Posts in category: Tech News

Apple has issued an apology for its recent iPad Pro ad, which was met with criticism for its portrayal of the destruction of various tools of creative expression. The ad, released during Apple’s Let Loose event on Tuesday, showcased a hydraulic press crushing a range of equipment used in creative pursuits, such as a piano, paints, and a dressmaker’s mannequin.

Ad Missed the Mark

Apple’s Vice President of Marketing Communications, Tor Myhren, acknowledged that the ad did not convey the intended message. “Creativity is in our DNA at Apple, and it’s incredibly important to us to design products that empower creatives all over the world,” Myhren told AdAge. “Our goal is to always celebrate the myriad of ways users express themselves and bring their ideas to life through iPad. We missed the mark with this video, and we’re sorry.”

The commercial was set to the song “All I Ever Need Is You” by Sonny & Cher and ended with the reveal of the new iPad Pro as the most powerful and thinnest iPad ever. However, viewers found the ad to be more dystopian than inspiring, as it seemed to symbolize the obliteration of traditional creative tools in favor of a single gadget.

Public Reaction

The ad faced widespread backlash, with viewers criticizing it for being destructive and heartless. Many were dismayed to see Apple literally crush symbols of human creativity only to replace them with a digital device. Some suggested that the ad would have been more effective if played in reverse, showing the restoration of the creative tools.

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Context of Generative AI Concerns

The timing of the ad added to the controversy, as it came amid ongoing concerns about the impact of generative AI on creative industries. Reports have emerged of companies replacing artists with AI, raising fears about the future of human creativity. In this context, Apple’s ad struck many as particularly insensitive.

Apple’s apology for the ad reflects its recognition of the public’s negative response. The company has halted plans to air the commercial on television and is likely to take greater care in crafting future campaigns that better align with its values and the expectations of its audience.

OpenAI, the artificial intelligence powerhouse supported by Microsoft, has introduced a new tool designed to detect digital images created by AI, particularly those from its renowned DALL-E generator. This new tool aims to address growing concerns over image authenticity and the potential for AI-generated content to be misused.

Tackling Deep Fakes

As AI technology advances, the rise of deep fakes poses a significant challenge for authentication and trust. OpenAI’s new tool, still in its testing phase, can determine the likelihood of an image being generated by DALL-E 3 or other AI models. During internal testing, the classifier demonstrated impressive accuracy, identifying approximately 98% of DALL-E 3 images while misidentifying less than 0.5% of non-AI images.

Challenges with Modified Images

OpenAI notes that the tool struggles with altered DALL-E 3 images and other AI-generated visuals. It currently flags only around 5-10% of images from other AI models. Despite these limitations, OpenAI is committed to refining the tool’s capabilities.

Enhancing Image Authentication

The company also plans to introduce watermarks to AI image metadata, aligning with standards set by the Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA). This industry initiative establishes a technical benchmark for verifying the authenticity and source of digital content.

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Major Players Join C2PA Initiative

Tech giants like Meta and Google have pledged their support for the C2PA initiative. Meta recently announced plans to label AI-generated media using the C2PA standard, while Google has also joined the effort.

OpenAI’s latest tool is a promising step towards safeguarding the authenticity of digital images and mitigating the risks posed by deep fakes. By working with industry partners and adopting standardized measures, OpenAI aims to build a future where digital content can be trusted.

Meta is making strides in providing businesses with innovative tools for advertising success by unveiling new generative AI features across its platforms. These enhancements aim to streamline ad creation processes and boost ad performance with more creative variations.

AI-Driven Image and Text Generation

Set to roll out throughout this year, Meta’s upgrades include comprehensive image and text generation capabilities. The most notable addition is Meta’s image generation tool, which enables advertisers to produce full image versions inspired by their original ad content. This tool also features text overlay options and an image expansion function for easier aspect ratio adjustments.

In addition, Meta is offering a text generation tool that automatically creates headlines and primary text variations. This aligns with standard AI offerings in today’s advertising landscape, allowing advertisers to optimize their campaigns efficiently.

A unique aspect of Meta’s text generation tool is its ability to integrate brand voice and tone into the generated text. By drawing inspiration from previous campaign insights and advertiser input, Meta’s AI tools help maintain consistency across ad campaigns.

Enhanced Ad Performance with Advantage+ Creative

Meta’s new GenAI tools will be grouped under Advantage+ creative within Ads Manager, alongside existing functionalities. This suite of features is designed to improve ad efficiency and performance by providing advertisers with a broader range of creative options.

Meta Verified for Business Expansion

Alongside these AI updates, Meta announced the expansion of Meta Verified for Business to several countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, Mexico, Chile, Peru, France, and Italy. This subscription service will be available on Facebook and Instagram, with plans to bring it to WhatsApp in the future.

The service offers various plans, starting with a standard $14.99 per month option, which includes verification badges, higher search rankings, impersonation protection, and customer support access. Higher-tier plans offer additional features such as links in reels, employee impersonation protection, and customized messaging chats.

READ ALSO: Apple Unveils Sleeker Magic Keyboard at iPad Event

Meta’s introduction of generative AI tools for advertising marks a significant step forward in providing businesses with advanced solutions to enhance their campaigns. Combined with the expansion of Meta Verified for Business, these updates signal Meta’s commitment to delivering improved services and support for businesses across its platforms.

Meta Description: Meta is introducing AI-powered advertising tools, including comprehensive image and text generation capabilities, to improve ad performance and efficiency for businesses. Learn more about these new features and the expansion of Meta Verified for Business.

Apple introduced a redesigned Magic Keyboard during its iPad-centric event, bringing notable upgrades to its popular keyboard accessory.

A New Look and Feel

The new Magic Keyboard boasts a sleeker, lighter design and includes a function row for quick access to screen brightness, volume control, and media playback. The keyboard also features aluminum palm rests and an expanded trackpad, offering a more responsive typing experience enhanced by haptic feedback.

Features and Availability

This updated Magic Keyboard represents the first major revision since its launch in 2020. With the addition of the function row, it now aligns more closely with the features of its counterpart, the Magic Keyboard Folio.

The new Magic Keyboard is available in two sizes, compatible with the 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Pro models. Customers can choose between black or white colors. The 11-inch version is priced at $299, while the 13-inch model retails for $349. Pre-orders are open now, with availability in stores expected next week.

Additional Accessory Updates

Apple also announced a new Smart Folio for iPad Air. This accessory attaches magnetically and offers multiple viewing angles for added flexibility. The Smart Folio comes in charcoal gray, light violet, denim, and sage colors. Prices start at $79 for the 11-inch iPad Air version and $99 for the 13-inch version.

New iPad Models and Apple Pencil Pro

The event also highlighted the latest iPad Air, now equipped with an M2 chip and available in a 13-inch size for the first time. Additionally, the iPad Pro received an upgrade to an M4 chip and stacked OLED screens, offering a higher-fidelity display.

Apple also introduced a Pro version of the Apple Pencil, featuring advanced sensors for enhanced precision and control.

Conclusion

Apple’s event showcased its dedication to enhancing the user experience across its product lines. From the redesigned Magic Keyboard to the latest iPads and accessories, these updates reflect the company’s ongoing commitment to innovation and user satisfaction.

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Apple has unveiled a new line of iPads, signaling its commitment to infusing artificial intelligence (AI) technology across its product range. On Tuesday, the tech giant introduced its latest iPad models featuring a cutting-edge AI chip, positioning the company at the forefront of innovation.

Apple’s AI Breakthrough

The latest iPad Pro is equipped with the advanced M4 chip, which outperforms the chips currently used in Apple’s laptops. This new technology equips the iPad Pro to handle more power-intensive AI operations, reflecting Apple’s focus on enhancing user experiences with AI across its devices.

The release of these new iPads, including the ultralight iPad Air, marks the end of a two-year upgrade hiatus, the longest since Apple first launched the tablet in 2010.

Johny Srouji, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Hardware Technologies, praised the new M4 chip, stating, “Altogether, this new chip makes iPad Pro the most powerful device of its kind.”

Upcoming AI Developments

Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference on June 10 is expected to include more AI-related announcements, potentially highlighting further applications of the M4 chip across Apple’s product lineup.

Critics have argued that Apple has been slow in the AI race compared to competitors like Microsoft, which has rapidly integrated AI features into its software and applications. Microsoft’s introduction of AI tools like Copilot for its cloud computing clients has given it an edge in AI adoption.

Nevertheless, analysts predict that the M4 chip’s capabilities will extend beyond the iPad to enhance other Apple products such as iPhones and laptops.

Apple CEO Tim Cook expressed enthusiasm about the company’s AI prospects, stating, “We see generative AI as a very key opportunity across our products.”

Apple’s new iPad lineup with the M4 chip represents a significant step toward an AI-driven future for the company. While Apple may have faced criticism for its pace in the AI race, its latest moves indicate a strong commitment to integrating AI across its products, offering exciting potential for its users.

READ ALSO: Biden Administration Announces $285M in CHIPS Act Funding for Digital Twin Initiatives 

The Biden administration is set to invest $285 million in the development of digital twin technology for semiconductor manufacturing. This investment aims to improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the industry through virtual modeling and simulation.

Digital Twins Revolutionize Manufacturing

Digital twins are advanced virtual models used to optimize physical objects and systems. In manufacturing, digital twins enable companies to experiment with new processes without interrupting production. For instance, auto manufacturers can use digital twins of their factories to explore innovative manufacturing techniques.

Under the CHIPS Act, the administration plans to support research into semiconductor digital twin development. This will involve building and maintaining combined physical/digital facilities, industry demonstration projects, workforce training, and the operation of the new CHIPS Manufacturing USA Institute.

Focus on Collaborative Chip Development

During a recent press briefing, Laurie E. Locascio, Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology and Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, emphasized the benefits of digital twins. She noted that these virtual models could decrease chip development and manufacturing costs while enabling more collaborative approaches to chip design and development.

Locascio highlighted that no country has yet invested on the scale necessary to harness the full potential of digital twin technology for groundbreaking discoveries. This investment represents a significant step forward for the United States in the semiconductor industry.

CHIPS Act Boosts Domestic Semiconductor Production

The funding is part of the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022, a comprehensive $280 billion bill that includes $52.7 billion to boost domestic semiconductor manufacturing. President Biden noted the drastic decrease in the United States’ share of global semiconductor production—from 40% to under 10%—over recent decades.

Arati Prabhakar, Assistant to the President for Science and Technology and Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, echoed concerns about the concentration of semiconductor manufacturing in one part of the world. The CHIPS Act aims to address this imbalance and enhance the United States’ competitiveness in the global market.

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Webinar to Guide Funding Applications

To facilitate the application process for funding, an informational webinar is scheduled for May 8. Organizations eligible for funding include nonprofits, universities, governments, and for-profit companies that are domestic entities (incorporated in the United States and based here).

The Biden administration’s commitment to advancing digital twin technology is a crucial step towards strengthening the U.S. semiconductor industry. This investment not only fosters innovation but also enhances the country’s competitiveness in the global market.

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Jack Dorsey, one of the most influential figures behind the development of Bluesky, has announced his departure from the social networking platform’s board. The announcement came after Dorsey made a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, discussing his philanthropic initiatives. When asked about his involvement with Bluesky, he briefly stated he was no longer part of the board.

The Exit of a Visionary

Dorsey’s exit from the board was confirmed by Bluesky on Sunday afternoon. While it remains unclear exactly when Dorsey stepped down, the company’s corporate FAQ still listed him as a board member earlier that day. Bluesky released a statement thanking Dorsey for his contribution to the project and emphasizing its commitment to building an open-source social network.

A New Chapter for Bluesky

The departure of Dorsey, who first introduced the concept of Bluesky in 2019, marks a pivotal moment for the social network’s future direction. Bluesky, which now operates as an independent public benefit corporation, aims to find a new board member who aligns with its vision of a decentralized and user-centric social platform.

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From Twitter to Bluesky and Beyond

Dorsey’s involvement in Bluesky began when he was still the CEO of Twitter. His vision was to develop an open and decentralized standard for social media, leading to the creation of Bluesky. Since then, the company has been led by CEO Jay Graber and has received backing from venture capital firms. Earlier this year, Bluesky opened to the general public and has quickly gained traction.

What Lies Ahead for Bluesky?

With Dorsey’s departure, the spotlight is now on Bluesky’s leadership as they search for a new board member. This transition period presents an opportunity for the company to continue growing and innovating, building on the foundation laid by Dorsey.

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A known Russian state-sponsored cyber group, APT28, leveraged a vulnerability in Microsoft Outlook to breach multiple email accounts of the German Social Democratic Party’s Executive Committee back in 2022. The flaw, identified as CVE-2023-23397, was exploited by the group to carry out targeted attacks on EU and NATO member states, as well as Ukrainian government agencies and NATO fast reaction corps.

Germany and Czechia Targeted by Russian Hackers
The German Federal Government confirmed that APT28 exploited the Outlook flaw to access various accounts. The attackers targeted organizations within government, military, energy, and transportation sectors across EU and NATO member states. In a statement, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock condemned the attacks, labeling them “intolerable and unacceptable,” and vowed consequences for Russia’s malicious cyber activities.

Czechia also reported similar attacks in 2023, expressing deep concern over repeated cyber incursions by state actors. The Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized a strong and unified response in collaboration with European and international partners.

International Condemnation of APT28’s Actions
The EU, NATO, the US, and the UK collectively denounced APT28’s cyber operations, calling on Russia to halt its hostile behavior and respect its international obligations. The U.S. State Department issued a statement promising to take further action with EU and NATO allies to counteract Russia’s cyber threats and protect global security.

Cyber Warfare and Russia’s Historical Conflicts
Russia’s involvement in cyber warfare aligns with its broader geopolitical strategy, particularly around the Black Sea region. In 2008, Russia’s conflict with Georgia saw the simultaneous use of cyber and military tactics, marking the first such war in history. The European Court of Human Rights reports that Russia continues to exercise “direct control” over separatist regions in South Ossetia and Abkhazia.

In 2014, Russia annexed Crimea, followed by further incursions into Eastern Ukraine. These conflicts have all featured significant cyber warfare components, highlighting the ongoing strategic importance of cybersecurity in international relations.

The recent discovery of APT28’s actions serves as a reminder of the persistent threats posed by state-sponsored cyber groups and the need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect critical infrastructure and national security across the globe.

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NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope has captured our imagination with its 122-megapixel infrared images taken from 1.5 million kilometers away from Earth. Now, NASA and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) are shifting their focus to a new tool with just 36 pixels—yes, just 36, not 36 megapixels. This remarkable approach is part of the X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission (XRISM), also known as “crism.”

Introducing XRISM’s 36-Pixel Imaging Instrument

The XRISM satellite launched last September and has been on a quest to explore the universe, aiming to answer some of the most intricate scientific questions. The heart of this mission lies in its imaging instrument, Resolve, which features a 36-pixel sensor designed for an innovative approach to space exploration.

Resolve’s 36-pixel array might seem minuscule compared to today’s multi-megapixel cameras, but these pixels are more than just tiny squares on a screen. According to NASA’s XRISM project scientist Brian Williams, each pixel in Resolve acts as a “microcalorimeter spectrometer.” This means that each pixel detects and measures the tiny amounts of heat carried by incoming X-ray photons, allowing scientists to identify the chemical signatures of different elements.

The Power of “Soft” X-rays and 3D Perspectives

Resolve’s capabilities extend to detecting “soft” X-rays, which hold about 5,000 times more energy than visible light. This makes it ideal for exploring the hottest areas of the cosmos, such as supermassive black holes and vast gas clouds in galaxy clusters.

Despite its limited pixel count, Resolve can produce a comprehensive range of visual data across an energy spectrum from 400 to 12,000 electron volts. Furthermore, it can perceive the motion of elements within a target, offering a unique three-dimensional perspective. For example, gas moving towards us emits higher energies, while gas moving away emits lower energies.

Unlocking New Scientific Discoveries

The ability to track the motion and flow of elements in the cosmos is groundbreaking. This advanced technology allows scientists to follow hot gas flows within galaxy clusters and observe the movement of elements in supernova remnants.

By combining precision and sensitivity with a more modest pixel count, NASA’s Resolve instrument opens up fresh avenues for scientific discovery and a deeper understanding of the universe.

In conclusion, the use of a 36-pixel camera by NASA demonstrates how quality and innovation are paramount, even when it comes to pixel count. XRISM’s Resolve is a cutting-edge tool, enabling the next wave of space exploration with its specialized focus on X-ray spectrometry.

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Infinix is a brand on the rise in the smartphone world, known for its stylish, youth-focused devices. The company has been gaining attention for its growth and performance, with a recent major increase in units sold worldwide. Now, Infinix is back in the spotlight with the release of the NOTE 40 Series, bringing cutting-edge fast charging technology to the market.

A recent video from influencer wildlensbyabrar showcases the Infinix NOTE 40 Series in a chilly Arctic environment. The “Extreme Cold Challenge” tests the phone’s charging capabilities at a freezing -16°C Celsius, proving its resilience and functionality in some of the toughest conditions.

Introducing All-Round FastCharge 2.0

The NOTE 40 Series features Infinix’s latest innovation: the All-Round FastCharge 2.0. This technology includes a multi-tab structure battery and three parallel fast-charging chips, allowing for rapid, reliable wired charging up to 100W. The series also supports wireless charging at 20W and offers wireless reverse charging, transforming your phone into a power bank for other devices.

Wireless MagCharge: A Game Changer

One of the most intriguing features of the NOTE 40 Series is its Wireless MagCharge, a first for Android phones. This system comes with a MagCase and MagPad for magnetic charging. Additionally, users in Nigeria can buy a wireless magnetic power bank, MagPower, for an even more seamless charging experience. Forbes compared Infinix’s MagCharge to Apple’s MagSafe, praising Infinix’s solution for its superior functionality and convenience.

Cheetah X1 Chip: The Heart of All-Round FastCharge 2.0

At the core of the All-Round FastCharge 2.0 technology is the self-developed Cheetah X1 power management chip. This chip is designed for intelligent power management, supporting various charging features like Multi-Speed Fast Charging, Bypass Charging, AI Charging Protection, and PD 3.0 protocol support. With these options, users can customize their charging experience with modes like Super Mode, Smart Mode, and Low-Temperature Mode.

Built to Endure Tough Conditions

Infinix’s NOTE 40 Series doesn’t just excel in fast charging; it’s also designed to handle extreme environments. The phones can charge in temperatures as low as -20°C Celsius, making them the perfect companion for outdoor adventurers who need a phone that can stand up to any weather.

Infinix’s NOTE 40 Series sets a new bar for what smartphones can do. With its blend of advanced fast charging technology and durable design, this series has established itself as a top choice for those looking for a phone that meets the demands of modern life.

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