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X Faces Austrian Complaint Over Data Usage for AI Training

X Faces Austrian Complaint Over Data Usage for AI Training

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An important complaint against social media network X, formerly known as Twitter, was submitted on Monday by the Austrian advocacy group NOYB (None of Your Business). The corporation, which is owned by Elon Musk, is accused of violating the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) of the European Union by improperly exploiting customers’ personal data to train its artificial intelligence (AI) systems without getting the required authorization.

The GDPR Grievance and Its Consequences

X Faces Austrian Complaint Over Data Usage for AI Training

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Max Schrems, a well-known privacy campaigner, led the complaint that was filed with data protection authorities across nine EU nations. This action is a component of a larger plan to put further pressure on Ireland’s Data Protection Commission (DPC), which serves as the principal regulator for numerous significant American technology companies doing business in Europe because Ireland is home to their European headquarters. The main point of NOYB’s complaint is that X has been processing user data for AI training without providing users with an opportunity to opt out beforehand, which is a clear violation of GDPR regulations.

Ireland's Part in the Protracted Legal Battle

In order to rectify the situation, the Irish Data Protection Commission, which is leading the way in regulating these matters, has taken action. It has requested an injunction prohibiting X from utilizing user data for AI research until appropriate consent procedures are put in place. X consented to temporarily stop using personal data for AI training in response to the complaint. However, NOYB contends that rather than addressing the basic legality of the data processing itself, the DPC’s measures are more focused on mitigation.

The Position of Max Schrems and Legal Issues

Max Schrems, a prominent proponent of digital age privacy rights, voiced his worries regarding X’s operations. He said,

"We want to ensure that Twitter fully complies with EU law, which, at a bare minimum, requires to ask users for consent in this case."

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The case brought to light that X had not notified users of their right to object to data collecting until many weeks after the process had commenced, giving rise to further ethical and legal concerns. 

Analogous to Meta's AI Approach

This is not a unique instance. Similar problems arose for Facebook’s parent firm Meta in June when the Irish DPC asked for a postponement of the AI assistant’s European launch citing privacy concerns. Additionally, NOYB has filed complaints against Meta, highlighting the wider ramifications for IT businesses that use user data for AI training without the express consent of the user.

Also Read: MiddleGame Ventures Hits €55M Milestone Towards €150M Fintech Fund

Final Thoughts: X's Future and EU Data Privacy

As the matter develops, X’s adherence to EU data protection regulations is still being investigated. The resolution of this case may establish a standard for how tech companies function in Europe, especially in relation to the use of private information for artificial intelligence research.

Elon Musk Polls X Users on $5 Billion Tesla Investment in xAI

Elon Musk Polls X Users on $5 Billion Tesla Investment in xAI

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Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, has asked fans on the social media site X, formerly known as Twitter, if the electric vehicle manufacturer ought to contribute $5 billion to his artificial intelligence business, xAI. With roughly 69.5 percent of the 440,189 individuals voting on behalf of the investment and thirty percent against it, the early results show strong public support. Musk explained that the purpose of this poll is to determine public opinion; the board and shareholders of Tesla must still formally approve it.

The investment proposal's context

Elon Musk Polls X Users on $5 Billion Tesla Investment in xAI

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Tesla just revealed that its profit margin was at its lowest level in five years as a result of pricing reductions and higher investment in artificial intelligence technologies. Musk stressed during Tesla’s most recent earnings conference that xAI might play a major role in constructing an entirely new Tesla data facility and expanding fully autonomous driving features. Musk also mentioned how Tesla’s software might be integrated with xAI’s chatbot, Grok.

xAI's History and Finances

Musk introduced xAI last year as a replacement for ChatGPT, and it has since advanced significantly. With a total of six billion dollars in series B capital secured in May, the business was valued at 24 billion dollars after taking on debt. Two well-known investors are Sequoia Capital and Andreessen Horowitz. Additionally, Musk has stated that investors in X, the social media network he paid $44 billion to acquire, will hold 25 percent of xAI.

Prior Surveys and Judgment Making

Musk is accustomed to making decisions based on X surveys. He polled users in 2021 to see if he should sell 10 percent of his Tesla ownership, and he quickly sold shares in response. Even if it reflects public interest, this survey is just the first one. Tesla’s board members and shareholders will ultimately decide whether to invest the $5 billion, and they will need to carefully weigh the advantages and disadvantages of doing so.

Also Read: Kakao Founder Arrested in South Korea for Alleged Stock Manipulation

Issues and Strategic Perspectives

During the results call, Musk played off worries about using Tesla’s resources for his other projects. Remarkably, in June, CNBC revealed that, because of space constraints at Tesla’s data centre, Musk had given Nvidia the order to ship thousands of AI processors meant for Tesla to xAI and X.

Although public opinion seems to be in support of this large investment, Tesla’s major stakeholders will need to give it careful thought before making a final choice.

 
Elon Musk Plan to Charge New X Users to Tweet

Elon Musk Plan to Charge New X Users to Tweet

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In a bold move that continues to generate buzz across the tech and social media sectors, X (formerly Twitter) CEO Elon Musk has confirmed plans to charge new users of the platform $1 for the ability to tweet. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to transform the business models of social media platforms with the aim of increasing revenues and improving content quality.

Musk's Monetization Moves

Elon Musk Plan to Charge New X Users to Tweet

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Since acquiring X last year, Musk has introduced several changes aimed at monetizing the platform more aggressively. The decision to charge new users a nominal fee to tweet is seen as an effort to prevent spam and bots, which Musk has often cited as a significant issue impacting user experience and platform integrity.

“By charging a small fee, we can reduce malicious activity and ensure that our platform is used for more thoughtful and genuine engagement,” Musk explained in a recent interview. He believes that the fee, although minimal, will encourage users to think twice before tweeting, potentially increasing the quality of discussion on the platform.

Implementation and Response

The new fee will only apply to accounts created after the policy was implemented, ensuring existing users can continue to tweet without any charges. Users will have to make a one-time payment to unlock the tweeting capability and the feature will be available globally.

The response to Musk’s plan has been mixed. Some users applaud the effort to clean up the platform, while others criticize it for potentially limiting free speech and excluding those unwilling or unable to pay the fee. Critics argue that the move could create a barrier for users from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Financial and Social Implications

Financial analysts are watching closely to see how this new fee affects X’s revenue and user engagement. “It’s a risky move,” says tech industry analyst Lila Thompson. “Although this can reduce spam and increase revenue, it can also discourage new users from joining, which can stunt growth.”

Social media experts also consider the broader implications. “Social platforms have a responsibility to promote open communication,” says social media ethics expert Dr. Helen Ramirez. “This move by X could set a precedent that could impact other platforms, potentially changing the landscape of social media interactions.”

Also Read: Salesforce Looks to Informatica to Boost Data Capabilities

Looking Ahead

As soon as this policy is implemented, the tech community and X’s global user base will be eager to see its impact. Will this lead to a cleaner, more engaging platform as Musk hopes, or could it hinder the growth and vibrancy that social media is known for? Only time will tell whether Musk’s gambit pays off, but one thing is clear: The social media landscape is rapidly evolving, with X at the forefront of significant changes.

Elon Musk’s leadership has undoubtedly brought a new level of unpredictability and innovation to X, and his latest move adds another chapter to the ongoing saga of one of the most closely-watched companies in the world.

The Complete Guide to X Premium: Features, Benefits, and How to Subscribe

The Complete Guide to X Premium: Features, Benefits, and How to Subscribe

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In a move that signals a major change in the way social media platforms monetize their services, X (formerly known as Twitter) has launched its own premium subscription service, X Premium. This new tier aims to enhance the user experience by offering exclusive features, improved functionalities, and a more personalized way of interacting with the platform. Here’s everything you need to know about X Premium, including its benefits and how to get the most from your subscription.

What is X Premium?

The Complete Guide to X Premium: Features, Benefits, and How to Subscribe

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X Premium is a subscription-based service offered by the social media giant, designed for users who want an enhanced experience on the platform. By subscribing to X Premium, users unlock features and benefits that are not available to free account holders. These enhancements range from an ad-free browsing experience to more sophisticated analytics tools, aimed at both regular users and professionals who use the platform for business and content creation.

Key Features and Benefits

  1. Ad-Free Experience: One of the most sought-after benefits of X Premium is the ability to browse the platform without any interruptions from ads. This ensures a cleaner and more focused user experience.

  2. Enhanced Analytics: Subscribers gain access to advanced analytics tools that provide in-depth information about their account performance, audience engagement, and content reach. This feature is especially useful for creators and businesses who want to optimize their social media strategy.

  3. Exclusive Content: X Premium members have exclusive access to premium content from popular creators and influencers, including articles, videos, and live streams that are not available to non-subscribers.

  4. Priority Support: Subscribers benefit from priority customer support, ensuring that any issues or queries are resolved promptly.

  5. Customization Options: Additional customization options allow users to personalize their feed, notifications, and overall app appearance, giving them control over their browsing experience.

How to Subscribe to X Premium

Subscribing to X Premium is straightforward. Users can sign up directly through the X app or website by navigating to the settings menu and selecting the X Premium option. From there, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the subscription process. Payment can be made using various methods, including credit card, PayPal, or other digital wallets, depending on the region.

Making the Most Out of Your Subscription

To fully benefit from X Premium, users should explore all the features and customization options available. Engaging with exclusive content and using advanced analytics tools can provide valuable insights and grow your social media presence. Additionally, taking advantage of the ad-free experience and priority support can significantly improve your overall experience on the platform.

Also Read: Stealth AI Startup Aims to Speed Up Global Hiring After $27 Million Fundraise

Conclusion

X Premium represents a significant evolution in how users interact with social media platforms, offering a more refined, personalized, and enhanced experience. Whether you’re a social media enthusiast, a content creator, or a business professional, X Premium provides a suite of features designed to cater to your needs. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, services like X Premium underscore the importance of user experience in the competitive world of social media.

Why Has X (Twitter) Blocked Searches For 'Taylor Swift'?

Why Has X (Twitter) Blocked Searches For ‘Taylor Swift’?

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In a recent move, Twitter has taken the step to temporarily block searches related to Taylor Swift on its platform. This action comes in response to an influx of explicit and digitally fabricated images of the renowned singer circulating on the site, as reported by The Wall Street Journal.

Why Has X (Twitter) Blocked Searches For 'Taylor Swift'?

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Users attempting to search for Taylor Swift on Twitter are greeted with a message stating, “Posts not loading right now” along with a suggestion to “Try again later.” This measure aims to curb the spread of the offensive content and protect users from encountering inappropriate material.

In an effort to combat the dissemination of fake images, loyal fans of Taylor Swift flooded the platform with authentic photos of the singer. The intention behind this move was to drown out the false content in search results and restore the platform’s integrity.

Additionally, Swift’s fanbase took proactive steps to flag accounts responsible for sharing the counterfeit images. Their vigilance contributed to the suspension or restriction of numerous accounts involved in the distribution of inappropriate content.

Twitter's Commitment to Safety

Joe Benarroch, head of business operations at Twitter, emphasized that the decision to block searches is a temporary measure enacted with a focus on user safety. Twitter reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a safe environment for users by implementing a zero-tolerance policy towards such objectionable content.

Also Read: Next-Generation Siri in iOS 18: ChatGPT Style Capabilities Unleashed

Despite the suspension of several accounts, some of the offending images persist on the platform. Twitter continues to work diligently to address the issue and ensure that users can engage with the platform without encountering inappropriate or harmful content.

Twitter’s temporary block on searches related to Taylor Swift underscores the platform’s dedication to prioritizing user safety and combating the spread of false and explicit content. Through collective efforts from both the platform and Swift’s dedicated fanbase, steps are being taken to mitigate the impact of harmful material and uphold the integrity of the online community.

Elon Musk's Controversial Drug Habits Are a Growing Concern for Tesla's Board

Elon Musk’s Controversial Drug Habits Are a Growing Concern for Tesla’s Board

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The revelation of Elon Musk’s history of drug use, highlighted in The Wall Street Journal, has yet again thrown Tesla’s board into a maelstrom of uncertainty. The board, primarily composed of Musk’s close allies, now grapples with the dilemma of addressing the financial and legal risks imposed on both shareholders and the company due to Musk’s reported recreational drug use, including the ongoing consumption of ketamine.

A Troubled Past for Tesla's Board

This isn’t the first time Tesla’s board has faced challenges tied to Musk’s actions. Shareholder dissatisfaction arose over Tesla’s succession planning, and allegations surfaced that Musk’s commitments to other companies diverted his focus, leading to a chaotic takeover of Twitter Inc. rebranded as X Corp. in 2022, causing a massive loss in market capitalization for Tesla.

Elon Musk's Controversial Drug Habits Are a Growing Concern for Tesla's Board

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The board weathered storms from litigation linked to Musk’s failed attempt to take Tesla private in 2018, his controversial remarks about a cave explorer, and legal battles regarding hefty compensations and acquisitions, notably the $55 billion package for Musk and the $2.6 billion SolarCity acquisition.

Legal Ramifications and Financial Implications

The latest report alleging Musk’s use of LSD, cocaine, ecstasy, and psychedelic mushrooms, coupled with previous incidents like smoking marijuana on a podcast, poses legal threats to Tesla. Experts suggest that tying evidence of drug use to Musk’s role as an executive could fuel class-action lawsuits from disgruntled shareholders, further entangling the board in litigation.

Though Musk’s drug habits might potentially affect his other ventures, particularly SpaceX, Tesla remains the cornerstone of his wealth. His significant stake in Tesla constitutes a substantial portion of his net worth, raising concerns about the impact of his actions on the company’s stability and future.

Board Dynamics and Challenges Ahead

The board composition, largely comprising long-standing members close to Musk, faces scrutiny. Challenges emerged over re-electing members lacking industry expertise and concerns about objectivity. Despite changes like appointing independent directors, questions persist about the board’s effectiveness in addressing governance issues.

Directors like James Murdoch, Kathleen Wilson-Thompson, Joe Gebbia, and JB Straubel, who share personal relationships or history with Musk, add another layer of complexity to the board dynamics, raising questions about independence and decision-making.

Also Read: The Rise of ChatGPT on Android: A New Challenger for Google Assistant

The Road Ahead for Tesla

While Musk’s reported drug use may briefly impact Tesla’s shares, analysts believe that long-term investors will likely weather this storm, given Tesla’s historical performance despite Musk’s controversies. The stock’s meteoric rise despite previous incidents suggests a trend of investors choosing to navigate through Musk’s controversies for potential gains.

As Tesla navigates this latest challenge, the board faces mounting pressure to address governance concerns and ensure stability amid Musk’s ongoing personal controversies, which continue to intersect with Tesla’s reputation and future prospects.