Your Tech Story

Athulya

Being a cinephile with a love for all things outdoorsy, Athulya never misses a chance to chase inspiring stories or poke fun at things, even when the subject is herself. Currently pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering, she is someone innately interested in technical and scientific research. Music reviews and op-eds define her as they allow her to explore different perspectives. Though sometimes she thinks she makes more sense playing the guitar than she does while writing.

PIVOT Smartflow

How PIVOT Smartflow is Changing the Healthcare Industry by Streamlining Sterile Processes

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The recent months have shown people the importance of medical care in all our lives. As a result, the attention on companies focusing on Medtech has also increased exponentially. Around the world, there are a lot of companies that are trying to make things easier for medical professionals. Medical automation had been gaining prominence in recent years due to massive advancements in AI and ML technology. This time around, we will be taking a look at another Medtech company that has been making quite a few ripples in the healthcare space – Pivot Smartflow.

Early Beginnings

Pivot Smartflow, a Mumbai India based company was founded in 2017, by Radhika Bawa and Aditya Bawa. Since then, the company has grown in terms of business and capabilities over the years. The pair has experience working within the healthcare space for over two decades. It was this experience that helped them understand how underprepared hospitals were in moving into the future – especially in the critical area of Sterilisation process management – a process that is at the heart of infection control in hospitals. Hence, the pair made it their life’s mission to ensure that hospitals move ahead with the times and start digitalizing &automating key tasks. Thus, the idea of Pivot Smartflow was conceived. Today Pivot Smartflow provides services to some of the top hospital chains in India.

Radhika Bawa (Managing Partner, Co-Founder), Aditya Bawa (Partner, Co-Founder)
Image Source: pivotsmartflow.com

What is Pivot Smartflow?

Surgical instruments are an integral part of patient care. Hence, monitoring and sterilizing them are vital components of the infection-free healthcare process. However, monitoring, maintaining, cleaning, and ensuring that they are available for surgeries is a time-consuming process for hospitals. But, what if there was a way to ensure that all of this happened seamlessly? Well, that is precisely what Pivot Smartflow does. The application effortlessly streamlines the workflow of surgical instruments. It also helps in eliminating the uncertainties due to misplaced tools and uncleaned instruments. As a result, the Software effectively reduces wastage of time and adds value to patient safety.

Essentially, the tool digitally integrates the Central Sterile Services Department, better known as CSSD to caregiving units. As a result, the program tracks the availability and allocation of instruments to ICUs and Operating Rooms with ease. Such a route management system enables traceability, tracking, and documentation of resource allocation. The Pivot Smartflow system works on a pay-as-you-go model. It leverages Barcodes and RFID to track the instruments, simplify monitoring, and ensure that the right sets are always available for procedures. As a result, hospitals have a much easier time managing patient care, and streamlining their surgical preparatory work.

How does Pivot Smartflow work?

Pivot Smartflow tracks the movement of surgical instruments across the hospital workflow by using RFID readers and barcode scanners. As a result, hospitals gain a birds-eye-view of the entire life cycle of their instruments. Let us now quickly take a look at the workflow process of the Pivot Smartflow system:

  1. Pivot Onboard: We help you digitize your existing inventory so that you can standardize operating procedures and terminology to prevent errors.
  2. Inventory Verification: The team does an audit of your existing inventory to highlight discrepancies and find errors in data collected.
  3. Creation of photo libraries and master lists: Next, the software creates an extensive master list of instruments with photos of each to simplify the allocation process.
  4. Unique ID solutions: Next, comes RFID tagging/laser etching of barcodes on the instruments to enable real-time tracking.
  5. Life-cycle record: By scanning any barcode or scanning an RFID tag, the staff can access the entire life and usage history of the instrument, improving accountability and improved efficiency.
  6. Workflow Digitisation: Finally, the entire workflow is digitized to ensure that human error is minimized and avoided. The system also generated documentation for regulatory compliance regarding sterilization processes followed at the hospital.
  7. Pivot Set-Store: This tool works as a visual store-room providing users with real-time access to their inventory.
  8. Surgical Whiteboard: This helps nurses to keep track of instruments used on a patient.
  9. Sterilization and Repairs Management: Both these modules enable hospitals to manage their product lifecycle perfectly.

Components of the Pivot Smartflow System

  • Web-Based and Mobile Application: The application tracks all your instruments as they make their way across the hospital in real-time.
  • Unique Instrument Identification: The system relies on RFID and Barcoding to track surgical instruments throughout their life cycle.
  • Integrated Workflow Processes: The system enables the seamless flow of information and data across multiple departments efficiently.
  • Task Automation: The software allows professionals to automate mundane tasks, locate instruments, and avoid human error.

What value does Pivot Smartflow add to hospitals?

Since the staff has real-time knowledge regarding their instruments, they can avoid guess-work and chances. The system also helps in measuring the wear and tear faced by instruments, enabling hospitals to extend tool life considerably. It introduces accountability in an otherwise manual process helping hospitals plan inventory better, makes surgeries safer, and improve the efficiency of their caregiving teams.

The software provides professionals with a lot of vital data regarding cycle count, employee productivity, breakages, and incident tracking. As a result, healthcare specialists always get updated reports regarding the instrument’s condition. The system seamlessly integrates itself into existing Hospital Information Systems. As a result, the framework becomes more efficient, accurate, and productive. The flow of data between departments and their accuracy improves exponentially due to Pivot Smartflow.

Why Choose Pivot Smartflow?

Pivot Smartflow offers several advantages to several user groups. Let us now take a quick look at why hospitals, caregivers, and patients support the use of this revolutionary software in healthcare.

  1. CSSD departments have to no longer worry about identifying or tracking their instruments.
  2. All the inventory management happens in real-time, enabling hospitals to stock accordingly. 
  3. The software goes a long way in optimizing the life-cycle of the instruments. 
  4. When used in large hospitals, the tool enables intra-department integration, visibility, and communication.
  5. It significantly reduces the chances of losing or misplacing instruments.
  6. Using the tool sharpens the turnaround time in OTs and ICUs.
  7. Due to the improved efficiency of the medical team, it helps in improving overall patient safety.
  8. It enables the primary caregivers to spend less time looking for sets & instruments and more time focusing on the patient.
  9. Using the tool also helps in preventing and avoiding human errors during instrument hand over.
  10. The hospital management will be able to gain a higher return on investment from their surgical instruments.
  11. It also enables the hospital to manage their resource allocation effectively, leading to less wastage.
  12. Such a data-driven decision-making process ensures complete accountability for all instruments.

As you can see, the future of medicine is here. Hospitals will no longer have to worry about overspending on surgical instruments and running higher incidental costs. The use of smart software, such as Pivot Smartflow will empower hospitals and healthcare professionals in a way that wasn’t possible before. With more and more hospitals looking to modify and adopt new technologies, it is safe to say that the future of this company looks promising and bright. Let us hope that in the years to come, every Indian hospital gains an opportunity to use such cutting-edge technology to provide better care to its patients.

Micromax

Micromax to Make a Comeback With ‘In’ Phones before Diwali

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There have been quite a few gadget launches in recent months with smartphone manufacturers trying to revive their sales. With the coronavirus closing stores around the world, the tech industry is trying to get back on its feet. With sales returning to pre-COVID levels, things have been looking up, and Indian users have even more news to celebrate. Micromax announced on Friday that it was making a comeback to the Indian market. Company CEO Rahul Sharma announced that the new series would launch in time for Diwali. Here’s a look at everything you need to know about the release and why it is crucial.

Homecoming for Micromax

According to CEO Rahul Sharma, the new line will offer customers a value-for-money product that assures competitive performance. The device will also enable an almost stock Android experience, with the company hoping to reclaim market share. The Indian smartphone manufacturer based in Gurugram last had a launch in October 2019. However, the last major smartphone launch hosted by the company took place in December 2018. Rahul Sharma teased the release of the new device through a short video wherein he highlighted the patriotic sentiments behind the phone.

Independence and Nationality

The company announced that the news of skirmishes at the border was the primary reason for launching the new devices. The phones will most likely hit the market before the start of the festival season, in time for Diwali purchases. The new series was in full-on R&D mode when the India-China border tussle was happening, and these issues propelled and accelerated the development. Those skirmishes have led to a vocal demand for more Indian-origin products, which will work in Micromax’s favor. While the Gurugram-based manufacturer imports components from foreign countries, it was one of the first ones to start assembly in India. Doing so helped reduce prices and also add a homely touch to their devices, which might help motivate more Indians to buy from them now. 

With many Indian consumers calling for a ban on Chinese products, such a nationalistic approach might do wonders for the company and its sales. However, experts believe that such a sentiment would not help the company revive itself as the smartphone market is highly competitive. Some of them went as far as to say that while such emotions were strong in July, they have faded by now. As a result, while it might give the brand a publicity boost, it might not help them boost sales as expected. So, we will have to see whether the nationalistic approach will help the company regain its market position. 

‘In’ to the Market

Micromax In Series
Image Source: centralviral.com

Micromax’s new series titled In will have a price range between INR 7000, and INR 25,000, making them fall in the semi-budget phone space. While Micromax initially gained popularity for its incredibly affordable phones, the company is looking to expand. They made it clear that the new lineup will not feature anything below the INR 7,000 mark. Sharma stated that since the sub-INR 5000 markets were shrinking in India, the company would not release such phones for now. Since people now prefer higher-performance products, the decision to stick to the said budget makes more sense. While the video introduced the Micromax In series, it contained no details regarding hardware or software specifications.

No more ads

Micromax has also addressed that the In series will offer a fantastic Android experience. Such a statement seems to be taking a shot at Chinese competitors within the space, such as Realme, Xiaomi, Huawei, and Vivo. All these companies often face criticism for adding bloatware to their devices, sometimes at the expense of fluid customer experience. Similarly, OnePlus faced flak for pre-installing Facebook onto their phones. While the company promised to avoid such an addition, the latest OnePlus 8T comes with an in-built Amazon integration. Rahul Sharma promised that Micromax would not take this route opting instead for a near-stock Android experience. He also said that the phones would not feature any bloatware, ads, or even attempt to download, store, and process users’ data.

Journey Ahead

Sharma is optimistic that Micromax can put up a tough fight against its Chinese counterparts. The market has changed since Micromax’s glory days, with Xiaomi having gained immense popularity in recent years. Also, rising consumer awareness has led to users demanding better refresh rates, fast charging, and updated features. However, Sharma believes that Micromax can still break through the ceiling and regain its popularity within the Indian market. While the company has missed Amazon’s and Flipkart’s festive sales, they will be launching in time for Diwali. Also, the choice to enter the INR 20,000 and higher market has puzzled experts. Both Samsung and OnePlus are strong competitors within this segment, has grown immensely in recent years. But many of them feel that the company’s brand value will help it attract pan-India customers.

DJI

DJI Announces two new gimbals: Ronin S 2 and Ronin SC 2

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Camera enthusiasts have been expecting good news regarding DJI’s new cameras for a while now. The company teased information back in September, promising some new products in October.  While enthusiasts have been waiting patiently for the drop, there were a lot of speculations regarding the new gimbals. Well, DJI has quelled all rumors by announcing the new models themselves. On Wednesday, DJI announced the release of two gimbals, named Ronin S2 and a smaller model named Ronin SC 2. Here’s a look at everything you need to know about the gimbals and their prices.

DJI New Gimbals

DJI New Gimbals
Image Source: theverge.com

Both the Ronin S 2 and the Ronin SC 2 are three-axis gimbals that have a variety of upgrades. For instance, both of them feature heavier payload capacities, improved motors, lighter materials, and software updates. Let us look at some of the hardware changes implemented on the RS 2.

Deeper Look at RS 2

The RS 2 is the more professional out of the two, being made out of carbon fiber. The usage of such a light-weight, yet strong material makes the RS 2 1.3 lbs lighter than the Ronin S. The RS 2 weighs only 2.8 lbs, and can support a payload of 10 lbs. While DJI claims the gimbal can hold hearing rigs, that might not showcase ideal performance due to the added weight. The device comes with a 1.4-inch touchscreen display situated above the joystick. The touchscreen displays the camera data, device settings and can transmit what the camera is recording as a live feed. However, the main purpose of the display is to enable active tracking without attaching smartphones to the top of the camera.

Further Updates

DJI is adding a unique Titan Stabilization Algorithm, which will help optimize the shooting style. This predictive technology will help cut down on the requirement for manual user input regarding acceleration, speed, and deadband settings. Another software enhancement the device features is the SuperSmooth capability. It helps smooth movements out when shooting lenses of focal length up to 100mm. Other changes that will help filmmakers include the movement of the focus wheel onto the front of the handle. This positioning makes it easy for users to interact with the wheel using their index finger. Furthermore, both models are compatible with both Arca Swiss and Manfrotto plates. The balancing knob allows users to fine-tune their axis, helping reduce set-up time between shots. 

Closer Look at the Ronin SC 2

The RSC 2 is a smaller model built for mirrorless cameras of smaller dimensions. The new design features a foldable design and several software updates. The device weighs 2.65 lbs, considerably lighter than the RS 2 but more massive than its predecessor which weighed only 2.4 lbs. The introduction of improved motors allows it to carry a payload of weight 6.6 lbs. Furthermore, DJI says the gimbal is perfect for more powerful camera-lens combos, with an example being the Panasonic SH1 with a lens of focal length between 24 and 70mm. The foldable design allows users to hold the device in sling mode, making it easier to shoot closer to the ground. Furthermore, there is no i-inch screen above the handle, making low shots easier and more comfortable.

Extra Features

Both gimbals have built-in batteries that last for 12 hours and come with an upgraded quick charge function. This function enables users to charge the device for two hours’ worth of usage within fifteen minutes! Along with the usual modes such as panorama, vertical and time-lapse, DJI is adding a Time Tunnel mode. Time Tunnel essentially captures hyper lapses while doing a 30-degree camera roll.

Both the models go on sale today and will cost users $849 and $499 respectively. DJI is also releasing a Pro Combo package that includes a RavenEye Image Transmitter, phone holder, carrying case, and separate focus motor. The entire package will set filmmakers back by $999 for the RS 2 and $739 for the RSC 2. The images of both gimbals leaked online one day before their unveiling, through the Twitter account of user OsitaLV. The images seem to be from a DJI store in China, and the pictures quickly went viral on social media. With all this interest and buzz on social media, both these gimbals look like they will become hits with the film and photography fraternity!

Digital Tax

All You Need to Know About OECD’s Digital Tax Reform

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It looks like the tech giants will have to wait for another year to see how the impending digital tax reforms will take place. The world is witnessing a significant shift in the way it views Big Tech. With the EU planning on implementing a digital tax on such companies, most experts were looking forward to seeing how the reforms will take shape. However, the OECD released a statement saying that the new global tax will not come into force this year. Here’s a look at everything you need to know about the Digital Tax and its impact on tech giants.

A Year’s Wait Left for Digital Tax

The Paris-based OECD was to head a panel that would lead negotiations between countries to establish the Digital Tax. The organization would have been in touch with over 140 different nations to solve the taxation issue faced by Big Tech. The Digital Tax reform would for once standardize the taxation norms of companies such as Google and Facebook. However, the organization released a statement on Monday stating it would require an additional year to finalize the deal. Pascal Saint-Amans, who servers as OECD’s Head of Tax Policy, said that the glass was half-full. While the deal is nearly ready, it still requires political accord to push through and become a law, according to Pascal. He went on to say that the organization expects the deal to come out ‘sometime in 2021’.

Future in the Balance

Most experts were hoping the bill would attain resolution by the end of this year. The law is a move by the EU to ensure that large technology companies pay the fair share of tax as per their operations in the countries they function. Most EU officials believe that such companies are not paying the right amount, and that tax calculation should occur in the location of their activity, and not just their headquarters. This would extensively enlarge the sphere of taxation of such companies, as they are prevalent throughout the EU.

Digital Tax
Image Source: Pixabay.com

OECD for All

Throughout the whole discussion, the OECD has acted as a marshal demanding more accountability from the Big Tech. They are pushing for standardized tax rules and regimes on a global level due to the ever-reaching impact of such large tech firms. However, the various governments will have to agree to their proposals before they can become a law, and in turn, a reality. Angel Gurria, who serves as the head of the OECD, believes that lack of such a bill will lead to a trade war. However, the slow progress of such reform has led to several countries implementing changes of their own accord. The UK has been a vocal supporter of such a Digital Tax. However, the slow progress finally led to the country announcing its own Digital Services Tax at the beginning of the year.

Trump Wages War

Such a taxation reform led to complaints from the US, which called it an unfair levy that needed a trade probe before implementation. The Trump administration went as far as to threaten products from Europe with additional tariffs unless they withdraw the reform bill. The US believes that such laws deliberately and specifically and target American corporations. Trump also stated that the US was considering imposing further taxes on French wine sold in the States.  Since the US is the biggest market for French wine, making up almost 25% of total sales in 2018, this could turn into a massive trade war. However, President Macron’s office stated that it would stay firm in its stand, and would try to reach an amicable decision through bilateral talks.

Furthermore, the French Parliament passed a law that taxes digital companies if their French revenue goes over €25 million and if global income exceeds €750 million. While the law does not target companies of any nationality, it could have an impact on Big Tech firms, such as Facebook, Google, Amazon, and Apple. All these moves will help prevent such companies from avoiding stringent taxation by setting up headquarters in low-tax territories. Countries, such as Austria and Spain, have also vowed to implement Digital Tax laws, like Britain and France.

The OECD has been trying for two years to set up a global front to ensure all such companies may appropriate taxes. While the tax laws might take a year more to bear fruition, the result could have a massive impact on global economics. However, one this is for certain. Global opinion regarding the power yielded by big tech corporations is changing. While people never batted their eyelids regarding the growing influence of such companies, the tides seem to be shifting. Calls for better regulation regarding data privacy and data taxation might lead to the dawn of a new digital revolution.

AMD

AMD Announces New Zen 3 Ryzen 5000 Processor Much to the Delight of Gamers

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AMD has taken the gaming world by storm by recently announcing a new line of next-gen processors for CPUs. The series, named Ryzen 5000 Series will work on a Zen 3 architecture framework.  This new series might just give rise to the world’s best gaming CPUs as per reports by experts. The processors offer a whopping 26% increase with regards to gaming performance. They also promise a 16% improvement in instruction cycles, when compared to AMD’s flagship Ryzen 3000XT. Here’s a quick look at everything you need to know about the new release, and why it will have an impact on the way we game.

AMD, The Future of Gaming!

AMD
Image Source: wccftech.com

AMD states that the new series will offer better single-core and multi-core performance. Furthermore, the Ryzen 5000 Series will provide drop-in compatibility with currently used 500-series motherboards once they undergo a BIOS update. As of now, the company has announced four new CPU models, which are as follows;

  • Ryzen 5 5600X
  • Ryzen 7 5800X
  • Ryzen 9 5900X
  • Ryzen 9 5950X

Top-End Model

Out of these, the Ryzen 9 5950X will be a top-end model that features 32 threads and 16 cores. This processor can handle base and boost speeds up to 3.4GHz and 4.9GHz while also having 72MB worth of cache memory. However, due to its immensely high-end specs, owning this model will set gamers back by a whopping $799 (Rs. 58,760 without taxes). AMD claims that this model features the best single-threaded performance of any gaming processor, making this chip every gamer’s dream come true. Since it also has more cores, it offers better multi-core performance as well, when compared to other desktop CPUs.

Other Models

  1. The Ryzen 9 5900X has 24-threads and 12-cores and runs at speeds between 3.7GHz and 4.8GHz. It too offers 70MB worth of cache memory and will cost owners $549 (Rs. 40,370). 
  • The Ryzen 7 5800X works on an 8-core, 16-thread system and offers cache storage worth 3MB. The processor boasts of base and boost speeds in the range of 3.8GHz and 4.7GHz respectively. This model will go on sale for $449 (Rs. 33,020). 
  • Lastly, the Ryzen 5 5600X features 12 threads and six cores, offering base and boost speeds of 3.7GHz and 4.6GHz. It houses a total cache memory worth 35MB and costs $299 (Rs. 21,990). 

Other Details

While all three of the Ryzen 9, and 7 models feature 105W TDPs, they will have a stock cooler. In contrast, the Ryzen 5 5600X offers a 65W rating and comes with the company’s signature Wraith Stealth cooler. AMD has always bundled their high-end models with their coolers. However, since a majority of gamers like fixing up higher-end heatsinks with their CPUs, this move might help the company. Most gamers rely on an expensive external heatsink or liquid-cooled thermal solution to prevent overheating while playing. 

Introduction of New Architecture

The new Zen 3 architecture allows the implementation of a unified 8-core CCX design. Not only does this reduce latency due to its direct access to L3 cache, but it also improves branch prediction. Furthermore, it allows for broader floating-point and integer engines and doubles the L3 cache per each core. The company also boasts of almost 2.8 times better battery efficiency when compared to Intel’s Core i9. However, in keeping with tradition, these new CPUs do not have interspersed graphics capacities.

While presenting the new models, Mark Papermaster, who serves as AMD’s CTO reinstated that the Zen 3 architecture is a revelation. He also claimed it was the most significant change or overhaul for CPU architecture since 2017’s Z architecture implementation. Furthermore, he stated that a new Zen 4 model was in development and will use a 5-nanometer processor.

Hitting the Market

AMD decided to forego few numbers and jumped directly from the 3000 series to the 5000. Doing this will help the company unify or standardize its naming scheme with regards to its desktop and mobile lines. As a result, their processor names across all markets will reflect its architectural generation. AMD announced that all four CPUs would hit the market on November 5th. Furthermore, people who purchase the following models between October 20th and December 31st will receive a copy of Far Cry 6 (Standard);

  1. Ryzen 7 model
  2. Ryzen 9 model 
  3. Ryzen 9 3950X
  4. Ryzen 9 3900XT 
  5. Ryzen 7 3800XT 

The presentation ended with Dr. Lisa Su, AMD’s CEO showcasing a preview of the RX 6000 GPU, which launches on October 28th. The GPU runs on a Ryzen 5900X CPU and could handle 61fps in Borderlands 3 on the Badass preset at 4K. The CPUs look to be top-end, and gamers will have a field day once it releases judging by the excitement the news of the release has caused. Intel, not wanting to be left behind teased information regarding its 11th Gen CPUs a day before AMD released its details. Intel’s next-gen CPUs will mostly hit the market early on in 2021, making this an excellent time to be a gamer!

Tech Giants

American Tech Giants Called Out for Their Monopoly Power

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Around the world, we are witnessing governments coming down heavily on tech giants. Recently, the EU commanded social media giants to be warier about the flow of misinformation and fake news. Now the American government, which till now has been very lax seems to be doing the same. Yesterday, a group of Democratic lawyers pushed Congress to make such companies more accountable for the power they yield. Here’s a look at how the monopoly power of these companies, and how lawmakers are planning on changing it.

Tech Giants Ongoing Investigation

A list of recommendations and appeals came at the end of a 16-month investigation into such tech giants. Companies, such as Amazon, Google, Facebook, and Apple came under Congressional radar in the last few years. Since then, lawmakers have been asking for more accountability and the spreading of power. The lawmakers mentioned yesterday that such companies enjoyed too much power, resulting in numerous unfair practices. They also called for a reining in of such power to help level the playing field within the tech industry. However, as expected, the Republicans disagreed with this outlook, with Jim Jordan dismissing the report as partisan. He also claimed the report was radical, saying it was an attempt by the far left to refashion American anti-trust laws.

The monopoly power of Tech Giants

The size and power that tech companies yield has been a constant topic of debate in Washington in recent years. This ongoing investigation came up through the House Judiciary Committee to probe into the working of these firms. The final 449-page report the committee staff submitted accuses these companies of engaging in unfair means. For instance, they found that such large tech firms charge high fees and force smaller companies into unfavorable deals. Further acquisitions involve using killer acquisitions to finish off rivals and retain their monopoly. In effect, the underdog start-ups of yesteryears have grown into monopolies that resemble old-time oil barons and railroad and air tycoons.

Tech Giants
Image Source: news.yahoo.com

Changes Proposed

Some of the changes proposed by the Council are as follows;

  1. More vigorous enforcement of competition laws which already exist
  2. Limit the nature and area of business
  3. Prevent companies from playing in fields where they are a dominant infrastructure builder
  4. Shifting the burden of anti-competition to proof for acquisitions to make buying out competition more challenging
  5. Consider separating online platforms and other businesses
  6. Force the breakup of such Big Tech firms into smaller components
  7. Add nondiscrimination laws to prevent firms from prioritizing their products

As you can see, these changes will have a massive impact on the future functioning of Big Tech. While the report does not define the actual and exact legislation needed, it does give a direction for Congress to take things forward.

Replies by Big Tech

In the hearing in July, most of these significant players hit back at the allegations, calling them fringe notions. Amazon, on Tuesday, defended its actions through a blog post saying it never did anything that breaches present anti-trust laws. It also noted that the Amazon marketplace has been a successful venture for third-party sellers and that there were no unfair deals in the background. Facebook too defended its acquisition of WhatsApp and Instagram, saying it celebrated competition. It also mentioned that regulators went through all the laws and deals to ensure there was nothing illegal or corrupt behind it. 

Political Issue

The report many have said seems to be heavily Democratic. As a result, it faced severe criticism from the Republican party. For instance, the Republicans wanted a section on the anti-conservative bias of social media in the report. However, such a move did not go down well with the Democrats who blocked it, calling it an allegation and conspiracy theory. However, several Republicans do seem to agree on the fact that anti-trust laws need to be more fool-proof. For instance, Ken Buck supported a slew of recommendations, such as shifts in law that make it challenging to acquire competition. Most experts believe that there will be no legislative proposals until after the election. 

But one thing seems to be clear. Big Tech will undergo massive changes in policy and operations, following this election no matter who wins! Will this be the end of Big Tech? Let us know what you think in the comments below!