Briefing Desk
Latest Briefings
Concise reporting on the developments shaping internet governance and infrastructure. Browse each area for recent news, context and watchpoints.
US lawmakers demand assessment on Microsoft-G42 $1.5B deal
Republican lawmakers have urged the Biden administration to assess Microsoft’s $1.5 billion investment in AI firm G42.
Australia plans to introduce a law against online scams
Australia will introduce a law mandating internet companies to proactively prevent online scams, with substantial fines for non-compliance.
SoftBank acquires Graphcore, boosting UK AI chipmaker’s future
Japan’s SoftBank Group has acquired UK-based AI chipmaker Graphcore, providing the resources needed for competitive growth in the AI sector.
Equinix considers to sell minority stake in Hong Kong assets
OUR TAKE Founded in Silicon Valley in 1998, Equinix has expanded globally and now has about 260 data centres worldwide, including nine markets in the Asia Pacific region, with top partners such as Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud and Oracle. The Nasdaq-listed company has a market capitalisation of …
What is metaverse? Future of digital world
Metaverse as a new concept in the era of artificial intelligence is rapidly attracting people’s attention and imagination. It is not a fictional concept in science fiction, but a digital platform that is gradually becoming a reality, bringing us unprecedented experiences and opportunities. What is m…
Differences between mixed reality and virtual reality
In today’s rapidly evolving technology landscape, mixed reality and virtual reality represent two compelling new interactive experience technologies. Although they share common ground and are committed to improving user experience and expanding application fields, there are significant differences i…
Tourism at 100,000 feet: Startups offer stratospheric balloon rides
OUR TAKEStratospheric tourism marks a leap forward in the quest for extraordinary travel experiences. By offering glimpses into the stratosphere, these startups are not just selling tickets but also offering a transformative journey that resonates deeply with our innate curiosity about the universe.…
Google targets cybersecurity startup Wiz in $23 billion deal
OUR TAKEGoogle’s reported acquisition of Wiz for $23 billion represents a significant milestone in the tech giant’s efforts to strengthen its cybersecurity portfolio. This strategic move highlights the growing importance of robust security measures in an increasingly digital world. While the deal ma…
Nigerian court to commence Binance tax evasion trial in October
OUR TAKEThe Binance trial underscores the fragile balance between innovation and regulation. As Nigeria grapples with economic challenges, the outcome of this case will shape the future of cryptocurrency use and regulation. It is a pivotal moment, not just for Binance, but for all those who rely on …
Alphabet eyes $23B Wiz cybersecurity buyout: Israel’s largest deal yet?
OUR TAKEIt’s the Fast and Furious of tech. Alphabet is ready to throw $23 billion to network security star Wiz into its arms, feeling that it is going to stage a realistic version of the “Matrix” acquisition drama; Wiz just two months ago announced the completion of a $1 billion Series E funding rou…
PayPal hit with $27.3M fine in Poland for ambiguous contract terms
Poland’s Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK) imposed a substantial fine about $27.3 million on PayPal Europe.
Treasuries wobble, dollar stiff: Markets mull Trump attack impact
Global financial markets faced a steady dollar and fluctuating Treasury yields after an attempt on presidential candidate Donald Trump’s life
AI immortalizes Michaels: NBC’s Olympic recap magic
NBC unveiled an AI-powered method for this summer’s Olympics: recreating Al Michaels’ voice for daily recaps.
Elon Musk backs Donald Trump following rally shooting
OUR TAKEElon Musk’s endorsement of Donald Trump amidst a crisis highlights the intersection of technology, politics, and personal conviction. His actions prompt reflection on the evolving role of corporate leaders in national affairs, stirring both controversy and debate.—Doris Du, BTW reporter In a…
X faces massive fines for DSA breaches & blue check deception
European regulators have charged X with violating the Digital Services Act (DSA) by misleading users and committing other serious breaches.
OpenAI’s illegally restrictive NDAs: Who’s muzzling whom?
Whistleblowers have accused OpenAI of illegally restricting employees’ communication with government regulators.
Singapore minister emphasises the necessity of world AI framework
Josephine Teo, Singapore minister, says AI governance framework is necessary and Singapore is more excited about AI over fear. Singapore prefers to embrace AI over fear, but it is necessary to take some specific legal measures to address AI deepfakes during elections.
Samsung pioneers smart ring market with Galaxy Ring release
Samsung introduced the Galaxy Ring, aiming to expand the smart ring market with health-tracking features and AI integration.
SoftBank of Japan acquires British AI chipmaker Graphcore
British AI chip firm Graphcore, once valued at $2.58 billion, has been acquired by SoftBank for a reported $500 million.
Apple opens mobile payments to rivals after EU regulations
Apple agreed to open its mobile payments system to competitors and will allow developers access to its NFC technology.
Tesla delays robotaxi event, affecting Musk’s autonomous drive plans
Tesla has postponed the unveiling of its Robotaxi to October to allow more time for prototype development.
Alphabet waives HubSpot takeover concerning regulations
Alphabet, Google’s parent company, decides to give up its takeover of HubSpot, an online marketing software firm due to regulatory concerns.
AmorePacific’s AI beauty lab shows cosmetic customisation
AmorePacific, a South Korean cosmetics giant, introduced its lab equipped with AI technology, predicting an upward trend in its sales.
What is voice recognition system and where it applies?
As a advanced technology, voice recognition system is constantly changing the way we live and work. It shows great potential and value in intelligent assistants, healthcare, education and assistive technology, providing users with a more convenient and personalised human-computer interaction exp…
Microsoft settles antitrust complaint with CISPE for $21.7M
Regarding cloud computing licensing practices, Microsoft settled an antitrust complaint proposed by CISPE with a $21.7 million deal.
Voice recognition: Important part of AI
AI is a science that studies how computers can mimic human intelligence, and voice recognition, as an important part of it, has been widely used in many fields, including medical care, education and so on. Through deep learning technology, voice recognition systems enable computers to understand and…
Palestinians claim Microsoft cutting vital link to Gaza
Microsoft accused of shutting down Palestinian email accounts without warning, disrupting access to vital online services and communication tools like Skype.
Hacking in voice recognition tech
The popularity and application of voice recognition technology make its security become one of the focuses of attention. Although voice recognition systems ensure their reliability through sophisticated algorithms and techniques, they are still at risk of being hacked. Means of hacking 1. Spoofing …
Indonesia recovers data after major ransomware attack
Indonesia is recovering data from a major ransomware attack affecting over 160 government agencies, the attackers initially demanded ＄8 million, then he gave away the key for free.
Samsung launches AI-enhanced products amid employee strike
Samsung introduces new products with strengthened features and AI functions, enhancing its role in the tech industry
Voice recognition security challenges and solutions
While voice recognition technology enhances convenience in daily life, it also introduces security challenges. Implementing specific security measures and policies can significantly reduce the likelihood of hacker attacks, safeguarding both user privacy and system integrity. Security risks of voice …
AMD to acquire Finnish Silo AI for $665M to boost AI capabilities
AMD is poised to acquire Finnish startup Silo AI for $665 million, reinforcing its ambitions to excel in the challenging AI industry.
GSMA promotes spread of smartphones in poor countries
OUR TAKE 38% of the world’s population lives in areas where mobile internet is inaccessible due to barriers such as high costs and lack of skills. In many low and middle-income countries, mobile phones are often the only way people can access the internet. Addressing these issues requires integrated…
Immunefi and Ethereum Foundation partner for security boost
Immunefi collaborates with the Ethereum Foundation to stage the “Attackathon”, a monumental security audit.
COCA launches global non-custodial crypto debit cards
COCA, a vanguard in blockchain-fuelled financial innovations, has rolled out its global non-custodial physical debit card service in 50 countries.
Intuit cut 1,800 jobs and increase AI investments
Intuit announces 1800 job cuts – about 10% of the company’s total headcount, selecting 1050 employees who don’t meet expectations. Intuit stock fell 2.57% to close at $632.84 in early trading Wednesday, up 1.25% year-to-date, compared with a 23.3% gain on the Nasdaq Commodities (Nasdaq COMP).
Germany plans to exclude China from its 5G network
Germany has decided to exclude Chinese firms like Huawei and ZTE from its 5G network by 2029, citing digital security concerns.
AI-enhanced implants give paralysed patients a way to communicate
OUR TAKESynchron’s use of AI in its brain-computer interface marks a groundbreaking advancement in medical technology. It promises not only to improve the lives of paralysed patients but also to pave the way for future innovations that could enhance human capabilities. As we stand on the brink of th…
Tesla postpones robotaxi event, needs time for redesigns
OUR TAKEWhile the delay in Tesla’s robotaxi unveiling is a significant disappointment, it’s crucial to remember that true innovation often comes with setbacks. Elon Musk’s vision for a fully autonomous future is still within reach, but it will require time, effort, and unwavering determination.—Dori…
DeFi and gaming lead blockchain innovation
OUR TAKEA recent discussion between blockchain experts highlighted the transformative potential of DeFi and gaming. While these sectors show great promise, they also face significant challenges in achieving widespread adoption. The evolution of smart contracts further underscores the potential for b…
Bitcoin sell-offs trigger market anxiety
OUR TAKEThe significant bitcoin sales from the German and US governments and the Mt. Gox creditors have injected a dose of uncertainty into the market. While the immediate impact is unclear, the actions of these entities will undoubtedly shape the crypto market’s near future. The anxiety among trade…
How Telegram’s TON ecosystey revolutionised crypto adoption
OUR TAKETelegram’s TON ecosystem has the potential to be a game-changer in the crypto industry. By leveraging its massive user base, TON can drive mainstream adoption more effectively than its competitors. This unique approach, combining technological innovation with an established community, could …
SoftBank rescues Graphcore, sparks UK funding debate
SoftBank Group has acquired Graphcore for an undisclosed sum, putting an end to long-running speculation about the company’s future.
Microsoft exits board seat amid $10B deal easing antitrust worries
Microsoft gave up OpenAI board seat to ease antitrust concerns. Move aims to mitigate scrutiny over its $10B investment in AI startup.
Bitcoin bull MicroStrategy offers 10-for-1 stock split
As of its latest acquisition last month, MicroStrategy holds 226,331 bitcoin, valued at over $13 billion with 10-fold boost.
Buildots raises $15M led by Intel for AI building tech
Buildots, an Israeli company pioneering AI building software, secured a substantial $15 million investment.
Bitcoin may hit $1 million by 2033, report says
OUR TAKEAllianceBernstein’s forecast of bitcoin reaching $1 million by 2033 fuels excitement and speculation. The potential for substantial growth, driven by ETF adoption and post-halving dynamics, highlights bitcoin’s evolving role in global finance. While the road ahead may be volatile, the prospe…
ARTERIA & AT TOKYO install first fibre optic cable across port
ARTERIA Networks Corporation and AT TOKYO Corporation have announced a groundbreaking partnership to install the first optical fibre cable traversing Tokyo Port. This innovative project aims to connect the Toyosu-Ariake and Shibaura-Shinagawa areas, which are key hubs for IT companies. In response t…
Eastern Alliance and CLARA partner on AI-optimised insurance claims
Eastern Alliance Insurance Group has joined forces with CLARA Analytics to capitalise on artificial intelligence for refining the insurance claims procedure.
BNP Paribas partners with Mistral AI to implement LLMs
BNP Paribas has announced an expanded partnership with Mistral AI, integrating the startup’s LLMs across various business areas.