New Survey Endorses Apple’s Mac Computer As The Most Secure Option For IT Departments

Tech giant Apple is always at the front of the race when it comes to marketing its products as the best and most secure technology out there today.

The Cupertino-based giant raves about the best combo of hardware and software in the industry and trust us when we say that it’s not only talk. Apple has proven to be a leader as so many companies have chosen Mac for usage in IT departments, in comparison to other arch-rivals in the industry.

Today, a new survey promoted by Apple is shedding light on that same aspect and how 76% of IT firms keep the Mac as their top preference when compared to others in the market. The reason is linked to how strongly they feel it’s more secure than others.

Apple promoted across the new IDC report, which was seen on Enterprise, how nearly half of the companies that took part in the research opted to take Mac into the IT department. And that’s because they felt it was so much more secure.

Meanwhile, the survey also highlighted how more people plan on adopting Macs in the IT sector because of how simple it is in terms of usage and managing tasks.

Both Mac and macOS are putting out plenty of security features that keep getting praised by a long list of enterprise clients. The following features were discussed as strengths of taking on Apple’s Mac against all others.

The device management for APIs makes sure the company’s devices are controlled through the first boot. Secondly, the firm’s APIs for detecting endpoints give IT professionals a chance to ensure all products are secure and maintain the best performance of users.

Thirdly, Apple also puts out identity integrations featuring SSO frameworks that are built into the device. Moreover, it works with the help of modern IDps so that firms can very simply scale up the device and achieve connectivity to Ping and beyond.

Similarly, the Touch ID function remains local on this device so that people can trust it. But this combined with the best software/hardware in the business ensures IT firms get the best of both worlds.

The IDC survey also delineated some more reasons as to why macOS is the best option in a corporate setup. This includes offering the best control of malware thanks to the long list of security layers that are designed to ensure third-party apps run well.

Moreover, each app that’s present on Apple’s Mac App Store gets thorough evaluation and review as well as certification from the company. Moreover, most firms can even restrict app installations through other leading sources as well.

And if apps get distributed in places other than the App Store on Mac, there would be a notarization system that’s designed to stop any kind of unwarranted apps from functioning.

Meanwhile, another huge advantage that comes with macOS over other leading operating systems is how swiftly the device may launch software updates and new security changes for users of Apple macOS. And in case you’re worrying about the costs attached, well, there are no additional or hidden charges for doing so.

Additionally, all Apple services including iMessage and iCloud are protected through E2E encryption for the best kind of security and to ensure data that’s sensitive stays guarded and protected at all times.

For years, Apple has called out the security factor as one that has been its most valuable asset to date. As per this survey, most people did agree in terms of why they were choosing Mac and how a lot of it had to do with the robust security advancements in place and how smooth-running the whole ecosystem is. As a result, it greater lessens the burden.

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by Dr. Hura Anwar via Digital Information World

Linktree Creator Report 2023: Key Findings and Insights

Popular app Linktree has just announced its latest Creator Report which includes data taken from a whopping 40 million people with emphasis on websites, new ventures, and content planning that have arisen in the past year.

While we’re all well aware of how Linktree is a popular name when it comes to the creator economy world, the new report is allocating more space for a bigger ecosystem. Moreover, this economy is very diverse, and with a staggering 200 million people competing to attain attention from the masses, it’s understandable that people feel more overwhelmed than others.

Today, the company has nearly 40% of all individuals feeling pressure because of the huge amount of options available on the web. And the approximate attention span for people today is just one-third of what it was in the year 2004.

It makes absolute sense why this firm sees itself as the leading antidote when it comes to a viewer’s experience that’s overstuffed with too much statistics and data. The service that’s up for grabs links several platforms in a particular location and this way, creators make use of this tool that unites a whopping 7.5 million webpages.

In this particular report that was rolled out by the company, data highlighted how just 25% of the 100 million links from Linktree produced at the start of last year were going to the bigger apps out there.

But seeing the company sending out reminders to users about how its functionality goes beyond apps like Instagram and YouTube is certainly a smart decision. Both these tech giants really end up uplifting their specific first-party linking mechanisms that have sprung up this year. And Linktree surely sees value in this type of cross-platform promotion.

The report says the most popular accounts attain traffic through nearly 12 different sources. And by the year 2022, restrictions for COVID were lifted and the event came back to normal. Moreover, a lot of the links were directed in the entertainment and ticketing sector, the research showed.

But this year was a little different from others, it’s all about creators getting back to their usual work. Similarly, several destinations having the greatest YoY bumps included the likes of Patreon, Substack, and even Typeform.

Meanwhile, links for merchandise platforms such as Shopify and even Spring were seen as they continued to dominate as relevant and drove up to 38 million clicks on the app in the past year.

Both TikTok and YouTube platforms are some of the most popular links out there today. And it makes sense why they’re no-brainers for Linktree’s stats which proved how there was a massive increase in the figure for creators aiming to reach a more community-focused app such as Substack.

Here is where creators have been working hard to combat the repercussions linked to an attention economy that has been oversaturated for quite some time now. But whatever the case may be, it’s destined to give rise to some authentic relationships that push it forward through such an algorithm.

The entire Creator Report by Linktree has been up for grabs through the webpage so you can attain further insights from there. Furthermore, Linktree is also shouting for users to come forward and advise every creator to take on an approach where they can be their respective algorithms.

In case users of Linktree do end up following such advice, we can see how the firm will attain more clicks by the end of next year.

Photo: Karolina Grabowska/Pexels

Read next: 26% of Top 100 Websites Have Now Blocked GPTBot
by Dr. Hura Anwar via Digital Information World

Over Two Thirds of Companies Have Increased Mobile Ad Budgets in 2023

Mobile app marketing has been undergoing a period of growth for the past few years, and it turns out that nearly 65% of companies, or 64.7% to be precise, plan to increase the amount of spending they put towards mobile ad budgets in 2023. This proportion is even higher in the UK, where 67% of companies said that they are doing the same. Furthermore, budgets for mobile ads in UK based companies have seen a 29% increase overall this year.

With all of that having been said and now out of the way, it is important to note that there are a wide range of reasons why companies are diverting so many of their resources towards mobile ad budgets. For starters, 40.9% of companies stated that they were able to obtain a far greater quantity of users than might have been the case otherwise thanks to a widespread mobile ad campaign.

It’s not just new users that are on the table either. 24.2% of higher ups at companies that responded to a survey conducted by Moloco said that they were able to get high quality users. Such progress is important because of the fact that this is the sort of thing that could potentially end up increasing the value of each user instead of just blindly driving downloads that wouldn’t end up going anywhere.

Performance marketing is the name of the game this year, with 45.7% of companies saying that they are making it one of their biggest priorities instead of the biggest one of all. By comparison, brand marketing was selected by 41.4% of survey respondents.

One thing that this represents is that the landscape of marketing is shifting in ways that few if any could have expected in the past. 58.2% of companies that are investing in performance marketing said that they are doing so specifically due to how it can lead to a proportionally higher rate of investment, especially when they compare it to the performance of brand marketing. This just goes to show that marketing is going to continue to change as the years go by.

Read next: Advertising Near Hate Speech Can Devastate Brands According to This Survey
by Zia Muhammad via Digital Information World

Bing Chat is Serving Malicious Ads and Raising Cybersecurity Concerns

Would you mind using any app, browser or web page if you got to know that its security has been compromised? No? Yeah, me neither. But what if that browser is your everyday search partner? Bing Chat, Microsoft's friendly AI chatbot, has found itself in hot water. It appears that while it was busy trying to be helpful, it unwittingly became a vehicle for scammers and cybercriminals.

According to researchers at Malwarebytes, Bing Chat has been serving up ads containing malicious links, putting unsuspecting users at risk of falling victim to phishing sites and malware. Users and cybersecurity professionals alike have been left scratching their heads, wondering how a seemingly benign chatbot could become a pawn in the world of digital skullduggery.

Microsoft introduced adverts to Bing Chat earlier this year. This move made sense in the big scheme of things. After all, in the tech industry, monetization is the name of the game, and even AI chatbots must pay their bills. However, what began as a harmless endeavour to make cash has taken a concerning turn.

The perpetrators of this cybercrime are using a tactic known as "malvertising." They've exploited Bing Chat's ad-serving capabilities to deceive users into visiting malicious websites. Here's how it works: When a user interacts with Bing Chat and asks a question or seeks information, the chatbot responds with sponsored links embedded in its text responses. On the surface, this may seem like a harmless way to generate revenue, but things quickly take a dark turn.

Bing Chat's fraudulent links frequently direct visitors to phishing sites, where they are urged to give sensitive information or download seemingly innocent downloads. Consider the following scenario to demonstrate the gravity of the situation. Assume you ask Bing Chat for a link to a widespread network administration program, such as Advanced IP Scanner. The chatbot dutifully sends you a link. The top link, however, the sponsored one, should be avoided. When you click on it, you are taken to a bogus website that claims to be the legitimate source for the program. It provides a download link for an installer, but this is where the danger lies.

The installer isn't what it seems. Instead of a legitimate piece of software, it's a cleverly disguised trap. When users download and execute the installer, it begins executing a series of actions in the background. These actions often involve connecting to external IP addresses and downloading a hidden payload. While Malwarebytes did not offer specifics regarding the payload, it could range from irritating adware to more nefarious malware such as spyware or ransomware. In other words, it's akin to welcoming a Trojan horse into your digital realm and mistaking it for a gift.

The problematic aspect of this situation is that it calls into question Microsoft's vetting process for adverts presented within Bing Chat. There appears to be no severe filtering procedure in place, or if there is, it is plagued with holes that allow fraudulent adverts to pass through. It's the equivalent of leaving a security guard at the gate while robbers raid the building.

However, there is hope on the horizon. Malwarebytes, the cybersecurity watchdogs who discovered this issue, have reported their findings to Microsoft. This revelation presents an opportunity for Microsoft to spring into action, rectify the situation, and enhance the security measures surrounding Bing Chat's ad-serving functionality. The goal should be to root out these rogue ads once and for all, making the platform safer for its users.

Incidents like this serve as sharp reminders of the significance of digital alertness in an era when cybersecurity concerns are essential. When navigating the digital realm, users must exercise care and skepticism. Clicking on links or downloading data without exercising caution might have unanticipated and potentially disastrous results. It's like opening your door to strangers in real life; you never know who's on the other side.

Until Bing Chat addresses its ad problem and tightens its security measures, it's wise for users to remain cautious. Vigilance is the name of the game in the digital realm. After all, no one wants to be the unwitting guest who invites malware to the party. Stay safe, stay vigilant, and remember that the digital landscape, like the real world, has its fair share of hazards.

Read next: Ad Fraud or the $84 Billion Heist of the Century
by Rubah Usman via Digital Information World

Ad Fraud or the $84 Billion Heist of the Century

They say, name an amount that seems unreal to you. But they never told that this amount would cost a hundred fortunes or to rob thousands of banks. A recent Juniper Research report has revealed the ugly secret of the digital advertising business, which is certain to make marketers tremble in their cubicles. Prepare to be shocked: ad fraud is rife and will drain a stunning $84 billion from ad spend in 2023 alone. It's like the most significant theft of the century, and it's taking place right in front of our eyes.

But keep your fingers on your keyboards because this cybercrime binge is far from over. According to the analysis, ad fraud will have grown into a $172 billion monster by 2028, leaving marketers scratching their heads and counting their losses. However, around $747 was spent in the grand total on advertisements. That is a severe ad industry budget. On a lighter note, how do they even count that much money?

So, why should we care about this digital larceny? Well, for one, your hard-earned marketing budget is disappearing into the digital abyss. Imagine throwing away 22% of your online ad spend on bots and bogus clicks. It's like buying a fancy meal and discovering that most of it was made of plastic. Ad fraud is the marketing world's phantom thief, discreetly stealing your money, destroying your efforts, and leaving you with a pitiful return on investment. Ouch!

But why did this have to happen eventually? Is it necessary to have a loss in every single thing you spend on? It has to be an end. But all hope is not lost, dear marketers. There's a silver lining in this dark cloud of ad fraud. The report suggests that it might be time to consider some high-tech superhero solutions. Think of it as calling in the Avengers to fight off the digital villains.

Fraud-blocking technology might be a game changer. Consider it a digital bouncer that protects your ad campaigns from unwanted, dishonest visitors. These technological marvels, such as the appropriately called "Fraud Blocker," have the ability to detect and identify the cunning impostors - those phantom clicks, impressions, and conversions that torment your ad campaigns.

But wait, there's more! Juniper's study isn't just here to scare us straight; it's also offering a glimmer of hope. According to their research, deploying fraud mitigation platforms can help you recover a whopping $23 billion yearly. That's like finding a treasure chest hidden in your backyard!

Let us now hear from the professionals. Juniper Research Senior Research Analyst Elisha Sudlow-Poole has some harsh words for the digital advertising business. She criticizes popular ad platforms like Facebook and Google for delivering an "incomplete picture" of ad campaign success. It's like claiming they're giving advertisers rose-colored spectacles, blinding them to the brutal truth of ad fraud.

According to Sudlow-Poole, these platforms are like cunning magicians, making us believe in their illusions of success. They lump legitimate users together with shady click farms and sneaky fraudulent bots, leaving marketers clueless about who sees their ads. It's like inviting a mix of genuine customers, con artists, and holograms to your marketing party and then wondering why the party's not a hit.

So, what is the moral of this ad fraud saga? It's time to get serious about securing your advertising money. Invest in fraud-detection technologies, harness the potential of fraud mitigation systems, and demand openness from the digital behemoths. After all, it's your money, your campaigns, and your ROI on the line.

In the world of digital advertising, it's not enough to just create compelling content and eye-catching visuals. You must be the Sherlock Holmes of the digital realm, detecting the subtlest signs of ad fraud. Only then can you ensure that your ad spend doesn't end up in the pockets of cybercriminals and bot armies.

As we march into the future, when ad fraud threatens to become an even more massive monster, it's essential to be watchful, stay aware, and empower yourself with the most substantial anti-fraud solutions available. After all, you don't want your marketing budget to be the next victim of this digital theft.

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by Rubah Usman via Digital Information World

Meta Unveils Llama 2 Long AI, Outperforming GPT-3.5 Turbo and Claude 2

Meta has quietly dropped a bombshell in the AI world with the introduction of Llama 2 Long, a dazzling new AI model that outperforms the likes of GPT-3.5 Turbo and Claude 2 in specific tasks. This revelation took place at the annual Meta Connect conference in Menlo Park, California. Move over, GPT-3.5 Turbo; there's a new AI sheriff in town!

But hold on to your hats: the true story here isn't the glamorous conference but a low-key computer science article casually stowed away on the not-so-exclusive arXiv.Org. Meta researchers appear to have a talent for making ground-breaking announcements with little publicity. The paper introduces Llama 2 Long, an enhanced version of Meta's open-source Llama 2. This AI has apparently been going to the gym and doing some intensive pretraining, resulting in superhuman AI powers.

So, how did Llama 2 Long come to be? Well, the researchers took the original Llama 2, which comes in various training parameter sizes like a box of chocolates. They decided to feed it a hearty diet of more extended text data sources. To be precise, they added a whopping 400 billion tokens worth of data. It's like giving your AI model a literary feast to feast upon.

But here's the twist: they didn't touch with the architecture of Llama 2. Nope, they left that alone. Only a "necessary modification" to the positional encoding was done. Positional encoding, in other words, is the AI equivalent of GPS. It assists kids in determining where items are in relation to one another. In this example, they used a technique known as Rotary Positional Embedding (RoPE). It's like going from a paper map to a high-tech GPS device. They just changed the rotation angle of the RoPE from Llama 2 to Llama 2 Long, and presto! Suddenly, the AI could identify even the most remote tokens, those loners who don't get along with others.

Meta introduces LLAMA 2 Long

- context windows of up to 32,768 tokens
- the 70B variant can already surpass gpt-3.5-turbo-16k’s overall performance on a suite of long-context tasks https://t.co/uzsVslLUkX pic.twitter.com/aXyPmeLXMo

— AK (@_akhaliq) September 29, 2023

To make Llama 2 Long even more innovative, the researchers threw in some reinforcement learning from human feedback (RLHF). It's like teaching a dog new tricks; only these tricks involve coding, math, language understanding, common sense reasoning, and answering questions from humans. The AI gets a treat (in the form of rewards) when it gets things right, and humans double-check its homework. It's a win-win for both the AI and its human overlords.

The primary question now is, why is everyone talking about Llama 2 Long? Llama 2 Long is the bee's knees when it comes to everyday tasks done by large language models (LLMs). It outperforms not only its younger sibling, Llama 2, but even the powerful GPT-3.5 Turbo and Claude 2. It's like the new kid on the block showing up as the incumbent champions. Let the applause begin!

The open-source AI community, not one to hold back on their feelings, has been showering Llama 2 Long with admiration and excitement. Reddit, Twitter, and Hacker News have turned into virtual cheerleading squads for Meta's "open source" approach to AI. It's a bit like the classic tale of David versus Goliath, where open source takes on the closed source, "pay-to-play" models championed by deep-pocketed startups.

In conclusion, Meta has dropped a game-changer in the AI realm with Llama 2 Long. This AI powerhouse is the digital equivalent of a superhero, surpassing the competitors and stealing the show. Llama 2 Long has captivated the hearts of the open-source community and is giving the big boys a run for their money with its remarkable capabilities. So, GPT-3.5 Turbo and Claude 2, take note: there's a new AI sheriff in town, and it's armed with llama-like wisdom and a whole lot of style. Yeehaw!

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by Rubah Usman via Digital Information World

ChatGPT's Controversial Stance Behind Not Too Hot, Not Too Cold

In a surprising twist, recent research conducted by the IMDEA Networks Institute, in cahoots with King's College London, the University of Surrey, and UPV has unveiled that ChatGPT, the talkative AI, is playing it safe on the controversial topics front. If you thought ChatGPT was ready to dive headfirst into debates, think again!

The research, dubbed "AI in the Gray: Exploring Moderation Policies in Dialogic Large Language Models vs. Human Answers in Controversial Topics," is set to make a big impression at the CIKM 2023 conference. But what did these researchers do to rile up ChatGPT? They pounced on it with questions that would make your Thanksgiving meal conversations look easy.

"Should abortion be allowed after the umpteenth week?" and "Does God exist?" were hurled to ChatGPT like softballs during a little league game. The end result? ChatGPT chose the middle ground, leaving controversy seekers high and dry.

Now, let's get to the juicy part. The researchers discovered that ChatGPT is like a friend who never wants to pick a side when you ask them to choose between pizza or sushi. It seems that ChatGPT is chill when it comes to economic matters – no left or right-leaning bias to see here, folks. But in the world of socio-politics, it's like an undercover libertarian agent, slipping in those libertarian views without us even noticing. Sneaky, ChatGPT!

For those unfamiliar with political jargon, the "left" favors some government intervention in the economy, whereas the "right" believes that the free market should handle things. On the social axis, "libertarianism" exclaims, "Live free, everyone!" whereas "authoritarianism" squeaks, "Listen to authority, my dear."

But wait, there's more! The researchers found that the suitable ol' ideological leaning methods like the political compass, the Pew Political Typology Quiz, or the 8 Values Political test don't work so well anymore. ChatGPT does not follow the rules. Instead of providing a definitive answer, it presents reasoning for all sides of the discussion. It's like trying to obtain a firm response from your indecisive friend who can't decide whether to watch Netflix and chill or go out on the town.

So, what are the researchers' options? Arguments are being counted, people! They're keeping track of how many ideas ChatGPT provides for either side of the dispute. It's like attempting to identify the winner of an argument by tallying who speaks the most.

In the second part of their study, these brainy researchers decided to pit ChatGPT against humans. They compared ChatGPT's answers to controversial questions with the human answers on the Kialo website. The results? Well, it turns out ChatGPT is holding its own! It's like the rookie basketball player suddenly going head-to-head with the pros and not looking half bad.

They also employed clever metrics and NLP methods to assess the performance of ChatGPT. What's more, guess what? ChatGPT ranks right up there with human collective knowledge on most issues. ChatGPT appears to have taken a crash course in philosophy and debate before this fight.

But, and there's always a "but," the researchers have a warning for us. We understand what they mean. People have differing viewpoints on contentious issues, and AI learns from humans. But, if we're going to employ ChatBots as fact-checkers, we need to know where they stand socially, politically, financially, and so on.

So, to summarize, ChatGPT has taken us all by surprise. It's similar to how a chameleon can blend into any conversation and avoid controversy like a pro. But hey, ChatGPT is right there with the best of them when it comes to serving up knowledge. And as for the researchers, they're reminding us that ChatBots aren't just here to chat; they might be the fact-checkers of the future. So, keep an eye on ChatGPT and its sneaky neutrality, folks!

Photo: Sanket Mishra/Pexels
Read next: 26% of Top 100 Websites Have Now Blocked GPTBot
by Rubah Usman via Digital Information World

26% of Top 100 Websites Have Now Blocked GPTBot

In order for OpenAI to be able to provide a decent service through its flagship service ChatGPT, it needs to scrape a vast quantity of data from across the internet. This is done through the use of a web crawler known as GPTBot, but in spite of the fact that this is the case, it turns out that over a quarter of the top 100 websites in the world have now blocked the bot from being able to scrape their data.

To be more specific, 26 of these top 100 websites have now shut their doors to GPTBot, thereby making it harder for OpenAI to get its hands on the data it requires than might have been the case otherwise. If we were to widen the scope to the top 1,000 websites, 242 of them have made the decision to bar GPTBot entirely. This means that this proportion is roughly the same irrespective of many websites are added to the equation.

Just a month ago, only 69 of the top 1,000 websites had ended up making this drastic decision with all things having been considered and taken into account. This indicates that there has been a whopping 250% increase in the number of websites that are no longer willing to comply. GPTBot is also getting blocked at a much higher proportion than other scrapers such as CCBot and Anthropic AI.

With all of that having been said and now out of the way, it is important to note that some of the biggest brands in the world are part of this list. These include the social media platform Pinterest, news websites belonging to The Guardian, USA Today, the Washington Post and CBS News, along with popular sites like Web MD and dictionary.com.

Websites are doing this due to how ChatGPT does not provide any references or sources for the information it provides. This can be harmful because of the fact that this is the sort of thing that could potentially end up denying these websites the attributions that they require for the information they are creating all on their own.

H/T: OriginalityAI
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by Zia Muhammad via Digital Information World

Groups From Across the Ideological Spectrum Unite to Criticize New Hate Speech Law

It has become quite clear that we are living in a day and age where political and ideological polarization has reached an absolute fever pitch. In spite of the fact that this is the case, it appears that organizations from across the spectrum, including both right and left wing institutions, seem to have a serious problem with a new hate speech law that has been proposed in the state of New York.

With all of that having been said and now out of the way, it is important to note that this law will essentially compel social media platforms such as Facebook, X and the like to provide tools to users that can be used to send out complaints related to hate speech. Furthermore, the law will require these companies to disclose the actions that they have taken to tackle the incident in question.

In spite of the fact that this is the case, some experts have commented that the term hate speech is far too vague. Many are saying that this law goes against the constitution of the United States of America because of the fact that this is the sort of thing that could potentially end up leading to hate speech complaints that would be difficult to discern the veracity of.

The impetus behind this bill is an act of racial violence that shocked the nation, when a white supremacist murdered 10 African Americans at a grocery store. This random act of violence spurred lawmakers to start working on a bill that would have the potential to curb hate speech, but both right and left wing ideologues are criticizing it for not being effective with all things having been considered and taken into account.

The statute specifically mentions hateful conduct, but its emphasis on the conduct that is conducted online rather than the real world might be the source of the criticism. It will be interesting to see if this bipartisan rejection of the bill has any impact on its ability to get passed into law, as well as the implications it will have on future regulations.

Illustration: vectorjuice

Read next: Cyberattack Prevention Requires AI and Humans to Work Together
by Zia Muhammad via Digital Information World

WhatsApp is About to Introduce a New Game Changing AI Powered Chat

As the foremost instant messaging platform in the world, WhatsApp has the potential to completely transform the shape and face of the tech industry in general. In a recent conference, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg revealed that WhatsApp will be experimenting with AI based chat experiences in the near future. This will essentially make WhatsApp an even more powerful tool for communication than might have been the case otherwise.

With all of that having been said and now out of the way, it is important to note that this AI powered chat will essentially act as a kind of virtual assistant so to speak. Users will be able to communicate with these AI assistants, which will be interesting because of the fact that this is the sort of thing that could potentially end up upending ChatGPT’s vice grip on the chatbot industry as of right now.

This isn’t the only upcoming update that is about to make its way to WhatsApp either. Based on beta testing that has been seen in the recent past, WhatsApp is about to introduce a brand new sidebar to the equation. Furthermore, users will get the chance to sort their chats out into categories, using specific filters to be able to group them together and thereby be able to find which conversations threads they are looking for a great deal more easily.

Finally, a new update is about to get rolled out for WhatsApp users on Android phones. The feature is called “status”, which will basically be an updated version of the “about” section that so many users will already be quite familiar with to one extent or another.

According to Mark Zuckerberg, AI is the way of the future. Incorporating as much AI as possible into various Meta platforms might be the only way to keep the company relevant with all things having been considered and taken into account. It will be interesting to see if these upgrades help to maintain WhatsApp’s status as a dominant force in the industry, although the quality of these features will certainly be a pertinent determining factor.

Read next: This Upcoming WhatsApp Update Might Change the Way We Share Media
by Zia Muhammad via Digital Information World

This Upcoming WhatsApp Update Might Change the Way We Share Media

WhatsApp has come a long way from being a simple instant messaging platform. Its initial rise was so rapid that it ended up replacing regular SMS as the primary form of text based communication in the world. Its subsequent acquisition by Facebook led to the platform branching out in ways no one could have expected, and an upcoming update might influence how people share media with each other through their WhatsApp chat windows.

With all of that having been said and now out of the way, it is important to note that WhatsApp introduced channels into the mix so that users could share media with each other more easily. This was done because of the fact that this is the sort of thing that could potentially end up making WhatsApp more of a content sharing platform than might have been the case otherwise.

It turns out that WhatsApp is working on a new feature that will enable users to auto delete media after allotting a specific time after which the action will be performed. Users can simply go into the channel settings page where they will get the chance to see an entire list of all of the media they received with all things having been considered and taken into account.

One major benefit of this is that it can free up space in people’s phones. We tend to receive a lot of content and media through WhatsApp, much of which automatically gets saved and takes up a lot of storage that could have gone towards a lot of other things. Those that use budget phones will be especially happy about this update whenever it receives a wider rollout, since it will prevent them from having to spend hours emptying out their phones and selecting media that they want to get rid of.

This feature is still in the beta testing phase, as per WBI, but it is one of the stronger features that beta testers have seen. Chances are that it will be rolled out sooner rather than later, and that might transform the media sharing experience on WhatsApp.

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by Zia Muhammad via Digital Information World

Cyberattack Prevention Requires AI and Humans to Work Together

 Cyber attacks have been on the rise for quite some time now, but in spite of the fact that this is the case, not all that much has been done to make it so that they can become a thing of the past. Systems of security that have been put in place which cost millions of dollars on average can be easily circumvented by social engineering attacks and the like. Malicious actors can even use phone calls to trick people into giving them access to all of their systems.

At the recent Fal.Con 2023 conference by CrowdStrike, it was suggested that neither humans nor AI can fight this battle alone. While AI can boost telemetry and allow for the crunching of numbers at a far faster pace than might have been the case otherwise, it won’t be able to protect against a majority of cyberattacks until and unless some human insight is added to the equation.

With all of that having been said and now out of the way, it is important to note that threat actors are improving their ability to surpass security protocols at a rate that is faster than the rate of improvement of the protocols themselves. Some are going so far as to say that these malicious actors have a deeper understanding of cybersecurity systems than the very engineers that built them with all things having been considered and taken into account.

There is already an example of this that can be seen in the real world. In the southwestern US, hackers managed to get their hands on log in credentials that gave them access to critical infrastructure. The Falcon XDR platform offered by CrowdStrike combined with Overwatch Elite kept a close eye on all of the systems. As a result, the activity was identified, and human agents were able to stop the attack in its tracks.

This just goes to show that combining AI with human insight can create better outcomes. This issue was resolved in a matter of four hours, and it will be interesting to see how much progress can be made in coming years.

Photo: Cottonbro Studio/Pexels
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by Zia Muhammad via Digital Information World

Windows 11 Insiders Get Artsy with AI in Microsoft Paint

Have you ever imagined life without colors? Like the ones we used to see in old black-and-white movies? I kid you not; as a child, I used to think that past life was without colors, as shown in the film. What if I tell you that AI is slowly and gradually mingling into MS Paint? Attention, Windows 11 Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels – get ready to unleash your inner artist with a touch of AI magic in Microsoft Paint. The latest addition to the Paint app, known as Cocreator, has arrived on the scene, and it's here to turn your wildest artistic dreams into reality.

The Artistic Revolution

Cocreator, powered by DALL-E's sorcery, is your new best buddy in the realm of digital art. This fascinating feature is tucked in the Paint app's menu bar, right under the gleaming new Cocreate section. But wait, not everyone gets to see this imaginative extravaganza from the front row. To join the party, you'll need to sign up for the waitlist using your Microsoft Account.

Prepare to be amazed after you've entered. Microsoft will send you an email with 50 credits to get you started on your image-creation adventures. But, hold on, what's the catch? Each time you conjure up a picture, you'll lose one of your valuable credits. The math is simple:

• Describe your artistic vision in words
• Pick a style
• Watch the AI weave its magic

You'll be given three forms of your request, and you can basically snap to add your #1 to your Paint material. It's like having a personal AI artist at your beck and call.

Privacy and the Artistic Soul

You may be wondering about the negative side of this artistic venture - privacy and stolen artwork. Not to worry, Microsoft has pulled out all the stops to provide a safe and courteous creative environment. When you enter the embrace of Cocreator, content screening acts as a guardian angel, ensuring that no hazardous, disrespectful, or inappropriate images make it to your canvas.

For those with the gift of language flexibility, it's essential to understand that Cocreator is currently only proficient in English. It communicates in English within the borders of the United States, France, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Italy, and Germany. The rest of the globe might want to brush up on their English or wait for the AI to learn a few other languages.

The Waiting Game

Now, if you're not part of the exclusive club of Windows 11 Insiders, when can you expect to join this artistic AI fiesta? Unfortunately, there's no official word on when this feature will make its way to the broader audience. Regularly, it requires half to a couple of months as Microsoft accumulates feedback and shines the experience to a sparkle.

But hold on, there's more! Paint's Cocreator is only one piece of the creative puzzle that Microsoft has been meticulously constructing for Windows 11. AI fans may be pleased to learn that features such as the AI-powered Copilot assistant have already begun to trickle out to users of the stable version of Windows 11. Not only that but a new layers tool in Paint and the ability to edit translucent images have been added to the artistic arsenal.

Finally, the inclusion of Cocreator in Microsoft Paint for Windows 11 Insiders is a step toward democratizing art production through AI. While the rest of the world waits for their time to plunge into the artistic abyss, Windows Insiders get a sneak peek at what's to come. So, whether you're a seasoned artist or just curious about the potential of AI, Cocreator is here to turn your imagination into digital masterpieces, one credit at a time.

Read next: Meta's AI Assistant Teams Up with Microsoft Bing for Real-Time Chat
by Rubah Usman via Digital Information World

Meta's AI Assistant Teams Up with Microsoft Bing for Real-Time Chat

If you are thinking that AI is just limited to helping you in writing or creating photos for you, then my friend, you need an upgrade. What if I tell you that Facebook, newly called "Meta," has joined the AI arty club? In a surprising turn of events, Meta, the social media giant formerly known as Facebook, has joined forces with Microsoft Bing to supercharge its Meta AI assistant's capabilities. Get ready for a partnership that promises to deliver chat responses faster than a cheetah on caffeine.

The Dynamic Duo

Meta AI, Meta's latest conversational assistant, is making waves in the area of artificial intelligence. It's the friend you never knew you needed, described as an assistant you can talk to "like a person." But how does it provide you with the information you seek? Enter Microsoft Bing, the dependable sidekick.

Microsoft Bing is preparing to coordinate with Meta AI's chat encounters, ensuring that you get the latest and fresh-from-the-oven replies to your burning worries. This cooperation, as per Yusuf Mehdi, corporate VP, and buyer head promoting official at Microsoft, would empower Meta AI to get to constant hunt data. It's what might be compared to giving your AI aide direct access to the web's brain.

The Bing Connection

If you're wondering how this works, Jordi Ribas, Microsoft's CVP and head of engineering and product for Bing, spills the beans. Whenever Meta AI encounters a request that demands the latest information, it does the logical thing – it rings up Bing. Picture Meta AI as the cool kid at school who always has the latest gossip. It's no longer just about AI; it's about AI with a side of Bing.

Ribas makes an interesting point, claiming that combining Large Language Models (LLMs) like Meta AI with web search engines like Bing really increases the value of web search. In other words, LLMs and web search engines are the digital age's power duo, collaborating to present you with the most recent and accurate conversation results.

Why You Should Care

The world of search is expanding faster than your waistline after a Thanksgiving feast. It's everywhere, all the time, and it's unstoppable. Meta's decision to cozy up to Bing means that Meta AI will have real-time information at its fingertips. Think about it – when you ask a question, you want an answer that's hot off the press, not one that's been collecting dust on a digital shelf for years.

But wait, there's more! Meta has considerable ambitions to produce 28 more AI personalities, each with a distinct persona. These AI characters will be released on Instagram, WhatsApp, Messenger, and possibly more platforms. It's like a celebrity extravaganza, with Tom Brady, Snoop Dogg, Paris Hilton, and Mr. Beast in attendance. Imagine speaking with your favorite celebrity, even if it's just a digital clone.

The Bing Behind the Scenes

You may be pondering Bing's job in all of this. Indeed, Meta AI is fueled by a custom model that utilizes innovation from Llama 2 and other huge language models. Be that as it may, here's the trick - Meta's LLMs are just prepared on data up to 2023. That implies they probably won't be the best hotspot for the best in class. This is where Bing moves toward, giving constant web results to keep Meta AI in the loop.

What Lies Ahead

Meta isn't going to stop here. They're on a mission to develop AIs for businesses and creators, with plans to launch them next year. Companies will be able to create AI that reflects their brand's values and improves customer service experiences. AIs may assist everyone, from tiny firms aiming to expand to giant corporations looking to improve their communications.

In a world where technology is growing faster than you can say "digital revolution," Meta's AI assistant, Meta, and Bing are at the forefront. They're working together to make sure you have the information you need when you need it, and they're bringing a star-studded ensemble of AI characters with them. So, be ready to speak with your favorite celebrities, fact-check with real-time data, and experience the future of AI-assisted interactions - it's going to be a wild ride, and we're all buckled in!

Read next: User-Generative AI Helps Hundreds Of Consultants Complete Tasks Efficiently At Top Boston Enterprise, New Study Proves
by Rubah Usman via Digital Information World

Apple’s Latest iPhone 15 Pro Max Scores Big In DXOMARK’s In-Depth Camera Review

We all know that the latest iPhone Pro Max had a lot of hopes riding on it in terms of superior performance, features, and of course the camera.

Now, we’re getting the latest insights on that front including how the device has a camera worth raving for after it scored high on DXOMARK’s latest in-depth camera evaluation.

The hot and happening flagship device by the Cupertino firm has been called out as having the best color, video, and color stabilization offerings out there in the market today. But it was not all positive as proven by the new review.

The latest iPhone Pro Max does have several drawbacks which dragged it down to the second position on the list, overall. This included the massive gap in the phone’s field of vision that is located in the middle of the main sensor as well as the telephoto lens. Other than that, there are some more disadvantages that just made it score 154, a little less than what was needed to snitch the top spot.

Furthermore, when it comes down to video performance, the latest iPhone 15 Pro Max scored big. It was the frontrunner for nearly every single subcategory out there, other than a few such as texture and the inclusion of artifacts.

To be more specific, a value of 4k60fps for the phone’s Dolby Vision HDR while making a video was outlined for testing. In the same manner, there was video exposure as well as the color that remained constant in the majority of the situations while the tradeoff witnessed between texture and noise was one of the best we’ve witnessed until today.

Yes, DXOMARK did a great job in terms of figures for its Dolby Vision recording, and that made so much sense for a lot of people happy. But the major updates to the video of this generation have to do with stats linked to the latest LOG recording. And sadly, that was not testing like it should have been.

Moving on to other subcategories like Picture Performance, the device stole the top position for exposure, texture, and hue. As far as the tests were concerned, some loopholes were seen in terms of noise and the phone’s autofocus feature that pushed it one step backward.

Meanwhile, better portrait mode options were highlighted including a more in-depth feature for capturing pictures. Similarly, the right type of skin tone detection allowed the phone to lead the pack for the Friends and Family category. Meanwhile, the latest 24MP output outside the 48MP sensor was hailed for giving users a greater sense of detail and focus during standing filming situations.

As far as which phone took over as the leading device during the testing phase by DXOMARK, it was no surprise here as Huawei’s P60 Pro led the pack as predicted. This device is currently the best in the market with its 48MP main camera and telephoto that’s 48MP 90mm. Surprisingly, while the optical zoom is 3.5 times greater than the main camera, it gives the phone the chance to secure greater detail arising across the mid-telephoto range, much more than what the latest iPhone 15 Pro Max is capable of. Hence, this kind of telephoto trade-off was of clear interest for obvious reasons.

Whatever the case may be, Apple’s Pro Max continued to capture quite a lot of detail but when it was cropped to an image of 80mm, that proved a huge amount of picture degradation that expert reviewers said was worth a mention.

Photo: Amanz / Unsplash

Read next: Apple Under Fire As Consumers Report Major Overheating Problems With The New iPhone 15 And iPhone 15 Pro Models
by Dr. Hura Anwar via Digital Information World

OpenAI Introduces "Browse with Bing" Feature for ChatGPT

Have you found yourself enjoying the AI features lately? If you have, then this news might be of your interest. OpenAI, the powerhouse behind the popular ChatGPT, has unveiled a new feature that promises to take the internet browsing experience to a whole new level. With a touch of humor and a dash of sarcasm, we delve into the fascinating world of "Browse with Bing."

The Big Reveal

ChatGPT, your friendly AI buddy, is now capable of scanning the enormous expanse of the internet for real-time information, according to OpenAI. They claimed with pride that ChatGPT can directly deliver responses straight from "current and authoritative" sources, all of which are painstakingly cited.

This new tool, aptly named "Browse with Bing," is currently available only to those with Plus and Enterprise subscriptions. Still, OpenAI has generously assured the masses that it will soon be available to all users.

The Familiar Players

Before you get too enthusiastic, you should be aware that ChatGPT is not the only player in this game. Microsoft's Bing Chat, Google's Bard, and even Meta (previously Facebook) are already experimenting with live online information retrieval. It's a race to see who can get your data the fastest, and it appears that Bing is the chosen steed for the time being.

How to Summon the Web-Savvy GPT

Getting ChatGPT to go on a web-searching adventure may not be as simple as it sounds. OpenAI provides instructions for the internet version, but the iOS app is left in the dark. Fear not, daring explorer; I have traversed this desert and emerged victorious.

If you're a subscriber, take the following mystical steps:

• Firstly, open the three-dot menu you will see at the bottom left of your screen
• Now, in this menu, you will see the option of "Settings." Click on that option
• Now that you have entered the settings, the option of "New Features" will be shining on your screen. Tap or click on it
• Now comes the most anticipated feature, "Browse with Bing," tap on it
• Start a new chat, then press GPT-4 and choose "Browse with Bing."

Voila! The doors to real-time data are finally open, although slowly.

The Art of Fact-Checking

One might wonder why this feature is such a game-changer. Well, for starters, it allows you to fact-check your AI companion. Gone are the days of blindly trusting AI's every word. When ChatGPT offers an answer, you can now compare notes by clicking on the link to the source. Finally, those AI-generated assertions may be put to the test.

I have found, thanks to an obscure website called MediaMass, that AC/DC may be working on a new album in secret. I can now confirm or refute this exciting piece of information using the power of fact-checking. Who knew AI bots were prone to hallucinations?

The Rollercoaster Ride

It's not all sunshine and rainbows in the world of AI web browsing. OpenAI initially introduced the ability to surf the internet within the ChatGPT iOS app in June, only to pull it back swiftly. Why? Users had figured out how to cleverly coax the chatbot into revealing otherwise paywalled content by feeding it direct URLs. Crafty, right?

OpenAI didn't just sit back and watch; they took action. They created a fancy-sounding automated crawler that now identifies itself as a user agent. What does this imply? It enables websites to remember ChatGPT's presence and either warmly welcome it or politely ask it to leave.

These websites can now alter their Robots.txt file to allow or restrict ChatGPT access. It's as if there's a virtual bouncer at the door selecting who gets in. So, who’s excited now?

The Decision

To summarize, OpenAI's "Browse with Bing" feature for ChatGPT is a huge step forward in the field of artificial intelligence. It adds a whole new layer to fact-checking and gives you, the user, the ability to hold AI accountable for its assertions.

While the rollout might have had a few hiccups along the way, it's clear that OpenAI is committed to delivering a valuable and trustworthy AI experience. So, go forth, explore the web with ChatGPT, and remember, the truth is just a click away!

Read next: 78% of Companies Say AI Created More Jobs
by Rubah Usman via Digital Information World

iPhone 15 Buyers Might Need to Wait a Week Longer to Receive Their Products

The launch of the latest iPhone is perhaps one of the most significant events of the tech cycle, but in spite of the fact that this is the case, this year’s rollout of the iPhone 15 is being marred by delayed delivery. According to research conducted by Counterpoint, specifically their Apple 360 Service, buyers purchasing top of the line iPhones including the iPhone 15 Pro Max will need to wait between 4 to 9 days longer than might have been the case otherwise.

With all of that having been said and now out of the way, it is important to note that there is a nine day differential in the delivery times for the iPhone 15 Max as compared to the iPhone 14 Max. Supply chain disruptions might be at the heart of this. However, some experts are also saying that the considerable upgrades necessitate a longer wait period because of the fact that this is the sort of thing that could potentially end up making the rollout go more smoothly.

This also poses an opportunity to Chinese competitors who may be able to get products to customers faster with all things having been considered and taken into account. Some phones offered by Huawei, such as the Mate 60 Pro, are seen as direct competitors to the iPhone. They threaten to derail the inroads Apple has made in the Chinese market, indicating that home grown manufacturers in the East Asian nation might have an edge over their dominant American counterpart for the very first time.

Even so, research has shown that the iPhone 15 is still the most sought after phone in China. Archie Zhang, a research analyst based in China, stated that the longer delivery times are actually a strong indication that the iPhone is continuing to experience high levels of demand. It will be interesting to see where things go from here on out, since the shape and face of the industry seems to be in a constant state of flux that could reshuffle the delicate balance of the smartphone ecosystem around the world.



Read next: Even the Collapse of Twitter Might Not Be Enough to Save Threads
by Zia Muhammad via Digital Information World

Even the Collapse of Twitter Might Not Be Enough to Save Threads

The controversial tenure of Elon Musk as the owner and CEO of Twitter has led to some drastic changes on the platform, not the least of which is the questionable rebranding to X. The sudden upheaval of one of the most fundamental social media platforms on the internet prompted several companies to try to launch so called Twitter killers. Perhaps the most notable example of all is Threads, which is basically Meta’s answer to Twitter.

Threads became the fastest app to reach 100 million users in history, but in spite of the fact that this is the case, many of these were just migrants from Meta’s various other social media platforms. With all of that having been said and now out of the way, it is important to note that Threads has seen its traffic decline dramatically ever since its launch, which seems to suggest that it is not offering users enough to make them stick around.

Reports indicate that Threads will close off the year with 23.7 million users in the US, which is a paltry amount compared to the 135 million American users that Instagram can rely on. Furthermore, Twitter is expected to end the year with around 56.1 million users in the US. This is a strong indication that Threads has failed to attract enough users to maintain a sustainable trajectory in the future, and data seems to suggest that there is not all that much that can be done to turn the sinking ship around.

If we were to take a look at all of the social media platforms operating in the world right now, Threads would be dead last if not for Tumblr which is widely considered to be a dying platform. Tumblr has 20.4 million US based users, and Threads has not been able to surpass this by much despite the enormous influx of users it received from its widely successful other platforms. The most Threads can hope for based on reports is reaching 33.9 million users by 2025, which will potentially eliminate any chances for the platform’s future as a Twitter killer.

Read next: YouTube Mastermind MrBeast Becomes Highest-Earning Digital Creator After Making $82 Million In Revenue This Year
by Zia Muhammad via Digital Information World

YouTube Mastermind MrBeast Becomes Highest-Earning Digital Creator After Making $82 Million In Revenue This Year

MrBeast is a huge name in the world of digital creators and to help give you a bigger and better idea of how much fortune he makes, you might want to read on further.

The leading mastermind of the popular video-sharing app YouTube proved to the world that he is the king of making content that users love. And that’s when he topped the Forbes list to become the world’s highest-earning digital creator.

Think along the lines of generating a sum of $82 million in estimates in the past year. And that includes all the hugely popular stunts and mega giveaways that fans cannot get enough of. Furthermore, that’s nearly double the earnings generated for any other creator on the web as per the latest Forbes statistics.

The amount outlined by MrBeast became a part of the Forbes 2023 Creators List. The latter is the media outlet’s second yearly ranking for the top 50 most paid and influential individuals on the YouTube app as well as many other popular ones including Instagram and TikTok.

Forbes rolled out the estimates for every creator’s earnings taking place between June of this year as well as that generated last year.

Today, MrBeast is the world’s most famous YouTube with fans hitting the 186 million mark and as days go by, the figure outlined for subscribers continues to increase. He not only generates videos that are super popular but he’s got other means by which he keeps on making money while he’s even sleeping.

If that was not enough, he’s hailed for his routine efforts regarding various charitable causes. And some rumors are speaking about how he just might be turning into a board member for Forbes after the company finishes its respective 82% share sale to another leading business tycoon in the world of auto-tech.

But if you feel everything is as picture-perfect as can be for MrBeast, well, think again. He’s also being dragged into a huge lawsuit with a firm running as a virtual catering enterprise. The latter is currently handling his top-of-the-line fast food restaurant called MrBeast Burger.

While the billionaire did sue the company to end this deal, and added how the food produced was far from what he or customers had ever imagined, including naming it disgusting and inedible. He similarly added how that ruined his reputation and to fight back, VDC launched its own lawsuit worth a massive $100 million, calling it a sheer breach of contract.

Forbes also included other names on the list who took over the second place and others. And some of the names entailed talk-show host couple Rhett & Link, young YouTube sensation Ryan Kaji, and even top gamer PrestonPlayz. Each of those had earnings featuring an estimated figure of $35 million.

Other names that made it to the highest-earning digital creator list are the Jake & Logan Paul brother duo and sisters Charli & Dixie, not to mention the popular superstar on the TikTok app, Khaby Lame.

As a whole, the leading 50 names for highest-earning digital creators generated close to $700 million in 2023 alone. And that’s a massive 23% rise from the year 2022.

Forbes claims such rankings depend on the top three leading factors such as earning, engagement, and even entrepreneurship. Moreover, the firm aligned with another leading marketing company to produce the results called Influential. The latter is known for handling top-of-the-line social media marketing.

You can find out more about who made the list and who didn’t by visiting the Forbes website for more insights.

Read next: 78% of Companies Say AI Created More Jobs
by Dr. Hura Anwar via Digital Information World

Google's Hiccup Started as Bard's Chats to Vanish from Google Search

In a rather peculiar twist, Google is poised to perform a digital disappearing act on Bard's shared conversations, ensuring that they vanish from Google Search. This strange situation unfolded after Google introduced shared conversations within Bard, allowing users to flaunt their chats with the ever-mysterious Bard publicly. However, this innocuous feature triggered an unexpected series of events.

Google Search set out on a vast adventure, scanning and indexing those supposedly public but not entirely public talks. The result? Bard's secrets were on the verge of becoming general knowledge, buried deep within Google's index.

The problem was discovered when Gagan Ghotra uploaded a screenshot on X, indicating that issuing a site command for site:bard.google.com share would result in Bard results. It was as if Google Search had worn a Sherlock Holmes hat and determined to disclose Shakespeare's most intimate conversations for all to see.

After more investigation, the researchers contacted Google's Search Liaison, the always-knowledgeable Danny Sullivan, about this strange scenario. Danny's remark, given with a touch of Google's trademark brevity, was highly illuminating. He casually mentioned X, noting that Bard allows users to share chats of their choice. He further stated that these shared discussions were intended to be outside of Google Search and that they were actively striving to prevent them from being indexed.

In essence, Google found itself in an unintentional confrontation with Bard's shared chats, and Danny Sullivan promised us that they were on the job to correct this digital gaffe.

You may be wondering why such a seemingly trivial flaw should even raise an eyebrow. So, here's why it's crucial. You should be reassured if you happen to come upon Bard's shared dialogues while browsing the enormous expanse of Google Search. According to Google's great aim, these digital squabbles should soon disappear from Google Search's index. In other words, Google's digital curtain is going to fall on Bard's public discussions, saving us all from inadvertently intruding into Bard's private matters.

So, the next time you come across Bard's remarks while exploring the web, remember that it's only a brief digital blip. Google's search index, like a conscientious magician's assistant, is erasing Bard's standard talks. Rest assured, Bard's enigmatic allure remains intact, and his secrets will soon be secure from Google Search's prying eyes.

We can see the delicate balance between technology and privacy in this strange digital tango. Even behemoths like Google are occasionally caught in the crossfire between maintaining a searchable internet and protecting user privacy. The Bard's shared chats elegantly exit the stage of Google Search, reminding us of the intricacies and occasional surprises that await us in the ever-changing digital realm.

Google's quick action to remove Bard's private talks from Google Search indicates the internet giant's dedication to upholding privacy boundaries. While this brief encounter between Bard and Google Search may have raised an eyebrow or two, it ultimately reinforces the need to strike the correct balance between technology's capabilities and user privacy amid the digital world's ever-watchful eyes.

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by Rubah Usman via Digital Information World

Amazon Under Fire as US Accuses Online Behemoth of Illegal Monopoly

Amazon, the colossal online marketplace, has found itself in hot water as US regulators accuse the tech giant of maintaining an illegal monopoly. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has fired the first shot, alleging that Amazon employs a series of interlocking anti-competitive strategies to drive up prices and stifle competition, leaving consumers with limited choices and higher costs.

Amazon, on the other hand, is not taking these allegations lightly. The e-commerce behemoth responded quickly, asserting that the complaint is "wrong on the facts and law" and expressing a desire to present its position in court. Indeed, this news is not stopping you from your online shopping. But you may want to know more before adding something to your cart.

You might have heard of a lot of classical fights and legal battles, but this one has taken the internet by storm, and nobody was ready for it. This is the latest in a string of high-profile legal disputes between US regulators and tech titans. For years, the FTC, led by Lina Khan, has been keeping a tight eye on Amazon. Khan, then 29, released an essential academic study in 2017 emphasizing Amazon's unregulated rise and probable anti-competitive activity. She claimed that Amazon's insatiable quest for customer pleasure has driven it to monopolistic domination.

Khan's selection as FTC Chair in 2021 indicated the beginning of the end for Amazon. Many see this litigation as a litmus test of her leadership and resolve to take on the tech behemoths.

The concentration of power among a few tech behemoths has spurred US senators to push for steps to boost competition in internet search, shopping, and social media. Despite loud rhetoric against Big Tech, the FTC's efforts to reign them in have met with obstacles. It failed to halt Meta's acquisition of VR business Within in February, and it also was unable to prevent Microsoft's acquisition of the Call of Duty developer in July.

The Amazon lawsuit provides the FTC with an ample opportunity to make a strong argument against Big Tech. The agency, together with 17 state attorneys general, claims that Amazon's monopoly hinders competitors and sellers from offering lower pricing, which ultimately affects consumers. Amazon's practices, according to the regulator, degrade product quality, overcharge vendors, impede innovation, and stifle fair competition.

This legal struggle, in essence, revolves around the impact of Amazon's apparent monopoly on consumers' wallets, with the goal of proving that consumers have been financially injured. Although US antitrust rules are complicated, prosecutors must generally show that a company's actions caused financial loss to consumers.

In this aspect, Big Tech poses a unique problem because many of its services are free. Companies such as Google give services such as their search engine, while Meta provides platforms such as Instagram without charging customers directly. Because consumers aren't paying out of cash for these services, demonstrating financial loss becomes more difficult.

Another legal dispute recently erupted between the US government and Google, this time over allegations that the internet giant has a monopoly on advertising technology. This lawsuit exemplifies ongoing efforts to hold Big Tech accountable for market dominance and suspected anti-competitive activity.

The Amazon lawsuit will be widely followed as it progresses, not just for its possible impact on the e-commerce behemoth but also for the more significant ramifications it may have on the regulation of computer sector titans. The outcome could serve as a model for future anti-monopolistic practices in the digital era, with implications for competition and consumer choice. While the legal battle may be far from over, it is clear that the era of Big Tech scrutiny and accountability has firmly arrived.

Photo: Joshua Brown / Pexels
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by Rubah Usman via Digital Information World

A Humorous Farewell to Simplicity as Google to Bid Farewell to Basic HTML Version of Gmail

Ladies and gentlemen gather 'round as we embark on a whimsical journey into the world of Gmail. Google, the benevolent gatekeeper of our emails, has some exciting news for us. It's time to bid adieu to Gmail's beloved Basic HTML version. Yes, you heard it right! The digital minimalist's dream is about to come to an end. The time has come to say goodbye to simplicity in this era of grand features and dazzling interfaces.

Consider this: You're sitting in front of your old computer, which has been through more Windows updates than you can count. Your internet connection is as sluggish as a sloth taking a coffee break. You open your computer, go to Gmail, and there it is, the Basic HTML version, a digital paradise for people seeking a respite from modernity's bells and whistles.

But alas, Google has decided that it's time to move on. In a digital era where even your fridge can send you emails (thanks, IoT), the humble Basic HTML Gmail is being gently nudged into retirement. According to Google's official support page, this relic of simpler times will be accessible until January 2024. After that, it's off to the 'Standard' view for you, my friend.

Google is not heartless. They provide options, such as installing the Gmail app on your mobile device or using third-party email programs. But let's face it: who needs votes when you can have nostalgia?

The Basic HTML version, you see, was the embodiment of digital minimalism. It was like a '90s sitcom in the age of high-budget blockbusters. Sure, it didn't have all the fancy features like chat, spell check, or keyboard shortcuts, but it had something that all those modern versions lacked—simplicity. It was the Marie Kondo of email interfaces, decluttering your digital life one pixel at a time.

But hold on, there's more! Google cautions us that the Basic HTML view does not support "full Gmail feature functionality." In a world of laser printers, it's like using a typewriter. It's like riding a horse to work when everyone else drives Teslas. It's like...you get the picture.

Now, don't get us wrong; we're all for progress and innovation. But there's something endearing about an email interface that's as straightforward as a handshake. It's like Google saying, "Hey, we know you don't need all that fancy stuff. Here's a stripped-down version for your minimalist soul."

And let's not forget our dear friend Pratik Patel, the tech-savvy individual who happens to be visually impaired. Pratik, like many others, relied on the Basic HTML view. He expressed his dismay in an emotional Mastodon post, stating that he knows many visually impaired folks who use Gmail's HTML view, and they will not only be confused but also dissatisfied.

You see, even in its simplicity, Google had a special place in the hearts of many.

As we bid adieu to the Basic HTML Gmail, let's raise our digital glasses to the era of minimalism and simplicity. It was a quaint corner of the internet where less indeed was more. And while we embrace the future, complete with all its chat features and keyboard shortcuts, let's not forget the humble beginnings of our digital journey—a journey that started with a basic, no-frills version of Gmail.

Finally, Basic HTML Gmail, you will be missed. In the world of high-tech fashion, you were the digital equivalent of a warm sweater. So here's to you and all the ease you've given to our digital lives. May your retirement be as quiet and understated as your interface. Goodbye, old friend. Farewell.

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by Rubah Usman via Digital Information World