 show in Munich, Germany. The car plans to seamlessly merge man and machine allowing humans to perform "intuitive interaction" with the car. The concept works on "Brain Computer Interface" (BCI). The interface picks brainwaves and sends signals to the onboard computer and then the computer performs the function. The BCI technology allows passengers to change the music in the car without lifting a finger. The wearable electrodes attached to the passenger's head allows the car to perform multiple functions without disturbing anyone inside. The technology measures the brain function as the user focuses on light on the dashboard, it picks the signal and performs the task. The revolutionary new car is based on Mercedes Benz "Vision AVTR" refers to the Avatar movie which had a "neuro-inspired approach" allowing the neural connection. The intuitive interaction is considered to be the biggest step in car design even as self-driven cars have become a rage. The new concept is based on "Advanced Vehicle Transformation". Mercedes had earlier displayed the Vision AVTR at CES 2020. The German car giant has now gone a step further and unveiled the BCI model at Munich. However, the technology will not be in use right away although future passengers can test the model at the IAA show underway currently. (With inputs from Agencies)

Mercedes unveils 'Vision AVTR': A car that can read your mind

Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes has been accused by prosecutors of telling lies and cheating investors for fame and money.

Holmes is facing a trial for fraud charges over her role in the now-defunct health technology company.

Theranos had claimed it could detect common illnesses by just using a few drops of blood from a finger prick.

Running an analytical gamut, Holmes had promised faster and cheaper results than traditional laboratories.

In a Silicon Valley trial, her attorney Lance Wade defended her saying, "Theranos failed in part because it made mistakes, but mistakes are not crimes. A failed business does not make a CEO a criminal."

Wade told the jury, "You will hear that trusting and relying on Mr. Balwani as her primary advisor was one of her mistakes."

Her former partner Ramesh Balwani was the chief operating officer of Theranos and has been charged with conspiring to scam customers and investors.

Holmes had founded Theranos in 2003 when she was just 19 years old and soon became a tech world celebrity.

Multi-billion dollar startup Theranos sought to revolutionise medical testing. However, it crashed and burned in a blaze of fraud claims.

The 37-year-old former American businesswoman could be jailed for up to 20 years if found guilty. She is facing charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.

Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes has been accused by prosecutors of telling lies and cheating investors for fame and money. Holmes is facing a trial for fraud charges over her role in the now-defunct health technology company.

Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes has been accused by prosecutors of telling lies and cheating investors for fame and money. Holmes is facing a trial for fraud charges over her role in the now-defunct health technology company. Theranos had claimed it could detect common illnesses by just using a few drops of blood from a finger prick. Running an analytical gamut, Holmes had promised faster and cheaper results than traditional laboratories. In a Silicon Valley trial, her attorney Lance Wade defended her saying, "Theranos failed in part because it made mistakes, but mistakes are not crimes. A failed business does not make a CEO a criminal." Wade told the jury, "You will hear that trusting and relying on Mr. Balwani as her primary advisor was one of her mistakes." Her former partner Ramesh Balwani was the chief operating officer of Theranos and has been charged with conspiring to scam customers and investors. Holmes had founded Theranos in 2003 when she was just 19 years old and soon became a tech world celebrity. Multi-billion dollar startup Theranos sought to revolutionise medical testing. However, it crashed and burned in a blaze of fraud claims. The 37-year-old former American businesswoman could be jailed for up to 20 years if found guilty. She is facing charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.

Prosecuters claim Theranos founder told 'grandiose' lies to cheat investors

Google on Wednesday ramped up cloud collaboration tools for businesses, expecting "hybrid" work routines to remain even after the pandemic has ended.

The internet titan competes with Microsoft, Zoom, Facebook and others with online services that employees can use to collaborate remotely.

Tech giants turned to their own tools after abandoning campuses early in the pandemic, which fueled a fierce remote work trend.

"We've seen a radical transformation, and a lot of that transformation is here to stay," Google product management director Dave Citron said during a briefing on new Workspace offerings.

"But I think it is too early to say that the 40-hour work week in a cubicle is permanently dead across all industries and regions."

Major tech companies themselves have postponed workers returning to offices and expect the new norm to become "hybrid" routines that mix being on-site with working remotely.

Google said it has created a hybrid work handbook for how to take advantage of tools, as well as software for employees to conduct efficient meetings no matter where they are working from.

"We're really excited to bring this to our customers to give them some best practices as they're working to redesign their offices," Citron said.

Google also announced enhancements to its Workspace portfolio that integrate the tech giant's apps for meetings, email, calendars, documents, chat and more.

"As some people return to the office, teams need that ability to flexibly collaborate from anywhere, anytime,” said Workspace senior director of product management Sanaz Ahari.

"The innovations we're bringing to customers today help bridge the gaps of virtual and in-person collaboration."

Workspace added a dedicated online venue for working on projects, and unveiled interactive Series One displays designed specifically for conferencing.

An all-in-one desktop model of Series One was priced at $2,000, while a larger model designed for conference rooms was priced at $7,000.

"Based on the price points, we think the vast amount of the customers will be companies buying it for their employees," Citron said.

Google on Wednesday ramped up cloud collaboration tools for businesses, expecting "hybrid" work routines to remain even after the pandemic has ended. The internet titan competes with Microsoft, Zoom, Facebook and others with online services that employees can use to collaborate remotely.

Google on Wednesday ramped up cloud collaboration tools for businesses, expecting "hybrid" work routines to remain even after the pandemic has ended. The internet titan competes with Microsoft, Zoom, Facebook and others with online services that employees can use to collaborate remotely. Tech giants turned to their own tools after abandoning campuses early in the pandemic, which fueled a fierce remote work trend. "We've seen a radical transformation, and a lot of that transformation is here to stay," Google product management director Dave Citron said during a briefing on new Workspace offerings. "But I think it is too early to say that the 40-hour work week in a cubicle is permanently dead across all industries and regions." Major tech companies themselves have postponed workers returning to offices and expect the new norm to become "hybrid" routines that mix being on-site with working remotely. Google said it has created a hybrid work handbook for how to take advantage of tools, as well as software for employees to conduct efficient meetings no matter where they are working from. "We're really excited to bring this to our customers to give them some best practices as they're working to redesign their offices," Citron said. Google also announced enhancements to its Workspace portfolio that integrate the tech giant's apps for meetings, email, calendars, documents, chat and more. "As some people return to the office, teams need that ability to flexibly collaborate from anywhere, anytime,” said Workspace senior director of product management Sanaz Ahari. "The innovations we're bringing to customers today help bridge the gaps of virtual and in-person collaboration." Workspace added a dedicated online venue for working on projects, and unveiled interactive Series One displays designed specifically for conferencing. An all-in-one desktop model of Series One was priced at $2,000, while a larger model designed for conference rooms was priced at $7,000. "Based on the price points, we think the vast amount of the customers will be companies buying it for their employees," Citron said.

Google see the future of work as 'hybrid'

The National Crime Agency (NCA) of Britain has warned that Facebook's plan to encrypt its messages can prevent detection of child abuse.

The social media giant's end-to-end encryption can hamper access to ''incisive technology'' according&nbsp;to NCA's director Rob Jones.

The warning comes as Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg said the company was working on plans to extend encryption.

It is bound to alarm privacy campaigners. UK's government is also trying to curb the tech titan's plans.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/facebook-misinformation-gets-six-times-more-engagement-than-factual-posts-study-411355" hreflang="en">Facebook misinformation gets six times more engagement than factual posts: Study</a>

Facebook had allowed its users to make voice and video calls within its main app on a trial basis, aiming to make it easier to place calls without opening its standalone Messenger app.

Under this strategy, Facebook extended the option of end-to-end encryption in which nobody else, not even the company itself can listen or see what is said or sent.

After facing criticism for introducing child safety updates, Apple had announced a delay in its introduction.

The company had promised last month to check US customer phones and computers for child sex abuse images.

But the move sparked a global backlash from a wide range of rights groups, with employees also criticising the plan internally.

As per the US National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), the tech industry made over 21 million referrals internationally of child sexual abuse on its platforms in 2020.

The National Crime Agency (NCA) of Britain has warned that Facebook's plan to encrypt its messages can prevent detection of child abuse. The social media giant's end-to-end encryption can hamper access to ''incisive technology'' according to NCA's director Rob Jones.

The National Crime Agency (NCA) of Britain has warned that Facebook's plan to encrypt its messages can prevent detection of child abuse. The social media giant's end-to-end encryption can hamper access to ''incisive technology'' according to NCA's director Rob Jones. The warning comes as Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg said the company was working on plans to extend encryption. It is bound to alarm privacy campaigners. UK's government is also trying to curb the tech titan's plans. Also read | Facebook misinformation gets six times more engagement than factual posts: Study Facebook had allowed its users to make voice and video calls within its main app on a trial basis, aiming to make it easier to place calls without opening its standalone Messenger app. Under this strategy, Facebook extended the option of end-to-end encryption in which nobody else, not even the company itself can listen or see what is said or sent. After facing criticism for introducing child safety updates, Apple had announced a delay in its introduction. The company had promised last month to check US customer phones and computers for child sex abuse images. But the move sparked a global backlash from a wide range of rights groups, with employees also criticising the plan internally. As per the US National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), the tech industry made over 21 million referrals internationally of child sexual abuse on its platforms in 2020.

UK: National Crime Agency warns Facebook's encryption can prevent detection of child abuse

Apple announced Friday that it will delay the rollout of its controversial new child pornography protection tools, accused by some of undermining the privacy of its devices and services.

The Silicon Valley giant last month said iPhones and iPads would soon start detecting images containing child sexual abuse and reporting them as they are uploaded to its online storage in the United States.

However, digital rights organizations quickly noted the tweaks to Apple's operating systems create a potential "backdoor" into gadgets that could be exploited by governments or other groups.

Apple, in announcing the delay, cited feedback from customers, advocacy groups, researchers, and others.

"We have decided to take additional time over the coming months to collect input and make improvements before releasing these critically important child safety features," the company said in a statement.

New technology allows the software powering Apple mobile devices to match abusive photos on a user's phone against a database of known child sex abuse images provided by safety organizations, then flag the images as they are uploaded to Apple's online iCloud storage, according to the company.

The system, if and when it goes into use, would be "powered by a cryptographic technology" to determine "if there is a match without revealing the result," unless the image was found to contain depictions of child sexual abuse.

Apple announced Friday that it will delay the rollout of its controversial new child pornography protection tools, accused by some of undermining the privacy of its devices and services.

Apple announced Friday that it will delay the rollout of its controversial new child pornography protection tools, accused by some of undermining the privacy of its devices and services. The Silicon Valley giant last month said iPhones and iPads would soon start detecting images containing child sexual abuse and reporting them as they are uploaded to its online storage in the United States. However, digital rights organizations quickly noted the tweaks to Apple's operating systems create a potential "backdoor" into gadgets that could be exploited by governments or other groups. Apple, in announcing the delay, cited feedback from customers, advocacy groups, researchers, and others. "We have decided to take additional time over the coming months to collect input and make improvements before releasing these critically important child safety features," the company said in a statement. New technology allows the software powering Apple mobile devices to match abusive photos on a user's phone against a database of known child sex abuse images provided by safety organizations, then flag the images as they are uploaded to Apple's online iCloud storage, according to the company. The system, if and when it goes into use, would be "powered by a cryptographic technology" to determine "if there is a match without revealing the result," unless the image was found to contain depictions of child sexual abuse.

Apple announces delay of child protection measures

Ireland's privacy watchdog has fined WhatsApp a record 225 million euros ($267 million) after an investigation found it breached stringent European Union data protection rules on transparency about sharing people's data with other Facebook companies.

The Data Protection Commission said Thursday that it was also ordering WhatsApp to take "remedial actions” so that its data processing complies with the EU rules.

WhatsApp said the fine was out of proportion and it would appeal the decision.

The watchdog's announcement wraps up an investigation into the Facebook-owned messaging service that opened in December 2018, after the EU rules, known as General Data Protection Regulation, or GDPR, took effect.

It's the second penalty - and the biggest - issued by the Irish watchdog under GDPR.

Last year it fined Twitter 450,000 euros for a security breach.

"WhatsApp is committed to providing a secure and private service," the company said in a press statement.

"We have worked to ensure the information we provide is transparent and comprehensive and will continue to do so.

We disagree with the decision today regarding the transparency we provided to people in 2018 and the penalties are entirely disproportionate.

” The commission said the case examined whether Facebook followed GDPR requirements to be transparent for both users and those who didn't use its service, including how people's data is processed between WhatsApp and other Facebook companies.

Under GDPR, the Irish watchdog acts as the lead regulator in cross-border data privacy cases for WhatsApp and many other big tech companies that have their European headquarters in Dublin.

Ireland's privacy watchdog has fined WhatsApp a record 225 million euros ($267 million) after an investigation found it breached stringent European Union data protection rules on transparency about sharing people's data with other Facebook companies.

Ireland's privacy watchdog has fined WhatsApp a record 225 million euros ($267 million) after an investigation found it breached stringent European Union data protection rules on transparency about sharing people's data with other Facebook companies. The Data Protection Commission said Thursday that it was also ordering WhatsApp to take "remedial actions” so that its data processing complies with the EU rules. WhatsApp said the fine was out of proportion and it would appeal the decision. The watchdog's announcement wraps up an investigation into the Facebook-owned messaging service that opened in December 2018, after the EU rules, known as General Data Protection Regulation, or GDPR, took effect. It's the second penalty - and the biggest - issued by the Irish watchdog under GDPR. Last year it fined Twitter 450,000 euros for a security breach. "WhatsApp is committed to providing a secure and private service," the company said in a press statement. "We have worked to ensure the information we provide is transparent and comprehensive and will continue to do so. We disagree with the decision today regarding the transparency we provided to people in 2018 and the penalties are entirely disproportionate. ” The commission said the case examined whether Facebook followed GDPR requirements to be transparent for both users and those who didn't use its service, including how people's data is processed between WhatsApp and other Facebook companies. Under GDPR, the Irish watchdog acts as the lead regulator in cross-border data privacy cases for WhatsApp and many other big tech companies that have their European headquarters in Dublin.

Irish watchdog fines WhatsApp $267 million after European Union privacy probe

What's the toughest substance on Earth? Diamond? Vibranium? Apparently, the answer is Nokia 3310. True fans are gushing over the iconic, NOT smart but super nostalgic phone completing 21 years of its release.&nbsp;

Nokia 3310 was released in September 2000. The phone had a black and white display, memory enough to save just 8 dialled calls in call records and absolutely no capabilities smartphones today offer us.

But it was tough! The body appeared unbreakable as the phone showed no signs of discomfort after a nasty fall. Some users would still remember miracle tales of Nokia 3310 surviving a fall from second storey of a building!

Social media is expectedly abuzz with posts recalling the good-ol-days filled with appreciation of the yesteryear tech piece.

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The hardest substance found on Earth? 
 
Nokia 3310 <a href="https://t.co/wycnTltKRl">pic.twitter.com/wycnTltKRl</a>
— MB (@Bowx_) <a href="https://twitter.com/Bowx_/status/1431899640874536962?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

You remember Snake don't you?

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What a classic. Nokia 3310. <a href="https://t.co/JAveyZJD65">pic.twitter.com/JAveyZJD65</a>
— Chitter Chatter (@ChitterChatUK) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChitterChatUK/status/1431886532303020037?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

A time when you could compose your own ringtones!

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Playing snake for hours and composing your own ringtones were the best things to do on the Nokia 3310 <a href="https://t.co/bWohWIPP2z">pic.twitter.com/bWohWIPP2z</a>
— ᴛᴀsʜᴀ ʟᴏᴜɪsᴇ | ᴇǫᴜᴀʟs ɪs ᴄᴏᴍɪɴɢ 🦋 (@eds_afterglow) <a href="https://twitter.com/eds_afterglow/status/1431905247014883330?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Seems legit!

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How Nokia 3310 was made <a href="https://t.co/4nEBtLIFe6">pic.twitter.com/4nEBtLIFe6</a>
— STEM 🔬🤖⚙️🧮 (@stem_feed) <a href="https://twitter.com/stem_feed/status/1432553523238129673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Another thing the phone was loved for was its battery life! Today when we metally celebrate when our smartphone battery lasts for a whole day, Nokia 3310 gave you enough juice to comfortably last two days (and more!)

So much was the love for the old gizmo that Nokia even launched a 4G version of Nokia 3310 couple years ago. But the new phone, though eliciting nostalgic reactions could not match the craze for the old one when it ruled the handset market.

What's the toughest substance on Earth? Diamond? Vibranium? Apparently, the answer is Nokia 3310. True fans are gushing over the iconic, NOT smart but super nostalgic phone completing 21 years of its release.

What's the toughest substance on Earth? Diamond? Vibranium? Apparently, the answer is Nokia 3310. True fans are gushing over the iconic, NOT smart but super nostalgic phone completing 21 years of its release. Nokia 3310 was released in September 2000. The phone had a black and white display, memory enough to save just 8 dialled calls in call records and absolutely no capabilities smartphones today offer us. But it was tough! The body appeared unbreakable as the phone showed no signs of discomfort after a nasty fall. Some users would still remember miracle tales of Nokia 3310 surviving a fall from second storey of a building! Social media is expectedly abuzz with posts recalling the good-ol-days filled with appreciation of the yesteryear tech piece. The hardest substance found on Earth? Nokia 3310 pic.twitter.com/wycnTltKRl — MB (@Bowx_) August 29, 2021 × You remember Snake don't you? What a classic. Nokia 3310. pic.twitter.com/JAveyZJD65 — Chitter Chatter (@ChitterChatUK) August 29, 2021 × A time when you could compose your own ringtones! Playing snake for hours and composing your own ringtones were the best things to do on the Nokia 3310 pic.twitter.com/bWohWIPP2z — ᴛᴀsʜᴀ ʟᴏᴜɪsᴇ | ᴇǫᴜᴀʟs ɪs ᴄᴏᴍɪɴɢ 🦋 (@eds_afterglow) August 29, 2021 × Seems legit! How Nokia 3310 was made pic.twitter.com/4nEBtLIFe6 — STEM 🔬🤖⚙️🧮 (@stem_feed) August 31, 2021 × Another thing the phone was loved for was its battery life! Today when we metally celebrate when our smartphone battery lasts for a whole day, Nokia 3310 gave you enough juice to comfortably last two days (and more!) So much was the love for the old gizmo that Nokia even launched a 4G version of Nokia 3310 couple years ago. But the new phone, though eliciting nostalgic reactions could not match the craze for the old one when it ruled the handset market.

Nokia 3310 turns 21 and tweeple know how to celebrate

It's been a while since YouTube revealed its total number of paid subscribers: 30 million in October 2020.

Now there's an update: YouTube now has over 50 million users that pay for YouTube Music, YouTube Premium (which includes YouTube Music), or are on a trial for YouTube Music.

The 30 million figure in October did not include people on trials, since YouTube stated at the time that once they were included, the total was 35 million.

Customers who pay for YouTube Music, customers who subscribe to YouTube Premium and receive music as part of their membership, and customers who are currently on a trial basis are all included in the 50 million statistic.

The company did not say how much money it made from subscriptions or what the average price was for users.&nbsp;

The Financial Times and Bloomberg both reported the new figure, with the former citing "two persons knowledgeable on the figures" and the latter citing an interview with YouTube music executive Lyor Cohen - so the figure may be considered official.&nbsp;

“The twin engine growth story is real. There are people who are prepared to pay with their eyeballs and those willing to subscribe. They are both super important,” said Cohen.

For the past decade, Google has dabbled with charging for music, cycling through various different products and names with little success.

However, the current music service's performance, which began in June 2018, implies that YouTube has finally worked out how to get many of its users to pay for music.

According to Midia Research, YouTube is the world's fastest-growing paid music provider, with approximately 8% of the world's subscribers. Spotify is far and away the best.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

It's been a while since YouTube revealed its total number of paid subscribers: 30 million in October 2020. Now there's an update: YouTube now has over 50 million users that pay for YouTube Music, YouTube Premium (which includes YouTube Music), or are on a trial for YouTube Music.

It's been a while since YouTube revealed its total number of paid subscribers: 30 million in October 2020. Now there's an update: YouTube now has over 50 million users that pay for YouTube Music, YouTube Premium (which includes YouTube Music), or are on a trial for YouTube Music. The 30 million figure in October did not include people on trials, since YouTube stated at the time that once they were included, the total was 35 million. Customers who pay for YouTube Music, customers who subscribe to YouTube Premium and receive music as part of their membership, and customers who are currently on a trial basis are all included in the 50 million statistic. The company did not say how much money it made from subscriptions or what the average price was for users. The Financial Times and Bloomberg both reported the new figure, with the former citing "two persons knowledgeable on the figures" and the latter citing an interview with YouTube music executive Lyor Cohen - so the figure may be considered official. “The twin engine growth story is real. There are people who are prepared to pay with their eyeballs and those willing to subscribe. They are both super important,” said Cohen. For the past decade, Google has dabbled with charging for music, cycling through various different products and names with little success. However, the current music service's performance, which began in June 2018, implies that YouTube has finally worked out how to get many of its users to pay for music. According to Midia Research, YouTube is the world's fastest-growing paid music provider, with approximately 8% of the world's subscribers. Spotify is far and away the best. (With inputs from agencies)

YouTube reaches 50 million premium subscribers

South&nbsp;Korean MPs on Tuesday passed a law banning Apple and Google from forcing app developers to use the tech giants' payment systems, effectively declaring their lucrative App Store and Play Store monopolies illegal.

The bill was approved by 180 votes to nil in the National Assembly, making&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;the first major economy to pass legislation on the issue, in a move that could set a precedent for other jurisdictions around the world.

In the United States, three senators this month introduced a bill to loosen the tech firms' grip on their stores, while in Europe lawmakers are debating legislation that could force Apple to bring in alternatives to the App Store.

The&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korean measure comes as Apple and Google face global criticism for charging up to 30 percent commission on app sales and requiring their own payment systems be used that collect a share of the transactions.

The Korean law,&nbsp;locally dubbed the "Anti-Google&nbsp;Law,"&nbsp;will offer users a choice of app payment providers, allowing them to bypass charges set by the store owner.

"This law will certainly set a precedent for other countries, as well as app developers and content creators worldwide," Kang Ki-hwan at the&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;Mobile Internet Business Association told AFP.

It is expected to come into force in September, according to reports.

Later this year Google plans to enforce globally a requirement for developers to use its payment system,&nbsp;with its 30 percent commission above a certain threshold,&nbsp;for in-app purchases.

In&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea, it is also planning to charge commission on all content payments from October, ending an exemption where commissions were only payable for online games.

'Fair compensation'&nbsp;

That announcement prompted an angry response from&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korean artists and creators, with web fiction writers and webtoon artists accusing Google of "power abuse" and campaigning fiercely for the new law.

"Without this law, our working environment,&nbsp;where creators are guaranteed of full rewards for their efforts,&nbsp;would've been destroyed," Seo Bum-gang, a webtoon artist who heads the&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;Webtoon Industry Association, told AFP.

"We need this law to protect the diversity of our industry, where artists and creators of all economic backgrounds can share their content without having to worry about the commission fees."

Apple&nbsp;and&nbsp;Google&nbsp;have maintained that commissions charged are standard in the industry and fair compensation for building safe marketplaces where developers can reach people around the world.

Ahead of the debate, Apple told AFP that it would put digital purchasers at risk of fraud, undermine their privacy protection and render parental controls less effective.

"We believe user trust in App Store purchases will decrease as a result of this proposal --leading to fewer opportunities for the over 482,000 registered developers in&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;who have earned more than 8.55 trillion won to date with Apple," it said in a statement.

Google&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;did not respond to requests for comment from AFP.

The two tech giants dominate the online app market in&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea, the world's 12th largest economy known for its technological prowess.&nbsp;

Google's Play Store made revenue of almost 6 trillion won ($5.2 billion) in 2019, accounting for 63 percent of the country's total, according to data from Seoul's science ministry.

Apple's App Store&nbsp;had a 24.4 percent share of total app store sales in the country in the same year.

South Korean MPs on Tuesday passed a law banning Apple and Google from forcing app developers to use the tech giants' payment systems, effectively declaring their lucrative App Store and Play Store monopolies illegal.

South Korean MPs on Tuesday passed a law banning Apple and Google from forcing app developers to use the tech giants' payment systems, effectively declaring their lucrative App Store and Play Store monopolies illegal. The bill was approved by 180 votes to nil in the National Assembly, making South Korea the first major economy to pass legislation on the issue, in a move that could set a precedent for other jurisdictions around the world. In the United States, three senators this month introduced a bill to loosen the tech firms' grip on their stores, while in Europe lawmakers are debating legislation that could force Apple to bring in alternatives to the App Store. The South Korean measure comes as Apple and Google face global criticism for charging up to 30 percent commission on app sales and requiring their own payment systems be used that collect a share of the transactions. The Korean law, locally dubbed the "Anti-Google Law," will offer users a choice of app payment providers, allowing them to bypass charges set by the store owner. "This law will certainly set a precedent for other countries, as well as app developers and content creators worldwide," Kang Ki-hwan at the Korea Mobile Internet Business Association told AFP. It is expected to come into force in September, according to reports. Later this year Google plans to enforce globally a requirement for developers to use its payment system, with its 30 percent commission above a certain threshold, for in-app purchases. In South Korea, it is also planning to charge commission on all content payments from October, ending an exemption where commissions were only payable for online games. 'Fair compensation' That announcement prompted an angry response from South Korean artists and creators, with web fiction writers and webtoon artists accusing Google of "power abuse" and campaigning fiercely for the new law. "Without this law, our working environment, where creators are guaranteed of full rewards for their efforts, would've been destroyed," Seo Bum-gang, a webtoon artist who heads the Korea Webtoon Industry Association, told AFP. "We need this law to protect the diversity of our industry, where artists and creators of all economic backgrounds can share their content without having to worry about the commission fees." Apple and Google have maintained that commissions charged are standard in the industry and fair compensation for building safe marketplaces where developers can reach people around the world. Ahead of the debate, Apple told AFP that it would put digital purchasers at risk of fraud, undermine their privacy protection and render parental controls less effective. "We believe user trust in App Store purchases will decrease as a result of this proposal --leading to fewer opportunities for the over 482,000 registered developers in Korea who have earned more than 8.55 trillion won to date with Apple," it said in a statement. Google Korea did not respond to requests for comment from AFP. The two tech giants dominate the online app market in South Korea, the world's 12th largest economy known for its technological prowess. Google's Play Store made revenue of almost 6 trillion won ($5.2 billion) in 2019, accounting for 63 percent of the country's total, according to data from Seoul's science ministry. Apple's App Store had a 24.4 percent share of total app store sales in the country in the same year.

South Korea bans Apple and Google payment monopolies in world first

With Labor's support, an Australian government law giving police unprecedented powers to spy on criminal suspects online, interrupt their data, and take over their accounts was passed.

Despite worries about the low bar for who can issue a warrant and the government's failure to adopt all of the protections proposed by the bipartisan joint committee on intelligence and security, the Senate passed the identify and disrupt bill on Wednesday. 
 
Watch | Gravitas Plus | Future of War: Cyber is the new nuclear

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-future-of-war-cyber-is-the-new-nuclear-397239/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Surveillance Legislation Amendment (Identify and Disrupt) Bill 2020 (Identify and Disrupt Bill) provides three new types of warrants that allow the Australian Federal Police and the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission to edit and erase data, take over accounts, and spy on Australians who are suspected of being involved in criminal networks.

These three additional authorities to combat online crime:

<ol>
	<li data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="8">The ability to "disrupt data" by modifying, copying, adding, or removing it is granted by a data disruption warrant.</li>
	<li data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="9">A network activity warrant permits the authorities to gather information from devices or networks used or anticipated to be used by those who are the subject of the order.</li>
	<li data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="10">Account takeover warrant: permits the police to seize control of an internet account (such as social media) in order to obtain information for an investigation.&nbsp;</li>
</ol>

(With inputs from agencies)

With Labor's support, an Australian government law giving police unprecedented powers to spy on criminal suspects online, interrupt their data, and take over their accounts was passed.

With Labor's support, an Australian government law giving police unprecedented powers to spy on criminal suspects online, interrupt their data, and take over their accounts was passed. Despite worries about the low bar for who can issue a warrant and the government's failure to adopt all of the protections proposed by the bipartisan joint committee on intelligence and security, the Senate passed the identify and disrupt bill on Wednesday. Watch | Gravitas Plus | Future of War: Cyber is the new nuclear The Surveillance Legislation Amendment (Identify and Disrupt) Bill 2020 (Identify and Disrupt Bill) provides three new types of warrants that allow the Australian Federal Police and the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission to edit and erase data, take over accounts, and spy on Australians who are suspected of being involved in criminal networks. These three additional authorities to combat online crime: The ability to "disrupt data" by modifying, copying, adding, or removing it is granted by a data disruption warrant. A network activity warrant permits the authorities to gather information from devices or networks used or anticipated to be used by those who are the subject of the order. Account takeover warrant: permits the police to seize control of an internet account (such as social media) in order to obtain information for an investigation. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia: Police can now hack citizens' devices, collect or delete their data

Is it a chic notebook?

Is it a laptop?

Is it a tablet?

Keep guessing.

Lenovo's ThinkPad X1 Fold is all of the above and more, but more than anything, it is a glimpse into the future.

The word "foldable" entered the technology lingo a few years ago and now, it's become a coveted feature when we talk of smartphones. A stunning screen can now fold and give us windows to multi-task, enjoy content and manage our tasks like a breeze. The new, uber-luxe member in Lenovo's ThinkPad family is targeted at new remote, office and hybrid working models.

But are the masses ready for a foldable PC? I ask that because it is available at the starting price of a whopping Rs 329,000!

We'll try and answer that in this review.

Design

The form factor here is nothing short of gasp-worthy. It is an entirely new form factor so lets take a moment to appreciate that.

Let me paint you a picture. You walk into office, a cafe or even to the airport holding a leather-bound notebook. People around you wonder, who takes notes in this day and age?

And then you unfold the future. The notebook opens up into a brilliant display. I guarantee you, people are going to ask you, what, pray, is in your hands?

This is the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold, a windows tablet that can be folded into a tiny laptop with its own Bluetooth keyboard. It can become a massive tablet when folded out and even be a desktop connected to a wireless keyboard.&nbsp;

Given the price, you may be afraid to experiment with it but rest assured, it comes with a multi-link torque hinge design so you can fold it with great ease and without fear.

Lenovo says it has been tested against 12 military-grade certification methods which essentially means it's a sturdy gadget.

Fold it into a notebook and I promise you, the hard-bound leather cover will make it look more like a chic notebook than a personal computer.

Weighing under a kilo, this is quite a portable notebook.&nbsp;

There are two USB-C ports however you don't get any headphone socket.&nbsp;

<img alt="Lenovo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="05fb3c83-0395-43ed-a52a-c19463716322" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/15_TP_X1_Fold_Hero.png" />

And if you're looking for the full tablet experience, go ahead, fold it out and you'll be treated to a seamless 13.3-inch OLED screen with a 2k display. And this is when it looks like a massive personal computer in desktop mode which can help you perform all your tasks. In this mode, you can also use the Bluetooth Mini Fold Keyboard for that full laptop experience.

However, in full laptop mode, the keyboard does appear too small for longer hours of work. So I suggest you fold the screen and use it as mini laptop with the keyboard. And trust me, the infamous crease is hardly visible.

<img alt="Lenovo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b0037c7-17ad-4ffe-ad8b-8eb04d0c2c84" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/14_TP_X1_Fold_Hero_Front_Clamshell.png" />

Performance

This is a beast. The X1 Fold comes with the Intel Core i5 hybrid processor and performs well for mundane tasks. The processor allows you to browse online, watch content, make those dreaded presentations while folding the screen into your preferred mode. The Lenovo Mode Switcher also let you choose the windows on the screen.

Battery

The battery lasted me around 6 hours in laptop or desktop mode and could be higher if you use the X1 Fold simply as a tablet. The battery performance could have been better but you've got to make compromises on a few fronts when holding a futuristic gadget.

Who will buy this?

The laptop market is brimming with options for all budgets. So when a product enters the market at well above Rs 3 lakh, eyebrows are raised and most start sweating buckets at the mere mention.

Well, this futuristic beast isn't for everyone and the pricing is not the only reason. Futuristic technology can be overwhelming for most of us, even those that love it.

Even with all the bells and whistles, it's difficult to justify the price tag given that people will probably use it as a laptop or as a desktop.&nbsp;

And yet, as I see foldable smartphones being used by both millennials and their parents, I can't help but wonder, perhaps there is an appetite to invest in a piece of futuristic technology?

For now, we can marvel at the fact that one gadget can fold and unfold into multiple others without so much of a crease.

The Verdict

What I Love:

<ul>
	<li>Futuristic form factor</li>
	<li>Folds into a chic notebook</li>
	<li>Superior content viewing with Dolby Vision</li>
</ul>

What I don't love

<ul>
	<li>Keyboard is too small</li>
	<li>Pricing: Not for the masses</li>
	<li>Battery could be better</li>
</ul>

Specs at a glance

Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Fold: Starts at Rs 3,29,000

<ul>
	<li>Intel Core i5 processor</li>
	<li>Up to Windows 10 Pro</li>
	<li>13.3-inch OLED display</li>
	<li>Dolby Atmos Sound</li>
	<li>Weighs 999 grams</li>
	<li>Comes with Bluetooth keyboard, stylus</li>
</ul>

Is it a chic notebook? Is it a laptop? Is it a tablet? Keep guessing. Lenovo's ThinkPad X1 Fold is all of the above and more, but more than anything, it is a glimpse into the future.

Is it a chic notebook? Is it a laptop? Is it a tablet? Keep guessing. Lenovo's ThinkPad X1 Fold is all of the above and more, but more than anything, it is a glimpse into the future. The word "foldable" entered the technology lingo a few years ago and now, it's become a coveted feature when we talk of smartphones. A stunning screen can now fold and give us windows to multi-task, enjoy content and manage our tasks like a breeze. The new, uber-luxe member in Lenovo's ThinkPad family is targeted at new remote, office and hybrid working models. But are the masses ready for a foldable PC? I ask that because it is available at the starting price of a whopping Rs 329,000! We'll try and answer that in this review. Design The form factor here is nothing short of gasp-worthy. It is an entirely new form factor so lets take a moment to appreciate that. Let me paint you a picture. You walk into office, a cafe or even to the airport holding a leather-bound notebook. People around you wonder, who takes notes in this day and age? And then you unfold the future. The notebook opens up into a brilliant display. I guarantee you, people are going to ask you, what, pray, is in your hands? This is the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold, a windows tablet that can be folded into a tiny laptop with its own Bluetooth keyboard. It can become a massive tablet when folded out and even be a desktop connected to a wireless keyboard. Given the price, you may be afraid to experiment with it but rest assured, it comes with a multi-link torque hinge design so you can fold it with great ease and without fear. Lenovo says it has been tested against 12 military-grade certification methods which essentially means it's a sturdy gadget. Fold it into a notebook and I promise you, the hard-bound leather cover will make it look more like a chic notebook than a personal computer. Weighing under a kilo, this is quite a portable notebook. There are two USB-C ports however you don't get any headphone socket. And if you're looking for the full tablet experience, go ahead, fold it out and you'll be treated to a seamless 13.3-inch OLED screen with a 2k display. And this is when it looks like a massive personal computer in desktop mode which can help you perform all your tasks. In this mode, you can also use the Bluetooth Mini Fold Keyboard for that full laptop experience. However, in full laptop mode, the keyboard does appear too small for longer hours of work. So I suggest you fold the screen and use it as mini laptop with the keyboard. And trust me, the infamous crease is hardly visible. Performance This is a beast. The X1 Fold comes with the Intel Core i5 hybrid processor and performs well for mundane tasks. The processor allows you to browse online, watch content, make those dreaded presentations while folding the screen into your preferred mode. The Lenovo Mode Switcher also let you choose the windows on the screen. Battery The battery lasted me around 6 hours in laptop or desktop mode and could be higher if you use the X1 Fold simply as a tablet. The battery performance could have been better but you've got to make compromises on a few fronts when holding a futuristic gadget. Who will buy this? The laptop market is brimming with options for all budgets. So when a product enters the market at well above Rs 3 lakh, eyebrows are raised and most start sweating buckets at the mere mention. Well, this futuristic beast isn't for everyone and the pricing is not the only reason. Futuristic technology can be overwhelming for most of us, even those that love it. Even with all the bells and whistles, it's difficult to justify the price tag given that people will probably use it as a laptop or as a desktop. And yet, as I see foldable smartphones being used by both millennials and their parents, I can't help but wonder, perhaps there is an appetite to invest in a piece of futuristic technology? For now, we can marvel at the fact that one gadget can fold and unfold into multiple others without so much of a crease. The Verdict What I Love: Futuristic form factor Folds into a chic notebook Superior content viewing with Dolby Vision What I don't love Keyboard is too small Pricing: Not for the masses Battery could be better Specs at a glance Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Fold: Starts at Rs 3,29,000 Intel Core i5 processor Up to Windows 10 Pro 13.3-inch OLED display Dolby Atmos Sound Weighs 999 grams Comes with Bluetooth keyboard, stylus

India's first foldable PC: Are we ready for it?

China has forbidden under-18s from playing video games for more than three hours a week, a stringent social intervention that it said was needed to pull the plug on a growing addiction to what it once described as "spiritual opium".

The new rules, published on Monday, are part of a major shift by Beijing to strengthen control over its society and key sectors of its economy, including technology, education, and property, after years of runaway growth.

The restrictions, which apply to any device, including phones, are a body blow to a global gaming industry that caters to tens of millions of young players in the world's most lucrative market.

They limit under-18s to playing for one hour a day - 8 pm to 9 pm - on only Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, according to the Xinhua state news agency. They can also play for an hour, at the same time, on public holidays.

The rules from the National Press and Publication Administration (NPPA) regulator coincide with a broader clampdown by Beijing on China's tech giants, such as Alibaba Group and Tencent Holdings.

The campaign to prevent what the state media has described as the "savage growth" of some companies has wiped tens of billions of dollars off shares traded at home and abroad.

"Teenagers are the future of our country," Xinhua quoted an unnamed NPPA spokesperson as saying. "Protecting the physical and mental health of minors is related to people's vital interests, and relates to the cultivation of the younger generation in the era of national rejuvenation."

Gaming companies will be barred from providing services to minors in any form outside the stipulated hours and must ensure they have put real-name verification systems in place, said the regulator, which oversees the country's video games market.

Previously, China had limited the length of time under-18s could play video games to 1.5 hours on any day and three hours on holidays under 2019 rules.

The new rules quickly became one of the most discussed topics on Weibo, China's answer to Twitter. Some users expressed support for the measures, while others said they were surprised at how drastic the rules were.

"This is so fierce that I'm utterly speechless," said one comment that received over 700 likes.

Others expressed doubt that the restrictions could be enforced. "They will just use their parents' logins. How can they control it?" asked one.

Gaming Shares Zapped

The Chinese games market will generate an estimated $45.6 billion of revenue in 2021, ahead of the United States, according to analytics firm Newzoo.

The crackdown reverberated around the world.

Shares in Amsterdam-listed tech investment company Prosus, which holds a 29% stake in Chinese social media and video game group Tencent, were down 1.45%, while European online video gaming stocks Ubisoft and Embracer Group each fell over 2%.

Shares of Chinese gaming stocks slid in pre-market trading in the United States with NetEase falling over 6% and mobile game publisher Bilibili dropping 3%.

About 62.5% of Chinese minors often play games online, and 13.2% of underage mobile game users play mobile games for more than two hours a day on working days, according to state media.

Gaming companies have been on edge in recent weeks as state media criticised gaming addiction among young people, signalling a regulatory crackdown.

A state media outlet described online games as "spiritual opium" this month and cited Tencent's "Honor of Kings" in an article that called for more curbs on the industry, battering shares in the world's largest gaming firm by revenue.

Tencent later announced new measures to reduce the time and money children spend on games, starting with Honor of Kings. Its president also said it was working with regulators to explore ways in which the total amount of time minors spent on gaming could be capped across all titles in the industry.

The NPPA regulator told Xinhua it would increase the frequency and intensity of inspections for online gaming companies to ensure they were putting in place time limits and anti-addiction systems.

It also said that parents and teachers played key roles in curbing gaming addiction.

China has forbidden under-18s from playing video games for more than three hours a week, a stringent social intervention that it said was needed to pull the plug on a growing addiction to what it once described as "spiritual opium".

China has forbidden under-18s from playing video games for more than three hours a week, a stringent social intervention that it said was needed to pull the plug on a growing addiction to what it once described as "spiritual opium". The new rules, published on Monday, are part of a major shift by Beijing to strengthen control over its society and key sectors of its economy, including technology, education, and property, after years of runaway growth. The restrictions, which apply to any device, including phones, are a body blow to a global gaming industry that caters to tens of millions of young players in the world's most lucrative market. They limit under-18s to playing for one hour a day - 8 pm to 9 pm - on only Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, according to the Xinhua state news agency. They can also play for an hour, at the same time, on public holidays. The rules from the National Press and Publication Administration (NPPA) regulator coincide with a broader clampdown by Beijing on China's tech giants, such as Alibaba Group and Tencent Holdings. The campaign to prevent what the state media has described as the "savage growth" of some companies has wiped tens of billions of dollars off shares traded at home and abroad. "Teenagers are the future of our country," Xinhua quoted an unnamed NPPA spokesperson as saying. "Protecting the physical and mental health of minors is related to people's vital interests, and relates to the cultivation of the younger generation in the era of national rejuvenation." Gaming companies will be barred from providing services to minors in any form outside the stipulated hours and must ensure they have put real-name verification systems in place, said the regulator, which oversees the country's video games market. Previously, China had limited the length of time under-18s could play video games to 1.5 hours on any day and three hours on holidays under 2019 rules. The new rules quickly became one of the most discussed topics on Weibo, China's answer to Twitter. Some users expressed support for the measures, while others said they were surprised at how drastic the rules were. "This is so fierce that I'm utterly speechless," said one comment that received over 700 likes. Others expressed doubt that the restrictions could be enforced. "They will just use their parents' logins. How can they control it?" asked one. Gaming Shares Zapped The Chinese games market will generate an estimated $45.6 billion of revenue in 2021, ahead of the United States, according to analytics firm Newzoo. The crackdown reverberated around the world. Shares in Amsterdam-listed tech investment company Prosus, which holds a 29% stake in Chinese social media and video game group Tencent, were down 1.45%, while European online video gaming stocks Ubisoft and Embracer Group each fell over 2%. Shares of Chinese gaming stocks slid in pre-market trading in the United States with NetEase falling over 6% and mobile game publisher Bilibili dropping 3%. About 62.5% of Chinese minors often play games online, and 13.2% of underage mobile game users play mobile games for more than two hours a day on working days, according to state media. Gaming companies have been on edge in recent weeks as state media criticised gaming addiction among young people, signalling a regulatory crackdown. A state media outlet described online games as "spiritual opium" this month and cited Tencent's "Honor of Kings" in an article that called for more curbs on the industry, battering shares in the world's largest gaming firm by revenue. Tencent later announced new measures to reduce the time and money children spend on games, starting with Honor of Kings. Its president also said it was working with regulators to explore ways in which the total amount of time minors spent on gaming could be capped across all titles in the industry. The NPPA regulator told Xinhua it would increase the frequency and intensity of inspections for online gaming companies to ensure they were putting in place time limits and anti-addiction systems. It also said that parents and teachers played key roles in curbing gaming addiction.

Three hours a week: China's new rules for children playing video games 

A new crop of mobile money apps are promoting themselves as part of the solution to a stubborn problem: a lack of financial savvy, particularly among young Americans.

The apps offer slick educational videos and tools while enabling children and teenagers to save and spend — and even invest in stocks. The apps pair with plastic debit cards designed with kids and teens in mind. They have caught the attention of researchers and financial advisers who say the tools may help engage and enlighten young users, even as they worry that the apps, without close parental involvement, may encourage bad financial behavior.

Numerous reports have noted that financial literacy in the United States has resisted improvement for some time, even though more states have begun requiring schools to teach it. An analysis published this month by the Milken Institute, a public policy think tank in Santa Monica, California, deemed the lack of sound financial knowledge among young people and adults to be a “worrisome” barrier to economic advancement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/apple-to-allow-developers-to-email-customers-about-payment-options-408878" hreflang="en">Apple to allow developers to email customers about payment options</a>

Yet although many Americans lack the knowledge necessary to make smart decisions about money, the Milken report said, digital tools have the potential to be a “catalyst” for financial education, particularly among young people, who are avid users of apps.

Young people may tune out dry concepts they hear in a classroom, but the apps convert information into colorful, interactive graphs. “The tool makes it very real,” said Oscar Contreras, an economist at the Milken Institute and one of the report’s authors.

Financial technology, or “fintech,” startup companies are embracing the financial literacy trend, seeing a way to sign up customers early by offering personal finance instruction along with spending and saving tools.

Copper, for instance, bills itself as “the only bank that teaches teens about money,” and offers brief, peppy videos and a financial literacy quiz that teens or their parents can take. A sample question: “Suppose you have $100 in a savings account earning 2% a year. After five years how much would you have? (A) More than $102; (B) Exactly $102; (C) Less than $102; (D) I honestly don’t know. (The desired answer is A, because of the effect of compound interest — a bedrock financial concept.)

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/microsoft-warns-thousands-of-cloud-customers-of-exposed-databases-408805" hreflang="en">Microsoft warns thousands of cloud customers of exposed databases</a>

Engaging tools and clear information are key, said Copper co-founder and CEO Eddie Behringer. The rise in student debt coincided with the explosion of smartphones, he said, suggesting that “increasing digital access doesn’t always translate to financial literacy.”

Rachel Pendergrass, a teacher and softball coach at Columbia High School in Huntsville, Alabama, said she found Copper last spring while searching online for updated lessons to use in a personal-finance class she was teaching for the first time.

“I didn’t feel like teaching them to write a check was very relevant to them,” she said.

Copper provided introductory letters that Pendergrass sent home to parents, who could approve their child for the app, which links to a digital bank account and a debit card — or not.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/what-are-recommendation-algorithms-that-china-is-cracking-down-on-and-how-do-they-affect-internet-users-408781" hreflang="en">What are recommendation algorithms that China is cracking down on, and how do they affect internet users?</a>

Most were receptive, she said, because they liked the idea of being able to easily send their children money: “It was all voluntary, not an assignment.” In the classroom, Copper’s “cheat code” videos, which offer quick lessons on topics such as “What do banks actually do?” and “What is an IPO?,” helped inspire discussions.

Step, an app that is intended for teenagers and has about 2 million users, declares on its website: “We want to make learning about money fun and interesting.” Step’s website offers trendy videos and short articles such as “Outfits that slay: The ultimate guide to thrifting showstopping, back-to-school looks.”

“Most schools don’t teach kids about money, and most families don’t talk about money,” said CJ MacDonald, Step’s founder and CEO. “It became very clear there was a gap in the market.”

Step offers a secured credit card rather than a debit card. With secured cards, users make a deposit that serves as collateral; they can spend up to the amount of the deposit, and build credit when using it.

The card provides “training wheels” so users can transition to real credit cards when they are old enough, MacDonald said. (The minimum age to open a credit card is 18, but people younger than 21 face tougher criteria to qualify.)

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/facebook-said-to-consider-forming-an-election-commission-408506" hreflang="en">Facebook said to consider forming an election commission</a>

Greenlight began as a tool to help parents manage children’s chores and pay them an allowance or give them spending money, since people increasingly don’t have cash on hand. Now Greenlight, which debuted in 2017, has more than 4 million accounts and has added features, including cash back on its debit card, and an option that lets kids invest through a brokerage account opened in a parent’s name.

Kids of any age can research, buy and sell stocks — including fractional shares — as well as exchange-traded funds. The app including the investing option costs about $8 a month, but there’s no extra fee for trades. To trade, the child must request approval from the parent through the Greenlight app.

Greenlight CEO Tim Sheehan said the investment option was a logical step after children learned the basics of saving and spending within their means. The option includes access to research from Morningstar and offers short videos that explain investing concepts, including a price-to-earnings ratio.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tech-giants-pledge-billions-for-security-against-cyber-threats-408431" hreflang="en">Tech giants pledge billions for security against cyber threats</a>

Although the apps appear promising, they make some financial education advocates wary. Lennette Coleman, president of the FoolProof Foundation, which promotes “healthy skepticism” about financial products, said it felt “irresponsible” to allow children — who may not have fully absorbed lessons about the necessity of working to earn money, saving it and spending it wisely — to invest in stocks. If apps make a game out of investing, she added, children may be more engaged — but they may also be more likely to take risks.

“There’s a lot of nuance in the stock market,” she said, “and they don’t understand those nuances.”

Tim Lambrecht, director of education at Budget Challenge, a program that uses simulations to teach students about bill paying, budgeting and investing, said that apps could get teens excited about investing, but that most emphasized buying individual stocks and skimped on information about long-term investing in index funds in tax-advantaged accounts.

“That sends the wrong message,” he said. “You have to invest for retirement; you can’t save enough.”

A new crop of mobile money apps are promoting themselves as part of the solution to a stubborn problem: a lack of financial savvy, particularly among young Americans.

A new crop of mobile money apps are promoting themselves as part of the solution to a stubborn problem: a lack of financial savvy, particularly among young Americans. The apps offer slick educational videos and tools while enabling children and teenagers to save and spend — and even invest in stocks. The apps pair with plastic debit cards designed with kids and teens in mind. They have caught the attention of researchers and financial advisers who say the tools may help engage and enlighten young users, even as they worry that the apps, without close parental involvement, may encourage bad financial behavior. Numerous reports have noted that financial literacy in the United States has resisted improvement for some time, even though more states have begun requiring schools to teach it. An analysis published this month by the Milken Institute, a public policy think tank in Santa Monica, California, deemed the lack of sound financial knowledge among young people and adults to be a “worrisome” barrier to economic advancement. Also read | Apple to allow developers to email customers about payment options Yet although many Americans lack the knowledge necessary to make smart decisions about money, the Milken report said, digital tools have the potential to be a “catalyst” for financial education, particularly among young people, who are avid users of apps. Young people may tune out dry concepts they hear in a classroom, but the apps convert information into colorful, interactive graphs. “The tool makes it very real,” said Oscar Contreras, an economist at the Milken Institute and one of the report’s authors. Financial technology, or “fintech,” startup companies are embracing the financial literacy trend, seeing a way to sign up customers early by offering personal finance instruction along with spending and saving tools. Copper, for instance, bills itself as “the only bank that teaches teens about money,” and offers brief, peppy videos and a financial literacy quiz that teens or their parents can take. A sample question: “Suppose you have $100 in a savings account earning 2% a year. After five years how much would you have? (A) More than $102; (B) Exactly $102; (C) Less than $102; (D) I honestly don’t know. (The desired answer is A, because of the effect of compound interest — a bedrock financial concept.) Also read | Microsoft warns thousands of cloud customers of exposed databases Engaging tools and clear information are key, said Copper co-founder and CEO Eddie Behringer. The rise in student debt coincided with the explosion of smartphones, he said, suggesting that “increasing digital access doesn’t always translate to financial literacy.” Rachel Pendergrass, a teacher and softball coach at Columbia High School in Huntsville, Alabama, said she found Copper last spring while searching online for updated lessons to use in a personal-finance class she was teaching for the first time. “I didn’t feel like teaching them to write a check was very relevant to them,” she said. Copper provided introductory letters that Pendergrass sent home to parents, who could approve their child for the app, which links to a digital bank account and a debit card — or not. Also read | What are recommendation algorithms that China is cracking down on, and how do they affect internet users? Most were receptive, she said, because they liked the idea of being able to easily send their children money: “It was all voluntary, not an assignment.” In the classroom, Copper’s “cheat code” videos, which offer quick lessons on topics such as “What do banks actually do?” and “What is an IPO?,” helped inspire discussions. Step, an app that is intended for teenagers and has about 2 million users, declares on its website: “We want to make learning about money fun and interesting.” Step’s website offers trendy videos and short articles such as “Outfits that slay: The ultimate guide to thrifting showstopping, back-to-school looks.” “Most schools don’t teach kids about money, and most families don’t talk about money,” said CJ MacDonald, Step’s founder and CEO. “It became very clear there was a gap in the market.” Step offers a secured credit card rather than a debit card. With secured cards, users make a deposit that serves as collateral; they can spend up to the amount of the deposit, and build credit when using it. The card provides “training wheels” so users can transition to real credit cards when they are old enough, MacDonald said. (The minimum age to open a credit card is 18, but people younger than 21 face tougher criteria to qualify.) Also read | Facebook said to consider forming an election commission Greenlight began as a tool to help parents manage children’s chores and pay them an allowance or give them spending money, since people increasingly don’t have cash on hand. Now Greenlight, which debuted in 2017, has more than 4 million accounts and has added features, including cash back on its debit card, and an option that lets kids invest through a brokerage account opened in a parent’s name. Kids of any age can research, buy and sell stocks — including fractional shares — as well as exchange-traded funds. The app including the investing option costs about $8 a month, but there’s no extra fee for trades. To trade, the child must request approval from the parent through the Greenlight app. Greenlight CEO Tim Sheehan said the investment option was a logical step after children learned the basics of saving and spending within their means. The option includes access to research from Morningstar and offers short videos that explain investing concepts, including a price-to-earnings ratio. Also read | Tech giants pledge billions for security against cyber threats Although the apps appear promising, they make some financial education advocates wary. Lennette Coleman, president of the FoolProof Foundation, which promotes “healthy skepticism” about financial products, said it felt “irresponsible” to allow children — who may not have fully absorbed lessons about the necessity of working to earn money, saving it and spending it wisely — to invest in stocks. If apps make a game out of investing, she added, children may be more engaged — but they may also be more likely to take risks. “There’s a lot of nuance in the stock market,” she said, “and they don’t understand those nuances.” Tim Lambrecht, director of education at Budget Challenge, a program that uses simulations to teach students about bill paying, budgeting and investing, said that apps could get teens excited about investing, but that most emphasized buying individual stocks and skimped on information about long-term investing in index funds in tax-advantaged accounts. “That sends the wrong message,” he said. “You have to invest for retirement; you can’t save enough.”

Apps try putting financial literacy at kids’ fingertips

In a significant change to App Store policies, Apple will allow app developers to email their users about alternative purchase options.

App developers want to contact their customers directly in order to persuade them to pay directly and avoid Apple's App Store fees, which range from 15% to 30% of gross sales.

Apple changed its policy as a result of a class action lawsuit settled with developers who claimed that Apple monopolised distribution of iOS apps and in-app purchases.&nbsp;

The concession, which covers emailed notifications but not in-app notifications, was announced late Thursday as part of a preliminary settlement of a nearly 2-year-old lawsuit filed on behalf of iPhone app developers in the United States.

It also addresses an issue raised by a federal court judge who is expected to rule soon in a separate case filed by Epic Games, the creators of the popular video game Fortnite.

Apple announced the news in a "background" briefing with reporters, during which it insisted on anonymity for participating executives and refused to allow direct quotes.&nbsp;

Separately, Apple announced on Thursday that App Store fees for publishers who provide content to Apple News would be reduced.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a significant change to App Store policies, Apple will allow app developers to email their users about alternative purchase options. App developers want to contact their customers directly in order to persuade them to pay directly and avoid Apple's App Store fees, which range from 15% to 30% of gross sales.

In a significant change to App Store policies, Apple will allow app developers to email their users about alternative purchase options. App developers want to contact their customers directly in order to persuade them to pay directly and avoid Apple's App Store fees, which range from 15% to 30% of gross sales. Apple changed its policy as a result of a class action lawsuit settled with developers who claimed that Apple monopolised distribution of iOS apps and in-app purchases. The concession, which covers emailed notifications but not in-app notifications, was announced late Thursday as part of a preliminary settlement of a nearly 2-year-old lawsuit filed on behalf of iPhone app developers in the United States. It also addresses an issue raised by a federal court judge who is expected to rule soon in a separate case filed by Epic Games, the creators of the popular video game Fortnite. Apple announced the news in a "background" briefing with reporters, during which it insisted on anonymity for participating executives and refused to allow direct quotes. Separately, Apple announced on Thursday that App Store fees for publishers who provide content to Apple News would be reduced. (With inputs from agencies)

Apple to allow developers to email customers about payment options

Cyberspace Administration of&nbsp;China has issued guidelines under which service providers must abide by business ethics and principles of fairness and should not set up algorithm models that entice users to spend large amounts of money or spend money in a way that may disrupt public order.

The draft is open for public feedback until September 26, China said, adding that the algorithms should not be used to create fake user accounts and users should be given the option to easily turn off algorithm recommendation services.

So what are internet recommendation algorithms?

Internet recommendation algorithms help users discover new products and services.

Internet companies globally use algorithms to predict user preferences and make recommendations.

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In&nbsp;China, this would include firms such as e-commerce giant Alibaba Group, ride-hailing firm Didi Global and TikTok owner ByteDance.

Earlier this year, the Chinese Consumer Association criticised internet companies&nbsp;for misusing personal data and "bullying" people into purchases and promotions. State media have since issued multiple calls for regulating the use of such algorithms.

China&nbsp;recently passed a data security law&nbsp;that will go into effect on September&nbsp;1 to protect internet users' rights in cyberspace and impose curbs on its fast-growing internet industry.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-education-to-bitcoin-chinas-season-of-regulatory-crackdown-401448">Also read|&nbsp;From education to bitcoin, China's season of regulatory crackdown</a>

Impact on users

Internet platforms assert that they use automated recommendation systems to enhance users’ experiences on their platforms through personalised and relevant recommendations. Of course, in doing this, internet platforms -- from film streaming platforms to news sites and e-commerce portals -- also seek to retain user attention on their services.

This translates to significant financial benefits for the companies, as they can target users with advertisements and recommend further content to consume or items to purchase.

Definitions of “relevance” vary across platforms, and are largely based on what a platform believes a user is interested in through its data collection and inference practices.

In some cases, however, the use of algorithmic decision-making tools results in the recommendation of harmful content, such as misinformation, conspiracy theories, and extremist propaganda.

In some instances,&nbsp;these recommender systems yield discriminatory outcomes that reinforce societal biases.

Internet platforms that deploy automated recommendation systems do not currently provide meaningful transparency and accountability around how these systems are created and operated.

There is little visibility into how platforms have developed and crafted these recommendation systems, how they operate, and how they make decisions.

This makes it very difficult to analyse and combat the problematic recommendations that come from these systems.

Big Tech companies are facing allegations of lack of transparency and accountability from internet platforms.

This is especially concerning given that recommender systems have a significant amount of influence over how users engage with, and are influenced by, the online sphere.

Not only can recommender systems influence product purchases, but they also can determine what content, such as news articles, a user will even see.

China's regulatory crackdown

With&nbsp;market-trembling new rules and investigations, Beijing's crackdown on its most prominent companies has seeped into nearly every aspect of modern life, wiping billions of dollars from Chinese and Hong Kong-listed stocks and bamboozling investment sages.

From after-school tutoring to music streaming apps, and shopping to bike-sharing, stellar firms have been hit as Beijing tightens the leash on corporations, citing national security and antitrust concerns.

Whether motivated by the control reflexes of the Communist Party, or to avoid market contortions hurting the pockets and safety of the Chinese public, few expect this to be the end of the crackdown.

(With inputs from agencies)

Cyberspace Administration of China has issued guidelines under which service providers must abide by business ethics and principles of fairness and should not set up algorithm models that entice users to spend large amounts of money or spend money in a way that may disrupt public order.

Cyberspace Administration of China has issued guidelines under which service providers must abide by business ethics and principles of fairness and should not set up algorithm models that entice users to spend large amounts of money or spend money in a way that may disrupt public order. The draft is open for public feedback until September 26, China said, adding that the algorithms should not be used to create fake user accounts and users should be given the option to easily turn off algorithm recommendation services. So what are internet recommendation algorithms? Internet recommendation algorithms help users discover new products and services. Internet companies globally use algorithms to predict user preferences and make recommendations. In China, this would include firms such as e-commerce giant Alibaba Group, ride-hailing firm Didi Global and TikTok owner ByteDance. Earlier this year, the Chinese Consumer Association criticised internet companies for misusing personal data and "bullying" people into purchases and promotions. State media have since issued multiple calls for regulating the use of such algorithms. China recently passed a data security law that will go into effect on September 1 to protect internet users' rights in cyberspace and impose curbs on its fast-growing internet industry. Also read| From education to bitcoin, China's season of regulatory crackdown Impact on users Internet platforms assert that they use automated recommendation systems to enhance users’ experiences on their platforms through personalised and relevant recommendations. Of course, in doing this, internet platforms -- from film streaming platforms to news sites and e-commerce portals -- also seek to retain user attention on their services. This translates to significant financial benefits for the companies, as they can target users with advertisements and recommend further content to consume or items to purchase. Definitions of “relevance” vary across platforms, and are largely based on what a platform believes a user is interested in through its data collection and inference practices. In some cases, however, the use of algorithmic decision-making tools results in the recommendation of harmful content, such as misinformation, conspiracy theories, and extremist propaganda. In some instances, these recommender systems yield discriminatory outcomes that reinforce societal biases. Internet platforms that deploy automated recommendation systems do not currently provide meaningful transparency and accountability around how these systems are created and operated. There is little visibility into how platforms have developed and crafted these recommendation systems, how they operate, and how they make decisions. This makes it very difficult to analyse and combat the problematic recommendations that come from these systems. Big Tech companies are facing allegations of lack of transparency and accountability from internet platforms. This is especially concerning given that recommender systems have a significant amount of influence over how users engage with, and are influenced by, the online sphere. Not only can recommender systems influence product purchases, but they also can determine what content, such as news articles, a user will even see. China's regulatory crackdown With market-trembling new rules and investigations, Beijing's crackdown on its most prominent companies has seeped into nearly every aspect of modern life, wiping billions of dollars from Chinese and Hong Kong-listed stocks and bamboozling investment sages. From after-school tutoring to music streaming apps, and shopping to bike-sharing, stellar firms have been hit as Beijing tightens the leash on corporations, citing national security and antitrust concerns. Whether motivated by the control reflexes of the Communist Party, or to avoid market contortions hurting the pockets and safety of the Chinese public, few expect this to be the end of the crackdown. (With inputs from agencies)

What are recommendation algorithms that China is cracking down on, and how do they affect internet users?

Microsoft on Thursday warned thousands of its cloud computing customers, including some of the world's largest companies, that intruders could have the ability to read, change or even delete their main databases, according to a copy of the email and a cyber security researcher.

The vulnerability is in Microsoft Azure's flagship Cosmos DB database. A research team at security company Wiz discovered it was able to access keys that control access to databases held by thousands of companies. Wiz Chief Technology Officer Ami Luttwak is a former chief technology officer at Microsoft's Cloud Security Group.

Because Microsoft cannot change those keys by itself, it emailed the customers Thursday telling them to create new ones. Microsoft agreed to pay Wiz $40,000 for finding the flaw and reporting it, according to an email it sent to Wiz.

"We fixed this issue immediately to keep our customers safe and protected. We thank the security researchers for working under coordinated vulnerability disclosure," Microsoft told Reuters.

Microsoft's email to customers said there was no evidence the flaw had been exploited. "We have no indication that external entities outside the researcher (Wiz) had access to the primary read-write key," the email said.

“This is the worst cloud vulnerability you can imagine. It is a long-lasting secret,” Luttwak told Reuters. “This is the central database of Azure, and we were able to get access to any customer database that we wanted.”

Luttwak's team found the problem, dubbed ChaosDB, on Aug. 9 and notified Microsoft Aug. 12, Luttwak said.

The flaw was in a visualization tool called Jupyter Notebook, which has been available for years but was enabled by default in Cosmos beginning in February. After Reuters reported on the flaw, Wiz detailed the issue https://www.wiz.io/blog/chaosdb-how-we-hacked-thousands-of-azure-customers-databases in a blog post.

Luttwak said even customers who have not been notified by Microsoft could have had their keys swiped by attackers, giving them access until those keys are changed. Microsoft only told customers whose keys were visible this month, when Wiz was working on the issue.

Microsoft told Reuters that "customers who may have been impacted received a notification from us," without elaborating.

The disclosure comes after months of bad security news for Microsoft. The company was breached by the same suspected Russian government hackers that infiltrated SolarWinds, who stole Microsoft source code https://www.reuters.com/article/us-cyber-solarwinds-microsoft-idUSKBN2AI2Q0. Then a wide number of hackers broke into Exchange email servers while a patch was being developed.

A recent fix for a printer flaw that allowed computer takeovers had to be redone repeatedly. Another Exchange flaw last week prompted an urgent U.S. government warning https://us-cert.cisa.gov/ncas/current-activity/2021/08/21/urgent-protect-against-active-exploitation-proxyshell that customers need to install patches issued months ago because ransomware gangs are now exploiting it.

Problems with Azure are especially troubling, because Microsoft and outside security experts have been pushing companies to abandon most of their own infrastructure and rely on the cloud for more security.

But though cloud attacks are more rare, they can be more devastating when they occur. What's more, some are never publicized.

A federally contracted research lab tracks all known security flaws in software and rates them by severity. But there is no equivalent system for holes in cloud architecture, so many critical vulnerabilities remain undisclosed to users, Luttwak said.

Microsoft on Thursday warned thousands of its cloud computing customers, including some of the world's largest companies, that intruders could have the ability to read, change or even delete their main databases, according to a copy of the email and a cyber security researcher.

Microsoft on Thursday warned thousands of its cloud computing customers, including some of the world's largest companies, that intruders could have the ability to read, change or even delete their main databases, according to a copy of the email and a cyber security researcher. The vulnerability is in Microsoft Azure's flagship Cosmos DB database. A research team at security company Wiz discovered it was able to access keys that control access to databases held by thousands of companies. Wiz Chief Technology Officer Ami Luttwak is a former chief technology officer at Microsoft's Cloud Security Group. Because Microsoft cannot change those keys by itself, it emailed the customers Thursday telling them to create new ones. Microsoft agreed to pay Wiz $40,000 for finding the flaw and reporting it, according to an email it sent to Wiz. "We fixed this issue immediately to keep our customers safe and protected. We thank the security researchers for working under coordinated vulnerability disclosure," Microsoft told Reuters. Microsoft's email to customers said there was no evidence the flaw had been exploited. "We have no indication that external entities outside the researcher (Wiz) had access to the primary read-write key," the email said. “This is the worst cloud vulnerability you can imagine. It is a long-lasting secret,” Luttwak told Reuters. “This is the central database of Azure, and we were able to get access to any customer database that we wanted.” Luttwak's team found the problem, dubbed ChaosDB, on Aug. 9 and notified Microsoft Aug. 12, Luttwak said. The flaw was in a visualization tool called Jupyter Notebook, which has been available for years but was enabled by default in Cosmos beginning in February. After Reuters reported on the flaw, Wiz detailed the issue https://www.wiz.io/blog/chaosdb-how-we-hacked-thousands-of-azure-customers-databases in a blog post. Luttwak said even customers who have not been notified by Microsoft could have had their keys swiped by attackers, giving them access until those keys are changed. Microsoft only told customers whose keys were visible this month, when Wiz was working on the issue. Microsoft told Reuters that "customers who may have been impacted received a notification from us," without elaborating. The disclosure comes after months of bad security news for Microsoft. The company was breached by the same suspected Russian government hackers that infiltrated SolarWinds, who stole Microsoft source code https://www.reuters.com/article/us-cyber-solarwinds-microsoft-idUSKBN2AI2Q0. Then a wide number of hackers broke into Exchange email servers while a patch was being developed. A recent fix for a printer flaw that allowed computer takeovers had to be redone repeatedly. Another Exchange flaw last week prompted an urgent U.S. government warning https://us-cert.cisa.gov/ncas/current-activity/2021/08/21/urgent-protect-against-active-exploitation-proxyshell that customers need to install patches issued months ago because ransomware gangs are now exploiting it. Problems with Azure are especially troubling, because Microsoft and outside security experts have been pushing companies to abandon most of their own infrastructure and rely on the cloud for more security. But though cloud attacks are more rare, they can be more devastating when they occur. What's more, some are never publicized. A federally contracted research lab tracks all known security flaws in software and rates them by severity. But there is no equivalent system for holes in cloud architecture, so many critical vulnerabilities remain undisclosed to users, Luttwak said.

Microsoft warns thousands of cloud customers of exposed databases

Tech giants have announced&nbsp;an investment of billions of dollars to strengthen cybersecurity defenses and to train skilled workers.

It comes after the White House asked Big Tech, the finance industry, and key infrastructure companies to do more to tackle the growing&nbsp;cybersecurity&nbsp;threat&nbsp;in a meeting with President Joe Biden and members of his cabinet.

“The reality is most of our critical infrastructure is owned and operated by the private sector, and the federal government can’t meet this challenge alone,” Biden said.

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"The federal government can't meet this challenge alone," Biden told the masked executives, all seated at tables in the East Room.

Cybersecurity has risen to the top of the agenda for the Biden administration after a series of high-profile attacks on network management company SolarWinds Corp, the Colonial Pipeline company, meat processing company JBS and software firm Kaseya.

The attacks hurt the United States far beyond just the companies hacked, affecting fuel and food supplies.

Biden touched on ransomware attacks and said he had pressed Russian President Vladimir Putin to hold people responsible for attacks when he met him earlier this year.

The guest list included Amazon.com Inc CEO Andy Jassy, Apple Inc CEO Tim Cook, Microsoft Corp CEO Satya Nadella, Google's parent Alphabet Inc CEO Sundar Pichai, and IBM Chief Executive Arvind Krishna.

Microsoft said it will invest $20 billion over five years, a four-fold increase from current rates, to speed up its&nbsp;cyber&nbsp;security work.

It will make available $150 million in technical services to help federal, state, and local governments to help keep their security systems up to date.

The meeting comes as Congress weighs legislation concerning data breach notification laws and&nbsp;cybersecurity insurance industry regulation, historically viewed as two of the most consequential policy areas within the field.

Executives for energy utility firm Southern Co and financial giant JPMorgan Chase &amp; Co are also expected to attend the event.

The event featured top&nbsp;cybersecurity officials from the Biden administration, including recently confirmed National&nbsp;Cybersecurity Director Chris Inglis, as well as Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, to lead different conversations with industry representatives.

(With inputs from agencies)

Tech giants have announced an investment of billions of dollars to strengthen cybersecurity defenses and to train skilled workers. It comes after the White House asked Big Tech, the finance industry, and key infrastructure companies to do more to tackle the growing cybersecurity threat in a meeting with President Joe Biden and members of his cabinet.

Tech giants have announced an investment of billions of dollars to strengthen cybersecurity defenses and to train skilled workers. It comes after the White House asked Big Tech, the finance industry, and key infrastructure companies to do more to tackle the growing cybersecurity threat in a meeting with President Joe Biden and members of his cabinet. “The reality is most of our critical infrastructure is owned and operated by the private sector, and the federal government can’t meet this challenge alone,” Biden said. "The federal government can't meet this challenge alone," Biden told the masked executives, all seated at tables in the East Room. Cybersecurity has risen to the top of the agenda for the Biden administration after a series of high-profile attacks on network management company SolarWinds Corp, the Colonial Pipeline company, meat processing company JBS and software firm Kaseya. The attacks hurt the United States far beyond just the companies hacked, affecting fuel and food supplies. Biden touched on ransomware attacks and said he had pressed Russian President Vladimir Putin to hold people responsible for attacks when he met him earlier this year. The guest list included Amazon.com Inc CEO Andy Jassy, Apple Inc CEO Tim Cook, Microsoft Corp CEO Satya Nadella, Google's parent Alphabet Inc CEO Sundar Pichai, and IBM Chief Executive Arvind Krishna. Microsoft said it will invest $20 billion over five years, a four-fold increase from current rates, to speed up its cyber security work. It will make available $150 million in technical services to help federal, state, and local governments to help keep their security systems up to date. The meeting comes as Congress weighs legislation concerning data breach notification laws and cybersecurity insurance industry regulation, historically viewed as two of the most consequential policy areas within the field. Executives for energy utility firm Southern Co and financial giant JPMorgan Chase & Co are also expected to attend the event. The event featured top cybersecurity officials from the Biden administration, including recently confirmed National Cybersecurity Director Chris Inglis, as well as Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, to lead different conversations with industry representatives. (With inputs from agencies)

Tech giants pledge billions for security against cyber threats

Facebook has approached academics and policy experts about forming a commission to advise it on global election-related matters, said five people with knowledge of the discussions, a move that would allow the social network to shift some of its political decision-making to an advisory body.

The proposed commission could decide on matters such as the viability of political ads and what to do about election-related misinformation, said the people, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because the discussions were confidential. Facebook is expected to announce the commission this fall in preparation for the 2022 midterm elections, they said, though the effort is preliminary and could still fall apart.

Outsourcing election matters to a panel of experts could help Facebook sidestep criticism of bias by political groups, two of the people said. The company has been blasted in recent years by conservatives, who have accused Facebook of suppressing their voices, as well as by civil rights groups and Democrats for allowing political misinformation to fester and spread online. Mark Zuckerberg, Facebook’s chief executive, does not want to be seen as the sole decision-maker on political content, two of the people said.

Facebook declined to comment.

If an election commission is formed, it would emulate the step Facebook took in 2018 when it created what it calls the Oversight Board, a collection of journalism, legal and policy experts who adjudicate whether the company was correct to remove certain posts from its platforms. Facebook has pushed some content decisions to the Oversight Board for review, allowing it to show that it does not make determinations on its own.

Facebook has had a spotty track record on election-related issues, going back to Russian manipulation of the platform’s advertising and posts in the 2016 presidential election.

There are several elections in the coming year in countries such as Hungary, Germany, Brazil and the Philippines where Facebook’s actions will be closely scrutinized. Voter fraud misinformation has already begun spreading ahead of German elections in September. In the Philippines, Facebook has removed networks of fake accounts that support President Rodrigo Duterte, who used the social network to gain power in 2016.

“There is already this perception that Facebook, an American social media company, is going in and tilting elections of other countries through its platform,” said Nathaniel Persily, a law professor at Stanford University. “Whatever decisions Facebook makes have global implications.” 
&nbsp;

Facebook has approached academics and policy experts about forming a commission to advise it on global election-related matters, said five people with knowledge of the discussions, a move that would allow the social network to shift some of its political decision-making to an advisory body.

Facebook has approached academics and policy experts about forming a commission to advise it on global election-related matters, said five people with knowledge of the discussions, a move that would allow the social network to shift some of its political decision-making to an advisory body. The proposed commission could decide on matters such as the viability of political ads and what to do about election-related misinformation, said the people, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because the discussions were confidential. Facebook is expected to announce the commission this fall in preparation for the 2022 midterm elections, they said, though the effort is preliminary and could still fall apart. Outsourcing election matters to a panel of experts could help Facebook sidestep criticism of bias by political groups, two of the people said. The company has been blasted in recent years by conservatives, who have accused Facebook of suppressing their voices, as well as by civil rights groups and Democrats for allowing political misinformation to fester and spread online. Mark Zuckerberg, Facebook’s chief executive, does not want to be seen as the sole decision-maker on political content, two of the people said. Facebook declined to comment. If an election commission is formed, it would emulate the step Facebook took in 2018 when it created what it calls the Oversight Board, a collection of journalism, legal and policy experts who adjudicate whether the company was correct to remove certain posts from its platforms. Facebook has pushed some content decisions to the Oversight Board for review, allowing it to show that it does not make determinations on its own. Facebook has had a spotty track record on election-related issues, going back to Russian manipulation of the platform’s advertising and posts in the 2016 presidential election. There are several elections in the coming year in countries such as Hungary, Germany, Brazil and the Philippines where Facebook’s actions will be closely scrutinized. Voter fraud misinformation has already begun spreading ahead of German elections in September. In the Philippines, Facebook has removed networks of fake accounts that support President Rodrigo Duterte, who used the social network to gain power in 2016. “There is already this perception that Facebook, an American social media company, is going in and tilting elections of other countries through its platform,” said Nathaniel Persily, a law professor at Stanford University. “Whatever decisions Facebook makes have global implications.”

Facebook said to consider forming an election commission

Facebook-owned&nbsp;Instagram is retiring the&nbsp;swipe-up gesture to access links on August 30 and replacing it with&nbsp;addictive stickers.

The company said it is making the move to “streamline the stories creation experience” and offer more “creative control,” given that uses can format the look of stickers and not the swipe up.

Instagram started testing these stickers in June for various users, not just people who already had swipe-up privileges.

This is seen as a big change as the swipe-up function was a premium feature for Instagram and it was being offered only to influencers with more than 10,000 followers and advertisers who pay for visibility.

Instagram is diversifying its features. It will launch advertising on its Shop feature globally,&nbsp;&nbsp;as it seeks to earn more money from brands hoping to reach new customers.

Instagram&nbsp;Shop is a tab on the photo and video sharing app that lets users browse items such as clothes and beauty products and in some cases purchase the items directly within the&nbsp;Instagram&nbsp;app.

Users can click on an&nbsp;Instagram&nbsp;Shop ad to view more details about the product, browse additional items from the brand or save the product to a wishlist.

The company began testing the ads earlier this month with a few select advertisers, but the feature is now open to brands globally wherever&nbsp;Instagram&nbsp;Shop is available.

Facebook has been trying to tie together messaging across its suite of apps and first enabled it between&nbsp;Instagram&nbsp;and Messenger last September. The move enabled users of each service to find, message and hold video calls with contacts on the other without needing to download both apps.

(With inputs from agencies)

Facebook-owned Instagram is retiring the swipe-up gesture to access links on August 30 and replacing it with addictive stickers. The company said it is making the move to “streamline the stories creation experience” and offer more “creative control,” given that uses can format the look of stickers and not the swipe up.

Facebook-owned Instagram is retiring the swipe-up gesture to access links on August 30 and replacing it with addictive stickers. The company said it is making the move to “streamline the stories creation experience” and offer more “creative control,” given that uses can format the look of stickers and not the swipe up. Instagram started testing these stickers in June for various users, not just people who already had swipe-up privileges. This is seen as a big change as the swipe-up function was a premium feature for Instagram and it was being offered only to influencers with more than 10,000 followers and advertisers who pay for visibility. Instagram is diversifying its features. It will launch advertising on its Shop feature globally, as it seeks to earn more money from brands hoping to reach new customers. Instagram Shop is a tab on the photo and video sharing app that lets users browse items such as clothes and beauty products and in some cases purchase the items directly within the Instagram app. Users can click on an Instagram Shop ad to view more details about the product, browse additional items from the brand or save the product to a wishlist. The company began testing the ads earlier this month with a few select advertisers, but the feature is now open to brands globally wherever Instagram Shop is available. Facebook has been trying to tie together messaging across its suite of apps and first enabled it between Instagram and Messenger last September. The move enabled users of each service to find, message and hold video calls with contacts on the other without needing to download both apps. (With inputs from agencies)

Instagram is deleting swipe-up feature, replacing it with addictive stickers

Billionaire&nbsp;Elon Musk has announced that Tesla is working on a&nbsp;humanoid robot called&nbsp;"Tesla Bot" that&nbsp;uses artificial intelligence and will launch the prototype in 2022.

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Join us to build the future of AI → <a href="https://t.co/Gdd4MNet6q">https://t.co/Gdd4MNet6q</a> <a href="https://t.co/86cXMVnJ59">pic.twitter.com/86cXMVnJ59</a>
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It comes after the&nbsp;US safety officials opened a preliminary investigation into&nbsp;Tesla's Autopilot after identifying 11 crashes involving the driver assistance system.

Speaking at Tesla's AI Day event, the billionaire entrepreneur said the robot, which stands around five foot eight inches tall, would be able to handle jobs from attaching bolts to cars with a wrench, or picking up groceries at stores.

The robot would have "profound implications for the economy," Musk said, addressing a labour shortage. He said it was important to make the machine not "super-expensive."

The AI Day event came amid growing scrutiny over the safety and capability of Tesla's "Full Self-Driving" advanced driver assistant system.

At the event on Thursday Tesla also unveiled chips it designed in-house&nbsp;

for its high-speed computer, Dojo, to help develop its automated driving system. Musk said Dojo would be operational next year.

He said Tesla will also introduce new hardware for its self-driving computer for its Cybertruck electric pick-up truck in "about a year or so."

A few years ago, Musk asked Tesla engineers "to design a superfast training computer and that's how we started Project Dojo," Tesla director Ganesh Venkataramanan said at the AI Day event.

Pushing the boundaries

Musk has a history of skirmishing with regulators, but the controversies have had little effect on&nbsp;Tesla's ascendance over the last year and a half as the company has hit key production targets.

His achievement in building&nbsp;Tesla&nbsp;from a fledgling startup into a pacesetter in the electric car market stands out as a success as other electric auto startups like Lordstown Motors and Nikola have stumbled.&nbsp;

At the same time, Musk has sparked blowback from critics as he pushed or flouted the rules on everything from his use of social media to discuss&nbsp;Tesla's operations to his response to Covid-19 health protocols required by local authorities near the California plant.

(With inputs from agencies)

Billionaire Elon Musk has announced that Tesla is working on a humanoid robot called "Tesla Bot" that uses artificial intelligence and will launch the prototype in 2022.

Billionaire Elon Musk has announced that Tesla is working on a humanoid robot called "Tesla Bot" that uses artificial intelligence and will launch the prototype in 2022. Join us to build the future of AI → https://t.co/Gdd4MNet6q pic.twitter.com/86cXMVnJ59 — Tesla (@Tesla) August 20, 2021 × It comes after the US safety officials opened a preliminary investigation into Tesla's Autopilot after identifying 11 crashes involving the driver assistance system. Speaking at Tesla's AI Day event, the billionaire entrepreneur said the robot, which stands around five foot eight inches tall, would be able to handle jobs from attaching bolts to cars with a wrench, or picking up groceries at stores. The robot would have "profound implications for the economy," Musk said, addressing a labour shortage. He said it was important to make the machine not "super-expensive." The AI Day event came amid growing scrutiny over the safety and capability of Tesla's "Full Self-Driving" advanced driver assistant system. At the event on Thursday Tesla also unveiled chips it designed in-house for its high-speed computer, Dojo, to help develop its automated driving system. Musk said Dojo would be operational next year. He said Tesla will also introduce new hardware for its self-driving computer for its Cybertruck electric pick-up truck in "about a year or so." A few years ago, Musk asked Tesla engineers "to design a superfast training computer and that's how we started Project Dojo," Tesla director Ganesh Venkataramanan said at the AI Day event. Pushing the boundaries Musk has a history of skirmishing with regulators, but the controversies have had little effect on Tesla's ascendance over the last year and a half as the company has hit key production targets. His achievement in building Tesla from a fledgling startup into a pacesetter in the electric car market stands out as a success as other electric auto startups like Lordstown Motors and Nikola have stumbled. At the same time, Musk has sparked blowback from critics as he pushed or flouted the rules on everything from his use of social media to discuss Tesla's operations to his response to Covid-19 health protocols required by local authorities near the California plant. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk announces humanoid robot Tesla Bot that uses artificial intelligence

Twitter has announced that its updated privacy policy comes into effect from Thursday, August 19.

In a blog post Twitter highlighted the changes in its privacy policy, including those around Twitter Blue, Twitter Spaces, payment features, and the like.

"The updated Privacy Policy will go into effect on August 19, 2021. We believe you should always know what data we collect from you and how we use it, and that you should have meaningful control over both. We want to empower you to make the best decisions about the information that you share with us. That’s the basic purpose of this Privacy Policy," read the blog.

One of the major updates include the introduction of Twitter spaces.

Twitter Spaces is a social audio feature that enables users to host or participate in a live-audio virtual environment.

It is a key part of the updated privacy policy.&nbsp;

Twitter said that it produces audio transcripts for the conversations taking place on the platform. This text is then scrutinised for any potential violations of Twitter's rules and guidelines.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nadia-ghulam-the-woman-who-disguised-herself-as-a-man-for-10-years-to-survive-torture-of-taliban-406742">Also read |&nbsp;Nadia Ghulam: The woman who disguised herself as a man for 10 years to survive 'torture' of Taliban</a>

This is also used to make "improvements" to the way the Twitter Spaces feature works, the company said.

Twitter also highlighted that in order to improve user experience, the company works with third-party partners to display their video content on the platform.&nbsp;

"When you watch or otherwise interact with content from these partners, they may receive and process your personal data as described in their privacy policies," the social media giant said.&nbsp;

"If you do not want this content to play automatically, you can adjust your autoplay settings. If you’ve shared information like Direct Messages or protected Tweets with someone else who accesses Twitter through a third-party service, keep in mind that the information may be shared with the third-party service."

"Twitter does not sell your personal data. We’ve updated our Privacy Policy to make this clear, and also clarified how we protect your data when it is transferred outside the country you reside in," the firm said in the blog post.

Twitter has announced that its updated privacy policy comes into effect from Thursday, August 19. In a blog post Twitter highlighted the changes in its privacy policy, including those around Twitter Blue, Twitter Spaces, payment features, and the like.

Twitter has announced that its updated privacy policy comes into effect from Thursday, August 19. In a blog post Twitter highlighted the changes in its privacy policy, including those around Twitter Blue, Twitter Spaces, payment features, and the like. "The updated Privacy Policy will go into effect on August 19, 2021. We believe you should always know what data we collect from you and how we use it, and that you should have meaningful control over both. We want to empower you to make the best decisions about the information that you share with us. That’s the basic purpose of this Privacy Policy," read the blog. One of the major updates include the introduction of Twitter spaces. Twitter Spaces is a social audio feature that enables users to host or participate in a live-audio virtual environment. It is a key part of the updated privacy policy. Twitter said that it produces audio transcripts for the conversations taking place on the platform. This text is then scrutinised for any potential violations of Twitter's rules and guidelines. Also read | Nadia Ghulam: The woman who disguised herself as a man for 10 years to survive 'torture' of Taliban This is also used to make "improvements" to the way the Twitter Spaces feature works, the company said. Twitter also highlighted that in order to improve user experience, the company works with third-party partners to display their video content on the platform. "When you watch or otherwise interact with content from these partners, they may receive and process your personal data as described in their privacy policies," the social media giant said. "If you do not want this content to play automatically, you can adjust your autoplay settings. If you’ve shared information like Direct Messages or protected Tweets with someone else who accesses Twitter through a third-party service, keep in mind that the information may be shared with the third-party service." "Twitter does not sell your personal data. We’ve updated our Privacy Policy to make this clear, and also clarified how we protect your data when it is transferred outside the country you reside in," the firm said in the blog post.

Twitter's updated privacy policy to come into effect from today, read everything here

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