Briefing Desk
Latest Briefings
Concise reporting on the developments shaping internet governance and infrastructure. Browse each area for recent news, context and watchpoints.
Coverage
Market / Trends / Asia-Pacific Trends / Asia-Pacific Cloud Services Trends
In this section: 5 briefingsChina says US targeting of AI harms healthy development
OUR TAKE After President Joe Biden signs an executive order last August, the Treasury Department issues new rules aimed at preventing American technology from helping the Chinese develop advanced technologies and dominate global markets.–Zora Lin, BTW reporter What happened United States restric…
Singapore ups the risk factor for cryptocurrency exchanges
OUR TAKE MAS has been actively involved in the regulation of the digital asset market. A few months ago, Singapore regulators expand the scope of regulated payment services to include digital token service providers, bringing digital assets under user protection laws.–Zora Lin, BTW reporter What hap…
Aussie internet firms get 6 months to draft online child-safety rules
Australia is giving the Internet industry six months to come up with an enforceable regulation detailing how it will protect children at an online security level.
Google buys stake in BlackRock’s Taiwan solar unit
OUR TAKEGoogle’s goal is to consistently use carbon-free energy wherever it operates. However, the industry’s growing demand for data processing capabilities to power AI has led to a significant rise in carbon emissions. Regions such as Asia Pacific may be more difficult to decarbonise due to infras…
Realme 13 Pro 5G phones will soon be available in India
OUR TAKESamsung Electronics will hold an AI imaging media preview in Bangkok, Thailand, on July 4 to reveal AI imaging related testing and certification details. Realme will be announcing new collaborations with TUV Rheinland during the event, and these announcements may be related to the upcoming R…
Coverage
Market / Trends / Global Trends / Global Cloud Services Trends
In this section: 32 briefingsProton launches a privacy-focused alternative to Google Docs
OUR TAKE Proton is just one of the companies trying to offer privacy-focused alternatives to Google and Microsoft that have so far failed to dent their dominance. If Proton can handle image embedding better than Google, it could be a big hit.–Zora Lin, BTW reporter What happened Proton Docs launches…
Video generative unicorn Runway is in talks to raise $450M
OUR TAKE Runway, reported last June, raises $141 million from investors including alphabet Inc’s Google and Nvidia Corp at a valuation of $1.5 billion.–Zora Lin, BTW reporter What happened Runway is in talks with investors, including private equity firm General Atlantic, to raise $450 million for th…
Phil Schiller to represent Apple on OpenAI Board
OUR TAKE Philip W. Schiller is a member of Apple’s senior management team. In 2020, he becomes the first person in more than 20 years to be named an Apple Fellow, one of the company’s most senior positions. Schiller is also leading Apple’s efforts around the world to protect app store from antitrust…
Google struggles to meet its climate goals in Gemini AI era
OUR TAKE According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), data centres today account for about 1% of the world’s electricity consumption. However, with the booming development of AI industry, the electricity consumption of data centres may increase by 10 times by 2026.–Zora Lin, BTW reporter What…
Nokia and stc optimise network with AI-powered SON solution
OUR TAKE This AI-driven innovation redefines the standard of network performance, ensuring robust and consistent service for customers even during peak usage.–Zora Lin, BTW reporter What happened Nokia has deployed its AI AD hoc network solution MantaRay Cognitive SON in the stc Group’s commercial n…
The process of training an AI model
Fundamentally, AI uses data to make predictions. That capability may power “you may also like” tips on streaming services, but it’s also behind chatbots capable of understanding natural language queries and predicting the correct answer and applications that look at a photo and use facial recognitio…
An introduction of AI training data
Training data is the initial dataset used to train machine learning algorithms. Models create and refine their rules using this data. It’s a set of data samples used to fit the parameters of a machine learning model to training it by example. What is AI training data? AI training data is carefully c…
Document AI: Introduction, processors & evaluation
Google Docs AI is a powerful tool that can help you create, edit, and collaborate on documents with ease. By using the built-in artificial intelligence, users can take advantage of features like automatic grammar and spelling checks, smart suggestions, and voice typing. What is Document AI Document …
Netflix begins to cancel its cheapest ad-free package
OUR TAKE Netflix is not alone in making such changes. Amazon Prime Video is charging a new fee of $2.99 per month for ad-free viewing, or it will integrate ads into its content. In addition, major players such as Disney, Warner Bros Discovery’s Max and YouTube TV Premium have also raised prices.–Zo…
Apple ex-lawyer ordered to pay $1.15M SEC fine for insider trading
OUR TAKE The insider trading practices of Gene Levoff, a former senior Apple lawyer, underscore the importance of financial regulation and the urgent need for transparent markets. Judge Martini’s ruling shows that no one can escape the law, even in a senior position, which is essential to maintain m…
What is Westly Group? Venture capital fund, clean energy pioneer
In the heart of Silicon Valley, The Westly Group stands as a beacon of innovation and sustainability in the realm of clean technology.
Who is Steve Westly? Founder of the Westly Group, shaping the future of clean energy
As I delve into the life and career of Steve Westly, I can’t help but be inspired by his relentless drive and visionary approach. From politics to Silicon Valley, Westly’s journey is a testament to the power of innovation and perseverance. 1. From public service to private success In 2006, Steve Wes…
Affirm card users’ personal information may have been leaked
OUR TAKEThis incident may prompt the entire financial industry to pay more attention to data protection and network security, promote the development of stricter industry norms and security standards, and improve security level of the entire industry to protect the interests of customers.–Zora Lin, …
Crypto wallets vs crypto exchanges: How they compare
Crypto wallets and exchanges are two different things. Crypto exchanges are like online marketplaces where people can buy, sell, and trade crypto. A crypto wallet is a piece of software or hardware that can be used for storing, receiving, and sending crypto. Many exchanges provide custodial wallets …
Decentralised wallets: Learn about crypto wallets
A decentralised wallet is a type of crypto wallet that specialises in providing easy access to decentralised finance (DeFi) applications. These self-custody wallets give users direct access to their private keys. What is a decentralised crypto wallet? A decentralised wallet is a cryptocurrency walle…
Victims of Weibo’s ‘offensive’ and ‘terrifying’ chatbot form coalition
OUR TAKE Ever since Robert, the Sina Weibo comment bot, started letting his whims fly on his posts, my life has been turned upside down. It went so far as to make some weird and unpredictable comments on people’s posts. As one of the millions of users on Sina Weibo, I’ve always made it a
YouTube’s new frontier: Battling AI mimicry for privacy’s sake
YouTube announced in June that users can now request the takedown of AI-generated or synthetic content that mimics their face or voice.
Nvidia set to face French antitrust charges
OUR TAKE This incident will not only affect Nvidia’s business in the French market, but may also trigger a global scrutiny of its competition policy and market behavior. As cloud computing and data centres continue to grow, Nvidia’s actions as a major supplier are likely to be under increased regula…
How to prevent AI criminals: Interview with Craig Gibson, researcher at DupeWise AI Labs
AI systems can inadvertently commit crimes due to design flaws, highlighting need for robust safeguards and legal clarity, says Craig Gibson.
Solos releases AirGo Vision, first GPT-4o enabled smart glasses
OUR TAKEAirGo Vision will be able to navigate and narrate landmarks, share next steps in recipes while cooking, assist with learning, and even provide contextual information while shopping. Interestingly, the device is said to be able to search the Internet and find out if there is a better price el…
Apple’s iOS 18 update supports RCS messages
OUR TAKECompared to traditional SMS and MMS standards, RCS messages offer significant improvements in transmission speed, media quality and chat capabilities. Support for RCS messaging in iOS 18 will further enhance Apple’s user experience and enhance brand appeal and user engagement.–Zora Lin, BTW …
Baidu’s upgraded AI model hits 300 million users
OUR TAKEOn the basis of the basic large model, Baidu further develops the agent mechanism, including understanding, planning and reflection, can achieve reliable execution, self-evolution, “let the machine think and act like a human”, and can call tools to complete complex tasks independently, conti…
Guide to computer vision: Examples and why it matters
The real-world use and reach of computer vision are growing, and its applications are challenging and changing its significance. Computer vision, which has existed in some form for decades, is now an increasingly common phrase in conversations worldwide and across industries: computer vision systems…
Transforming industry: The undeniable benefits of automation
Automation is revolutionising the industrial sector, transforming how businesses operate and compete in a global market. As industries strive for greater efficiency and productivity, automation emerges as a game-changer, offering a myriad of benefits that cannot be ignored. 1. Enhanced efficiency an…
Who is George Sivulka? CEO of Hebbia AI, building the future of AI productivity
OUR TAKEGeorge Sivulka’s leadership at Hebbia AI has been praised for its visionary approach to integrating AI into productivity tools. However, critics argue that navigating the ethical implications of AI adoption, such as data privacy and algorithmic bias, remains a significant challenge. As Hebbi…
Emerging trends: The increasing role of AI in healthcare
AI has already transformed many aspects of the world, from automating systems to enhancing decision-making processes. Yet, perhaps the most impactful and personal ways AI is changing our world are within the field of health care, where it’s being used to diagnose, create personalised treatment plans…
Issues with Character AI: What’s wrong with it?
Character AI is yet another free-to-use AI platform that was released in September 2022, and allows its users to create and experiment with their own AI avatar, which they are then able to converse with, role play with, and even produce fan fiction. This is why Character AI bots are being used as “d…
What is Character AI: Everything you should know
Character AI is an innovative platform providing a unique AI chatbot experience. Drawing on a wide selection of ChatGPT-style bots, users can interact with AI personas mimicking their favorite characters, historical figures, or entirely novel entities. From Einstein to Elon Musk, users can seek advi…
Character.AI introduces new calling feature
OUR TAKE Character.AI’s new call function allows users to customise the voice of artificial intelligence characters, and this personalised setting can not only meet users’ pursuit of uniqueness and exclusiveness, but also make AI closer to users’ lives and habits, achieving more natural and smooth i…
Why I’ll never buy the Apple Vision Pro
Apple’s Vision Pro faces returns due to ergonomic issues, limited functionality, and high costs, despite its advanced technology.
Unlocking the potential of passive optical networks
The demand for faster and more reliable internet connections has never been higher than now. One technology at the forefront of meeting this demand is the passive optical network (PON). But what exactly is a PON, and why is it becoming a crucial element in our telecommunications infrastructure? 1. W…
Unveiling the optical network terminal: Your gateway to fast internet
In today’s digital age, high-speed internet is a necessity, and an Optical Network Terminal (ONT) plays a pivotal role in delivering this speed. But what exactly is an ONT, and why is it crucial for our internet connections? 1. What is an optical network terminal? An Optical Network Terminal (ONT) i…
Coverage
Market / Trends / North America Trends / North America Institutional Trends
In this section: 1 briefingBrazil orders Meta to stop training its AI on personal data
OUR TAKE Meta is similarly stymied by European Union regulators, leading the company to suspend plans to train its AI models on Facebook and Instagram posts in Europe. However, Meta’s updated data collection policy is already in effect in the United States, which lacks similar user privacy protectio…
Coverage
Market / Trends / Global Trends / Global National Telecom Trends
In this section: 5 briefingsVerizon and AT&T collaborate on low band spectrum for satellite coverage
OUR TAKEBeyond the immediate impact on connectivity, this partnership sets a precedent for future industry collaborations that harness technological convergence. As telecommunications continue to evolve, partnerships like this one will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of global communicatio…
Vodafone LimeNET Micro 2.0 gives you a private 5G network
OUR TAKEVodafone’s launch of LimeNET Micro 2.0 and the adoption of 5G-based MPN by European smes is important in facilitating the digital transformation of smes, enhancing network security and flexibility, enhancing the user experience and driving technological innovation.–Zora Lin, BTW reporter Wha…
Optus uses Ericsson’s 5G interference sensing software
OUR TAKEThe successful pilot of interference sensing technology, which is part of Ericsson’s 5G Advanced portfolio, not only validates the technology’s effectiveness, but also lays a solid foundation for 5G networks to support more diverse and higher quality applications and services in the future.–…
SoftBank shares rise on $1.86B debt offering as CEO talks up AI
OUR TAKE This move will not only help optimise SoftBank’s financial structure but also accelerate its position in global technology competition, strengthen its role as a leading technology firm, and establish a solid foundation for future technological innovation and market leadership.–Revel Cheng, …
SoftBank sets up AI healthcare joint venture with Tempus AI
OUR TAKE Tempus is committed to changing the precision medicine landscape through the practical application of AI, and the collaboration with SBG will expand its reach and bring its AI solutions to the Japanese market. They are able to work together because they share a common goal: to ensure that p…
Coverage
Market / Trends / Europe and Middle East Trends / Europe and Middle East Cloud Services Trends
In this section: 1 briefingEU accuses Meta of violating digital competition rules
OUR TAKEDesktop browser users can pay about $10.5 per month, while iOS or Android users pay about $14 per month to avoid Meta’s AD targeting based on their personal data.–Zora Lin, BTW reporter What happened European Union regulators accuses social media company Meta Platforms on Monday of violating…
Coverage
Market / Trends / North America Trends / North America Cloud Services Trends
In this section: 2 briefingsDetroit Police Department agrees to limit facial recognition tech
OUR TAKEThe January 2020 arrest of Robert Williams, the first documented case of wrongful detention based on facial recognition technology in the United States, is the reason for this new rule. Until now, police have increasingly relied on artificial intelligence systems to investigate, despite thei…
Amazon hires Adept founder to strengthen AGI development
OUR TAKEAGI is a more advanced technology than current generative AI, with near-human-level capabilities. Amazon’s move is to accelerate the layout of AGI research and development to achieve a “start” on the AI track. Amazon’s partnership with Adept is all the more remarkable in the context of U.S. …
Coverage
Market / Trends / Asia-Pacific Trends / Asia-Pacific Institutional Trends
In this section: 1 briefingSK Hynix will invest $75B in AI and chips by 2028
OUR TAKEWhile South Korea is home to the world’s largest memory chip makers Samsung Electronics and SKHynix, it has fallen behind some rivals in areas such as chip design and contract chip manufacturing. Earlier this year, the South Korean government announces a $19 billion support package for chip …
Coverage
Market / Trends / Global Trends / Global Regional ISP Trends
In this section: 2 briefingsSONET: Revolutionising data transmission in the digital era
Efficient data transmission is crucial for seamless connectivity. Synchronous Optical Network (SONET) emerges as a game-changer, transforming how data travels through fibre optic networks. 1. What is SONET? Definition SONET, short for Synchronous Optical Network, sets the standard for transmitting d…
Discovering the power of fibre optic networks
In an era where fast and reliable internet is crucial, fibre optic networks have emerged as a game-changer. But what exactly is a fibre optic network, and why is it so important? 1. What is a fibre optic network? A fibre optic network uses thin strands of glass or plastic fibres to transmit data as
Coverage
Market / Trends / Asia-Pacific Trends / Asia-Pacific National Telecom Trends
In this section: 1 briefingSoftBank Group forms joint venture ‘SB TEMPUS’ with Tempus
SoftBank Group and Tempus establish a joint venture “SB TEMPUS” to further advance healthcare in Japan by leveraging medical data and artificial intelligence.