Category: Science

  • Microsoft Office Suite suffers severe disruptions from DDoS attacks

    Microsoft Office Suite suffers severe disruptions from DDoS attacks

    In early June, Microsoft’s flagship office suite, including Outlook email and OneDrive file-sharing apps, faced significant service disruptions. 

    These disruptions were caused by distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks conducted by a shadowy hacktivist group known as Anonymous Sudan.

    Microsoft initially refrained from providing details about the attacks, but they later confirmed the involvement of the Anonymous Sudan group.

    However, the company did not disclose the extent of customer impact or whether the disruptions were global. 

    Read also: Regulators seek to block Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard

    The DDoS Attacks and Microsoft’s Response

    Recently, Microsoft released a blog post in response to a request from The Associated Press, revealing that the DDoS attacks had temporarily affected the availability of some services. 

    The attackers, aiming for disruption and publicity, utilized rented cloud infrastructure, virtual private networks, and botnets of zombie computers worldwide to bombard Microsoft servers. 

    Microsoft clarified that there was no evidence of customer data compromise or unauthorized access.

    Uncertainty Surrounding the Impact

    While DDoS attacks primarily cause inconvenience by rendering websites inaccessible, security experts emphasize that successful interruptions to the services of software giants like Microsoft can disrupt global commerce. 

    However, without concrete information from Microsoft regarding the scale of the impact, it is challenging to gauge the precise consequences. 

    Cybersecurity researcher Jake Williams, a former hacker for the National Security Agency, noted that while some resources were inaccessible, others remained unaffected. 

    This lack of clarity regarding the customer impact underscores the significance of the attack.

    Attribution and Possible Connections

    Microsoft identified the attackers as Storm-1359, a name assigned to groups whose affiliations are yet to be determined. 

    Analysts suspect Anonymous Sudan may have connections to Russian hacking groups, including the Kremlin-affiliated Killnet. 

    Anonymous Sudan collaborates with these pro-Kremlin groups to disseminate pro-Russian propaganda and disinformation. 

    Recorded Future’s cybersecurity firm highlights that Anonymous Sudan’s claims of being based in Sudan are likely false. 

    The attribution process can be time-consuming and challenging, particularly when faced with skilled adversaries.

    The Persistence of DDoS Attacks

    The DDoS attacks on Microsoft’s flagship office suite caused significant disruptions, highlighting the vulnerability of software service giants to such attacks.

    Edward Amoroso, CEO of TAG Cyber and an NYU professor, emphasized that DDoS attacks remain a significant and unsolved risk. 

    He highlighted the need for discussion on this matter, noting that Microsoft’s difficulties in mitigating the attack indicate a single point of failure. 

    To combat such attacks effectively, it is crucial to distribute services extensively, such as through content distribution networks.

    Duration and Impacts of the Microsoft 365 Office Suite Disruptions

    The disruptions to the Microsoft 365 office suite had serious consequences, with outage and problem reports peaking at 18,000 on the Downdetector tracker. 

    Microsoft acknowledged the impact on several services, including Outlook, Microsoft Teams, SharePoint Online, and OneDrive for Business. 

    The attacks persisted throughout the week, and on June 9, Microsoft confirmed that its Azure cloud computing platform had also been affected. 

    BleepingComputer.com reported a global outage of the cloud-based OneDrive file-hosting service on June 8. However, desktop OneDrive clients remained unaffected during the incident.

    The incident underscores the ongoing challenge posed by DDoS attacks, which remain a significant risk in the cybersecurity landscape. To mitigate the impact of such attacks, companies must adopt distributed service architectures.

  • Intel announces rebranding of CPUs, prepares to launch Meteor Lake 

    Intel announces rebranding of CPUs, prepares to launch Meteor Lake 

    Intel, the renowned technology giant, has announced a comprehensive rebranding initiative for its central processing units (CPUs) in preparation for the highly anticipated release of its upcoming Meteor Lake chips.

    Bernard Fernandes, the Director of Global Communications at Intel, recently took to Twitter to tease some significant branding changes for Intel’s CPUs in preparation for the upcoming launch of Meteor Lake-based chips.

    The rebranding strategy includes the introduction of the Core and Core Ultra families, the evolution of the Intel Evo Edition platform, the launch of the Intel vPro Enterprise and Intel vPro Essentials brands for business-based PCs.

     The purpose of this rebranding is to simplify Intel’s product line and provide consumers with a clearer understanding of the distinctions between different processor offerings. 

    Read also: NITDA to initiate Code of Practice on Artificial Intelligence (AI)

    Intel’s Confirmation

    Today, Intel has officially confirmed these changes, unveiling its plans to rebrand its main consumer CPUs into the Core and Core Ultra families in the latter half of this year. 

    This rebranding will coincide with the release of the Meteor Lake chips, amplifying the excitement and anticipation among tech enthusiasts.

    Streamlining Branding for Enhanced Accessibility

    Intel’s decision to rebrand its CPUs is part of its ongoing effort to streamline its product line and enhance accessibility for consumers. 

    This strategic move follows the discontinuation of the Pentium and Celeron branding for mobile chips, which were subsequently labeled as Intel Processor. 

    By simplifying the branding and eliminating the longstanding “i” prefix from its chip names, Intel aims to create a more intuitive and user-friendly experience for its customers.

    Introducing the Core and Core Ultra Families

    The rebranded CPU lineup will consist of two main families: Core and Core Ultra. 

    The Core family will represent the standard option, delivering reliable performance and meeting the needs of everyday computing tasks. 

    On the other hand, the Core Ultra family will offer enhanced performance and advanced features, catering to power users, professionals, and enthusiasts who demand cutting-edge capabilities from their processors. 

    This clear differentiation between the two families will enable consumers to easily identify the CPU that best suits their requirements.

    Evolution of the Intel Evo Edition Platform

    In addition to the Core and Core Ultra brands, Intel is also evolving the Intel Evo Edition platform, which is dedicated to Evo-verified laptop designs. 

    The Intel Evo Edition platform is characterized by laptops that have undergone rigorous testing to ensure exceptional battery life, rapid charging capabilities, and other advanced features. 

    By further developing and refining the Intel Evo Edition brand, Intel aims to provide a trusted and recognizable standard for consumers seeking high-performance laptops that meet their productivity and mobility needs.

    Regulators seek to block Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard

    New Intel vPro Brands for Business PCs

    Recognizing the distinct requirements of business-based PCs, Intel is launching two new brands: Intel vPro Enterprise and Intel vPro Essentials. 

    These brands will serve as markers for PCs designed specifically for enterprise use, offering enhanced security, manageability, and productivity features tailored to meet the demands of modern workplaces.

    With the introduction of the Intel vPro Enterprise and Intel vPro Essentials brands, Intel seeks to solidify its position as a leading provider of solutions for business computing needs.

    Intel’s rebranding strategy, unveiled in anticipation of the upcoming Meteor Lake launch, demonstrates the company’s commitment to simplifying its product line and enhancing consumer understanding.

    By introducing the Core and Core Ultra families, evolving the Intel Evo Edition platform, and launching the Intel vPro Enterprise and Intel vPro Essentials brands, Intel aims to provide a professional and easily navigable experience for customers. With these changes, Intel reinforces its position as a pioneering force in the CPU market, poised to deliver powerful, feature-rich processors. 

  • Regulators seek to block Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard

    Regulators seek to block Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard

    Regulators in the United States have taken steps to prevent Microsoft from finalizing its $69 billion purchase of Activision Blizzard, the publisher of the popular gaming franchise, “Call of Duty.”

    The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) raised concerns that the deal, which would be the largest in the history of the video game industry, could result in a substantial reduction in competition within the sector. 

    To address these concerns, the FTC has requested a judge to issue a preliminary injunction that would prevent the completion of the acquisition until a trial is held in August.

    Read Also: Microsoft releases Windows Copilot for Windows 11 users 

    UK Opposition and EU Approval

    The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) had previously blocked the deal in April, citing worries about its potential negative impact on competition and innovation and the reduction of choices available to gamers. 

    Microsoft and Activision voiced their disappointment with the decision and stated their intention to appeal. 

    Meanwhile, the European Commission approved the acquisition, taking into consideration Microsoft’s offer of 10-year free licensing deals. 

    These agreements promise European consumers and cloud game streaming services access to Activision’s PC and console games, thus ensuring fair competition in the market.

     

    Regulatory Divide and Microsoft’s Response

    The global response to Microsoft’s proposed takeover of Activision has been divided. 

    With regulatory approval needed from the UK, the EU, and the US, conflicting decisions have complicated the situation. 

    The EU’s decision to approve the acquisition came as a surprise to some, while the UK’s opposition to the deal was based on concerns regarding reduced innovation and choice for gamers. 

    Microsoft’s President, Brad Smith, expressed disappointment with the UK’s decision, calling it the company’s “darkest day” in its four decades of operations in the country. 

    In response to the FTC’s request, Smith welcomed the opportunity to present Microsoft’s case in federal court and emphasized the belief that expediting the legal process in the US would ultimately foster more choice and competition in the market.

     

    Insights from Experts

    William Kovacic, a former chair of the FTC and non-executive director at the UK’s CMA, shed light on the FTC’s concerns about Microsoft and Activision potentially proceeding with the deal despite the UK’s opposition. 

    The FTC’s move to request a judge to halt the acquisition demonstrates their intent to prevent any interim harm. Although the EU’s decision to approve the acquisition offers some hope for completion, Kovacic acknowledged that the chances of the deal being finalized have diminished.

    EU investigates Microsoft’s anti competition activities

    Microsoft’s Strategy and the Future of Gaming

    For Microsoft, the purchase of Activision, which also includes the game Candy Crush, holds significant importance as the company aims to catch up with its main competitor, Sony. 

    This strategic investment can be seen as Microsoft’s vision for the future of gaming, with a focus on its Xbox Game Pass service. Often referred to as the “Netflix of games,” this service allows players to subscribe to libraries of games and stream them through cloud gaming, diverging from the traditional model of one-time game purchases.

    Microsoft believes that the future of gaming lies in subscription-based access rather than individual purchases, reflecting its commitment to cloud gaming and expanding consumer choice in the market.

    As the legal battle unfolds, the future of the acquisition remains uncertain, with experts noting both possibilities for completion and further setbacks. 

    Meanwhile, Microsoft’s strategic focus on subscription-based gaming through services like Xbox Game Pass highlights the company’s long-term vision for the industry and its commitment to offering innovative gaming experiences to consumers.

  • Artificial intelligence will revolutionize education, says ChatGPT CEO

    Artificial intelligence will revolutionize education, says ChatGPT CEO

    Founder of ChatGPT and CEO of OpenAI, Sam Altman, has compared the impact of AI on education to that of calculators, stating that while AI tools will revolutionize education, they will not replace the process of learning itself.

    Altman defended the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in education during a talk at Keio University in Tokyo recently.

    Altman acknowledged that the introduction of AI tools, such as ChatGPT, would likely change the way students approach certain tasks, such as take-home essays. 

    He described these tools as a new educational instrument, similar to calculators for words. As a result, he emphasized the need for changes in teaching methods and evaluation processes.

    “We have a new tool in education. Sort of like a calculator for words,” he said. “And the way we teach people is going to have to change and the way we evaluate students is going to have to change.” He said.

    Altman’s visit to Japan was part of a global tour where he engaged with business and political leaders to discuss the potential and regulation of AI. 

    He consistently advocated for the development of AI regulations, highlighting the risks associated with the technology.

    Altman expressed optimism about new regulatory frameworks for AI following his meetings with world leaders, although he did not provide specific details. Nonetheless, he reiterated the importance of safety measures and regulation, emphasizing that the current AI tools are still in their early stages compared to what will be available in the future.

    Read also: Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, ChatGPT visits Lagos, Nigeria

    How students may misuse the tools

    While it has garnered attention for its ability to generate human-like conversations, writing, and translations rapidly, it has also raised concerns in various sectors, including education, as many worry that students may misuse the tool or rely on it instead of producing original work.

    There are several potential ways in which students may misuse AI tools in an educational setting:

    Plagiarism: Students could use AI tools to generate content or essays without proper attribution or originality, leading to plagiarism. They may rely heavily on AI-generated text without fully understanding the concepts or doing their own research.

    Lack of critical thinking: Depending solely on AI-generated answers without engaging in critical thinking can hinder students’ ability to develop their own problem-solving skills and analytical thinking. They may become overly reliant on AI tools for providing solutions without fully understanding the underlying principles.

    Gaming the system: Students may attempt to manipulate AI tools to achieve desired outcomes, such as using specific keywords or phrases to get favourable responses. This can lead to a superficial understanding of the subject matter and undermine the learning process.

    Over-reliance on correct answers: AI tools can provide accurate answers, but they may not always provide the necessary context or explanations. Students who rely solely on AI-generated responses may miss out on deeper learning and conceptual understanding.

    Lack of creativity and originality: AI tools can assist in generating content, but they may stifle students’ creativity and original thinking. By relying too heavily on AI-generated ideas, students may struggle to develop their own unique perspectives and innovative approaches.

    Educators and institutions should be aware of these potential pitfalls and implement strategies to guide students in the responsible use of AI tools. This can involve educating students about the limitations of AI, promoting critical thinking skills, encouraging independent research and analysis, and emphasizing the importance of originality and academic integrity.

    OpenAI releases ChatGPT for iOS, Android users must wait

    Concerns about job displacement

    Regarding concerns about job displacement, Altman attempted to alleviate fears by stating that while some jobs may become obsolete, he believed the impact on employment would not be as significant as anticipated. He anticipated the emergence of new job categories, asserting that most predictions about job displacement caused by AI are inaccurate.

  • The new drive in technology, VR or AR

    The new drive in technology, VR or AR

    The competition to make the best VR or AR product has begun, marking the start of a new age. The AI war is still going on, and we’ve moved on to a new phase. This is how technology grows.

    Apple’s Vision Pro is a new spatial computer that has sent shock waves through the tech industry.

    This amazing product not only goes beyond what a regular headset can do (it’s not even called a headset), but it also has a wide range of features that you couldn’t even think of.

    Meta unveiled the Meta Quest 3 AR/VR device days before Apple did, sending the tech industry into an uprising. Apple’s surprise killed Meta’s buzz.

    We examined and contrasted both devices to help you choose.

    Read also: Apple unveils $3,500 augmented reality headset at Conference

    VR Price and Availability

    Even though Meta has released two versions of the Oculus Quest VR gear and plans to release the Quest 3 in the near future, the prices of these devices may not add up to the price of Apple’s Vision Pro, which costs $3,499.

    The Oculus Quest 2 and Quest Pro currently cost around $300 and $999, respectively, and the Meta Quest 3 is expected to cost $499. This big price gap could be a turnoff for many people, but it could also be a way for these two tech giants to market their products.

    Apple’s Vision Pro might be aimed at tech-savvy VR/AR fans and companies, while Meta’s main Quest line might be aimed at consumers. When reviewing what each company has to offer, the different prices may be just right for each product.

    If you’re interested in VR or AR and want to buy the Apple Vision Pro, you have a lot of time to save up because it won’t be on sale until early next year. On the other hand, Meta Quest 3 is expected to be released later this year.

    Battery durability

    The battery life on both the Meta’s Quest 3 and Apple’s Vision Pro is impressive, with the former offering up to 2 hours of nonstop use and the latter offering a prolonged 3 hours of operation. In terms of flexibility, the Apple Vision Pro is better than the Meta’s Quest because it has a plug-in pack for an extra battery.

    The Quest 2’s Elite Strap, which effectively doubles the battery life, gives users the option to increase the device’s uptime. But Meta hasn’t told you everything you need to know about how well the much-anticipated Quest 3 battery works. Who knows? It could just be a battery put in.

    Usage

    The use of natural intuitive models like hand tracking, eye tracking, and voice control is a great thing about the stand-alone Apple Vision Pro. Apple doesn’t include a controller or motion wand with the Vision Pro like it does with other VR and AR glasses.

    On the other hand, Meta Quest devices have controllers with common features like a thumbstick, touchpad, touch-sensitive buttons, and tracking sensors. They are also smaller and take up less space. Both headsets have stereo speakers and can send sound in different directions, but the Apple Vision Pro goes a step further by having audio pods built in to support spatial audio. For work, it also works with the Magic Keyboard and Magic Trackpad.

    Hardware Design

    In terms of size, the Quest 3 is said to be 40% more attractive than the Quest 2. But it looks more plastic and bigger than the other one. Apple’s Vision Pro has a 3D screen and a digital crown on the side. The Vision Pro from Apple has more buttons for features, but the Quest 3 has more.

    The Vision Pro’s sleek and simple design, which looks like ski goggles, is a breath of fresh air for people who are tired of using big devices. It’s comfy because the straps can be bent. There are three straps on Meta Quest 3. Meta Quest 2 is 40 times less thick.

    The Apple Vision Pro has an unusual external screen view. Laminated glass forms this distinctive feature. It uses human presence to seamlessly shift consumers from virtual to real. This is new to VR and AR headsets.

    The Apple Vision Pro has an external screen, unlike the Meta Quest 3. The Meta Quest 3, aimed at average customers, has three pill-shaped holes with camera sensors instead of a screen. Full-color passthrough allows hybrid reality.

    Display features

    Meta Quest 3:

    Display Features: Meta Quest 3 introduces an LCD display with two options:

    Resolution (both eyes): 4128 x 2208 pixels

    Resolution (per eye): 2064 x 2208 pixels

     

    Vision Pro:

    Display Features: The Vision Pro features two micro-OLED displays with the following specifications:

    Resolution (per eye): More than 4K

    Total pixel count: 23 million pixels.

    Both devices use pancake lenses.

    Software design

    The next-generation Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 chipset will power the Meta Quest 3. A four-camera array with two side cameras and a depth sensor will improve its tracking.

    The M2 processor will boost performance in the Apple Vision Pro. Apple will add an R1 chip to handle data from the 12 cameras and five sensors on the M2 chip.

    Meta Quest 3’s Android OS has a large collection of apps and games. VisionOS, Apple’s first “spatial operating system,” powers Apple Vision Pro. It has apps for iPads and iPhones.

    Meta launches the Quest 3 VR headset

    Requirements and registrations

    Apple Vision Pro is for productivity and entertainment, while Meta Quest 3 is for gamers. Meta Quest 3 may take longer to collect VR-friendly apps because of its focus on 3D reality.

    FaceTime is easier with the Apple Vision Pro. The Apple Vision Pro still supports Apple Arcade games.

    Apple Vision Pro analyzes the user’s face during sign-in to create a 3D avatar. The Meta Quest 3 requires a Meta account, whereas the Apple Vision Pro may need an Apple Optic ID for identification.

    Lastly, we can’t tell you which product to go for because they’re both great. The trademarks for Reality Pro and Reality One have been filed, according to a 2022 report from TomsGuide. Also, the fact that a new product called Vision Pro is coming out soon suggests that there might be a Pro version or an improved version of the Lite version.

    We can’t wait for more exciting new goods to come out, even if some of their features may change over the course of the year. Meta Quest 3 is making a new breed of series, and it looks like Apple is going in the same direction.

  • Uganda’s Zofi Cash secures $1m pre-Seed funding to scale Africa

    Uganda’s Zofi Cash secures $1m pre-Seed funding to scale Africa

    Zofi Cash, a Ugandan fintech firm, got $1 million from Advancly in a pre-seed fundraising round to enable earned-wage access for Africans.

    This boosts Zofi Cash and shows Africa’s earned-wage access platforms’ potential. The firm, founded in 2021 by Paul Kirungi and Gordon Turibamwe, intends to change how African workers receive their salaries.

    With prices rising, many industrious Americans struggle to make ends meet each month. 

    They need to take out loans from companies or traditional institutions due to this significant discrepancy. The bank loan rules and employer cash flow constraints are worrisome. Loan sharks take advantage of the weak by demanding excessive interest rates and employing unlawful tactics to get their money back.

    Read also: Egypt’s Fintech giant Fawry partners with Infobip

    As a solution to this important problem, earned-wage access companies have become a bright spot in Africa over the past five years. 

    These new businesses make it possible for workers to get a part of their pay before payday. Zofi Cash is at the forefront of this trend in Uganda. It uses an easy-to-use web app to offer this important service. Employees can easily ask for up to 50% of their monthly pay as an advance, which is quickly paid into their bank account or mobile money wallet if their boss agrees.

    More About Zofi Cash


    Zofi Cash has helped people move over $300,000 in just a year, despite the fact that the world of finance is complicated. This accomplishment has been a key factor in getting investors’ attention and raising a lot of money. The CEO says that they were successful because they worked hard to make sure that no one had to wait until payday to get their due pay.

    At the moment, Zofi Cash has a long list of over 20,000 eager workers who want to use their game-changing services but have to wait. But because the company only has so many resources, it has only been able to help about 3,000 people so far. Zofi Cash recently got $1 million in funding, all of which came in the form of debt. With this money, Zofi Cash will be able to reach a lot more workers who need financial flexibility and grow quickly.

    The local rival, Qiribu, which entered the market a year before them, poses a serious threat to Zofi Cash, but their expansive vision goes beyond Uganda. Zofi Cash will run into other strong players in the industry, like Workpay and Earnipay, as they try to reach their goal of making it easy for employees all over the African region to access their earned wages.

    The rise of earn-wage fintech startups in recent years shows that people in Africa are becoming more aware of and asking for financial inclusion. 

    Google’s AI programme helps African health-tech firms

    These innovative businesses are not only changing how workers get their pay, but they are also giving people the power to get out of the grip of predatory loans.

    As the African fintech environment continues to change, the life-changing effects of earned-wage access platforms are likely to improve a lot of people’s lives, boost economic growth, and give the whole continent a better future.

  • US highlights measures to tackle challenges of AI

    US highlights measures to tackle challenges of AI

    The White House has revealed a set of actions aimed at tackling the challenges associated with artificial intelligence (AI), prompted by the growing popularity of tools like ChatGPT.

    The government also has increasing concerns regarding potential risks such as discrimination, misinformation, and privacy.

    According to the White House, the US government intends to implement policies that shape the procurement and utilization of AI systems by federal agencies. 

    This move is expected to have a significant impact on the AI market, as well as regulate how Americans interact with AI in various government-related contexts such as websites, security checkpoints, and other settings.

    Read also: Google AI pioneer resigns, warns of Chatbot dangers 

    Concerns associated with AI

    The White House also announced that the National Science Foundation plans to allocate $140 million towards promoting AI research and development. 

    These funds will be utilized to establish research centres dedicated to applying AI solutions to critical areas such as climate change, agriculture, and public health, as outlined by the administration.

    On the same day, Vice President Kamala Harris and other officials from the administration held a meeting with the CEOs of Google, Microsoft, OpenAI (the creator of ChatGPT), and Anthropic. 

    The purpose of the meeting was to emphasize the significance of ethical and responsible development of artificial intelligence (AI). Coincidentally, the meeting took place alongside a UK government inquiry which aims to examine the risks and benefits associated with AI.

    During a conference call prior to the meeting, a senior official from the Biden administration informed reporters about the essential obligation of tech companies to ensure the safety, security, and protection of people’s rights before deploying or releasing their AI products to the public.

    The officials on the call highlighted several risks that the general public faces due to the widespread adoption of AI tools. These risks encompass potential misuse of AI-generated deepfakes and dissemination of misinformation that could undermine democratic processes. 

    The White House’s concerns also include job displacement caused by increasing automation, biased decision-making resulting from algorithmic systems, safety hazards associated with autonomous vehicles, and the threat of malicious hackers leveraging AI-powered techniques.

    In a statement issued after the meeting, the White House conveyed that President Biden and Vice President Harris emphasized the need to address both existing and potential risks posed by AI to individuals, society, and national security in order to realize the benefits of AI advancements fully. 

    The statement also mentioned that President Biden stressed the fundamental responsibility of companies to ensure the safety and security of their products before deploying them or making them accessible to the public.

     

    Tech companies to be held responsible under US laws

    According to a statement from the White House regarding the meeting, Vice President Harris emphasized to the companies that they bear an “ethical, moral, and legal responsibility” to ensure the safety and security of their products. 

    The statement also indicated that the companies would be held accountable under existing US laws. Furthermore, Harris hinted at the possibility of future regulations in the rapidly evolving AI industry.

    In a statement, Harris expressed the need for collaboration among government, private companies, and society at large to address these challenges. 

    She and President Biden are committed to playing their part in advancing potential new regulations and supporting legislation to ensure the safe and beneficial use of technological innovations.

    White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre described the meeting as “honest” and “frank” in a conversation with reporters. She emphasized the significance of the CEOs’ presence at the meeting, highlighting the seriousness with which the administration approaches the issue.

    Jean-Pierre stressed the importance of greater transparency from AI companies, including providing the public with the means to assess and evaluate their products, to ensure the safety and trustworthiness of AI systems.

    The meeting reflects the federal government’s ongoing recognition of concerns arising from the rapid development and deployment of new AI tools and its efforts to address some of the associated risks.

    Samsung forbids staff from using AI chatbots

    Measures to address AI risks

    Members of the Federal Trade Commission, testifying before Congress, have raised concerns that AI could greatly amplify fraud and scams. FTC Chair Lina Khan highlighted in a recent New York Times op-ed that the US government already possesses sufficient legal authority to regulate AI by leveraging its mandate to protect consumers and promote competition.

    In the previous year, the Biden administration introduced a proposal for an AI Bill of Rights, which emphasized the importance of developers adhering to principles such as privacy, safety, and equal rights during the creation of new AI tools.

    At the beginning of this year, the Commerce Department published voluntary guidelines for risk management in AI. These guidelines were intended to assist organizations and businesses in governing, mapping, measuring, and managing potential risks at various stages of the AI development cycle. 

    Additionally, in April, the Department invited public input on the most effective policies for regulating AI, including considerations such as audits and industry self-regulation.

    The United States government is not alone in its efforts to shape AI development. European officials are also actively engaged in discussions and anticipate the formulation of AI legislation, potentially within this year. Such legislation could have significant implications for AI companies worldwide.

  • Avanti seeks FG’s support on Satellite Connectivity expansion

    Avanti seeks FG’s support on Satellite Connectivity expansion

    In an effort to enhance satellite connection in Nigeria, Avanti Communications has renewed its dedication to expanding its footprints across the country and requests Support from the Federal government.

    According to Libby Barr, who serves as Chief Operating Officer for Avanti, the company has spent more than $1.2 billion on infrastructure around the world, of which $800 million was spent in Africa.

    During her speech during the opening of Avanti’s flagship office in Lagos, Nigeria, she stated that the company is dedicated to making investments in Africa and maintained that a substantial portion of its investment is aimed primarily at the country of Nigeria.

    In her own words, “so we felt it was a great opportunity to have a new office for better service delivery,” she explains why they came to this conclusion. 

    Read also: Ghana’s Communications Authority (NCA) to block unregistered SIM cards

    The View of Avanti as an Organization

    Avanti is of the opinion that having individuals physically present in this location is highly vital. They have formed many partnerships in Nigeria, which is something that Avanti hopes to continue doing. They are made to feel quite welcome in Nigeria. Because Avanti feel that improving connectivity across the entirety of Nigeria is what will ultimately determine the country’s success, they want to lobby the government for support in this endeavour.

    The COO made the point that because Avanti is the most successful high throughput satellite firm in Africa, the new office will serve as a central location for staff from all across the continent.

    She went on to say that “The Heritage Place office is Nigeria’s first environmentally certified commercial building, situated in a world-class development in Ikoyi, the commercial district which is home to global tech companies including Oracle and Microsoft.”

    Nigeria begins N15bn Katsina airport expansion, targets 1500 jobs

    Previous Update on Avanti Communications 

    Ikoyi, Lagos, is the location of the newest flagship office for Avanti Communications. The Heritage Place office is Nigeria’s first commercial building to be awarded environmental certification. It can be found in the development of international calibre in Ikoyi.

    In the next two to three years, Avanti wants Africa to become its primary source of revenue, and one of its goals is to speed growth across the area by forming relationships with local businesses and rolling out various connectivity solutions.

    In Africa, it has made investments totalling more than 800 million dollars, and the company’s presence is already expanding across the continent. The corporation has offices in Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa, which are home to more than one fifth of its total workforce.

    To this day, Avanti has succeeded in connecting more than one thousand villages and educational institutions across the continent of Africa. The company’s services are currently available in the countries of Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Senegal, Ghana, Angola, Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, and South Sudan. 

    The company intends to connect an additional 10,000 sites across Africa over the course of the next five years, which will have an effect on millions of lives and make it possible for communities to live connected lives.

  • Nigeria To Use Genome Editing Technology

    Nigeria To Use Genome Editing Technology

    Nigeria is ready for genome editing technology, according to the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA) of Nigeria. This information was provided in a media interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Monday by Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, the director general of NABDA.

    Speaking in Abuja, Mustapha asserted that due to the country’s current biosafety regulations, Nigeria might adopt genome editing technology, which would increase the country’s agricultural productivity.

    Nigeria became automatically qualified to join the League of Nations that is maximising genetic engineering (GE) to increase food supply after the Biosafety Bill was brought into law in 2015.

    The goal of the biosafety law is to control the use of modern biotechnology, as well as the management and management of its products (genetically modified organisms), which have the potential to impact biodiversity conservation and sustainable use negatively.

    The DG of NABDA outlined how genome editing technology aids precision agriculture by allowing genetic flaws in crops to be targeted and rectified, allowing the crop to produce its maximum yield.

    Read also: 54gene Completes First Research Publication on Nigerians

    Benefits of Genome Editing Biotechnology 

    On the advantages of Biotechnology, Mustapha said there are numerous benefits, including a reduction in the time frame between planting and harvesting, mitigating climate change and reduced application of pesticides, among others.

    The DG added that the technology does not endanger nor harm the crop, adding that it only repairs what was responsible for the crop’s impaired growth through its DNA.

    Mustapha said that as a target specific science, Nigeria has put in place regulations that would ensure the use of genome editing in the country.

    “When used in agriculture, all the diseases bedevilling crops in the country, most especially crops of interest used as food and industrial raw materials, are the ones being targeted.

    “When this has been achieved, the country is going to gain quite a lot in terms of food supply and agricultural raw materials for industrial development.

    “With that, there would be wealth creation as employment opportunities shall be available for our teeming population of youths,’’ the NABDA boss said.

    He stressed that Nigeria’s agricultural focus was to be self-sufficient with enough food for all, with an ample supply of industrial raw materials by industries to agricultural companies in the country.

    “So, this technology is going to help in the area of providing the huge amount of crops that are going to be sufficient for these two purposes,’’ Mustapha said.

    He said the technology was an initiative of the African Union Development Agency-New Partnership for Africa’s Development (AUDA-NEPAD) Centre of Excellence in Science, Technology and Innovation (STI).

    He said the mission of the Centre was to make use of modern technology to foster development across the African continent with a focus on agricultural productivity.

    Mustapha said about seven selected African countries including Nigeria were involved in the AUDA-NEPAD initiative, whereby collaboration would be formed to actualise this initiative within a specified timeframe.

    He said this collaboration would enable the exchange of ideas and strengths in order to foster scientific development and bring the political will to bear on facilitating STI through the use of genome editing technology.

    How Technology Improves Healthcare in Africa

    He explained that on the recent visit of the AUDA-NEPAD team, led by NABDA, the host agency and custodian of the technology, they had visited the Ministers of STI, Agriculture and Rural Development to solicit support.

    Mustapha said the genome editing initiative of the AUDA-NEPAD was a policy issue, and both ministers had pledged to enlighten the presidency on the prospects of using the technology to fast-track development.

    “Presently, policy and working documents are being drafted for the technology to be applied on the African continent,’’ he said.

    The NABDA D-G added that on the AUDA-NEPAD team’s return to Nigeria, part of their consortium would see how some of the laboratories would be upgraded in order to achieve the aim.

    “The goal of Africa that can feed itself in terms of agricultural produce is why genome editing technology was conceived and why they came here,’’ Mustapha said.

  • Amazon’s Project Kuiper announces satellite receivers 

    Amazon’s Project Kuiper announces satellite receivers 

    Amazon’s “Project Kuiper,” an alternative internet service that competes with SpaceX Starlink, includes a trio of satellite receivers that were just announced.

    Project Kuiper is Amazon’s low-Earth-orbit (LEO) satellite network designed to provide high-speed, low-cost Internet access to areas currently not reached by conventional means. Project Kuiper’s 3,236 satellites in LOI will do this (LEO).

    The company claims it has a purpose to service tens of millions of customers. Therefore, it set an ambitious target at the outset of the project to create a customer terminal for less than $500. 

    According to the company’s blog post, “that milestone was attained in 2020, with the invention of a novel antenna architecture that was smaller and lighter than conventional designs.”

    Amazon has now introduced three satellite receivers, the result of ongoing research and development to make its terminal designs even more compact, inexpensive, and powerful.

    The tiniest terminal measures about 7 inches square, weighs only 450 grammes and can reach rates of up to 100 megabits per second. Just $100 will get you this lightweight satellite receiver.

    Read also: OneWeb Increases Its African Satellite Reach

    The typical consumer terminal is smaller than 11 by 1 inches and lighter than 5 pounds (2,268 grammes) without its mounting bracket. Expect speeds of up to 400 Mbps, making it one of the fastest consumer terminals of its kind on the market (Mbps). The company anticipates manufacturing these terminals for less than $400 each.

    The largest of the three models is made for data-intensive uses in government, telecom, and large businesses. It has dimensions of 19 inches by 30 inches and can transmit data at speeds of up to 1 gigabit per second (Gbps). There is no information available regarding the cost of this item.

    Amazon’s VP of technology for Project Kuiper, Rajeev Badyal, has stated that the company’s ultimate goal is to “please” users with the service’s “quality, reliability, and value” rather than just connecting “unserved” and “underserved” populations. Every technological and business decision we’ve made from day one has been based on what would provide the best experience for a wide variety of clients all around the world, and this is reflected in the variety of customer terminals we offer.

    Elon Musk Starlink Starting Soon In Nigeria

    More On Amazon’s LEO satellite by Project Kuiper

    Amazon’s LEO satellite network will be used by every Project Kuiper receiver. Although these satellites are not yet in production, United Launch Alliance’s Vulcan Centaur rocket is scheduled to launch the first two prototypes later this year.

    The first production satellites for Project Kuiper are scheduled to be launched in the first half of 2024, and service for customers should begin by the year’s end.

    The services provided by both companies are equivalent because they both use LEO satellite technology. But, at $600 for the stationary version of Starlink Roam and Residential, SpaceX’s solutions are now more expensive.

    Also, Nigeria is among the more than 50 nations where Starlink is now active. Over 12,000 satellites are scheduled for launch, with a possible increase to 42,000 in the future. In December of 2022, SpaceX said that they had more than a million subscribers.

    When Amazon’s Project Kuiper launches towards the end of 2024, customers can benefit from increased competition and lower prices.