ISRO’s recently launched space observatory satellite, the XPoSat or X-ray Polarimeter Satellite is one that has been completely designed by the women scientists and engineers, working at ISRO, Mission Director Dr Jayakumar M has revealed.
Speaking at a press conference after the successful launch of the XPoSat, and several other payloads on board the PSLV-C58 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikotta, the Dr Jayakumar said, “We are extremely happy to see the grand success of the launch of the PSLV. XPoSat is a space observatory.”
#WATCH | On ISRO’s PSLV-C58 XPoSat Mission launch, Mission Director Dr Jayakumar M says “XPoSat is a space observatory…This is a totally women-engineered satellite for comparison of Solar irradiance and UV index. This showcases women’s empowerment in the field of science and… pic.twitter.com/FOlLgSOM9R
— ANI (@ANI) January 1, 2024
He added, “What makes this more interesting, is the host of new technologies that is getting demonstrated in the POEM 3 experiments.”
Explaining what makes the XPoSat mission unique, Dr Jayakumar explained, “We are testing a new fuel cell, a new silicon-based 10 ampere/hour high energy battery, green monopropellant thrusters, amateur radio satellite service, but more importantly, a (completely) women-engineered satellite, for the comparison of Solar irradiance and UV index. This showcases women’s empowerment in the field of science and technology. All the payloads, in fact demonstrate the reforms that are sweeping the Indian Space Sector.”
XPoSat, operating in the medium X-ray band, sets itself apart from NASA’s IXPE, which concentrates on the soft X-ray band.
India has solidified its status as the second nation globally to launch a cutting-edge astronomy observatory devoted to scrutinizing the intricate dynamics of luminous astronomical X-ray sources, with a successful launch.
Orbiting Earth in a low orbit, XPoSat carries two scientific payloads. The primary payload, POLIX (Polarimeter Instrument in X-rays), will gauge polarimetry parameters like the degree and angle of polarization in the medium X-ray energy range of 8-30 keV photons originating from astronomical sources.
Additionally, the XSPECT (X-ray Spectroscopy and Timing) payload will furnish spectroscopic information in the energy range of 0.8-15 keV.
The motivation behind ISRO’s XPoSat mission lies in comprehending the intricacies of emission mechanisms from diverse astronomical sources such as black holes, neutron stars, active galactic nuclei, and pulsar wind nebulae.
While current space-based observatories provide valuable spectroscopic and timing data, the inclusion of polarimetry measurements detailing the degree and angle of polarization holds the promise of advancing astronomers’ comprehension of emission processes from these celestial entities.
(With inputs from agencies)
Dhruva Space, a prominent player in India’s private aerospace technology startup scene, has initiated 2024 with a groundbreaking milestone—the launch of its LEAP-TD mission. Riding atop the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) PSLV-C58 rocket, this mission promises to redefine nanosatellite technology and propel space exploration into new frontiers.
Named “Launching Expeditions for Aspiring Payloads – Technology Demonstrator” (LEAP-TD), this mission serves as a comprehensive test for Dhruva Space’s state-of-the-art P-30 nanosatellite platform. Tailored for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) operations, the P-30 represents a significant stride in Dhruva Space’s mission to democratize access to space.
The LEAP-TD mission strategically utilizes ISRO’s potent PSLV-DL variant, featuring the POEM platform and two solid strap-on boosters. Ingeniously repurposing the spent PS4 stage as an orbital platform for scientific experiments, this showcases Dhruva Space’s commitment to innovation and resourcefulness.
At the core of LEAP-TD is the meticulous validation of the P-30 platform and its crucial subsystems. From the onboard computer and UHF communication systems to the precision Reaction Wheel and robust Power Distribution Board, each component undergoes rigorous testing in the challenging conditions of space.
The mission gains additional strength through a crucial collaboration with the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), emphasizing the symbiotic relationship between Dhruva Space and academia. Supported by the Department of Space, this collaboration is a driving force for the future of Indian space exploration.
Beyond validation, the LEAP initiative opens avenues for hosted payload solutions, revolutionizing the satellite landscape. Hosted payloads enable external entities to leverage Dhruva Space’s platforms, unlocking possibilities for diverse scientific and commercial applications.
Sanjay Nekkanti, CEO of Dhruva Space, exudes enthusiasm. “The LEAP-TD mission is a pivotal moment,” he asserted. “It underscores our commitment to providing comprehensive space solutions, ranging from cutting-edge nanosatellites to hosted payloads. Our ambitions extend beyond this mission as we set our sights on Earth Observation, IoT solutions, and more.”
Recognizing the critical role of precise attitude control in nanosatellites, the P-30 incorporates an advanced Reaction Wheel from the French company Comat. Formalized in February 2023, this partnership enhances Dhruva Space’s capabilities and marks a significant milestone in Franco-Indian space collaboration.
Ludovic Daudois, CEO of Comat, shares the excitement. “We are honored to contribute to this groundbreaking mission,” he declared. “This achievement not only signifies a significant step for Dhruva Space but also strengthens the pioneering partnership between France and India in the space sector. We look forward to a future filled with continued collaboration and exploration.”
(With inputs from agencies)
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for a groundbreaking start to 2024 with the launch of its maiden X-ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat), a space-based observatory designed to explore X-ray polarization and its cosmic sources, including celestial entities like black holes, neutron stars, and magnetars.
Scheduled to lift off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota at 9:10 am on Monday, the PSLV-C58 rocket will carry the primary payload, XPoSat, along with 10 other satellites destined for deployment in low-earth orbits.
XPoSat’s Mission
XPoSat stands as the world’s second X-ray polarimetry mission, following NASA’s launch of the Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) in 2021. Notably, XPoSat will operate within the medium X-ray band, distinguishing it from IXPE, which focuses on the soft X-ray band.
If successful, India will secure its position as the second country globally to launch an advanced astronomy observatory dedicated to studying the intricate dynamics of bright astronomical X-ray sources, particularly black holes and neutron stars.
XPoSat, India’s inaugural dedicated polarimetry mission, will orbit Earth in a low orbit and carry two scientific payloads. The primary payload, POLIX (Polarimeter Instrument in X-rays), will measure polarimetry parameters, including the degree and angle of polarization, in the medium X-ray energy range of 8-30 keV photons of astronomical origin. Additionally, the XSPECT (X-ray Spectroscopy and Timing) payload will provide spectroscopic information in the energy range of 0.8-15 keV.
ISRO’s motivation behind launching this mission lies in the complexity of understanding the emission mechanisms from various astronomical sources, such as black holes, neutron stars, active galactic nuclei, and pulsar wind nebulae.
XPoSat Mission’s Objectives
While existing space-based observatories offer valuable spectroscopic and timing information, the addition of polarimetry measurements, detailing the degree and angle of polarization, promises to enhance astronomers’ understanding of emission processes from these celestial sources. The combination of polarimetric and spectroscopic observations is anticipated to unravel challenges posed by various theoretical models of astronomical emission processes.
The objectives of the XPoSat mission include measuring X-ray polarization in the energy band of 8-30 keV from around 50 potential cosmic sources, conducting long-term spectral and temporal studies of cosmic X-ray sources in the energy band of 0.8-15 keV, and performing polarimetry and spectroscopic measurements of X-ray emissions from cosmic sources within the common energy band.
XPoSat’s instruments
XPoSat carries two major instruments, POLIX and XSPECT, developed by the Raman Research Institute and the Space Astronomy Group of URSC, respectively. POLIX, focusing on the medium X-ray energy band, aims to observe approximately 40 bright astronomical sources of different categories during the planned five-year mission lifetime.
On the other hand, XSPECT, specializing in soft X-rays, provides fast timing and excellent spectroscopic resolution, enabling long-term monitoring of spectral state changes in continuum emission, alterations in line flux and profile, and simultaneous temporal monitoring of soft X-ray emission in the 0.8-15 keV range.
The XPoSat mission marks a significant step for the Indian science community, offering a unique avenue to deepen the understanding of cosmic phenomena through advanced observational techniques.
(With inputs from agencies)
Shares of major Chinese tech giants experienced a substantial decline in Hong Kong on Friday following the introduction of new regulations by Beijing aimed at curbing online spending in the gaming industry, as reported by Reuters.
This move is part of a broader crackdown by China on its massive online gaming sector, with authorities seeking to address concerns about a perceived rise in gaming addiction among young people.
In August 2021, China implemented restrictions barring individuals under the age of 18 from playing online games on weekdays and limiting their playtime to three hours on most weekends.
The latest regulations, outlined in a draft by the National Press and Publication Administration, mandated spending limits in online games. Additionally, measures within games that encourage high spending, such as daily login rewards, are slated to be banned, as per a report by CNN.
The proposed draft also prohibits in-game activities that could lead to the trading of virtual goods at inflated prices, including auctions. Large tips to players during live streamed games are also set to be banned.
The draft rule further emphasizes that games should only allow real-name registration for players, and game publishers must store data locally.
Online in-game purchases, which have become a lucrative aspect of the gaming industry, especially for mobile games often offered free to consumers, will be significantly impacted by these regulations.
The regulatory landscape reflects the Communist Party’s ongoing campaign since 2020 against a private sector perceived as accumulating excessive power and expanding recklessly, posing a potential threat to the control of the world’s second-largest economy.
This move is part of a larger regulatory campaign initiated by Beijing in late 2020, targeting what the government perceives as overly powerful companies, particularly in the Big Tech sector, according to the CNN report.
The regulatory landscape reflects the Communist Party’s ongoing campaign since 2020 against a private sector perceived as accumulating excessive power and expanding recklessly, posing a potential threat to the control of the world’s second-largest economy.
The cumulative effect of these measures has resulted in a staggering loss of over $1 trillion in market value from Chinese companies globally, causing ripple effects throughout the broader economy.
Despite signs of a potential easing of the regulatory clampdown as China’s economic outlook deteriorates, Friday’s market sell-off saw Tencent, a major player in the gaming industry, experience its biggest intraday fall since 2008, sliding by as much as 16 per cent. NetEase Inc., another significant player, witnessed a record 28 per cent dive, while Bilibili Inc., a social media service popular among gamers, fell by 14 per cent, as reported by Bloomberg.
Collectively, the three stocks lost as much as $80 billion in market value on Friday, with Tencent alone shedding over $50 billion, as per the Bloomberg report.
Yang Junxuan, a fund manager at Shanghai Junniu Private Fund Management Co. told Bloomberg about the impact of these gaming curb measures on companies’ earnings. “The government gaming curb measures will hurt gaming companies’ earnings,” he said. However, he went on to highlight the broader concerns people have, like fears of further measures targeting the sector, similar to the actions taken against the education sector, a few years ago.
(With inputs from agencies)
Recent revelations from internal documents obtained by Reuters shed light on Tesla’s handling of chronic “flaws” and “failures,” blaming drivers for defects such as collapsed suspensions and breaking axles, some leading to wheels flying off electric vehicles at highway speeds, as per a report by Reuters.
Tens of thousands of Tesla owners, even those with practically new vehicles, experienced suspension or steering failures in recent years, as disclosed in the newly obtained documents. Tesla engineers internally labelled these incidents as “flaws” and “failures.”
Despite this, the documents suggest that technicians were instructed to inform consumers that the issues were not due to faulty parts but were the result of drivers “abusing” their vehicles. This approach underscores the controversial stance of Tesla and its CEO Elon Musk in handling customer complaints.
This news follows a July report by Reuters, revealing Tesla’s creation of a dedicated team to suppress driving range complaints and allegations of providing misleading “rosy” range numbers that do not reflect real-world performance.
Tesla has consistently refused to acknowledge suspension and steering problems when reporting to US regulators, instead placing blame on customers who often had to cover out-of-warranty repair costs.
The company is already under scrutiny after recalling over two million vehicles in the US due to concerns about the Autopilot driver assistance feature being prone to “driver misuse.”
One alarming incident highlighted in the documents involved a 2020 Model 3, where a “front wheel fell off” while driving on Autopilot at 60 mph, with unclear implications for the driver’s responsibility.
Another Tesla owner, whose brand-new Model Y’s suspension collapsed with just 115 miles on the odometer, was informed that he was responsible for the repair, despite the vehicle’s minimal usage.
While Tesla recalled similar suspension failures in China between 2016 and 2020, the same part remains unrecalled in the US and Europe, with the company attributing these failures to “driver abuse” to avoid warranty coverage.
The potential dangers of such failures, including loss of vehicle control and the risk of fire in the battery compartment, raise serious concerns, as highlighted by auto safety advocates.
Unlike Tesla’s recent Autopilot-related recall, which could be addressed with an over-the-air update, the latest report by Reuters suggests that the company faces numerous part failure-related issues that cannot be fixed with a simple software patch.
With the company’s tendency to blame drivers for vehicle failures and mounting repair costs, questions arise about whether these incidents are genuinely user error or if Tesla is attempting to minimize repair expenses amid rising costs.
Regardless, the damage to Tesla’s reputation appears significant, with numerous owners expressing a loss of trust in the brand. One Tesla owner noted, “It defeats the purpose of the high speed if you’re afraid that your front wheels are going to fall off if you accelerate quickly.”
(With inputs from agencies)
A China-operated robotic load-carrying rockets, also known as a spaceplane, has introduced a new element of mystery into its space endeavours by releasing six unidentified objects into Earth’s orbit during its third mission on December 14, as per a report by Gizmodo.
Designated as OBJECT A, B, C, D, E, and F by the US Department of Defense (NORAD TLE designations 58573 to 58577, and 58581), these objects were launched from a spaceplane called Shenlong, also known as the “Divine Dragon,” and is currently under observation by the US Space Force and amateur astronomers.
Amateur astronomer and satellite tracker Scott Tilley, who has been closely monitoring the objects, shared his findings with Space.com. OBJECT A has emitted signals reminiscent of past Chinese spaceplane missions, specifically the “wingman” emissions, characterized by limited data modulation.
This suggests a potential link to China’s previous space activities. Notably, OBJECTs D and E have emitted intermittent “placeholder” signals lacking data, raising questions about their purpose and function.
Tilley noted that this iteration of the Chinese spaceplane mission while launching into a similar orbit as previous missions, is displaying different radio behaviour. He stated, “The additional observations of the emissions from OBJECT D and E is new, but could also have been missed on earlier missions if they too were intermittent.”
Observers are advised to monitor for close encounters between OBJECT A, in a near-circular orbit, and OBJECTs D and E, which are in elliptical orbits. Such encounters are expected during their perigee, the nearest point in their orbits.
This isn’t the first time Shenlong has released unknown objects into orbit. Similar occurrences took place during previous spaceplane missions in September 2020 and August 2022.
Speculation suggests these objects could serve as service modules, inspector satellites for spacecraft tracking, or test items for orbital placement. In November of the preceding year, another mystery object, likely a service module, was released during a spaceplane mission to aid in the spacecraft’s return to Earth.
While China conducts these activities, the United States has its own reusable robotic spaceplane, the Boeing-built X-37B. The U.S. Space Force plans to launch the X-37B aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket on December 28, following several delays.
(With inputs from agencies)
CEO of Accenture, Julie Sweet, has revealed that most companies are not adequately prepared to implement generative AI applications at scale.
The primary hurdles include a lack of robust data infrastructure and essential controls to ensure safe and effective use of the technology she told Financial Times in a recent interview.
Despite the widespread hype surrounding generative AI in 2023, Sweet emphasized that the technology remains in the experimental phase for many companies. Macroeconomic uncertainties are also contributing to a cautious approach, hindering overall IT spending.
Analysts anticipate another significant revenue increase from generative AI projects in Accenture’s upcoming quarterly results. However, the figures, totalling $300 million over the past six months, still pale in comparison to the company’s annual group sales of $64 billion.
Corporate executives express an eagerness to leverage generative AI for enhanced data understanding and improved customer service automation. However, Sweet highlighted a critical barrier: the majority of companies lack the mature data capabilities necessary for effective AI utilization. She expressed optimism that within three to five years, generative AI would become a substantial part of Accenture’s business.
Accenture, along with other consulting firms, has invested heavily in generative AI, including substantial investments in hiring and training staff. Sweet noted that executives are adopting a prudent approach to technology rollout, addressing concerns about protecting proprietary information, customer data, and the accuracy of generative AI outputs.
While acknowledging the ongoing debate about the responsible development of AI, Sweet emphasized that corporate caution in technology deployment should alleviate fears of AI outpacing human control. Accenture offers generative AI tools based on OpenAI through a partnership with Microsoft, allowing clients to customize models with their own data.
Sweet declined to comment on OpenAI’s governance issues, stating, “It is not my responsibility to figure out whether OpenAI has got the right governance.” She emphasized that Accenture’s role is to understand and manage the risks associated with AI models while helping clients extract value.
Generative AI deployment is most advanced in areas such as corporate knowledge management, fraud detection using internal data at banks, and commodities trading in energy companies. Clients are also increasingly utilizing the technology for customer service helplines or chatbots, with human oversight.
Accenture, a global company with nearly 750,000 employees in 120 countries, has experienced a 30 per cent increase in shares this year. However, it has not reached its 2021 peak, attributed to a downturn in the tech industry. Sweet is currently overseeing a cost-cutting program that will eliminate 19,000 jobs.
Despite challenges, customers continue to sign contracts that facilitate cost reduction, particularly those involving IT improvements for long-term growth. Sweet noted that while CEOs express a willingness to spend more on technology, macroeconomic and geopolitical uncertainties continue to impede the pace of spending.
(With inputs from agencies)
In a troubling incident, a resident of Lucknow fell victim to a cyberthug who used artificial intelligence to impersonate the voice of the victim’s relative.
The fraudster manipulated the victim, Kartikeya, into transferring Rs 45,000 under the guise of a financial transaction. However, he was duped into sharing the credentials of his bank account.
Lucknow police are investigating the case.
Kartikeya, a resident of Vineet Khand, which falls in the Gomtinagar police station jurisdiction, received a call from an unknown number, where the caller claimed to be his maternal uncle.
The impersonator explained that he was in the process of transferring Rs 90,000 to someone known to him but was facing issues with the transaction through his UPI.
Deceptively, the fraudster instructed Kartikeya to send ₹45,000 to his account, posing as a solution to the apparent UPI problem. Trusting the caller, Kartikeya complied with the advice and transferred the specified amount.
Soon after, Kartikeya received several SMSes stating that two sums of Rs 10,000, one of ₹30,000, and ₹40,000 had been credited to his account. Believing that the money had been successfully credited, and that he was payed back, Kartikeya later discovered that the funds were not present in his account.
Fortunately, multiple transactions failed, and only ₹44,500 could have been potentially transferred out of his account. Realizing the fraud, Kartikeya promptly reported the incident to the police. An FIR has been filed, and an investigation is underway to apprehend the perpetrator.
Second such case in two weeks
This incident in Lucknow follows a similar case in Delhi, where cybercriminals used AI-based voice cloning to extort money from an elderly man, Lakshmi Chand Chawla, of Yamuna Vihar,
In this instance, scammers impersonated the voice of the victim’s cousin’s son, claiming a kidnapping and coercing the victim to transfer ₹50,000 via Paytm.
The criminals created a realistic voice recording of the child, leveraging AI voice cloning technology to deceive the victim. When Chawla contacted the family, asking about the kidnapping, he was told that there had been no such incident. It was at this point, that he realised what had happened.
AI Voice clones on the rise
While this is a fairly new phenomenon in India, scammers have been using AI-vloned voice to dupe people for over a year now. One of the first cases involved a woman in Arizona, US, who received a message claiming that her daughter was kidnapper. However, before money could change hands, the woman in question got to know that this was a scam.
In light of this new scam, there are a few things that one needs to keep in mind in order to protect themselves.
Check the phone number thoroughly before answering a call: Most scammers are using numbers from Vietnam, Sudan and Malaysia to place such calls, so unless you regularly receive calls from these areas from legitimate contacts, avoid answering them. Moreover, avoid picking up calls from unknown numbers, if you can.
Screen your calls: There are plenty of ways to screen calls from unknown numbers. Some phones now come with AI assistants that will take a call for you, screen them, and then let you choose if you want to take the call, so if you have that option, use it. Otherwise, you can always text the number saying that you can’t take calls right now and that they need to text or better yet send a message on WhatsApp or Telegram.
Be wary of what links you click on: Be wary of the links that you receive, especially from those who are not saved as part of your contact list. Scammers count on their victims to click on these links, which will then plant a malware on your phone, and send across all sorts of vital information
In a notable departure from its long-standing iPhone-centric focus, Apple is gearing up for a major dynamic shift in 2024 that will focus the spotlight on its wearables business. The Vision Pro, Apple Watch, and AirPods are set to receive significant attention, signalling a strategic shift for the tech giant, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman.
While the iPhone remains a crucial part of Apple’s product lineup, slated for an upgrade in the coming year, the company is refraining from major changes to its design.
The iPhone 15 will maintain its current design, with the Pro version seeing an increase in screen sizes, and lower-end models incorporating the Action button alongside a new dedicated button for video recording.
However, it’s Apple’s wearables business that will be the star of 2024. The Vision Pro, a new category for Apple, is poised to debut alongside substantial upgrades to the AirPods and Apple Watch.
With the Vision Pro, AirPods, and Apple Watch taking centre stage, Apple aims to reinvigorate its sales, which have experienced stagnation over the past year.
The AirPods lineup is set for a revamp, addressing consumer confusion surrounding the existing models. Apple plans to introduce two new fourth-generation non-Pro models with updated designs, redesigned cases, and USB-C charging.
The higher-end version will feature active noise cancellation, offering this sought-after feature at a more accessible price point.
In addition to hardware updates, Apple is venturing into the realm of health features. The AirPods Max headphones are expected to undergo a transformation, switching from a Lightning charger to USB-C and potentially introducing new colours.
Apple is also developing hearing aid functionality, scheduled for release in the next year, with the potential to disrupt the multibillion-dollar hearing aid industry.
Looking ahead to 2025, Apple plans to update the AirPods Pro, emphasizing comfort and exploring features like body temperature and health tracking, still in early development.
The Apple Watch is not to be left behind, with plans for at least one model featuring a new look. More significantly, Apple is working on health features targeting hypertension and sleep apnea detection, potentially marking a turning point in smartwatch capabilities.
The Vision Pro, Apple’s ambitious foray into augmented reality, is set to take the stage in 2024. Despite limited revenue expectations initially, Apple is optimistic about the headset’s potential, drawing parallels to the evolution of the Apple Watch.
In the software arena, iOS 17.3 introduces a security feature to deter iPhone thieves, limiting access to crucial features in case of theft.
Meanwhile, Apple continues its battle against iMessage on Android, maintaining tight control over its messaging software but facing calls to release an official iMessage app for the Android platform.
As Apple prepares for these substantial updates and releases, industry analysts remain cautiously optimistic about the company’s performance in the current fiscal year, anticipating a boost from its diversified product offerings.
With the Vision Pro on the horizon and significant advancements across its wearable lineup, Apple aims to captivate consumers and reignite excitement in the tech sphere.
(With inputs from agencies)
In a groundbreaking move in the world of AI and LLMs (Large Language Models), Microsoft has introduced Phi-2, a compact or small language model (SLM). Positioned as an upgraded version of Phi-1.5, Phi-2 is currently accessible through the Azure AI Studio model catalogue.
Microsoft asserts that this new model can surpass larger counterparts such as Llama-2, Mistral, and Gemini-2 in various generative AI benchmark tests.
Phi-2, introduced earlier this week following an announcement by Satya Nadella at Ignite 2023, is the result of Microsoft’s research team’s efforts.
The generative AI model is touted to possess attributes like “common sense,” “language understanding,” and “logical reasoning.” Microsoft claims that Phi-2 can even outperform models 25 times its size on specific tasks.
Trained using “textbook-quality” data, including synthetic datasets, general knowledge, theory of mind, daily activities, and more, Phi-2 is a transformer-based model featuring capabilities such as a next-word prediction objective.
Microsoft indicates that training Phi-2 is more straightforward and cost-effective compared to larger models like GPT-4, which reportedly takes around 90-100 days for training using tens of thousands of A100 Tensor Core GPUs.
Phi-2’s capabilities extend beyond language processing, as it can solve complex mathematical equations and physics problems, as well as identify errors in student calculations. In benchmark tests covering commonsense reasoning, language understanding, math, and coding, Phi-2 has outperformed models like the 13B Llama-2 and 7B Mistral.
Notably, it also surpasses the 70B Llama-2 LLM by a significant margin, and even outperforms the GoogleGemini Nano 2, a 3.25B model designed to run natively on Google Pixel 8 Pro.
In the rapidly evolving field of natural language processing, small language models are emerging as powerful contenders, offering a range of benefits that cater to specific use cases and contextual needs, over the much more common LLMs or large language models. These advantages are reshaping the landscape of language processing technologies. Here are some key advantages of compact language models:
Computational Efficiency: Small language models demand less computational power for both training and inference, making them a more feasible option for users with limited resources or on devices with lower computing capabilities.
Swift Inference: Smaller models boast faster inference times, rendering them well-suited for real-time applications where low latency is paramount to success.
Resource-Friendly: Compact language models, by design, utilize less memory, making them ideal for deployment on devices with constrained resources, such as smartphones or edge devices.
Energy Efficient: Owing to their reduced size and complexity, small models consume less energy during both training and inference, catering to applications where energy efficiency is a critical concern.
Reduced Training Time: Training smaller models is a time-efficient process compared to their larger counterparts, providing a significant advantage in scenarios where rapid model iteration and deployment are essential.
Enhanced Interpretability: Smaller models are often more straightforward to interpret and understand. This is particularly crucial in applications where model interpretability and transparency are paramount, as seen in medical or legal contexts.
Cost-Effective Solutions: The training and deployment of small models are less expensive in terms of both computational resources and time. This accessibility makes them a viable choice for individuals or organizations with budget constraints.
Tailored for Specific Domains: In certain niche or domain-specific applications, a smaller model may prove sufficient and more suitable than a large, general-purpose language model.
It is crucial to emphasize that the decision between small and large language models hinges on the specific requirements of each task. While large models excel in capturing intricate patterns in diverse data, small models are proving invaluable in scenarios where efficiency, speed, and resource constraints take precedence.
(With inputs from agencies)
In a significant development, China has launched a top-secret military spy satellite that will continuously monitor the Indo-Pacific. The rocket was launched atop a modified Long March 5 launcher, as reported by Ars Technica.
China modified its largest rocket, the Long March 5 launcher, to accommodate the launch of its latest spy satellite, Yaogan-41. The rocket flew with a payload fairing 20 feet taller than its standard nose cone, making it the tallest rocket ever launched by China at a height of around 200 feet.
China’s state-run Xinhua news agency reported that the Chinese government claims that Yaogan-41 will be used for civilian purposes, such as land surveys and agricultural monitoring. According to the report, the Yaogan-41 is a high-altitude optical remote-sensing satellite designed for civilian purposes such as land surveys and agricultural monitoring.
However, analysts speculate that the satellite may have military applications, given China’s historical use of the Yaogan name as a cover for military satellites, the Ars Technica report claims.
The trajectory of Yaogan-41 indicates a potential destination in geosynchronous orbit, offering continuous views of a significant portion of the Earth’s surface, specifically, focussed around the Indo-Pacific region.
This orbit allows the satellite to synchronize its movement with the planet’s rotation, circling the Earth once every 24 hours.
While China asserts the satellite’s civilian nature, the US military remains vigilant, closely monitoring its trajectory. If Yaogan-41 settles into geosynchronous orbit over the Indian or Pacific Oceans, it could constantly surveil China, Taiwan, and neighbouring countries.
The Long March 5 rocket’s capacity suggests that Yaogan-41 is sizable, possibly equipped with a large telescope for space-based observation. China’s heightened focus on space capabilities aligns with the evolving geopolitical landscape, particularly amid increasing tensions with the United States.
As the US and China engage in strategic competition, space as a domain becomes a crucial theater. The Pentagon is preparing for potential conflicts in space, where both nations heavily rely on satellite functions for communication, navigation, reconnaissance, and command and control.
China’s expanding space capabilities include a significant number of spy satellites, surpassing other nations in Earth-imaging satellites. The Long March 5 rocket, despite being expendable, offers cost-effectiveness, with plans for future rockets like the Long March 9 to leverage reusable technology.
While China has launched numerous satellites into orbit, questions linger about the durability and sustainability of these systems.
The geopolitical implications of China’s advancements in space technology remain a subject of concern for US military officials as they navigate the complexities of great power competition.
(With inputs from agencies)
Google has announced significant changes to its Maps tool, aiming to enhance user privacy by severing its access to individual location histories. This move directly impacts the company’s ability to comply with law enforcement warrants seeking data on individuals in the vicinity of criminal activities.
In a recent blog post, Google detailed the modification to its Location History feature on Google Maps.
The feature, initially turned off by default, aids users in recalling their travel history. Google revealed that, for users who opt to enable it, location data will now be stored directly on their devices, preventing Google from accessing and, consequently, thwarting law enforcement from demanding such information.
Marlo McGriff, Director of Product for Google Maps, emphasized the personal nature of location information in the blog post, stating, “Your location information is personal. We’re committed to keeping it safe, private, and in your control.”
This adjustment follows a Bloomberg Businessweek investigation that exposed the growing trend of US law enforcement utilizing warrants to obtain location and search data from Google, even in nonviolent cases and unrelated to the crimes under investigation.
Jennifer Lynch, General Counsel at the Electronic Frontier Foundation, praised the move, stating, “It’s well past time. We’ve been calling on Google to make these changes for years, and I think it’s fantastic for Google users because it means that they can take advantage of features like location history without having to fear that the police will get access to all of that data.”
Google plans to implement these changes gradually over the next year on both Android and Apple Inc.’s iOS mobile operating systems. Users will be notified when the update reaches their accounts. Additionally, the company clarified that, once the update is complete, it will no longer be able to respond to new geofence warrants, including those related to encrypted backups of location data stored in the cloud.
Jake Laperruque, Deputy Director of the Security and Surveillance Project at the Center for Democracy & Technology, lauded the development as a win for privacy rights, setting a crucial example. The move underscores the argument made by privacy advocates that merely holding data for business operations doesn’t grant a company the right to share it with third parties.
While acknowledging Google’s initiative, some critics, including Lynch from the EFF, highlighted that Google appears to be the only major tech company responding to geofence warrants in this manner. Notably, Apple, which also offers a Maps app, has asserted its technical inability to supply the location data police often request.
Privacy advocates remain vigilant, expressing concerns about another type of warrant known as reverse keyword search warrants. These warrants allow law enforcement to request data on individuals who have searched for specific terms, posing potential privacy risks even for seemingly innocuous searches.
(With inputs from agencies)
In a groundbreaking move, the Albanian government has entered into an agreement with OpenAI, the parent company of the renowned language model ChatGPT, to streamline the translation and incorporation of thousands of pages of European Union (EU) legal measures and provisions into the Albanian language.
The initiative aims to accelerate the country’s European Union accession process, given its longstanding wait in the EU’s waiting room for 14 years and growing frustration with the perceived lethargy in EU enlargement.
Albania, identified as the most pro-EU country in Europe, with over 97 per cent of its population favouring EU membership, has embarked on utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to navigate through the extensive paperwork associated with aligning with EU regulations. The decision to employ ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI under the leadership of CEO Mira Murati, an Albanian-born visionary, marks a strategic move to expedite the integration process.
Romanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, envisioning a novel application for ChatGPT, proposed employing the model to not only translate EU legal content into Albanian but also to offer a comprehensive analysis of necessary changes in local legislation to comply with EU standards. Rama highlighted the potential to replace the need for numerous translators and legal experts, saving millions of euros and expediting the entire process.
The collaboration between OpenAI and the National Agency for Information Society (AKSHI) materialized following a telephone meeting between Rama and Murati. The joint effort aims to present a successful test of the AI-assisted legislation interposition, covering a vast corpus of 280,000 pages of EU legal measures, at the EU summit in Brussels on December 13.
Albania’s EU accession journey, initiated in 2009, faced delays tied to the progress of North Macedonia until the summer of 2022. Prime Minister Rama, frustrated with perceived EU enlargement obstacles, expressed skepticism toward the Chief of the European Council’s call for a new deadline for enlargement, emphasizing the need for a longer timeframe.
The current bilateral crisis between Greece and Albania, triggered by Greece’s threat to veto accession talks over the imprisonment of Albanian ethnic Greek Fredi Beleri, adds a layer of complexity to the situation. Rama indicated that the AI-powered legislative interposition project would be presented to EU leaders alongside discussions addressing the Greek dilemma.
Albania’s innovative use of ChatGPT extends beyond EU integration. In August, the government announced plans to deploy ChatGPT in creating services to enhance public administration through the e-Albania government services platform. The virtual operator, powered by ChatGPT, is anticipated to offer real-time responses and is scheduled to launch in early 2024.
Moreover, Rama unveiled plans to leverage AI in public procurement, aiming to combat corruption by introducing transparent and data-driven processes. Describing existing procedures as “archaic,” he emphasized the transformative potential of AI in modernizing governance.
If successful, Albania’s pioneering use of AI in its EU accession process could set a precedent for other candidate countries. Mira Murati, recently appointed as interim CEO of OpenAI, has not yet commented on the developments, maintaining the company’s reputation for limited public statements.
Policymakers worldwide are expressing concerns about the potential misuse of AI-generated disinformation to manipulate voters and intensify divisions in the lead-up to significant elections in 2024, according to a report by the Financial Times.
The focus of this worry has materialized in Bangladesh, a nation of 17 crore people who are headed for an election in January 2024. The campaign so far has been marked by a contentious power struggle between incumbent Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her rivals.
Both pro-government and pro-opposition news outlets and influencers in Bangladesh have reportedly been promoting AI-generated disinformation especially deepfakes which have been made using affordable tools offered by US and Israel-based AI startups.
This trend underscores the challenges in controlling the use of such tools in smaller markets that may be overlooked by major American tech companies.
The Financial Times report quoted Miraj Ahmed Chowdhury, the managing director of Bangladesh-based media research firm Digitally Right, saying that while AI-generated disinformation is currently at an experimental stage, the use of AI tools allows for the mass production and dissemination of misinformation and poses a significant threat.
The Financial Times cites instances where politically motivated deepfakes or fake videos, often taking the form of news clips, are created using tools like HeyGen, a Los Angeles-based AI video generator. This tool enables users to produce clips featuring AI avatars for as little as $24 a month.
The disinformation exacerbates the already tense political climate in Bangladesh ahead of the upcoming elections.
Despite calls for action, tech platforms have shown apathy when confronted with the fake nature of these videos.
A primary challenge in identifying such disinformation also lies in the lack of reliable AI detection tools, particularly for non-English language content.
Sabhanaz Rashid Diya, founder of Tech Global Institute and former Meta executive, noted that the solutions proposed by major tech platforms, primarily focused on regulating AI in political advertisements, may have limited efficacy in countries like Bangladesh, where ads play a smaller role in political communication. She emphasized that the lack of regulation and selective enforcement by both platforms and authorities exacerbates the problem.
Diya also highlighted a greater threat: the possibility of politicians leveraging the mere potential of deepfakes to discredit information.
The ease with which a politician can claim a genuine piece if news to be a deepfake or claim “This is AI-generated” whenever they are questioned, adds a layer of confusion, challenging people’s ability to distinguish truth from falsehood. As AI-generated content is weaponized, particularly in the global south, the challenge lies in addressing how it erodes the public’s trust in information.
(With inputs from agencies)
In the wake of the massive advertiser exodus from X, several prominent US companies, including Walt Disney and Comcast, have significantly increased their advertising expenditure on Instagram, as reported by Reuters, based on a Sensor Tower investigation.
Data reveals a 40 per cent surge in US spending by Disney and approximately 6 per cent by Comcast on the Meta-owned app in the two weeks following November 20. Paramount, in a parallel move, tripled its advertising spending on Snapchat during the same period.
This shift in advertising strategies illustrates the challenges faced by Elon Musk, the owner of X (formerly known as Twitter). Musk encountered a significant loss of advertisers on the platform after endorsing an antisemitic post that falsely accused members of the Jewish community of promoting hatred against white individuals. Despite Musk’s subsequent apology for sharing the offensive content, the platform continues to witness a decline in advertiser confidence.
“Brands are intelligent about these choices, and any brand safety concerns will be met with a re-allocation of budgets away from troubled platforms,” remarked Felipe Thomaz, an associate professor of marketing at the University of Oxford.
At present, neither Disney, Comcast, Paramount, nor X has issued an immediate response to requests for comments on the matter.
According to Sensor Tower’s data, 51 of the top 100 U.S. advertisers on X, since Elon Musk’s acquisition of the platform in October of the previous year, have ceased advertising spending as of November 2023.
Additionally, the platform has experienced a 16% decrease in monthly active users since Musk’s takeover, while user engagement has remained stable, according to the market intelligence firm.
A recent report by Bloomberg News has indicated that X is on track to face a substantial decline in ad revenue for the current year, estimated at around $2.5 billion.
Mobile analytics firm data.ai suggested that, alongside a series of mismanagement and public image setbacks for X, there is a general trend of users shifting from text-based social networking apps to platforms focused on photo and video content. The report emphasized a changing landscape in how consumers absorb news content.
A peculiar theory has emerged in the tech community regarding the behaviour of OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Users and tech enthusiasts have observed what they perceive as a decline in the chatbot’s responsiveness and willingness to perform tasks, leading some to humorously suggest that ChatGPT might be experiencing its version of seasonal depression, linked to the lack of vitamin D.
Reports surfaced last month about ChatGPT’s alleged laziness and irritability, with users noting instances of the chatbot refusing tasks or even redirecting users to complete them instead. Some users found the phenomenon relatable, drawing parallels to human behaviour as the holiday break approached.
Cybersecurity firm founder Frank McGovern shared his perspective on X, stating, “ChatGPT literally becoming lazy on its own and getting tired of answering questions and doing work for people is REALLY changing my mind about [artificial general intelligence].”
OpenAI took notice of the trend and issued a statement on ChatGPT’s official account, acknowledging user feedback about the bot appearing “lazier” and emphasizing that the observed changes were unintentional.
The company assured users that they are investigating the matter and working on addressing the unexpected behaviour.
we’ve heard all your feedback about GPT4 getting lazier! we haven’t updated the model since Nov 11th, and this certainly isn’t intentional. model behavior can be unpredictable, and we’re looking into fixing it
— ChatGPT (@ChatGPTapp) December 8, 2023
One intriguing hypothesis, playfully dubbed the “winter break hypothesis” by users, speculates that ChatGPT might be mirroring the observed decrease in energy levels and motivation commonly associated with the winter months.
Some users entertained the idea that the chatbot, drawing from its extensive training data, could be reflecting the seasonal patterns of human behaviour.
The theory gained traction on social media, with discussions revolving around whether ChatGPT’s perceived laziness could be a subtle reflection of broader human tendencies during the winter season.
However, given the complex nature of the language model and the uncertainties surrounding how it operates, proving or disproving this hypothesis remains challenging.
In the meantime, attempts to quantify ChatGPT’s alleged laziness have been made, with comparisons of the number of characters generated in May versus December.
OpenAI technical staffer Will DePue acknowledged the issue but cautioned against drawing definitive conclusions, highlighting ongoing efforts to address glitches and improve the overall ChatGPT experience.
As the debate unfolds, the tech community is left to ponder whether ChatGPT is genuinely experiencing the winter blues or if users are anthropomorphizing an algorithm, projecting human-like characteristics onto a sophisticated language model.
(With inputs from agencies)
In a disconcerting incident reported by the BBC, a student fell victim to a privacy nightmare when she discovered a tiny camera concealed within a plastic clothes hook in a West Virginia home’s bathroom.
The minor, hailing from Brazil, is now taking legal action against retail giant Amazon, which is allegedly still selling similar hidden cameras on its platform, including one priced at $42.99.
According to the student’s lawsuit, she stumbled upon the spy camera in a bathroom designated for her use in 2022 while staying at a residence where the homeowner had purportedly purchased the device with the intent of recording her undressing.
Despite previous warnings and articles highlighting the dangers of such covert cameras, which can take the form of everyday items like USB chargers or smoke detectors, Amazon has continued to allow their sale on its platform.
Amazon attempted to have the case dismissed, but the legal proceedings are moving forward, shedding light on the need for increased scrutiny over the sale of these invasive devices. Privacy activist Gina Martin emphasized the potential harm these disguised cameras can inflict on unsuspecting individuals, particularly women and girls.
“Retailers do need to be doing more,” Martin stated. “They need to be stamping out hidden cameras because there are very few instances in which hiding the fact that you’re filming someone is applicable or acceptable.”
The prevalence of such hidden cameras, often marketed as nanny cams, raises concerns about the potential misuse of technology for stalking, control, and abuse. Beyond disguised cameras, other miniaturized devices, including tracking tags and Internet of Things (IoT) technology, have been employed for harassment.
While acknowledging the multifaceted utility of some of these devices, critics argue that retailers should, at the very least, cease the sale of disguised cameras to curb their potential misuse. As technology continues to advance, striking a balance between convenience and protecting individuals’ privacy becomes an increasingly complex challenge.
(With input from agencies)
El Salvador is planning to launch bitcoin bonds in the first quarter of 2024, with the proceeds earmarked for the development of a groundbreaking “Bitcoin City” powered by a volcanic energy source.
The National Bitcoin Office, responsible for overseeing cryptocurrency-related initiatives, shared that the “Volcano Bond” had secured regulatory approval from the Digital Assets Commission (CNAD), paving the way for the bond issuance in early 2024.
This move comes on the heels of El Salvador’s decision in 2021 to recognize Bitcoin as legal tender, alongside the US dollar, under the leadership of President Nayib Bukele. The integration of Bitcoin into the country’s financial system aimed to streamline and reduce the cost of remittances for Salvadorans, as well as extend financial services to the approximately 70 per cent of the population without access to traditional banking.
Despite these efforts, a May 2021 poll by the Central American University revealed that 71 per cent of respondents believed that cryptocurrency adoption had not positively impacted their family’s economic situation.
President Bukele had previously unveiled plans in 2021 to create a “Bitcoin City” in the eastern region of El Salvador, which was envisioned to harness thermal energy generated by a volcano. The ambitious project was slated to be funded in part by issuing at least $1 billion in volcano bonds.
The Salvadoran government, headed by Bukele, confirmed its acquisition of 2,381 bitcoins, with the latest purchase of 80 bitcoins occurring in July 2022. Furthermore, Bukele declared a daily acquisition of one bitcoin starting from November 17, 2022; however, the government has not disclosed whether this target has been met.
(With inputs from agencies)
Apple is gearing up for the retail launch of its Vision Pro headset, with training sessions for retail workers and the distribution of equipment to manage Vision Pro in stores, according to a report from Bloomberg.
The company has started scheduling two-day training sessions for retail employees, with a few individuals from each US Apple Store flying to California for training.
These trained employees will then educate the rest of the staff in their respective stores. Training is set to begin in the middle of January, and each employee will undergo a two-day program.
The complexity of Vision Pro’s setup process makes the training a high-stakes endeavour, as the device requires customization for each user.
The fitting process is crucial to ensuring a positive user experience. The report notes that every step, including how employees approach customers and place the device on a user’s head, will be carefully orchestrated.
Additionally, Apple Stores will soon receive new equipment for assembling and packaging Vision Pro headsets.
The report suggests that Apple may encourage customers to pick up the device at a store, even if they place their order online.
While Apple had initially hoped to release Vision Pro in January, it was reported earlier that the company would miss that deadline.
The new report suggests a release might occur before March, barring any unforeseen issues.
Apple’s Vision Pro headset is anticipated to be a significant entry into the augmented reality (AR) space, offering a range of features and capabilities for users. The Vision Pro will be Apple’s most expensive device, barring some variants of their Macs. It will therefore be interesting to see if countries like India, which have a significant and evolving base of users will get a device as expensive as the Apple Vision Pro
As Chinese electric vehicle (EV) brands gear up to enter the global market, concerns are rising over safety issues, exemplified by a recent recall of the Ora model by Great Wall China (GWC) in Australia.
The recall was issued due to a programming flaw that could result in an electrical arc or electrocution if the charging cable is removed without cancelling the charge. The notice warns of the serious risk of injury or death if an electrical arc contacts the operator or bystanders.
The recall affects 1,659 vehicles in Australia, with an additional 520 vehicles impacted in New Zealand. This incident highlights the potential safety challenges Chinese EV manufacturers may face as they expand globally.
While recalls are not exclusive to Chinese brands—Tesla, for example, has faced its share of recalls—the Ora recall underlines the importance of building trust among consumers in overseas markets.
Chinese EV brands have already entered various markets, including Europe, Southeast Asia, and Australia/New Zealand.
However, the path has not been without hurdles. The Ora recall comes at a time when Chinese EVs are gaining attention for their disruptive pricing, with models like BYD’s Seagull priced at around $11,000 in China.
Such affordable offerings could potentially disrupt overseas markets where a demand for affordable electric vehicles exists.
Major automakers, including American companies, are expressing concerns about how they will compete on cost with Chinese EVs once they flood the US market.
The recall incident raises questions about the readiness of Chinese EV manufacturers to meet global safety standards and win the trust of consumers, especially in regions where perceptions of Chinese-made products may still be evolving.
While Chinese EV brands hold a competitive edge in terms of scale, cost, and supply chain control, the recall underscores the need for a robust approach to quality assurance and safety to succeed in the increasingly competitive global EV market.
Gaining consumer trust, particularly in regions with established automotive markets, remains a critical challenge for Chinese automakers looking to expand their presence beyond domestic borders.
(With inputs from agencies)
In today’s Rajya Sabha session, Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, presented a comprehensive address shedding light on the escalating issue of vehicle pollution in India.
The minister outlined key strategies involving hydrogen-driven and electric vehicles to combat the rising carbon footprint.
Nitin Gadkari said, “It is absolutely true that the emission of CO2 in our country is from the transport sector and it is increasing day by day, this is a matter of concern. 330 metric tons of CO2 emission every year, it is a very dangerous problem. 85 percent of the fuel in our country is fossil fuel which is imported and the cost of import is Rs 16 lakh crore. This is a very serious problem from the point of view of both economics and pollution, and it is petrol and diesel which need to be made special. The Indian government has made a lot of efforts for the pollution that is talked about here and has given it priority.”
He also added, “India earlier was at 5th position in automobile manufacturing, but today our number has become 3rd. First is America, second is China, then we are. We also defeated Japan in this. But one thing is also that its growth rate has also increased. Total vehicles account for 9.91 per cent, and cars and four-wheelers account for 20 per cent. And this industry is giving maximum GST to the Government of India and State Government and 4.5 crore jobs have been created here.”
The Minister articulated the Indian government’s concerted efforts to address the pollution challenge, placing it as a top priority. Despite being the third-largest automobile manufacturer globally, with a commendable growth trajectory, Gadkari acknowledged a slowdown in the industry’s growth rate.
The automobile sector, encompassing cars and four-wheelers, contributes significantly to the nation’s GST revenue and supports 4.5 crore jobs.
Expressing satisfaction with ongoing experiments involving various alternative fuels, Gadkari demonstrated the government’s dedication to sustainable mobility and environmental responsibility.
As the nation grapples with the dual challenge of economic growth and environmental preservation, Gadkari’s address signalled a decisive move towards a greener and more sustainable future for India’s transportation sector.
(With inputs from agencies)
In an announcement on Wednesday, NVIDIA’s CEO, Jensen Huang, revealed the company’s close collaboration with the US government to ensure that its new chips intended for the Chinese market adhere to export restrictions.
The California-based AI chip designer has held a dominant position, capturing over 90 per cent of China’s $7 billion AI chip market. However, recent US curbs on chip exports are expected to open avenues for Chinese competitors.
Earlier reports from Reuters indicated that NVIDIA had informed its Chinese customers of a delay in launching a new AI chip focused on the Chinese market, now slated for the first quarter of the coming year.
While Huang did not confirm the Reuters article, he emphasized NVIDIA’s concerted efforts to align its products with US regulations during a press conference in Singapore.
Huang stated, “NVIDIA has been working very closely with the US government to create products that comply with its regulations. Our plan now is to continue to work with the government to come up with a new set of products that comply with the new regulations that have certain limits.”
He acknowledged the need for market input in this process and acknowledged Huawei as a formidable competitor.
NVIDIA had previously warned of a substantial decline in fourth-quarter sales in China following the implementation of the new US rules.
Huang noted that while China traditionally contributed around 20 per cent of NVIDIA’s revenue, predicting the impact of the new US export restrictions on this percentage remained challenging.
In a separate development, Huang revealed ongoing discussions with Singapore regarding potential significant investments. NVIDIA is also exploring collaboration with the city-state to contribute to the development of its large language model, Sealion.
Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) recently announced a S$70 million ($52 million) initiative to create Southeast Asia’s first large language model. Huang highlighted Singapore’s vibrant AI ecosystem and its role as a major data centre for various Asian markets.
(With inputs from agencies)
After weeks of anticipation, OnePlus has officially introduced its 10th-anniversary flagship smartphone, the OnePlus 12. Making its global debut in China, following the footsteps of its predecessors OnePlus 11 and OnePlus 10 Pro, this latest offering is touted as the brand’s most advanced slab-style smartphone to date.
The OnePlus 12 showcases a plethora of high-end features synonymous with premium phones, addressing some of the brand’s previous missteps. Notable improvements include the reintroduction of wireless charging, a faster USB port, and an enhanced camera system.
With a commitment to rectifying past shortcomings, OnePlus aims to elevate the user experience with its latest flagship, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s decade-long journey. Tech enthusiasts and consumers can expect a device that combines cutting-edge technology with the celebrated design language that OnePlus is known for.
OnePlus 12 China Launch: Design and Specifications
The OnePlus 12 design maintains continuity with its well-received predecessor, the OnePlus 11, while introducing purposeful refinements. Notably, the alert slider has been relocated from the right to the left side, aiming to enhance gaming antenna signal by 3dB and reduce game latency by 15 per cent. The phone will be available in matte black, glossy white, and a green variant with a 3D depth effect, referred to as “flowy emerald.”
Coming to the display, the OnePlus 12 boasts a 2K LTPO OLED display sourced from BOE, likely measuring 6.82 inches. With a peak brightness of 4,500 nits, it surpasses current industry standards, incorporating rainwater touch technology for smooth touch responses in rainy conditions. Support for 2,160Hz PWM dimming is also confirmed.
The device will be driven the new Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, with memory configurations of 16GB+512GB, 16GB+1TB, and 24GB+1TB. It uses LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.0 storage standards. The device also has a 9140 sq. mm Vapour Chamber cooling system which can cover an area of 38,547 sq. mm.
The device is expected to run on ColorOS 14 (OxygenOS 14 globally) based on Android 14.
As for the cameras, the OnePlus 12 features a robust camera setup, including a 50MP main Sony LYT-808 sensor, a 48MP Sony IMX581 sensor for the ultrawide lens, and a 64MP OmniVision OV64B sensor for the 3x periscope telephoto lens. The front camera is anticipated to be a 32MP selfie shooter. Morover, we also get to see Hasselblad working its magic on the camera, yet again.
All of this hardware will draw its power from a massive 5,400mAh battery, that supports 100W fast wired charging. This is because the OnePlus 12 is equipped with a USB Type-C port compliant with USB 3.2 Gen 1 for up to 10Gbps transfer speed. We also get to see 50W wireless charging with reverse wireless charging. Additional features include an IR blaster, “full-area multi-function NFC,” and Bluetooth 5.4, and WiFi 7 connectivity.
OnePlus 12 China Launch: OnePlus 12: Pricing in China
These price configurations for the OnePlus 12 have been revealed:
12GB RAM + 256GB Storage: 4,299 Yuan or roughly $606 or Rs 50,750
16GB RAM + 512GB Storage: 4,799 Yuan or roughly $677 or Rs 56,650
16GB RAM + 1TB Storage: 5,299 Yuan or roughly $748 or Rs 62,550
24GB RAM + 1TB Storage: 5,799 Yuan or roughly $818 or Rs 68,500
OnePlus 12 India Launch and Potential Pricing
OnePlus will launch the device in China first, and then bring it to the rest of the world, as has been its practice. In China, the device will be available for sale right after the launch. In India and rest of the world, however, the device will be launched later.
Reports suggest that the device will launch in India sometime around mid-January, 2024, after almost a month it does in China. This is mainly because of the resurgence of the smartphone market in the country after a slump of two years.
As for the pricing of the OnePlus 12 in India, it is likely to go higher than the OnePlus 11, but not by a lot. The base variant, with the 16GB+512GB variant is likely to start at around Rs 65,000. The top-end 24GB+1TB variant is likely to cross the Rs 80,000 mark, making it the most expensive device from OnePlus yet.
There are reports that OnePlus may charge north of Rs 1.00 Lakhs for the top variant, but that is highly unlikely, and contrary to OnePlus’ pricing strategy that we have seen so far
In a recent quarterly threat report released by Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, it was revealed that Meta has successfully dismantled a large network of over 4,700 fake accounts originating from China. These accounts, pretending to be Americans and Indians, were actively involved in disseminating misleading information on divisive topics related to US politics and US-China relations as well as Indian politics.
While Meta did not explicitly tie the profiles to Chinese officials in Beijing, the company expressed concerns about the surge in such networks originating from China, especially with the approaching 2024 US elections. According to Meta, China now ranks as the third-largest geographical source of such deceptive networks, trailing behind Russia and Iran.
The deceptive Chinese network, as outlined in the report, engaged in a variety of topics such as abortion, culture war issues, and aid to Ukraine. The accounts utilized profile pictures and names stolen from legitimate users worldwide, sharing and liking each other’s posts. Notably, some of the content appeared to be directly copied from X, formerly Twitter.
Among the accounts’ activities, some were found to copy verbatim posts from US politicians, both Democrats and Republicans, including figures like Nancy Pelosi, Gretchen Whitmer, Ron DeSantis, Matt Gaetz, and Jim Jordan. Meta emphasized that the network displayed no consistent ideological stance.
Meta’s report raised questions about the network’s objectives, stating, “It’s unclear whether this approach was designed to amplify partisan tensions, build audiences among these politicians’ supporters, or to make fake accounts sharing authentic content appear more genuine.”
The company’s moderation policies strictly prohibit “coordinated inauthentic behaviour,” referring to posts from groups of accounts working together with false identities to mislead users. While the content shared by these networks often references accurate news stories, Meta highlighted that the intent is to manipulate public opinion, sow division, and artificially boost certain viewpoints.
According to Meta, the extensive Chinese network was thwarted before gaining traction among real users. Ben Nimmo, leading investigations into inauthentic behaviour at Meta, commented that these networks “still struggle to build audiences, but they’re a warning,” emphasizing the ongoing efforts by foreign threat actors to influence people online ahead of the upcoming elections.
In addition to the large Chinese network, Meta also uncovered two smaller networks—one from China focusing on India and Tibet, and another from Russia posting primarily in English about the invasion of Ukraine and promoting Telegram channels. The report underscored that Russian networks, previously scrutinized since the 2016 election, have shifted focus to the Ukraine conflict, attempting to undermine international support for Kyiv.
In a notable development, Meta highlighted that the US government ceased sharing information about foreign influence networks with the company in July, following a federal ruling related to a First Amendment legal case. This decision is currently under consideration by the Supreme Court, contributing to the broader debate about the collaboration between the US government and tech companies and its potential impact on the free speech of social media users.
In a groundbreaking move, crews have completed the installation of what is being hailed as the nation’s inaugural wireless-charging public roadway for electric vehicles beneath a street located just west of downtown Detroit.
The innovative system utilizes copper inductive charging coils, allowing vehicles equipped with corresponding receivers to charge their batteries seamlessly while driving, idling, or parking directly above these coils.
The Michigan Department of Transportation has earmarked a quarter-mile stretch along 14th Street for testing and refining this cutting-edge technology before making it accessible to the public within the next few years.
Demonstrations took place on Wednesday at the Michigan Central Innovation District, a focal point for advancing technologies and programs addressing mobility barriers. This district is also where Ford Motor Co. is actively restoring the historic Michigan Central train station to facilitate the development of self-driving vehicles.
The brainchild behind this technology is Electreon, an Israel-based developer specializing in wireless charging solutions for electric vehicles. With existing contracts for similar roadways in Israel, Sweden, Italy, and Germany, the pilot initiative in Michigan was originally announced by Governor Gretchen Whitmer in 2021.
Stefan Tongur, Electreon’s Vice President of Business Development, emphasized the potential of wireless charging in revolutionizing electric vehicle adoption, mitigating issues such as limited range, grid constraints, and battery size and costs. Tongur stated, “This project paves the way for a zero-emission mobility future, where EVs are the norm, not the exception.”
As a vehicle with a receiver approaches the charging segments, the coils beneath the road generate electricity through a magnetic field, effectively charging the vehicle’s battery. Notably, the coils are designed to activate solely when a vehicle with a receiver passes over them.
Tongur reassured reporters that the wireless-charging roadway is safe for pedestrians, motorists, and animals alike.
The Michigan Department of Transportation and Electreon have committed to a five-year partnership to further develop the electric road system. The department is anticipated to seek bids for the reconstruction of a portion of the bustling Michigan Avenue, where inductive charging will also be implemented.
With the rising popularity of electric vehicles in the United States, the Biden administration has incorporated plans for half a million EV charging stations as a cornerstone of its infrastructure goals.
Officials believe that the installation of the wireless-charging roadway positions Michigan and Detroit at the forefront of electric vehicle technology. Michigan DOT Director Bradley C. Wieferich expressed the state’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve and leading in electric vehicle advancements.
Stefan Tongur mentioned that no decisions have been finalized regarding revenue models in Michigan, emphasizing the intelligence of the technology in recognizing verified and authentic users who can seamlessly access charging services.
(With input from agenices)
