Technology news

Jeff Bezos Warns of Economic Recession, Advises People To Avoid Expensive Purchases

Amazon founder and Billionaire Chief Executive officer, Jeff Bezos, has advised customers and owners of small businesses to postpone major purchases in advance of the holiday period.

He said that he can tell that the economy doesn’t really look good in recent times right in a CNN sit-down interview released on Monday after reporter Chloe Melas asked if the economy was going through a recession.

Jeff Bezos claimed that if we aren’t in a recession right now, we are very probably to enter one very soon.

“Take some risk off the table, keep some dry powder on hand…. Just a little bit of risk reduction could make the difference for that small business, if we do get into even more serious economic problems. You’ve got to play the probabilities a little bit,” Bezos was quoted as saying.

“If you’re an individual considering to purchase a big-screen TV, you might want to wait, hold onto your money, and see what transpires. The same is true with a new automobile, refrigerator, or whatever else. Just remove some risk from the equation,” he added.
Source: tribuneindia.com

It is undoubtedly not the suggestion you hoped to hear out from a person who owns and manages the e-commerce website which pervades Black Friday sales year after year, as well as it is equally hugely profitable Cyber Monday sale a few days later.

Jeff Bezos’ suggestion came not long after The New York Times disclosed that Amazon intends to lay off about 10,000 employees, many from its Alexa, sales, and human resources sections, in one of the company’s largest layoffs in history.

So, it appears that Bezos will be pinching pennies at the cost of thousands of employees, but likely not his wallet. In another section of the interview, Bezos bragged about how he intended to give away his massive wealth, planning to announce a 100 million USD donation to songster and philanthropist Dolly Parton.

Suhani Jain

I am a student pursuing my bachelor’s in information technology. I have a interest in writing so, I am working a freelance content writer because I enjoy writing. I also write poetries. I believe in the quote by anne frank “paper has more patience than person

Elon Musk publicly fires Twitter engineers who call him out online

Elon Musk, the owner of Twitter Inc., has resorted to terminating company engineers who openly disagree with him on the social media platform.

The argument started when Elon Musk apologized for the Twitter Android app being “super slow in many countries.” He asserted that was the result of the app’s poor writing. He tweeted, “Btw, I’d like to apologize for Twitter being super slow in many countries. App is doing >1000 poorly batched RPCs just to render a home timeline!”

After that, Eric Frohnhoefer, a Twitter engineer, who worked on the Twitter Android app asserted that Mr. Musk’s statement was inaccurate in a quote tweet. Given that he has been working on Twitter’s Android app for about six years, Eric Fraunhoefer asserted that he “can say this is wrong.”

Although Mr. Frohnhoefer acknowledged that Android has “plenty of room for performance improvements,” he disagreed with Mr. Musk’s explanation for the origin of the speed issues.

He claimed that the features that few users utilize, the bloated nature of the app over time as a result of attempts to make additional upgrades, and the poor network communication were the real causes of the issues. Frohnhoefer recommended Twitter to prioritize streamlining the app by getting rid of unnecessary features and limiting the number of new ones.

The two then carried on arguing about Twitter in general, including talking about its lunches at headquarters, as well as the Android app particularly.

Frohnhoefer attempted to express his thoughts in a series of tweets, but one person questioned him as to why he hadn’t privately given his new boss his opinion. Frohnhoefer who has been an engineer at Twitter for over eight years, retorted, “Maybe he should ask questions privately. Maybe use Slack or email.”

Numerous others pointed out that Frohnhoefer was probably placing himself in danger by publicly correcting Twitter’s new owner, particularly given the fact that he has already laid off about half the company’s staff. These warnings came true on Monday. Mr. Musk announced the engineer’s firing via Twitter.

While this was going on, one of the users tagged Musk and asked if he wanted “this kind of attitude” on his team. Musk spoke bluntly and responded, ” He’s Fired”. Frohnhoefer replied by tweeting a salute emoji.

Mr. Frohnhoefer had said he had a variety of opportunities if he was to leave Twitter. He stated that his LinkedIn has “never been more popular,” and a Reddit developer publicly messaged him to recommend that he apply there instead.

Ben Leib, another engineer, lost his job after criticizing Musk. He retweeted the same post from Musk and wrote, “As the former tech lead for timelines infrastructure at Twitter, I can confidently say that this man has no idea wtf he’s talking about.” Leib, who spent ten years working for Twitter, acknowledged his termination to Bloomberg on Sunday.

There has been a frenzy of changes ever since Twitter was acquired by entrepreneur Elon Musk. Musk has made several significant changes to Twitter, including the announcement of Twitter Blue, an $8 monthly membership service, and the firing of close to 50% of the staff.

Many employees are still angry with Musk’s decision to fire half of the company’s 7,000+ employees, including most of the senior management, just one week after his $44 billion acquisition. Additionally, the tycoon rapidly altered the organization’s workplace culture.

Although it was not common practice for Twitter employees to publicly criticize the company’s leadership in the past, before Musk arrived, many employees voiced their concerns or criticisms via email and internal Slack channels.

Sandhya Gupta

I am a law graduate from NLU Lucknow. I have a flair for creative writing and hence in my free time work as a freelance content writer.

Google to pay $391M to settle Android location tracking lawsuit

Leave a Comment / News, Tech News / By Suhani Jain

Google has consented to pay 391.5 million USD to settle an android location tracking lawsuit filed by an alliance of 40 U.S. attorneys general.

“For years Google has prioritized profit over their users’ privacy,” said Attorney General Rosenblum. “They have been crafty and deceptive. Consumers thought they had turned off their location tracking features on Google, but the company continued to secretly record their movements and use that information for advertisers,” he said in a statement late on Monday.
Source: bleepingcomputer.com

According to the android location tracking lawsuit settlement, the United States Attorneys General found while investigating a 2018 Associated Press article that Google swindled Android users and monitored their locations ever since least 2014, even when they assumed location tracking was not active.

While Android users were deceived into believing that disabling “Location History” in the smartphone’s settings would deactivate location tracking, this other account setting, “Web & App Activity,” which has been enabled by default, allowed the company to collect, store, and utilize the customers’ personal information i.e. location data.

The agreement reached today also requires Google to implement extra user-friendly account control mechanisms and restricts the firm’s use and storage of certain types of location data.

Google will also be required to be transparent with its users about its location data tracking and collection practises, such as displaying extra details when location-related account settings are toggled and displaying detailed information about what data it harvests and how it is used.

“The company’s online reach enables it to target consumers without the consumer’s knowledge or permission,” Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel said on Monday.

“However, the transparency requirements of this settlement will ensure that Google not only makes users aware of how their location data is being used, but also how to change their account settings if they wish to disable location-related account settings, delete the data collected and set data retention limits.”
Source: bleepingcomputer.com

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission fined Google 60 million USD in August for deceiving and obtaining location data from Australian Android users for approximately two years which was between January 2017 to December 2018, using the same strategy.

According to the ACCC, Google has taken corrective measures to address the problems that resulted in these financial penalties by 20 December 2018, with customers no longer being shown inaccurate information implying that resetting location history stops gathering data regarding their location.

In January 2022, France’s National Commission on Informatics and Liberty charged Google $170 million for infringing on internet users’ freedom of consent by making it difficult to reject website tracking the cookies by hiding that option under multiple clicks.

The firm was also charged 11.3 million USD in November 2021 for aggressive data collection, €220 million in June 2021 for choosing its services over competitors, 1.7 billion USD in March 2019 for anti-competitive practices in online advertising and $2.72 billion in June 2017 for misusing its high position in the market to manipulate search results.

Suhani Jain

Government issues warning to Twitter; conveys strong disapproval over map misrepresentation

Leave a Comment / News, Tech News, twitter / By Annasha

Geotagging manipulation is a very serious threat and disrespect towards the sovereignty of a country. A very important matter regarding the map representation in Twitter which involves Leh, headquarters of the Union Territory of Ladakh has come up this week. Twitter has caused map misrepresentation of Leh showing its location in China. India has warned Twitter with very strong disapproval as it insults the integrity of a nation. Twitter has received heavy criticism from Indian people which it might have seen coming. Social media users have raised a very strong voice against this map manipulation. The question of this act whether it was a genuine mistake of the location setting or done purposely is secondary. Since the relationship between India and China has already got on the wrong foot; this is the worst time to commit a blunder like this by a major-micro blogging platform.

India’s response to this map misrepresentation

India has sent a letter to Twitter where Ajay Sawhney, Secretary in the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, has asked the CEO of Twitter, Jack Dorsey to respect the sensitivities. A small yet such an intense mistake can cost both the nation and its people. This act of Twitter can be seen as triggering a sleeping volcano. The geotagging feature of Twitter displayed “Jammu & Kashmir, People’s Republic of China” in a live broadcast. It was taking part in Leh’s Hall of Fame, a war memorial to respect the soldiers of Union Territory of Ladakh those who sacrificed their life. A war memorial is a very sensitive and respectful place of a nation where people pay homage to the fallen soldiers. Showing that this part of India belongs to the People’s Republic of China is disrespecting the entire foundation of the country.

Twitter CEO: Jack Dorsey
Image Source: cbsnews.com

The angry netizens have heavily insulted Twitter and they demand strict action in response to such an audacious act. On the other hand, Twitter has accepted that it was a technical issue from their side and that it has been resolved. But, the degree of damage it has already caused by wrong geotagging in a live broadcast is immeasurable. The entire world has witnessed a map misrepresentation which is enough to build theories and wage a war on social media and outside.

A warning to Twitter

The letter that was sent to Twitter by Mr. Sawhney on behalf of India clearly mentioned that any sign or attempt to disrespect the sovereignty and integrity of India will not only result in dispute but also questioning the neutrality and fairness of this micro-blogging platform. Even if it was a technical glitch from Twitter’s side, they should be extra cautious and take proper measures to prevent such “mistakes”. The damage it has caused to the reputation of Twitter will also take days to mend. Apart from the gentle warning, India has also reminded Twitter that Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir are integral and inalienable parts of India, governed by the Indian Constitution. In response to this mail, Twitter has immediately mailed back saying “Twitter is committed to working with the Government of India. We respect the sensitivities involved and have dully acknowledged the letter.”

Was it just a glitch?

Nitin Gokhale, National Security Analyst has pointed out the anomaly in the first place which was followed by sending out a warning to Twitter. Moreover, this is not the first time a nation is facing difficulties due to the technical glitches of Twitter. So, it is high time that the platform fixes all the platform before any other nation is hurt. Gokhale said that he went live on Twitter to share his journey to Ladakh from Himachal Pradesh and after the broadcast was ended, he saw the location of Leh showing as a part of China. First, he thought if it was an isolated incident or a glitch so he conducted another experimental live broadcast and the same thing happened yet again. So, has it been a technical glitch, why was a part of India was constantly showing as a part of another nation? Twitter in response to this issue said that investigation teams are trying to resolve the matter as it seems to be a geotagging issue.

Annasha

Annasha Dey is an NIT student, who apart from studying engineering is also a content writer. She has a great interest in photography, writing, reading novels, and travelling as well. She is a foodie who loves socializing and hanging out with her friends. She is also a trained Kathak dancer and a big fashion enthusiast. Dey also loves watching TV series, which includes F.R.I.E.N.D.S. and Big Bang Theory. To be a better writer she prefers to read more

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

Leave a Comment / News, Product, Tech News / By Athulya

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

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!

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.

Google Meet to Limit Meeting to 60 Minutes on Free Plans after September 30

Leave a Comment / Google, News, Product, Tech News / By Annasha

With the global pandemic striking earlier this year, videoconferencing apps faced a larger crowd and growth in terms of new users. Due to the lockdown, from classes to business meetings, from chatting with friends to giving exams everything started taking place virtually. So, many videoconferencing platforms made their app free for everyone. One such company is Google that made Google Meet free for everyone which means video conferencing for an unlimited time.

When the pandemic started taking monstrous shape, people understood that this is not going to end anytime soon. So, Google Meet made the platform free for all users in April. The company also mentioned that this free plan would be until 30th September 2020. And, yesterday the company made it clear that it is sticking to its words.

Google Meet Free till 30th September of this year

In the last week of April, Google announced making Google Meet free for everyone. The company said the privilege of enjoying unlimited video conferencing time will not just be limited to enterprise and education customers. So, anybody with a Google account easily created a meeting in Google Meet with 100 participants maximum and no time limit. But, the company gave a hint at the beginning that the time slot will be reduced to 60 minutes after 30th September. But, the users might have thought with time the deadline might have extended.

Google used the free for all strategy to also outrun Zoom in terms of the user base. When the lockdown started, the first videoconferencing platform that escalated to unlimited height was Zoom. But, very soon due to the compromised security system of Zoom or callous safety measures, Zoombombing took place. Google Meet saw it as a golden opportunity to take control of the market by both free meetings and ensuring safety. When Google made the platform free it made clear that Google will focus more on the safety measures. Thus, whenever a person will try to join a meeting using a link, first he will wait in the green room until and unless the host lets him in. This made Meet better and safer than Zoom.

Advanced features for G Suite

With the unlimited video conferencing time, Google also made the advanced free features free for everyone. At first, the features were made free till 1st July which was then extended to 30th September. But, along with the time limit reducing to 60 minutes, free users cannot enjoy the advanced features of G Suite anymore. When the G Suite features were also made available it allowed the G Suite for education customers to host meetings with up to 250 participants. The platform also allowed live-stream to up to 100,000 users within a single domain. And, these meetings recording could be saved in Google Drive as well. Unfortunately, all these privileges will go away after a couple of days with only the “Enterprise” tier of G Suite using it for $25 per user per month.

After the pandemic started, Javier Soltero, VP and General Manager of G Suite, said that in the time of needs the company wants to give everyone access to features that they enjoy. G Suite is one of the best products to win by choice and they are trying nothing but to help people around the globe. The company also noticed that the daily user base of Google Meet increased 25 folds as it was in January. So, free access even though for a limited time was immensely profitable for the company.