His post was detailed and quite pragmatic about India’s efforts in the oncoming AI race.
“India, as one of the youngest nations with a vibrant start-up ecosystem and a talented workforce, is poised to be an active contributor to the evolution of Al as the world leaps into a not-so-distant future,” the PM wrote.
He emphasized the country’s commitment to harnessing AI for public welfare, focusing on the importance of ensuring that nations in the Global South are not left behind in reaping the benefits of AI.
Prime Minister Modi invites global participation in AI summit 2023
As per him India is one of the youngest nations with a vibrant startup ecosystem and a talented workforce.
This makes it well-positioned to contribute significantly to the evolution of AI.
However, the Prime Ministeralso stressed the need for a regulatory framework that ensures the safe and trusted use of AGI, aiming to bring nations together for its widespread and sustainable implementation.
At the GPAI Summit, India’s role is not just as a host but also as an active contributor and leader in the AI domain.
The summit will feature an AI Expo, showcasing the strengths of 150 startups, reflecting the country’s robust startup ecosystem.
Since its inception in June 2020, India has been an active participant in GPAI, engaging in various initiatives to foster the development, deployment, and adoption of open, safe, secure, and accountable AI.
Through initiatives like the Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), India is set to offer scalable, secure, affordable, sustainable, and globally replicable AI solutions.
The PM’s vision for India in AI is clear: to not only keep pace with global advancements but to be at the forefront, ensuring that technology serves as a tool for empowerment and inclusive growth.
FAQs
What was Prime Minister Modi’s message regarding AI at the GPAI Summit?
Modi emphasized the transformative potential of AI and India’s commitment to leveraging it for global welfare, especially for the Global South.
How does Prime Minister Modi perceive India’s role in the global AI landscape?
Modi views India as a key player in AI innovation, backed by its young population, technological advancements, and vibrant startup culture.
What are the key objectives of the GPAI Summit 2023, as outlined by Modi?
The summit, under Modi’s leadership, aims to showcase India’s AI capabilities and encourage global collaboration for responsible AI development.
What is India’s approach to AI governance, as stated by Modi?
Modi advocates for a comprehensive global regulatory framework to ensure safe, ethical, and trusted use of AI technologies.
What is the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI)?
GPAI is a multi-stakeholder initiative launched in June 2020 to bridge the gap between theory and practice in AI. It supports cutting-edge research and applied activities on AI-related priorities
How many member countries and entities were part of GPAI at its launch, and how has it grown since then?
GPAI was launched with 15 member countries. It has expanded to include 28 member countries and the European Union.
What is the primary objective of the Research Symposium organized as part of the Annual GPAI Summit?
The Research Symposium aims to advance responsible AI in public-sector applications by providing a platform for collaboration and presenting actionable research on responsible AI to a global audience.
A recent demonstration video for Gemini, a touted GPT-4 competitor, has come under scrutiny for potentially misleading editing.
Google’s “Hands-on with Gemini: Interacting with multimodal AI” video, which quickly gained attention online, isn’t as good as Google claims it to be.
Gemini Video Not Entirely Truthful About Its Capabilities
Google’s Gemini AI Video Sparks Controversy Over Misrepresented Capabilities
The video showcased Gemini responding to various prompts in what appeared to be real-time.
It included a segment where the AI transformed a basic squiggle into a detailed drawing of a duck, followed by a display of surprise upon seeing a toy blue duck.
The AI then seemingly interacted with voice queries about the toy with an impressive ability to track a ball in a cup-switching game, recognize shadow puppet gestures, and reorder sketches of planets.
However, Oriol Vinyals, VP of Research & Deep Learning Lead at Google DeepMind and Gemini co-lead, clarified in a post on X that the video was not as it seemed.
Let’s go hands-on with #GeminiAI.
Our newest AI model can reason across different types of inputs and outputs — like images and text. See Gemini’s multimodal reasoning capabilities in action ↓ pic.twitter.com/tikHjGJ5Xj
— Google (@Google) December 6, 2023
Contrary to the real-time interaction implied in the demo, the responses were generated using still images from the footage, prompted via text.
Vinyals emphasized that the user prompts and outputs in the video were genuine but shortened for brevity.
Google Taking A Hit With Gemini’s Capabilities
Google Taking A Hit With Gemini’s Capabilities
The video did not feature voice interaction between the human and the AI, contrary to what viewers might have assumed.
Google’s admissiondid not clearly disclaim how the inputs were actually made, leading to potential misconceptions about Gemini’s capabilities.
Not the First Time for Google
Not the First Time for Google
The incident is reminiscent of Google’s Duplex demo at Google I/O 2018, where Sundar Pichai showcased the AI voice assistant making reservations.
The demonstration, initially hailed as a seamless interaction, was later revealed to be a pre-recorded segment, not live phone calls as many had believed.
FAQs
What is the controversy surrounding the Google Gemini AI video?
The Google Gemini AI video has been criticized for misleadingly portraying the AI’s real-time interaction capabilities, which were actually staged using still images and text prompts.
How did Google’s Gemini AI video differ from actual Gemini capabilities?
Unlike the real-time interactions suggested in the video, Gemini’s responses were pre-generated and not a result of live voice communication.
What has been Google’s response to the Gemini AI video criticisms?
Oriol Vinyals, Gemini’s co-lead, acknowledged the editing of the video for brevity but did not initially clarify the actual interaction process used in the demo.
How does the Gemini AI video controversy relate to past Google AI presentations?
This incident mirrors Google’s previous AI demonstration with Duplex at Google I/O 2018, which was later revealed to be a pre-recorded segment rather than a live demo.
What is Google Gemini and how does it enhance Bard?
Google Gemini is a versatile AI model with three variants – Ultra, Pro, and Nano – designed to significantly boost Bard’s reasoning, planning, and understanding capabilities, thus enhancing its efficiency across various platforms.
How is the rollout of Gemini being implemented in Bard?
The implementation of Gemini in Bard is a two-phased approach. Initially, Gemini Pro is being integrated, focusing on English language processing in over 170 countries.
The second phase will introduce Bard Advanced with Gemini Ultra in 2024, offering more advanced data processing capabilities.
What benchmarks did Gemini Pro outperform GPT-3.5 in, and what does it indicate?
Gemini Pro excelled in six out of eight benchmarks, notably in MMLU and GSM8K, surpassing GPT-3.5.
This suggests that while Gemini Pro is catching up to existing AI technologies, it signals Google’s growing competitiveness in the AI market.
What is Gemini Ultra and how does it excel in language understanding?
Gemini Ultra is the most advanced model in the Gemini AI series, specifically designed for Massive Multitask Language Understanding (MMLU).
It boasts exceptional performance across 57 subjects including math, physics, history, law, medicine, and ethics, even surpassing human expert levels in these areas.
This makes Gemini Ultra particularly adept at handling complex, multi-subject queries and tasks.
How does Gemini Pro support developers and enterprise customers?
Gemini Pro offers versatility for a broad spectrum of tasks and is primarily targeted at developers and enterprise customers.
Accessible through the Gemini API in Google AI Studio or Google Cloud Vertex AI, Gemini Pro is integral to powering Google products like the Bard chatbot and the Search Generative Experience.
Its key strengths lie in advanced reasoning, planning, and understanding, making it suitable for sophisticated AI applications in various industries.
What is the purpose of Gemini Nano, and how does it benefit mobile applications?
Gemini Nano is designed for specific, streamlined tasks and is optimized for mobile devices, particularly Android. Its main purpose is to enhance the efficiency and performance of mobile applications.
Android developers will soon be able to incorporate Gemini Nano into their projects, leveraging its capabilities to improve app functionalities and user experiences on mobile platforms.
What is Google Bard AI?
Meet the expected “ChatGPT killer.” Using a set of deep learning algorithms known as “large language models,” the Google Bard AI chatbot can respond to questionnaires provided via text. The chatbot is built on LaMDA technology and is programmed to use the web to find the most “recent” answers to questions.
An experimental conversational AI service developed by Google, Bard AI learns from its encounters with humans to improve its performance.
Google’s CEO Sundar Pichai introduced the Google Bard AI chatbot in a blog post, showcasing the company’s recent priority on AI.
Pichai has expressed his enthusiasm for adapting cutting-edge AI research and development to real-world problems.
Other organizations, such as OpenAI, have surpassed them in terms of AI developments and applications because of the rate of technology advancement and delayed decision-making at huge firms like Google.
OpenAI concentrated on generating high-quality models and letting people discover their own uses for them, while Google worked on incorporating AI into their existing business plans.
How to use the Google Bard AI chatbot?
If you are chosen as a beta tester, all you have to do to use the Google AI chatbot is open the Google app on your smartphone and tap on the chatbot icon. Like ChatGPT
enter your prompt and hit enter!
How to access Google Bard AI?
Currently, only a small number of people have access to the Google Bard AI link for testing purposes. To reduce the amount of time and energy spent on computation, Google is developing a “lightweight model version of LaMDA.”
Google Bard AI chatbot, known as Bard, is unfortunately not yet widely available for use. However, once the Google Bard AI link is shared, it will likely be integrated into Google Search and can be accessed by asking questions through the search bar. The chatbot draws information from the web to provide up-to-date answers to text prompts.
It is designed to provide easy-to-digest answers to complex questions and can help with tasks such as planning a baby shower, comparing movies, and getting lunch ideas.
It is not yet known if the chatbot will be available through other Google products such as Google Assistant or Google Maps.
83-year-old retired official in Kolkata scammed online.
Lost Rs 2.5 lakh to a caller posing as a bank employee.
Scammer exploited KYC update process for account access.
Earlier Navi Mumbai doctor scammed for Rs 1 lakh over lipstick purchase.
An elderly retired government official from Kolkata, S.P. Sinha, aged 83, fell prey to a sophisticated phone scam, resulting in a substantial financial loss of Rs 2.5 lakh.
83-Year-Old Retired Government Official in Kolkata Scammed Online
The incident occurred on November 11, the day before Diwali, when Sinha received a call from an individual claiming to be from the bank branch where he holds his pension account.
The caller, feigning legitimacy, even cited the specific table number at the branch and Sinha’s account number.
Sinha, who was unfamiliar with online banking procedures, faced technical challenges during the call.
Trusting the caller, he handed over the phone to his 11-year-old grandson, believing that the youngster would better handle the online process.
Tragically, this led to unauthorized access to Sinha’s account, resulting in a debit of Rs 2,57,650 and the compromise of his fixed and recurring deposits.
Banks and other official institutions do not conduct financial transactions or request sensitive information via unsolicited calls.
For Safe KYC Updates, customers should
For Safe KYC Updates
Log into the official online banking portal of their bank.
Navigate to the “KYC” section.
Select “Update KYC” and choose the details that need updating.
Submit the required documents and enter the OTP sent to the registered mobile number for verification.
Previous Scams: Lady loses 1 Lakh Over A Lipstick
Previous Scams: Lady loses 1 Lakh Over A Lipstick
A doctor from Navi Mumbai, residing in Mumbai, became a victim of an online scam, suffering a financial setback of Rs 1 lakh following a seemingly innocuous purchase on a renowned e-commerce platform.
The incident unfolded with the purchase of a lipstick, priced at Rs 300, on November 2nd.
The doctor was anticipating the arrival of her lipstick order when she was misled by a fraudulent message stating that her order had already been delivered, even though she had not received it.
Upon contacting the courier company regarding the undelivered product, she was informed that she would be contacted by customer care for further assistance.
FAQs
What exactly happened in the Kolkata online scam involving the elderly official?
An 83-year-old retired government official in Kolkata was targeted in an online scam where he lost Rs 2.5 lakh.
The scammer, posing as a bank employee, tricked him into believing they were assisting with a KYC update.
How did the scammer convince the elderly victim to share sensitive information?
The scammer, knowing detailed information about the victim’s bank account and branch, convincingly posed as a bank representative.
They exploited the victim’s lack of familiarity with online banking procedures to gain access to his account.
What role did the victim’s grandson play in this incident?
The elderly victim, struggling with the technical aspects of the call, handed over his phone to his 11-year-old grandson, thinking he would better handle the online process. Unfortunately, this led to unauthorized access to the victim’s account.
What steps can individuals take to avoid similar scams?
To avoid such scams, individuals should never share sensitive banking information over the phone, especially with unsolicited callers.
They should conduct KYC updates directly through the bank’s official website or in person at the branch.
How did the Mumbai doctor become a victim of an online scam?
The Mumbai doctor was scammed after purchasing a lipstick for Rs 300 online. She received a fake message about the product’s delivery.
Subsequently, she was duped by someone pretending to be from customer service.
The scammer convinced her to download a harmful app and make a small payment, which resulted in her banking information being stolen.
What is online fraud, and how does it happen?
Online fraud refers to any deceptive or illegal activity conducted on the internet with the intent to gain financial advantage or steal personal information.
It encompasses various schemes, including phishing, identity theft, credit card fraud, and more.
Online fraud typically occurs when cybercriminals trick individuals into revealing their sensitive information, such as login credentials, credit card numbers, or personal details, through deceptive emails, websites, or scams.
What are some common signs that I might be a victim of online fraud?
Several signs may indicate that you’ve fallen victim to online fraud:
Unauthorized transactions on your bank
Unusual account activity, such as changes in login credentials or account settings
Unexpected bills or charges for services you didn’t sign up for
Receiving unsolicited emails or messages requesting personal information or money.
Suspicious emails, pop-up messages, or websites that appear to be from reputable organizations but ask for sensitive data.
Unexplained credit score changes or credit inquiries for accounts you didn’t open.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to take immediate action, such as contacting your bank, changing passwords, and reporting the incident to law enforcement and relevant authorities.
What should I do if I suspect I’ve become a victim of online fraud?
If you suspect online fraud, act quickly. Contact your bank, change passwords, and lock accounts. Scan your devices for malware, report the incident to authorities, and review your credit. Educate yourself to prevent future fraud and secure personal information online.
What are the Types of online frauds?
Phishing and spoofing: Fraudsters use email or online messaging services to dupe people into sharing their login credentials, personal information, important data, or financial details.
Data Breach: From individuals to giant organisations, everyone falls victim to this type of fraud. Cybercriminals steal sensitive, protected, or confidential data from an online system and move it to an untrusted environment. They either ask for ransom or expose this data to some popular online platform.
Denial of Service (Dos): Fraudsters interrupt people or organisations to access online services, systems, or networks.
Malware: This is one of the most prevalent cyberattacks of all. Cybercriminals use malicious software to disable or damage users’ devices and steal their sensitive or personal data.
Ransomware: Cybercriminals target big organisations or governments in this type of attack. They use malware that prevents people from using critical data. They demand a hefty ransom from users to restore services.
Business Email Compromise: In this type of fraud, businesses that make wire payments are targeted. The fraudsters attack legitimate email accounts of people and trick them into submitting unauthorised payments.
How can using Unique passwords for every account be a prominent way to protect your bank account ?
This is the most basic and best technique to protect your account. Use different, unique, and strong passwords with uneasy guessability for all your online accounts, bank accounts, or anything else.
Avoid using common knowledge such as your name, phone number, or city for the password.
If you think that remembering unique passwords will be impossible for you, download a password manager to save all your passwords.
Or, you can also choose a pattern and make slight changes to it to set different passwords.
Some of the other tips for a password are to update it on a regular basis and be creative with the security questions.
How to stay cautious of public WiFi?
Free Public WiFi is available at many public places these days. But since it is open source, it is vulnerable to cyberattacks.
So, never use it to start online processes where your personal information, like a password, personal data, or sensitive information, is required.
One solution to make tracking your online location harder is to use a virtual private network (VPN).
A VPN helps connect your device to a different server on the internet.
How can updating your software regularly help is protecting from online fraud ?
Software updates that we get on our laptops, personal computers, or apps look very pesky or will consume a lot of time and data.
But these are very important updates from a security point of view, as these updates are the patches that cover security holes in the operating systems.
They can also save you from phishing or malicious online attacks that can harm your system’s software. So, don’t ignore them; consider them a means of your online identity security.
How protecting identity through biometrics help in protecting us from online fraud ?
Biometric login is also a good way to secure your online account.
Biometrics include your fingerprint and facial recognition. It is much tougher to steal your biometrics than your password.
However, in the recent past, we have seen cases where hackers have even stolen people’s biometrics.
A good solution for that is to e-lock. Biometrics theft has also become common, but many websites, including banks, provide facilities to e-lock them.
Does Installing ad blockers save us from online fraud ?
Maladvertising is a method through which cybercriminals create ads with malicious codes. These ads appear too lucrative to be true.
They entice you, and you click on them, only to know that you have been hit by a cyberattack.
These malware get downloaded on your system and steal your identity. It’s best to download free ad blockers to stop such attacks on your system.
How to set two-factor authentication to protect from online fraud ?
One needs your password, identity proof, and OTP to log in to your account. It is better if you add one more layer of safety by adding two-factor authentication. One more authentication step will make hackers jobs much harder.
What were the consequences of the scam for the Mumbai Doctor victim?
As a result of the scam, unauthorized transactions totaling Rs 1 lakh were made from the doctor’s bank account.
This included two major debits of Rs 95,000 and Rs 5,000, which she discovered later.
What steps did the Mumbai Doctor victim take after realizing the scam?
Upon realizing she had been scammed, the doctor immediately filed a complaint with the cyber police station in Nerul to report the unauthorized transactions and the phishing scam.
The plan involves scaling up production in India to over 50 million devices in the coming years, followed by an increase in tens of millions of iPhones thereafter.
This facility alone is expected to produce around 20 million smartphones annually, primarily iPhones.
Bloomberg has reported that from the Indian side of things, Tata is also making significant moves to bolster iPhone assembly in India.
Tata’sambition includes establishing the largest iPhone assembly plant in the southern state of Tamil Nadu.
Additionally, Tata, which already owns an iPhone manufacturing site in Karnataka acquired from Wistron, is collaborating with Apple to open 100 retail stores across the country.
Broadening the Expansion in India
Broadening the Expansion in India
Currently, China is a critical hub for iPhone production but that may not be the case in a few years.
We shall see how Apple’s plans will work out but one thing has become abundantly clear, India is Apple’s next big destination.
FAQs:
What is Apple’s Plan for iPhone Production in India?
Apple intends to increase its iPhone production in India to cover about a quarter of its total global output, aiming to manufacture 50 million devices yearly in the country.
Who are Apple’s Key Manufacturing Partners in India?
Apple’s key manufacturing partners in India include Taiwan’s Foxconn, which is opening a new plant in Karnataka, and the Indian conglomerate Tata, planning the country’s largest iPhone assembly plant in Tamil Nadu.
Why is Apple Shifting its Production Focus to India?
Apple is shifting its focus to India to diversify its production base, reduce dependency on China, and navigate challenges like restrictive labor rules and fluctuating US-China relations.
How is Apple Planning to Manufacture iPhone Batteries in India?
Apple has expressed a preference for iPhone 16 batteries to be made in India and is encouraging suppliers like Desay and Simplo Technology to establish or expand their manufacturing facilities in India.
How much has Apple increased its panel shipments for the iPhone 15 series?
Apple has increased its panel shipments for the iPhone 15 series by 24% compared to the iPhone 14 series and 27% compared to the iPhone 13 series for the same period through September.
Which models are dominating the iPhone 15 panel shipments?
The iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max models are dominating, accounting for 61% of all iPhone 15 panel shipments from June to September.
Who are the key suppliers of iPhone 15 panels?
Samsung Display is the leading supplier, contributing 83% of the total panel shipments. LG Display and the emerging supplier BOE are also part of the supply chain.
Is Apple focusing more on the Pro models?
Yes, the data from DSCC suggests that Apple is increasingly focusing on the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max models, indicating a strategic shift in their production.
What is the significance of Apple’s shift in manufacturing to India?
Apple’s decision to move iPhone 16 battery production to India marks a strategic shift away from its traditional reliance on Chinese manufacturing, indicating India’s increasing importance in global tech production.
Which companies are involved in Apple’s new manufacturing strategy in India?
Key players include Desay, Simplo Technology, and TDK Corp, all directed by Apple to set up or expand their battery production capacities in India for the iPhone 16.
How does India’s regulatory environment impact Apple’s manufacturing plans?
India’s proposed adoption of a universal USB-C charging port policy poses challenges for Apple, potentially affecting its local production goals and requiring adjustments to align with these regulations.
What are the projected impacts of Apple’s manufacturing shift on India’s economy?
This move is expected to significantly boost India’s manufacturing sector, with Apple aiming for a production value of $40 billion in 4-5 years and increasing India’s share in global iPhone shipments to 20-25% by 2024.
How might the iPhone 16 Pro series improve battery and thermal performance?
The iPhone 16 Pro series is rumoured to introduce a new metal shell battery, a departure from traditional foil coverings. Additionally, there are talks of incorporating a graphene thermal system to enhance heat dissipation and improve the device’s overall performance.
What is the rumoured battery capacity of the iPhone 16 Pro?
The iPhone 16 Pro is rumoured to feature a 3,355mAh battery, which is approximately a 2.4% increase from the 3,274mAh battery in the iPhone 15 Pro. This increment suggests a focus on extending battery life in the upcoming model.
How is Apple planning to prevent overheating in the iPhone 16?
For the iPhone 16, Apple is reportedly developing a new graphene-based thermal management system. This system is expected to be more efficient in heat dissipation compared to the copper heat sink used in the iPhone 15.
What additional hardware change is expected in the iPhone 16 for better cooling?
Alongside the new thermal system, the iPhone 16 is rumoured to include a metal bracket around the battery. This design is anticipated to aid in more effective heat dissipation, particularly for the device’s chip and battery.
What does Foxconn’s $1.5 billion investment in India signify?
Foxconn’s $1.5 billion investment represents a strategic shift in Apple’s iPhone production, moving away from a China-centric approach. This initiative in India is aimed at enhancing operational capacity and diversifying manufacturing locations.
How does this investment align with the broader ‘China+1’ strategy?
The ‘China+1’ strategy involves diversifying manufacturing bases beyond China. Foxconn’s $1.5 billion investment in India is a significant step in this direction, helping mitigate risks associated with over-reliance on a single country.
What impact will Foxconn’s investment have on India’s role in global manufacturing?
Foxconn’s investment is likely to significantly boost India’s position in the global supply chain. By expanding iPhone production capabilities, it could potentially double the country’s output by 2024, enhancing India’s manufacturing stature.
What percentage of iPhones were made in India in 2023?
In 2023, 14% of all iPhones shipped globally were produced in India, marking a significant increase in the company’s manufacturing diversification.
Which major tech manufacturer is responsible for most of the Indian iPhone production?
Foxconn, a key player in tech manufacturing, is behind 80% of the iPhone production in India.
How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected Apple’s production?
The pandemic caused many of Apple’s manufacturing units in China to halt operations, resulting in significant financial impacts and urging Apple to diversify its production base.
When is Apple planning to start the production of iPhone 17 in India?
As per analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple aims to commence the preliminary production of the standard iPhone 17 in India by the second half of 2024.
However, Threads’ implementation of tags comes with noticeable differences and functional changes.
In Threads, the traditional “#” symbol, commonly associated with hashtags, won’t be displayed.
Users have the flexibility to tag phrases with spaced-out words, and uniquely, only one tag can be added to each post.
According to Mosseri, this approach to tagging is intended to foster community-focused discussions rather than simply boosting user engagement.
The process of adding a tag on Threadsis straightforward. Users can either use the “#” key on their keyboard or a newly introduced # button within the post composer.
This will prompt a list of existing topics from which to choose, or users can create a new one. The tags can include spaces and special characters.
Tags in Threads posts appear in blue, akin to a hyperlink, and can be clicked to follow related conversations on the same topic.
Interestingly, emojis are also permitted as part of or in combination with a tag, as noted by an Instagram Product Designer.
These new features could be a shot in the dark to see if user engagement numbers can be driven up.
FAQs
What is the New Tagging Feature on Threads?
Threads introduced a tagging system allowing users to categorize content, different from traditional hashtags as it omits the “#” symbol and allows spaced phrases.
How Do Tags Function in Threads Posts?
Tags in Threads are unique, appearing in blue like a hyperlink, and can include emojis, offering a new way to follow conversations on specific topics.
What Challenges is Threads Currently Facing?
Threads has seen a sharp decline in user engagement, with daily active users falling significantly, indicating challenges in maintaining long-term user interest.
Can Tags Impact User Engagement on Threads?
The new tagging feature aims to enhance content discovery and interaction on Threads, potentially addressing recent issues in user engagement.
Can I edit my threads after posting them?
Yes, Threads by Instagram now allows you to edit your threads up to five minutes after posting.
Is there a cost for editing threads?
No, unlike some platforms, the editing feature on Threads is available at zero cost.
How do I use the new voice threads feature?
Simply tap the microphone symbol, and use the recording tool that appears to record your voice thread.
Are voice threads available on the web version?
Currently, the voice threads feature is not available on the web version of Threads.
What is the new feature in the Threads app?
The latest Threads app update introduces a feature that allows users to delete their Threads account without impacting their Instagram account. This provides greater control over their social media presence and account management.
How does the account deletion process work in Threads?
In the Threads app, users can go to Settings > Account > Delete or Deactivate Profile. They have the option to either permanently delete their account or deactivate it. Deactivation archives the data, while deletion removes the profile and posts entirely.
Will deleting my Threads account affect my Instagram account?
No, deleting your Threads account will not affect your Instagram account. This update was specifically designed to separate Threads account management from Instagram, addressing user requests for more independence between the two platforms.
Prior to this, the Twitter/X app on these devices had displayed black bars along the sides of the screen, which just doesn’t look all that great.
Pixel Tablet and Fold Getting A Better X App
Pixel Tablet & Fold Getting A Better X App
The latest update however resolves this by extending the app to cover the full width of the screen.
Instead of stretching the content awkwardly across this larger space, Twitter/X has chosen a more user-friendly approach.
The main content area is centered and displayed in a size that is both comfortable for reading and interaction.
Google has a weird approach with its Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet, as apps that are not optimized for larger screens are letterboxed, and are kind of displayed in black bars around the content, instead of forcing them to display in full screen.
That’s just bad interfacing and can lead to a rather jittery experience.
Not something you want from a nearly $1,700 device.
With version 10.18.0 of Twitter/X now available in the Play Store, users should find that the app’s interface better for larger screens as compared to earlier.
It’s worth noting that this update may also appear in older versions of the app.
In contrast, some other apps, like Meta’s Threads, have yet to implement such optimizations and still display with black boxes on the Pixel Tablet and Fold.
Additionally, there’s a noticeable delay in posting new tweets, deviating from the usual quick response times, and a slower-than-usual response when opening notifications.
However, the company has responded to these issues and opened up a tweet thread where users can put in screenshots of their problems.
How Does the Latest Twitter/X Update Improve User Experience on Pixel Tablet and Fold?
The updated Twitter/X app extends to cover the full width of the screen, eliminating black bars and centering the content for a better reading and interaction experience on Pixel devices.
What Design Approach Does Google Use for Non-Optimized Apps on Pixel Devices?
Google adopts a letterboxing approach for apps not optimized for larger screens on Pixel Tablet and Fold, displaying black bars around the content instead of forcing full-screen display.
What are the main performance issues Google Pixel users face with the X app?
Google Pixel users are encountering several issues with the X app, including slow loading times for content and feed refreshes, challenges in image loading, delayed tweet posting, and slow notification responses.
How has the X team responded to these performance issues?
Fred Lohner, a member of the X mobile development team, has recognized the performance issues. He is actively engaging with the user community to gather examples and insights for addressing these problems.
What are the main performance issues Google Pixel users face with the X app?
Google Pixel users are encountering several issues with the X app, including slow loading times for content and feed refreshes, challenges in image loading, delayed tweet posting, and slow notification responses.
How has the X team responded to these performance issues?
Fred Lohner, a member of the X mobile development team, has recognized the performance issues. He is actively engaging with the user community to gather examples and insights for addressing these problems.
Can Google Pixel users contribute to resolving these issues with the X app?
Yes, Google Pixel users experiencing these issues are encouraged to share their experiences and examples with Fred Lohner and the X team, facilitating quicker identification and resolution of the problems.
What is the anticipated timeline for resolving these issues on the X app for Google Pixel users?
While X has not provided a specific timeline for resolving these performance issues, their proactive approach in seeking user feedback suggests they are working towards a solution.
Is this performance issue affecting all Android users?
The performance issues are not universal.
Some users report no significant troubles with the Twitter/X Android app.
How do the issues of the Twitter/X Android app on Pixel compare with the iOS version?
The iOS version of the app is reported to have a slicker performance with no mention of the feature set issues that plague the Android version.
Is this a new problem?
The performance issues specifically affecting Pixel devices have recently emerged, leading the development team to investigate these potential compatibility problems.
Are all Google Pixel users affected?
Some Pixel owners report that the app is running smoothly. The issues seem to not affect all users uniformly.
Apple’s market cap rises to $3.01 trillion after a 2% share increase.
The company faced a 2.5% revenue drop in China affecting its market performance.
Apple’s 2023 growth surpasses S&P 500 but lags behind other Big Tech firms.
Mixed market response to iPhone 15 launch, with uncertain future sales trends.
Apple is the richest company in terms of market valuation.
That much has been known for a while.
The company was valued earlier in the year at an eye-watering $3 trillion but its shares fell for a couple of months.
However, now the Cupertino-based tech behemoth has once again crossed the monumental $3 trillion market cap, making it the most successful company for the 5th-year running.
The company’s shares saw a 2% increase by the end of the trading session, propelling its market cap to an impressive $3.01 trillion.
This valuation, as reported by Refinitiv,hasn’t been seen since August, marking a notable recovery from a period of relatively stagnant performance.
Navigating Market Challenges
Apple Again Reaches Fabled $3 Trillion Market Cap Amid Varied Market Performance
Apple’s reliance on China over the past months has not been met with appreciation, particularly after a slight drop in revenue from the region was reported in their July-September quarter earnings.
There was 2.5 percent drop in revenue and the economic challenges plaguing China, thanks to the year COVID-19 lockdown, did not get better.
However, Apple’s overall 2023 performance has been remarkable, with a 49% increase, adding nearly $1 trillion to its market value, as calculated by Business Insider.
This growth rate surpasses that of the S&P 500 index, although it still trails behind some of its Big Tech counterparts, namely Nvidia, Meta, Tesla, Amazon, and Microsoft, all of which have posted higher gains year-to-date.
Market Response To Products
Market Response To Products
The year 2023 also saw Apple announce its most ambitious hardware product till date: the Apple Vision Pro and also the unveiling the iPhone 15 series.
However, the reception of the iPhone 15 in markets, especially in China, has been mixed, not matching the sales success of its predecessor, the iPhone 14.
As per reports, Apple’s stock price went up by 2%, reaching $193.42 per share early in December and actually this increase continued into the next day.
However, there is some uncertainty about whether this higher value will last.
Apple has been known to buy back its own stock, and there are predictions that the company might not see any growth in its earnings for the last part of the year.
This period is the first full quarter since the release of the iPhone 15, but it might also be the fifth time in a row that Apple sees a drop in its sales.
FAQs
How Has Apple’s Market Valuation Changed Recently?
Apple has recently regained a market capitalization of over $3 trillion, showing a recovery from a period of lower performance earlier in the year.
What Challenges Did Apple Face in the Chinese Market?
Apple reported a 2.5% revenue decline in China, partly due to economic issues in the region, affecting its overall market performance.
How Does Apple’s 2023 Growth Compare to Other Companies?
In 2023, Apple saw a 49% increase in its market value, outperforming the S&P 500 index but trailing behind other technology giants like Nvidia and Meta.
What Are the Sales Trends for Apple’s Latest iPhone 15?
The iPhone 15 has received a mixed response in key markets like China, raising questions about its sales performance compared to previous models like the iPhone 14.
What does Foxconn’s $1.5 billion investment in India signify?
Foxconn’s $1.5 billion investment represents a strategic shift in Apple’s iPhone production, moving away from a China-centric approach. This initiative in India is aimed at enhancing operational capacity and diversifying manufacturing locations.
How does this investment align with the broader ‘China+1’ strategy?
The ‘China+1’ strategy involves diversifying manufacturing bases beyond China. Foxconn’s $1.5 billion investment in India is a significant step in this direction, helping mitigate risks associated with over-reliance on a single country.
What impact will Foxconn’s investment have on India’s role in global manufacturing?
Foxconn’s investment is likely to significantly boost India’s position in the global supply chain. By expanding iPhone production capabilities, it could potentially double the country’s output by 2024, enhancing India’s manufacturing stature.
What are Foxconn’s previous investments in India?
Before the $1.5 billion announcement, Foxconn had already committed to a $600 million project in Karnataka and a $500 million factory in Telangana, underscoring its growing commitment to India as a key manufacturing hub.
Oppo Find X7 and X7 Pro confirmed to support 100W fast charging.
Find X7 gets a charging speed boost from 80W to 100W.
Series expected to feature advanced triple and quad-camera setups.
Devices to be powered by MediaTek Dimensity 9300 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipsets.
Oppo’s upcoming Find X7 series, comprising the Find X7 and Find X7 Pro, has just been spotted on China’s 3C platform.
This certification confirms that both models will support impressive 100W fast charging capabilities.
However, the phones are slated to only be China-exclusive and not make their way across global shores, which will disappoint some Indian fans, at the very least.
Find X7 Series: 3C Certfication Details
Find X7 Series: 3C Certfication Details
The Find X7 Procontinues with the same 11V/9.1A charging rate as its predecessor, while the standard Find X7 model gets a boost from the previous 80W to 100W.
As such it would seem that both devices will quite close to each other in terms of charging speeds.
Both phones, identified as PHY110 and PHZ110 in the certification, are compatible with the VCBAJACH charger, a part of Oppo’s 2023 lineup.
This charger supports all SuperVOOC charging rates, although the certification does not confirm whether the new Find X7 series will feature wireless charging.
The previous generation saw only the Pro variant equipped with this feature.
Find X7 Series: Expected Specs
Oppo Find X7 Series: Expected Specs
In terms of specifications, the OPPO Find X7 is expected to sport a BOE X1 display, seen on the OnePlus 12 and Realme GT 5 Pro.
It is likely to be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9300 chipset while the Find X7 Pro could come with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset.
The Find X7 might feature a triple camera setup with a 50MP primary sensor and support for Dual Conversion Gain (DCG) technology, along with a periscope lens for 3x optical zoom and an ultra-wide sensor.
The Pro variant is expected to take it a step further with a quad-camera array, including a 50MP primary lens with OIS, and additional periscope telephoto lenses offering up to 6x optical zoom.
Both models will likely run on an Android 14-based ColorOScustom skin and include a variety of connectivity options like 5G, 4G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, NFC, and a USB Type-C port.
FAQs
What are the Charging Capabilities of the Oppo Find X7 Series?
The Oppo Find X7 series, including the Find X7 and X7 Pro models, will support 100W fast charging, with the Pro model maintaining the same charging rate as its predecessor and the standard Find X7 receiving an upgrade from 80W.
Will the Oppo Find X7 Series Feature Wireless Charging?
While the series is compatible with Oppo’s VCBAJACH charger, it’s currently unclear if the new Find X7 models will include wireless charging capabilities, a feature previously exclusive to the Pro model.
What Display Technology is Expected in the Oppo Find X7 Series?
The standard Find X7 is anticipated to feature a BOE X1 display, similar to those seen in the OnePlus 12 and Realme GT 5 Pro.
What are the Expected Camera Specifications for the Find X7 Series?
The Find X7 is likely to have a triple camera setup with a 50MP primary sensor, while the Pro variant may include a quad-camera array with up to 6x optical zoom.
What are the rumoured camera features of the OPPO Find X7 Pro?
The OPPO Find X7 Pro is speculated to boast a dual periscope lens setup, potentially offering up to 6x optical zoom. The camera might include a 50MP wide camera with Sony’s LYT900 sensor. These features, still in the realm of rumours, promise to significantly enhance the photography experience.
How is the design of the Find X7 Pro expected to differ from its predecessor?
According to leaks, the Find X7 Pro might depart from the Find X6 Pro’s design, featuring a rounded silver metal frame and a distinct hexagonal camera module. This shift could include a soft finish or faux leather rear panel, representing a significant aesthetic evolution from the previous model.
What charging capabilities are rumoured for the Find X7 Pro?
While not confirmed, there is speculation that the Find X7 Pro could support rapid charging technologies, including 100W wired and 50W wireless charging. This implies a significant improvement in charging efficiency and possibly a larger battery capacity than the 5000mAh battery in the Find X6 Pro.
When is the OPPO Find X7 series expected to launch?
The OPPO Find X7 series, including the Find X7 and X7 Pro, is rumoured to launch either by the end of January or in early February 2024. This timing strategically places its debut before the Chinese Spring Festival, marking an early release compared to previous models.
What are the key specifications of the OPPO Find X7?
The OPPO Find X7 is rumored to feature the MediaTek Dimensity 9300 SoC, up to 6GB of LPDDR5T RAM, and a massive 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage. The device is expected to run on Color OS 14 based on Android 14 and will likely include a high-refresh-rate 120Hz display panel.
What sets the OPPO Find X7 Pro apart from the standard model?
The Find X7 Pro is anticipated to elevate the series with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC and OPPO’s innovative HyperTone camera system. These features suggest a significant enhancement in both processing power and photographic capabilities over the standard model.
What is the AnTuTu score of the OPPO Find X7?
The OPPO Find X7 has scored a total of 2,270,677 on the AnTuTu benchmark. This score reflects its robust performance, particularly scoring high in CPU and GPU tests, indicating the phone’s strong processing and graphics capabilities.
What are the specifications of the OPPO Find X7 as per the AnTuTu listing?
According to the AnTuTu listing, the OPPO Find X7 is equipped with a MediaTek Dimensity 9300 SoC, 16GB of RAM, and 1TB of internal storage. It also boasts a high-refresh-rate display and runs on the latest Android 14 OS.
How does the OPPO Find X7 compare with other phones using the same chipset?
The OPPO Find X7 has outperformed the Vivo X100, which also uses the MediaTek Dimensity 9300 SoC, in the AnTuTu benchmark scores. This suggests that OPPO has effectively optimized the Find X7 to leverage the chipset’s potential.
Reportedly Altman received an overwhelming influx of messages following his unexpected dismissal leading to technical issues with his iPhone.
The revelation came in after Sam Altman’s interview with Trevor Noah, where the former spoke about how his iMessage crashed.
The entire saga has been fraught with controversy.
Altman’s termination from OpenAIwas not only a surprise to him but also sparked a series of resignations within the company, including its president, Greg Brockman.
This turmoil triggered interest from various individuals who expressed a desire to collaborate with Altman.
To date, even after so many interviews, the reasons behind Altman’s firing remain unclear, with OpenAI’s board providing vague explanations, referring to Altman’s lack of candor in his communications.
Altman expressed his initial confusion and difficulty in coming to terms with the board’s decision to let him go, citing that the board did not offer a clear justification for their action.
Sam Altman’s iPhone Crashed From Influx of Messages After News of His Termination from OpenAI
The upheaval in OpenAI led to Microsoft playing peacekeeper.
After days of what can only be described as madness, Microsoftrelieved the existing board with Satya Nadella getting a seat and Altman returning to the helm, championed by a completely new board.
OpenAI is of course known for its incredibly good chatbot ChatGPT.
Being a follow-up to the successful GPT-4, GPT-5 is expected to bring substantial advancements and improvements.
However, as of now, there is no official confirmation regarding its release date or the specific features it will include.
FAQs
What Were the Circumstances Surrounding Sam Altman’s Firing from OpenAI?
Sam Altman was unexpectedly dismissed as CEO of OpenAI, a decision that surprised him and led to several key resignations within the company, including President Greg Brockman.
How Did Sam Altman’s Dismissal Impact His Communication Devices?
Following his firing, Altman received an overwhelming number of messages, causing technical issues with his iPhone, including a temporary crash of the iMessage app.
What Reasons Did OpenAI’s Board Give for Sam Altman’s Firing?
OpenAI’s board provided vague explanations for Altman’s firing, mentioning a lack of candor in his communications, but failed to offer a detailed justification.
How Was Sam Altman Reinstated as CEO of OpenAI?
Following intense internal turmoil and intervention by Microsoft, Sam Altman was reinstated as CEO of OpenAI, accompanied by a complete overhaul of the company’s board.
What led to Sam Altman’s reinstatement as CEO of OpenAI?
Altman’s reinstatement followed a phase of internal discord and rapid leadership changes, climaxing with employee dissent and a demand for transparency about his initial firing. These factors pushed the board to reconsider their decision and bring Altman back.
Who are the members of the new initial board of OpenAI?
The new initial board comprises Bret Taylor as Chair, Larry Summers, and Adam D’Angelo. D’Angelo’s presence ensures continuity from the previous board, aiming to stabilize the company’s governance.
What role did employee reactions play in the board’s decision?
Employee reactions were crucial. The threat of mass defection to Microsoft and solidarity with Altman and Brockman significantly pressured the board, contributing to the reversal of their decision to fire Altman.
Why was Sam Altman ousted from OpenAI?
Sam Altman’s abrupt dismissal from OpenAI was a surprise to many, including insiders. The reasons behind this sudden decision have not been publicly disclosed, but it has led to speculation about internal disagreements and potential power struggles within the company.
What has been the response to Altman’s potential return?
The news of Sam Altman’s potential return as CEO of OpenAI has been met with mixed reactions. While some view it as a stabilizing move, others are concerned about the underlying governance issues that led to his initial dismissal.
How did Altman’s departure affect OpenAI?
Sam Altman’s departure resulted in immediate and significant repercussions within OpenAI. Key figures, including President Greg Brockman, resigned, and there were a series of high-profile resignations from senior researchers, signaling a period of internal turmoil.
What is the focus of OpenAI’s current board?
OpenAI’s board, unlike traditional companies, does not focus on maximizing shareholder value as none hold equity in the company. Their mission is to guide OpenAI in creating artificial general intelligence (AGI) that is beneficial for the broader society.
It could be for the worse or for the better or it could be an absolute dumpster fire.
We don’t know yet.
Rumors suggest that Qualcomm is moving away from its traditional CPU architecture, opting instead for custom Oryon cores.
Here’s why it’s a big deal.
Snapdragon 8 Gen 4: New Architecture?
Snapdragon 8 Gen 4: New Architecture
There is rumoured to be a notable change in the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4’s CPU configuration.
Differing from the traditional mix of high, mid, and low-power cores, the new chipset is rumored to feature a ‘2 + 6’ CPU cluster.
This configuration will consist of two high-performance Phoenix cores and six mid-tier cores, also named Phoenix.
This shift in design is all but a departure from including low-power efficiency cores, which have been a staple in previous generations.
Apple has done something quite similar with the A17 Pro and Qualcomm might just be trying to up the ante.
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 is expected to be manufactured using TSMC’s advanced 3nm process, specifically the ‘N3E’ variant.
This manufacturing process is likely to mitigate the potential increase in power consumption that might result from the absence of efficiency cores,as per the leaks by reputed tipster Digital Chat Station.
Early tests have been done and show promising results, particularly for the chipset’s Adreno 830 GPU, which reportedly outperforms the graphics processor of Apple’s M2 chip in certain aspects.
That certainly is a big boost for Qualcomm’s claim to the top of the performance throne.
However, here’s the potential bad news.
This new process is very likely to increase in cost compared to its predecessor, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.
Switching to new custom Oryon cores and the advanced manufacturing process, will shoot up pricing for flagships coming next year.
As such 2024 is expected to be a significant one for Qualcomm and its partners as they adapt to these changes.
Dimensity 9300 Reported Throttling
Dimensity 9300 Reported Throttling
MediaTek recently came under a bit of criticism for the Dimensity 9300, which was throttling in performance.
It also uses the same 6+2 architecture that is rumoured for the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4.
MediaTek refutes the tests and claims that its flagship silicone is every bit as powerful as the company has claimed.
Overheating has been an issue with a few Samsung-made Qualcomm chips in the past but TSMC has a reputation for power efficiency.
Time will tell if the 8 Gen 4 is likely to be wrapped in controversy or will turn out to be a performance powerhouse.
FAQs
What is the New CPU Configuration in Snapdragon 8 Gen 4?
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 is rumored to adopt a ‘2 + 6’ CPU cluster, featuring two high-performance Phoenix cores and six mid-tier cores, marking a shift from the traditional mix of core types.
How Does TSMC’s 3nm N3E Process Impact Snapdragon 8 Gen 4?
The 3nm N3E process from TSMC, used in manufacturing Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, is expected to help manage power consumption despite the absence of low-power efficiency cores.
What Performance Improvements Can We Expect from Snapdragon 8 Gen 4’s GPU?
Early tests suggest the Adreno 830 GPU in Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 could surpass the performance of Apple’s M2 chip in graphics, indicating significant advancements in Qualcomm’s GPU capabilities.
What was the outcome of the CPU Throttling Test for the Dimensity 9300?
The MediaTek Dimensity 9300 exhibited a drastic performance drop of 46% during the CPU Throttling Test. This test subjected the chipset to intense processing demands, resulting in thermal throttling and a significant reduction in core frequencies.
How did the lack of efficiency cores affect the Dimensity 9300’s performance?
The absence of efficiency cores in the Dimensity 9300 led to higher power consumption and increased heat generation. Unlike its competitors, which balance high-performance with efficiency cores, the Dimensity 9300’s sole focus on performance cores contributed to its overheating under stress conditions.
What are the key specifications of Snapdragon 8 Gen 3?
The chipset features a multi-core CPU architecture, an Adreno GPU with a 25% speed boost, and enhanced AI capabilities. It is manufactured using TSMC’s second-generation 4nm technology.
How does Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 compare with its predecessor in benchmark scores?
The new chipset scores higher in Geekbench, AnTuTu, and other benchmark tests. For instance, it scored 7526 points in Geekbench multi-core tests compared to around 5000 points scored by its predecessor.
What devices will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3?
Besides Samsung’s Galaxy S24 series, the chipset will also be featured in the iQOO 12 series in India and Xiaomi 14 series in China.
What are Qualcomm’s plans for AI capabilities?
Qualcomm is working closely with Microsoft and Meta to maximize the AI potential of Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, although specific comparisons with Google’s Tensor G3 chipset have not been made public.
