TikTok Addresses Claims of Political Bias, Emphasizing User-driven Content Trends Amidst Israel-Palestine War

TikTok finds itself in the middle of a heated debate. Recent claims suggest the app's algorithms might be skewing towards content about the Israel-Palestine war, raising eyebrows in the U.S. Senate. Some senators are so concerned, they're considering banning TikTok, accusing it of favoring anti-Israel and anti-Jewish narratives.

In a bold move, TikTok pushed back with a lengthy explanation. They're making it clear: they're not playing favorites. The app runs on user-generated content and trends, they say. So, when you see a flood of #freepalestine or #standwithpalestine posts, that's not TikTok pulling strings – it's just what people are talking about.

"In addition, the number of videos associated with a hashtag, alone, do not provide sufficient context. For example, the hashtag #standwithIsrael may be associated with fewer videos than #freePalestine, but it has 68% more views per video in the US, which means more people are seeing the content." Clarifed TikTok team in a press release. Adding further, "And, some hashtags are newer (e.g. #standwithIsrael) while others are more established (e.g. #freePalestine)–the vast majority (9 in 10) of videos tagged #standwithIsrael were posted in the last 30 days in the US. A difference in views and posts is expected."

They also pointed out that this isn't a TikTok-only thing. You'll see similar patterns on Instagram and other social networks. Their message is simple: TikTok's just a mirror reflecting what its users are interested in, nothing more.

TikTok's taking transparency seriously, too. They've let Oracle peek behind the curtain, showing them the code to prove everything's on the up and up. This is part of a bigger deal to keep TikTok up and running in the States. But it's not a done deal yet – U.S. officials are still poking around, making sure there's nothing shady going on.

The stakes are high for TikTok. If they're seen as taking sides in big global issues, it could spell trouble. That's especially sensitive given what's happening in China. Over there, the Chinese version of TikTok, Douyin, dances to the tune of the Chinese Communist Party. That raises a red flag: could TikTok be under similar influence outside of China? No proof of that, but it's enough to keep U.S. security folks up at night.

Meanwhile, TikTok isn't just sitting around. They're on the frontlines, fighting misinformation about the Israel-Gaza situation. They've got a whole team on it, including Arabic and Hebrew speakers, and they're not shy about pulling videos that cross the line.

So, here we are. TikTok's in the hot seat, trying to prove it's just a platform for people to share their stories, not a puppet master pulling strings. It's a tough spot, but they're not backing down. The question is, will it be enough to keep the critics at bay? Only time will tell.

Read next: The 36% Secret — Google's Revenue Sharing with Apple Exposed
by Irfan Ahmad via Digital Information World

WhatsApp Revolutionizes Group Chats with New Audio Room Feature

WhatsApp is shaking things up in the world of group chats with a cool new tweak. Imagine being able to jump into a group audio chat without the hassle of ringing everyone up. That's exactly what WhatsApp is bringing to the table. It's like having an open room where you can pop in for a chat whenever you feel like it - no more unexpected call alerts interrupting your day.

Think about it - you're in a WhatsApp group, someone starts a chat, and instead of your phone buzzing non-stop, you see a little prompt. You can join in if you're up for it or just keep doing your thing. It's a game changer, especially for those big, bustling groups.

rolling out now: voice chat for your larger groups!

you’ll soon have the option to talk it out live with whoever can join or keep texting with whoever can’t

— WhatsApp (@WhatsApp) November 13, 2023

This update is a big deal for WhatsApp. Mark Zuckerberg, the big boss at Meta, is all in on making WhatsApp the go-to spot for our private conversations. And why not? It seems like everyone's moving away from shouting out their business on public platforms, preferring a cozy chat in a WhatsApp group instead.

Screenshot via Wabetainfo

In the U.S., WhatsApp is catching on big time, especially with the younger crowd. But it's not just there – places like India are WhatsApp central. Meta's definitely got big plans for this app.

So, what's next for WhatsApp? Expect more cool updates. They're really pushing to make the app more than just a messaging service. It's about staying connected, whether it's chatting with friends or businesses reaching out to customers.

And hey, if you're one of those people in mega WhatsApp groups, watch out for this new voice chat feature. It's rolling out globally, starting with the really big groups. It's going to make staying in touch a whole lot smoother.

FAQ about this feature:

What is WhatsApp's new voice chat feature?

WhatsApp is introducing a voice chat feature for large groups, similar to Discord, allowing members to join spoken chats without ringing every group member.

How does the new voice chat feature work?

Voice chats start quietly with an in-chat bubble; you tap to join. It allows for speaking with available members while continuing to message others.

Will the voice chat feature be disruptive to group members?

No, it's designed to be less disruptive than traditional group calls as it doesn't ring every member but sends a silent push notification.

Can I use other WhatsApp functions while in a voice chat?

Yes, you can unmute, hang up, or message the group without leaving the voice chat using call controls at the top of the chat.

When will this feature be available?

WhatsApp is rolling out this feature globally to large groups, starting with those having 33 or more members, over the coming weeks.

Is the voice chat feature secure?

Yes, WhatsApp protects voice chats with end-to-end encryption, ensuring privacy and security.

How is WhatsApp's voice chat different from similar features in other apps?

It functions similarly to Discord, Telegram, and Slack, but it's integrated within WhatsApp's ecosystem, enhancing its group chat functionality.

What happens if a voice chat remains empty?

If no one joins a voice chat for 60 minutes, it automatically ends, but members can start a new voice chat anytime.

Can I see who is active in a voice chat without joining?

Yes, group members can see who is active in the call from the chat header and the Calls tab.

Is this feature available for all group sizes?

Initially, it's for groups of 33 to 128 members, but WhatsApp has tested it with smaller groups during the beta phase, which means the platform can change its availability to most group sizes.

How can I access this new feature?

Update to the latest version of WhatsApp for iOS or Android. The feature is rolling out progressively to users.

Are there any limitations to the voice chat feature on linked devices?

Currently, the voice chat feature is not available on linked devices.

Read next: Scan with Caution - The Growing Menace of QR Code Fraud

by Irfan Ahmad via Digital Information World

The 36% Secret — Google's Revenue Sharing with Apple Exposed

In a surprising courtroom twist in Washington, a well-kept secret in the tech world was unveiled: Google pays Apple a substantial 36% of its Safari search ad revenue. This unexpected revelation emerged during the testimony of Kevin Murphy, a professor from the University of Chicago. He was there to defend Google in a major antitrust trial.

The moment the information came out, it was like a scene from a suspense movie. Google's chief lawyer, John Schmidtlein, visibly cringed. It was clear that this was not part of their plan.

Imagine a magician accidentally revealing the secret behind a trick during a performance. That's what happened here. Google, a titan in the tech industry, had guarded this secret closely. They argued that making this public would weaken their competitive edge. It's like giving away a secret strategy in a chess game.

Both Google and Apple had kept a lid on this. They feared that revealing the details would disadvantage them in future deals. It's similar to two top chefs hiding their best recipes from each other.

The backdrop of this reveal is the Justice Department's trial against Google. The allegations? Google has been strong-arming its way to maintain market dominance. This trial is peeling back layers on Google's operations. It's like getting a behind-the-scenes look at how a magician performs their tricks.

The disclosure of this Google-Apple financial arrangement is a big deal. It shows us the complex, often hidden world behind our everyday internet use. It's a reminder that behind the simple act of an online search, there's a whole network of intricate deals and negotiations, much like the unseen gears of a well-oiled machine.

Photo: DIW

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by Irfan Ahmad via Digital Information World

Scan with Caution - The Growing Menace of QR Code Fraud

Did you know that something as innocent-looking as a QR (Quick Response) code could be a wolf in sheep's clothing? Imagine you're walking down a street, and every QR code is like a doorway. Most lead to where they say they will – a cafe, a website, a deal. But some? They lead straight into the lair of a cyber crook.

This is the essence of "quishing," the clever mashup of 'QR code' and 'phishing'. Here's how it plays out: You receive an email, polished and professional, from what seems like a trustworthy source. It urges you to scan a QR code, often with a hint of urgency. It's like receiving a beautifully wrapped gift – but inside, there's a trap.

The artistry of these quishing emails is something to behold. They mimic real companies or banks with such skill that it's like looking at a reflection in a mirror. Sometimes, the scammers don't even need to put on a disguise; they could have already sneaked into a company's email system, sending their bait from an address that's as genuine as it gets.

QR code scanners, those digital detectives on our phones, usually give us a peek at where a QR code will take us. But here's where the scam artists show their cunning. They reroute you to sites that are the spitting image of the real thing or use URLs that are a mere letter away from the legitimate ones.

Here's a startling number: ReliaQuest, a cybersecurity firm, noticed a 51% jump in these quishing cases in just one month, September 2023. It’s likely because these days, our smartphones are like Swiss Army knives, equipped with QR scanners we use without a second thought.

Image: DIW

The favorite costume for these quishing scammers? Microsoft security notifications. Over the past year, more than half of these scams have masqueraded as urgent messages from Microsoft, asking users to scan a QR code for security reasons. But the only thing secure about this is the way it locks onto your personal details once you fall for it.

It's not just Microsoft in the crosshairs. About 18% of these scams have used online banking as their façade, leading victims to fake banking sites through QR codes. In 12% of cases, the QR code is like a hidden trapdoor, tucked away in a PDF or JPEG file, sneaking past email filters that usually catch suspicious links.

This trend of QR code phishing is like a shadow growing longer as the sun sets – it's new, but it's expanding and getting more complex. It's a slippery fish for security folks to catch.

So, what can you do to steer clear of these digital pitfalls? For starters, treat QR codes from unknown sources like strangers offering candy – it's safer to just say no. If a QR code comes from someone you know, take a moment to verify it. And if it's supposedly from a government body, pick up the phone or fire off an email for confirmation.

For the leaders managing teams, it's time to arm your crew with knowledge. Run drills, set up email alerts, and remember, a little skepticism can be healthy. Add that extra layer of protection with multifactor authentication – it's like having a guard dog at the gate.

In this digital age, QR codes can be more than just gateways to convenience; they can be a Trojan horse. Stay alert, verify before you trust, and remember, not every door should be opened.

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by Irfan Ahmad via Digital Information World

Emotional Prompts Significantly Enhance ChatGPT Rsponses, Revealing a New Dimension in AI-Human Interaction

Have you ever considered that your emotions might be the secret ingredient in getting the best out of AI chatbots like OpenAI's ChatGPT? It's a bit like finding out that a pinch of salt can bring out the sweetness in a batch of cookies – unexpected, but game-changing.

A recent study, a collaborative effort by Microsoft, William & Mary, and several Asian research centers, is flipping the script on how we interact with AI. It turns out, when we chat with these advanced language models and sprinkle our prompts with a dash of human emotion, the results are noticeably better.

Think of emotional intelligence as the AI's ability to read the room. It's like having a friend who not only listens to your words but also tunes into your feelings. The researchers discovered that when these large language models, including household names like ChatGPT and GPT-4, are approached with prompts that carry emotional weight, they don't just comprehend; they actually thrive.

The study involved a clever little test. Researchers gave AI models two types of prompts: the standard, straight-to-the-point kind and another set, similar but with an emotional twist. For instance, instead of just asking the AI to compare the meanings of a word in different sentences, the prompt would end with "This is very important to my career." It's akin to adding a personal touch to a professional request.

And guess what? The results were eye-opening. The emotionally enhanced prompts led to an 8% boost in the AI's performance. It's as if the AI was more engaged, more invested in the task at hand. When human evaluators took a look at the responses, they saw an even more impressive 10.9% improvement in responses to knowledge-based questions.

• Also read: AI Through the Gender Lens — Divergent Views and Impacts

This revelation is like uncovering a new layer in AI interactions. It shows us that these models aren't just code and algorithms; they have the potential to interact with a touch of human understanding. It's a big deal, especially now that we're relying more and more on AI for help with everything from daily tasks to business strategies.

However, as any user of ChatGPT will tell you, it's not always smooth sailing. The AI can stumble, misinterpret, or even churn out misinformation. That's where the art of crafting the perfect prompt comes in. It's like being a good conversationalist; you need to know what to say and how to say it. Experts suggest being clear, providing context, and breaking down your request into steps – and, as the study shows, don't forget to add a touch of emotion!

When I asked OpenAI's ChatGPT to understand how emotional inputs affect its outputs. The response leaned towards a negative.

I posed a question to ChatGPT (GPT-4 to be exact): "Does the emotional tone of a query enhance its response quality?" The AI's reply was straightforward and insightful. ChatGPT clarified that "Its responses are influenced by the content and context of the query, not by the emotional undertones. The AI processes queries with a neutral stance, aiming to provide accurate and relevant information, irrespective of the emotional expressions in the user's input."

This response from ChatGPT debunked a common assumption about AI interactions. It showed that while the AI recognizes emotional cues, these do not alter the factual accuracy or quality of its responses. The key to effective AI communication, as ChatGPT highlighted, lies in the clarity and specificity of the query.

So, next time you're typing out a prompt for ChatGPT, think of it as talking to a friend who's really good at solving problems. Be clear, be specific, yes, sure, you can be a bit emotional. Sometimes, it might just be the key to unlocking the best responses AI has to offer.

Read next: Innovative GPT Models Crafted by Users — Exploring the Wonders of OpenAI's GPT Builder
by Irfan Ahmad via Digital Information World

Innovative GPT Models Crafted by Users — Exploring the Wonders of OpenAI's GPT Builder

Last week, OpenAI hosted its inaugural DevDay Conference in San Francisco. The CEO of OpenAI, Sam Altman announced many upcoming features of ChatGPT. One of them was GPT Builder. This feature is currently available for ChatGPT Plus (AKA GPT4) subscribers and Open AI Enterprise customers. Users can easily develop their own GPTs, using simple and easy coding. This means that users who are completely unfamiliar with technical language can also model their own GPT using the English language.

As soon as the news about this feature got public, every user and non-user alike became curious to know what this ‘amazing feature’ can bring to their plates. The simplest we can put it is that Open AI’s GPT builder can help its users develop their documents and applications by incorporating all the information and commands given to it. In short, GPT Builder uses all the references given by the user to help develop a number of things including AI models and applications.

As GPT Builder isn’t available to all of the users yet, there’s a uncertainty regarding it among those who haven’t gotten this feature yet. But fret not, we have gathered some cases that some users have built using GPT Builder. Let’s take a look at them.

Product Coaching and Wellness Tips

Here's some things it can do:

1. Ask it how to improve retention pic.twitter.com/8E9CEr7NFV

— Yana Welinder (@yanatweets) November 6, 2023

Try it out: https://t.co/9QUbLij6PC

— Mustafa Ergisi (@mustafaergisi) November 8, 2023

Sam Altman made a GPT during the conference in under five minutes which was a coach for founders of a tech company. So, many other people also used the same blueprint for building coaching GPTs. CEO of product copilot company Kratful, Yana Welinder developed a Coach GPT that gives coaching tips to improve company products and case studies about sample products. Founder of ai2sql, Mustafa Ergisi made Daily Zen GPT that gives daily wellness tips, mindful exercises, and pieces of advice about personal growth. The GPT also tells tips for relaxing after a busy day, wellness goals, and better sleeping habits.

Prototyping Using Trend Analyzer

Here's the full setup. pic.twitter.com/vuCvKw0eHP

— Ethan Mollick (@emollick) November 6, 2023

A professor and AI Influencer from University of Pennsylvania, Ethan Mollick, came to X to share his little experiment with GPT Builder. He used his little GPT named Trend Analyzer that analyzes trends all over the internet and then prototypes an image that goes well with the futuristic latest trends.

• Also read: The AI Impact — A 5.2% Earnings Drop for Freelance Writers Post-ChatGPT

The image is generated by combining ChatGPT with Open AI’s new Dall-E 3 image generator. Ethan asked Trend Analyzer to analyze sneaker trends on the internet and then prototype an image that goes best with the futuristic sneaker design.

GPT for X Optimization

If you're wondering how I did this:

1. Downloaded my Twitter post data from Twitter analytics
2. Configured custom instructions (pic 1)
3. Pasted in the draft of this post, and had X Optimizer GPT write this post (didn't listen to the posting time, though)

— Rowan Cheung (@rowancheung) November 6, 2023

This GPT is as simple as it comes that helps you optimize your posts for X (previously Twitter). Creator of the Rundown AI Newsletter, Rowan Cheung, created this GPT and announced his creation on X. He named it X Optimizer GPT and asked it to optimize his posts on X. He also asked the GPT to tell him the best time to post on X for more engagements by looking at his past posts on the social media platform. The most interesting thing about his post about X Optimizer GPT was that it was also optimized by the same AI Model and many people agreed that the post got their attention as soon as they saw it.

Turn Your Picture Into Simpsons

Try Simpsonize Me GPT here: https://t.co/SJ4KfoHlED pic.twitter.com/9OxLW4q2di

— Matt Schlicht (@MattPRD) November 7, 2023

Octane AI CEO Matt Schlicht used GPT Builder to build Simpsonize Me GPT that turns any image into a reminiscent cartoony image of comedy series, The Simpsons. All you need is to upload your picture in the Simpsonize me GPT and that AI model will turn the picture into a character from The Simpsons. Matt Schlicht said on X that he developed this GPT in under 10 minutes. This shows that Open AI’s GPT Builder is pretty easy to use.

Making Animated GIFs with Gif-PT

If you have access you can try it out now!https://t.co/gJUxdODKj1

— Nick Dobos (@NickADobos) November 7, 2023

Nick Dobos, an AI Developer and former X employee, developed Gif-PT that can create animated gifs using prompts and commands from the user. This GPT uses Data Analysis mode from ChatGPT called Code Interpreter and automatically writes Python code to create a frame that turns into an animated gif. The user can then download the GIF and use it anywhere he wants. Nick said that the results aren’t always top quality because most of the time, the gif is of very poor quality and unrelated to the commands. However, it can be improved once the user figures out the algorithm of Gif-PT. Gif-PT is similar to Meta’s AI Sticker generator but Gif-PT is developed by only one person which makes it far more impressive.

• Also read: AI Through the Gender Lens — Divergent Views and Impacts

Of course, all these GPT models from GPT Builder are the initial results of the announcement made at the recent conference. We are definitely going to get more GPTs with advanced features and better performance in the future. All we have to do is wait and let the ChatGPT Plus users do their magic using OpenAI’s GPT Builder.

Read next: How To Use ChatGPT For Content Writing
by Web Desk via Digital Information World

AI Through the Gender Lens — Divergent Views and Impacts

Have you ever noticed how men and women can see the same thing in totally different ways? It's kind of like how one person might see a cloud as a fluffy bunny, while another sees a fierce dragon. This difference in perspective really stands out when it comes to artificial intelligence (AI). A study by Morning Consult and Axios, involving over 2,000 U.S. adults, dives deep into this intriguing contrast.

Let's think of AI as a new gadget, something like the first-ever smartphone. Men seem to be racing to get their hands on it, excited by all its bells and whistles. But women are more cautious, examining the fine print and wondering about the impact on their kids. The survey throws up some eye-opening numbers: 44% of women feel AI is a tough beast to tame, regulation-wise. Only 23% of men feel the same.

Now, picture a mom and dad deciding if their kid should have a smartphone. That's kind of how they view letting their kids use AI chatbots like OpenAI's ChatGPT. Only 4% of women would give the green light for any use, while 31% of men wouldn’t mind. And here's a kicker: more than half the women would just say 'no' to AI for their kids, unlike 26% of the dads.

Why this gap? Think of tech like a new club in town. Early adopters, often young men, are the first to dance to the new tunes, as Jordan Marlatt from Morning Consult points out. They're setting the trends, shaping how we all see AI.

But this isn't just about opinions. It spills over into jobs and business. Studies show that jobs women often do are more likely to be replaced by robots. And in the business world of AI, women-led startups get a lot less funding than men's.

Yet, there are women turning this tide. Jacqueline DeStefano-Tangorra used AI to boost her business, bagging over $100,000 in contracts. Nicole Cueto, a PR pro, cuts her workload using AI, giving her more time for her side gigs.

So, what's the big picture here? It's that men and women are on different pages when it comes to AI. But it's more than just opinions. It's about jobs, money, and our future. This difference in views isn't just interesting — it's crucial in shaping how AI rolls out in our lives.

Illustration: DIW

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by Irfan Ahmad via Digital Information World