Imagine: Meta makes its AI image generator available as a standalone tool
Meta has separated Imagine, its AI-powered image generation tool, from its chatbot by giving the service its own dedicated website. In breaking the image generator out of its messaging apps, Meta will be hoping to see faster uptake and increased interest.
The idea behind Imagine is much like the plethora of other AI image generators. Using Meta's own Emu technology, it will create four images based on text prompts and descriptions provided by users. Images are securely watermarked to make it difficult to pass off an AI image as a photo or a human-made creation. But the launch of the service will prove controversial as it will forced interested users into creating a Meta account.
Facebook Messenger gets default end-to-end encryption
The latest update to Facebook Messenger (aka Messenger), announced by Loredana Crisan (a Vice President at Meta), is quite monumental from a digital privacy perspective. You see, Meta has shifted to default end-to-end encryption for all personal chats and calls on Messenger, ensuring that communications are secure from sender to receiver, with no possibility of interception, even by Meta itself.
This enhancement goes beyond just encryption. Users can now edit messages up to 15 minutes after sending, offering flexibility in conversations. The update also introduces an improved disappearing messages feature, now lasting 24 hours, with a clearer interface to indicate when it is active.
Logitech G ASTRO A50 X LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset + Base Station now available for pre-order
Logitech G has unveiled its latest gaming product -- the ASTRO A50 X LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset + Base Station. The headset is notable for its PLAYSYNC technology, which allows effortless connectivity and switching between XBOX, PS5, and PC with just a single button press.
Another key feature is the PRO-G Graphene Audio Driver technology, which enhances gaming audio performance. The 24-bit LIGHTSPEED Wireless technology ensures pro-grade performance on console platforms.
Generative AI: Approaching the crossroads of innovation and ethics
As the recent hype and excitement around Generative AI (GenAI) begins to settle somewhat, we are entering a critical phase where innovation must be more closely aligned with ethical considerations. The impact of AI is already evident in various aspects of life, pointing to a future where, ideally, its use is not only widespread but also guided by principled decision-making. In this context, the emphasis should be on using AI to address appropriate problems, not just any problem.
In particular, the early iterations of GenAI platforms have demonstrated their potential but also the need for careful application. In many organizations, GenAI has already improved both customer and employee experiences, with advanced chatbots capable of mimicking human interaction taking automated customer service to a whole new level by providing quick and relevant responses. In an ideal world, this use case highlights AI’s dual purpose: to enhance human capabilities while maintaining a focus on human-centred experiences.
Insider threats: Don't underestimate the dangers within
As we look ahead to the coming year, Trellix Advanced Research Centre recently shared its predictions for 2024. Among them, it highlighted that as connected devices continue to proliferate, and hybrid and remote workforces persist, insider threats will only continue to grow.
This expected increase is especially worrying as research has already shown that breaches caused by employees have seen a 47 percent increase over the last two years, whether accidental or malicious. Annually, 34 percent of all businesses will suffer an insider threat incident, costing an estimated eye-watering $15.38m per occurrence, so the predicted increase is particularly frightening.
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84 percent of organizations combine IT and security operations in one analytics tool
A new survey of 500 full-time security decision-makers and practitioners finds that 84 percent indicate their organization combines security and data operations into a single analytics tool.
However, the study from Observe shows more than half of the security relevant data that goes into observability systems needs to be transformed before it can be used.
Only 19 percent of manufacturing leaders are confident of their cyber defenses
New research into the manufacturing threat landscape from Trustwave finds that just 19 percent of manufacturing industry leaders are confident in their cyber defense mechanisms.
The research documents the attack flow utilized by threat groups, exposing their tactics, techniques, and procedures. From email-borne malware to the exploitation of SMB and DCOM protocols for lateral movement, these persistent threats pose significant risks to the manufacturing sector.
2023 Call for Code winners announced
The sixth annual Call for Code Challenge launched back in February with a focus on developing AI-powered technology projects that address sustainability to help fight climate change.
Today sees IBM, United Nations Human Rights, and the Linux Foundation announce the winners in the challenge's three categories -- Developer, University, and Independent Software Vendor/Startup.
Wikipedia reveals its most popular articles of 2023
Wikipedia, the world's largest free online encyclopedia, has unveiled the most popular articles of 2023. The list provides a unique snapshot of the global events, personalities, and trends that captured the world's attention throughout the year.
The data, released by the Wikimedia Foundation, reveals a diverse range of topics that were most sought after by the site's billions of users worldwide.
SOUNDPEATS GoFree2 open-ear wireless headphones get HUGE launch discount
Just in time for Christmas shopping, SOUNDPEATS today launches its newest product: the GoFree2 headphones. These have an open-ear design; a feature that enables users to immerse themselves in their favorite music while maintaining awareness of their surroundings. This design is beneficial for safety-conscious users who want to enjoy their tunes without being cut off from the world around them.
At the heart of the GoFree2 are its 16.2mm dynamic drivers, complemented by advanced low-frequency enhancement technology. These components work together to produce a sound that promises to not only be crisp and detailed, but also rich in bass. You can expect a dynamic audio experience.
Watch Windows 12 (2024) being installed
There's been a lot of talk about Windows 12, Microsoft's inevitable successor to Windows 11. Most recently, my colleague Sofia Wyciślik-Wilson reported that Microsoft plans to release the new operating system in June 2024, to ride the AI PC wave.
Two months ago, Intel let slip about Microsoft’s 'Windows refresh' plans, believed to refer to Windows 12. If you’re wondering what the new OS might look like, we have an idea.
Microsoft finally confirms Windows bug that renames printers and forcibly installs the HP Smart app
If you have noticed that Windows suddenly thinks you have an HP LaserJet M101-M106, you are not alone. The same is true if you've spotted that the HP Smart app has installed itself on your computer.
These are issues that have been affecting users of Windows 10 and Windows 11 for a little while, but Microsoft has only just acknowledged that a problem exists.
Kensington launches SD5800T Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 Quad Video Docking Station
Kensington has launched the SD5800T Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 Quad Video Docking Station, which can support up to four 4K monitors simultaneously. It offers a zero-footprint mounting option and integrated lock slots for added security. The dock, which can be oriented horizontally or vertically, features up to 98W of power delivery.
In terms of monitor support, the SD5800T provides dual HDMI and DisplayPort (DP) ports, accommodating various setups. This includes quad 4K @ 60Hz or single 8K @ 60Hz with DSC enabled on Windows laptops, and dual 6K @ 60Hz on certain MacBook models.
Cisco launches AI security assistant for enterprises
As cyberattacks continue to evolve so defenses need to change to keep up. In many cases that means adopting AI.
Enterprise networking and security company Cisco is the latest to embrace this with launch of Cisco AI Assistant for Security.
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