Google Sues Scammers Over Fake Bard AI Chatbot That Downloads Malware

 

As artificial intelligence gains prominence, Google finds itself embroiled in a groundbreaking legal battle. The tech giant is taking legal action against five unidentified scammers who exploited public interest in Google's AI chatbot, Bard. These scammers set up deceptive social media accounts, enticing users to download a counterfeit version of Bard, ultimately infecting their devices with malware. Google's lawsuit, a first of its kind from a major tech company, underscores the legal complexities emerging in the wake of the AI revolution.

Deceptive Social Media Scheme: Google alleges that scammers operated under Facebook profiles like "Google AI" and "AIGoogle," luring users into downloading a fraudulent Bard AI.

Identity Unknown: The scammers remain unidentified, operating under various aliases, a common challenge in the cybersecurity realm.

Legal Precedents in Innovation: Google's legal actions aim to establish crucial precedents in emerging fields, emphasizing the need for clear rules against fraud, scams, and harassment.

 

In a lawsuit filed in the Northern District of California, Google accuses the scammers of trademark infringement for misusing the Google logo in their scheme. The fraudulent downloads not only compromised users' devices with malicious software but also granted the scammers unauthorized access to victims' social media accounts.

Despite the scammers' anonymity, Google's general counsel, Halimah DeLaine Prado, emphasized the company's commitment to pursuing legal remedies. The lawsuit underscores the growing challenge of combating deceptive practices exploiting the surge in interest surrounding generative AI tools.

Simultaneously, Google filed another lawsuit against individuals engaged in submitting fraudulent copyright claims. Allegedly, these fraudsters created numerous Google accounts to issue thousands of false copyright notices against competitors, indicating a broader pattern of deceptive practices within the tech landscape. 

 

These legal endeavors align with Google's broader mission to establish essential legal precedents in the rapidly evolving landscape of technological innovation. DeLaine Prado emphasized the importance of clear rules to counter fraud, scams, and harassment, irrespective of the innovative context.

Joby Aviation conducted the first-ever electric air taxi flight in New York City

 

In a groundbreaking development, Joby Aviation conducted the first-ever electric air taxi flight in New York City, marking a historic step towards cleaner, quieter urban air mobility. The flight, originating from the iconic Downtown Heliport in Manhattan, occurred on Sunday, November 12th, aligning with the city's commitment to electrify the heliport and position itself as a global leader in sustainable aviation.

Highlights:

1. Joby's electric air taxi flight in New York City underscores the city's ambitious plans for the electrification of the Downtown Manhattan Heliport.
2. The event, attended by New York City Mayor Eric Adams, signifies a strategic move to embrace clean and quiet flight technologies.
3. Joby, in collaboration with Delta Air Lines, aims to launch commercial passenger services in 2025, offering fast, emissions-free journeys with its four-passenger electric aircraft.

The flight follows extensive preparations at the HHI Heliport in Kearny, New Jersey, and reinforces Joby's commitment to revolutionize air travel. JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby Aviation, expressed gratitude for New York's support, emphasizing the vision to make quiet, emissions-free flight an affordable reality for New Yorkers. 

The partnership with Delta Air Lines positions New York as one of Joby's early launch markets, promising efficient air travel while significantly reducing environmental impact. 

 

Joby's meticulously designed aircraft, with a lower acoustic footprint, aligns with New York's focus on innovation and sustainability. The collaborative efforts with the Port Authority and NYCEDC highlight the comprehensive planning for infrastructure development at key airports, contributing to the city's economic growth and commitment to cutting-edge technologies.

Humane has introduced the AI Pin, a revolutionary wearable powered by OpenAI's GPT-4

Humane has introduced the AI Pin, a revolutionary wearable powered by OpenAI's GPT-4, featuring a built-in camera and a privacy-focused Trust Light. Priced at $699, this contextual computer aims to redefine user interaction by reducing smartphone dependency. Pre-orders in the US begin on November 16, with availability expected in 2024. Explore the AI Pin's features, subscription details, and its innovative approach to privacy.

1. AI Pin debuts as Humane's first AI-powered product, emphasizing contextual computing.
2. Trust Light signals recording or image capture, prioritizing user privacy.
3. Priced at $699, the wearable supports voice calling, image capture, and a unique Laser Ink Display.

Humane, founded by former Apple employee Imran Chaudhri, has unveiled the AI Pin, heralded as the world's first contextual computer. This wearable, boasting OpenAI's GPT-4 capabilities, attaches magnetically to attire, resembling a body-worn camera. Priced at $699, it supports voice calling, image capture, and projects an interactive display onto the user's palm, offering an innovative alternative to traditional touchscreens.

Available for US pre-order on November 16, the AI Pin comes in Eclipse, Equinox, and Lunar color options. A $24 monthly subscription fee provides T-Mobile network access. Designed to minimize smartphone reliance, the device lacks its own display, employing a laser beam scanning projection system. OpenAI's GPT-4 powers language translation, voice messaging, and meeting summaries.

The AI Pin's 13-megapixel camera captures images, with video support expected via a future software update. Equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon chip, 4GB RAM, and 32GB storage, the wearable offers 4G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS connectivity. Sensors include an accelerometer, gyroscope, compass, and ambient light sensor. The AI Pin's lithium-ion battery supports proprietary wireless charging, and a Trust Light ensures privacy, indicating capture or usage of microphone and scan features through distinct LED colors.

Dell Technologies and Alienware have introduced the cutting-edge Alienware Aurora R16 desktop in India

 

Dell Technologies and Alienware have introduced the cutting-edge Alienware Aurora R16 desktop in India, boasting 13th and 14th Gen Intel Core processors and a powerful NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 GPU. Priced at a starting point of Rs 1,59,990, the desktop debuts with the innovative Alienware Command Centre, promising a seamless gaming experience. Read on for key highlights and detailed specifications.

Highlights:

1. Alienware Aurora R16 launches in India with 13th and 14th Gen Intel Core processors and up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 GPU.
2. The desktop features a new thermal solution for quieter operations and reduced CPU and GPU temperatures.
3. Alienware Command Centre makes its debut, offering swift access to game-specific profiles, lighting customization, and more.

 

Dell Technologies and Alienware have unveiled the Alienware Aurora R16 desktop in the Indian market, equipped with cutting-edge 13th and 14th Gen Intel Core processors and a formidable NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 GPU. This gaming powerhouse, available for purchase on Dell.com, Dell Exclusive Stores, Amazon.com, and select multi-brand stores, starts at Rs 1,59,990.

The Aurora R16 introduces a revamped thermal solution, boasting a larger air intake for a 20% reduction in average noise levels and up to 10% lower CPU and 6% lower GPU temperatures. With a 40% reduced total volume compared to its predecessor, the desktop promises a hassle-free, plug-and-play elite gaming experience.

A significant feature of the Aurora R16 is its distinction as the first Alienware desktop to integrate the Alienware Command Centre. This software provides gamers with swift access to essential settings, including game-specific profiles, lighting customization, macros, audio configurations, and more.

Furthermore, the desktop is environmentally conscious, featuring the highest amount of post-consumer recycled plastics (56%) and a minimum of 11% recycled steel. Under the hood, the Alienware Aurora R16 impresses with its specifications, offering up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 GPU, 13th and 14th Gen Intel Core processors, Wi-Fi 6, up to 32GB of DDR5 Memory, 1TB SSD storage, and 80 Plus Platinum rated power supplies.

India’s 1 Percent TDS on Crypto Transactions Needs to be Slashed to 0.01 Percent

 

India's imposition of a one percent Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) on cryptocurrency transactions is under scrutiny, with a recent study from Delhi-based think tank Esya Centre proposing a reduction to 0.01 percent. Currently taxed at 30 percent, crypto gains in India face additional TDS, implemented in July last year. Despite a year passing since the introduction of these tax laws, the crypto sector in India is experiencing a prolonged slowdown, prompting calls for a reconsideration of the TDS rate.

1. Esya Centre suggests slashing India's one percent TDS on crypto transactions to 0.01 percent.
2. Current tax laws, initiated in July last year, have led to an estimated loss of $420 million in the Indian crypto market.
3. The Bharat Web3 Association criticizes the TDS law, but no government initiative for change has been observed.

 India's cryptocurrency landscape faces challenges as the Esya Centre recommends a significant reduction in the one percent TDS on crypto transactions to stimulate growth in the sector. Despite the initial intention of discouraging speculative activities and enhancing traceability in the virtual digital asset (VDA) ecosystem, empirical analysis by Esya suggests these goals remain unmet. The report, titled 'Impact Assessment of Tax Deducted at Source on the Indian Virtual Digital Asset Market,' indicates a continued decline in crypto engagement in India over the past year.

Since the introduction of the TDS law, the daily transaction volume on major Indian exchanges, including WazirX and CoinDCX, has reportedly dropped from $10 million to $5.6 million. The Bharat Web3 Association, representing Indian crypto and Web3 players, has voiced criticism without seeing any government action.

The slowdown has led to job cuts in domestic exchanges, with CoinDCX laying off twelve percent of its workforce. Additionally, Indian crypto traders are reportedly turning to international exchanges due to the unfavorable tax environment. Despite appeals from various quarters, including a report from Chase India and Indus Law, the government has yet to respond. The impact of the TDS is evident in India's absence from the list of the world's most crypto-ready nations by August 2022.

While the crypto community urges reconsideration, only 0.07 percent of Indian crypto owners are estimated to have declared and paid their taxes in 2022, revealing a significant gap between tax obligations and compliance. The government's response remains awaited amid concerns about lost revenue and opportunities for India's digital economy.

China has unveiled an ambitious plan to create the Country's first Humanoid Robots by 2025

The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology in China has unveiled an ambitious plan to create the country's first humanoid robots by 2025. 

This endeavor is part of a broader initiative aimed at stimulating innovation, nurturing startups, setting industry standards, cultivating talent, and promoting international collaboration. 

As China looks to assert its leadership in cutting-edge technologies, it is now setting its sights on the realm of lifelike robots, an endeavor that could reshape the tech landscape.

 

Technological Race and Stock Surge : The announcement led to a surge in the stock prices of Chinese robotics companies, intensifying the technological competition between China and the United States, which has traditionally held an advantage in this domain.

China's Two-Year Targets: China's immediate goals within the next two years include advancements in environment sensing, motion control, and machine-to-human interaction capabilities, along with the promotion of AI in robotics.

China, as the world's foremost electronics manufacturer, is striving for significant breakthroughs in the field of robotics. The plan focuses on creating humanoid robots with remarkable capabilities, including the ability to think, learn, and innovate by 2027. While the policy document lacks specific details, its vision encompasses the establishment of a robust industry supply chain system to support robot manufacturing.

Humanoid robots have the potential to revolutionize various sectors, such as handling everyday tasks, working in hazardous environments, and more. Several U.S. companies have already taken the lead in this domain, with Tesla's "Optimus" humanoid robot and Boston Dynamics' agile "Atlas," capable of impressive maneuvers. South Korea's Hyundai Motor Group also entered the field through its acquisition of Boston Dynamics.

This year, a California startup, Figure, secured $70 million in funding to develop a humanoid robot, highlighting the growing interest in this cutting-edge technology. As China gears up to enter the field of humanoid robotics, it aims to shape the future of innovation and technology on a global scale.

Google's new tech can turn any existing ANC earbuds into heart rate monitors

Google is set to revolutionize the world of wearable technology with its pioneering research into audio plethysmography (APG).

This innovative technology promises to equip active noise canceling (ANC) headphones and earbuds with heart rate monitoring capabilities through a straightforward software update. In this breakthrough, Google harnesses the inner ear's unique properties for health sensing, ushering in a new era of convenience and accuracy in tracking vital signs.

Highlights:

Ear Canal as Ideal Health Sensor: Google has identified the ear canal as an optimal location for health sensing due to the intricate network of vessels within. This revelation paves the way for accurate heart rate monitoring.

Ultrasound-Based Heart Rate Measurement: Google's technology relies on a low-intensity ultrasound signal sent through ANC headphone speakers. It analyzes echoes, capturing minute ear canal skin movements and heartbeat vibrations to derive heart rate readings and heart rate variability.

Robust and Accurate Results: Google's APG technology delivers consistently precise heart rate measurements, unaffected by factors like skin tone, ear canal size, and suboptimal seal conditions.

In a recent blog post, Google unveiled its groundbreaking work in audio plethysmography (APG), introducing a method to infuse heart rate monitoring capabilities into ANC headphones and earbuds through a software upgrade. Google's research emphasizes the ear canal's unique attributes for health sensing, where the deep ear artery weaves a complex network of smaller vessels throughout the auditory canal.

APG operates by transmitting a low-intensity ultrasound signal through the speakers of ANC headphones. Echoes generated are captured through onboard microphones, with the vibrations of the ear canal skin and heartbeat modulating these echoes to yield heart rate and heart rate variability readings.

The company has developed a model that processes this feedback, even in scenarios with "bad earbud seals." Google encountered challenges related to body motion but mitigated them through a multi-tone approach. This calibration tool identifies the most suitable frequency for accurate heart rate measurement.

 

 

Google conducted two studies involving 153 participants, highlighting APG's consistently accurate heart rate (3.21% median error) and heart rate variability (2.70% median error) measurements. Unlike conventional heart rate sensors, APG remains unaltered by skin tones and ear canal size, making it a versatile, cost-effective, and reliable solution for health sensing. This technology promises to transform TWS ANC headphones into intelligent sensing devices with a simple software update, advancing biomedical and mobile research while offering low-cost health sensing possibilities.

Amazon made $1 billion with algorithms used to raise prices, says FTC

 

The United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has alleged that Amazon utilized secret algorithms, resulting in over $1 billion in increased prices for products on its platform. Details from the FTC's lawsuit, filed in September, have been unveiled, shedding light on Amazon's purported pricing strategies.

• Algorithmic Price Manipulation: The FTC claims that Amazon employed a clandestine algorithm, internally known as 'Project Nessie,' to forecast which products would prompt price hikes from other online retailers. This algorithm allegedly led to over $1 billion in higher prices.
• Message Deletion Controversy: The FTC also alleges that Amazon executives intentionally deleted messages on the messaging app Signal, erasing over two years of communications despite the FTC's request not to do so.

The FTC's lawsuit, joined by 17 states, accuses Amazon of leveraging its dominant market position to inflate prices both on and off its platform, overcharge sellers, and stifle competition, potentially violating federal and state antitrust laws.

Amazon responded, contending that the lawsuit would ultimately harm consumers and businesses. The company began testing other online stores' pricing algorithms in the early 2010s, seeking to ensure they mirrored Amazon's pricing. As a result, Amazon discovered it could raise prices while minimizing the risk of shoppers finding lower prices elsewhere, particularly by increasing prices on products sold by competitors matching Amazon's prices, giving rise to 'Project Nessie.'

Amazon's spokesperson, Tim Doyle, dismissed the FTC's claims as "baseless and irresponsible." Amazon voluntarily disclosed Signal conversations to the FTC and allowed agency staff to inspect them, even when unrelated to the investigation, Doyle stated.

Delhi Metro has introduced smart lockers at 50 of its stations

 Delhi Metro has introduced smart lockers at 50 of its stations, allowing commuters to safely store their belongings for a few hours.

This service can be accessed via a new mobile app called 'Momentum 2.0,' launched by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). The app offers various features beyond locker rentals, including online purchasing from listed e-commerce companies through 'virtual stores,' sending couriers via smart lockers (digi-lockers), and buying QR code-based tickets. DMRC plans to expand these facilities to the majority of its stations by June 2024.

Commuters using 'Momentum 2.0' can rent a 'smart box' (digi-locker) at 50 stations on Lines 1-7 and the Airport Line. The app provides flexibility in rental durations, and users are charged penalties for exceeding the specified time limits.

The digital lockers aim to enhance the commuter experience, offering a convenient and secure place to store belongings during travels. DMRC's collaboration with AutoPe Payment Solutions enables these services, providing commuters with a range of options beyond traditional travel. The digital lockers are app-powered and eliminate the need for physical locks or keys, making the process seamless.

Additionally, the app offers the convenience of making online purchases from virtual stores, courier services, buying QR code-based metro tickets, and even paying utility bills. It also provides information about station-related details, facilities, transportation options, food outlets, ATMs, and more.

Delhi Metro's initiative seeks to make the commuting experience more efficient and user-friendly, incorporating digital solutions for various services.

Rajeev Chandrasekhar announces that the prestigious Tata Group will now be crafting iPhones in India

 

Apple is forging a strategic alliance with India's Tata Group, designating the nation as its trusted hub for both manufacturing and nurturing top-tier talent. This dynamic partnership is poised to craft iPhones on Indian soil, marking a significant and exciting step forward.

Highlights:

• Electronics and Technology Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar said today that the project will be completed within two and a half years, and that the government will support the Tata Group and other Indian electronics companies in their efforts to partner with global brands.
• Tata Group will hold a 100% stake in Wistron InfoComm Manufacturing (India) Private Limited (WMMI).
• Tata Group to manufacture iPhones in India for global market.

India has swiftly risen as a prime contender for Apple's iPhone production, with the Tata Group poised to manufacture these coveted devices for both the domestic and international markets.

Revealing this exciting development, Electronics and Technology Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar affirmed that the project's completion is expected within two and a half years. The Indian government, he added, is firmly committed to supporting the Tata Group and other prominent Indian electronics companies as they collaborate with global brands.

Chandrasekhar, in a tweet, emphasized the government's dedication to nurturing the growth of dynamic Indian electronics firms, which, in turn, will serve as valued partners for global electronic brands seeking to establish India as their trusted hub for manufacturing and talent, aligning with the Prime Minister's vision of transforming India into a global electronics powerhouse.

This groundbreaking initiative took shape after Taiwan-based Wistron Corp., a key Apple contract manufacturer, granted approval for the sale of its Indian unit to the Tata Group for a substantial $125 million. Upon board approval, Tata Group will hold a 100% stake in Wistron InfoComm Manufacturing (India) Private Limited (WMMI). The deal is set to advance through the necessary regulatory channels, pending confirmation from all relevant stakeholders.

This strategic move signifies a noteworthy departure from Apple's traditional production strategy, which heavily leaned on Chinese manufacturing facilities. The ongoing US-China trade tensions and rising labor costs in China have compelled Apple to diversify its production sources. India, renowned for its vast consumer base, skilled workforce, and favorable government policies, has now emerged as an enticing and forward-looking choice for Apple's future production endeavors.

Notably, Apple has been assembling iPhones in India since 2017, commencing with the iPhone SE. Since then, the company has steadily expanded its operations, leading up to the local assembly of the highly sought-after iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus models.

Nasa James Webb Space Telescope gazes into a galactic garden of budding stars

 

The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has captured a stunning image of the galaxy M83 (NGC 5236) using its Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI). M83 is a barred spiral galaxy located about 15 million light-years from Earth and is of particular interest to astronomers studying star formation.

The image reveals various features of M83:

• Bright blue regions in the center of the galaxy indicate areas with dense concentrations of stars.
• Bright yellow tendrils extending from the center represent stellar nurseries, where new stars are actively forming.
• Orange-red splashes mark regions rich in polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, carbon-based compounds that MIRI's wavelengths are well-suited to detect.

This stunning spiral isn’t a gateway to the abyss. It’s the galaxy M83, as seen through the eyes of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). More specifically, the spaceborne observatory captured this image by tapping into one of its powerful infrared devices, the  Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI).

Also known as NGC 5236, M83 is a barred spiral galaxy located about 15 million light-years from us. It's of particular interest to astronomers trying to learn more about star formation. The James Webb Space Telescope's MIRI is their current tool of choice in that quest because, as its name suggests, it observes the universe through infrared wavelengths between 5,000 and 28,000 nanometers. (By comparison, visible light, or the light human eyes are built to see, has wavelengths between 380 and 750 nanometers.)

This observation of M83 is part of the Feedback in Emerging Extragalactic Star Clusters (FEAST) program, which aims to understand the connection between star formation and stellar feedback in galaxies. Stellar feedback refers to the process in which stars release matter and energy as they form.
By studying this relationship, astronomers can refine their models to gain a better understanding of how stars are born and how they evolve. The FEAST program will include observations of a total of six galaxies, with previous observations, including the galaxy M51, conducted using JWST.

Ahead of Diwali, India's largest commercial bank has joined forces with Reliance to introduce a special card.

 

In Greeting Ocassion of Diwali, SBI Card and the Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Retail have introduced a collaborative venture in the form of a co-branded card, the Reliance SBI Card. This innovative card not only provides an array of enticing rewards but also boasts an eco-friendly feature, being crafted entirely from 100% recycled plastic.

The Reliance SBI Card comes in two distinct variants, namely the Reliance SBI Card and the Reliance SBI Card Prime. The official announcement highlights that customers can look forward to exclusive benefits and offers when making transactions at Reliance Retail stores. These benefits encompass a wide range of sectors, from lifestyle and grocery shopping to consumer electronics, pharmaceuticals, and many more.
Key features and rewards of the Reliance SBI Card include:

• An annual renewal fee of Rs 499, plus applicable taxes.

• Renewal fee waiver upon achieving an annual spending milestone of Rs 1,00,000.

• Earn 1 Reward Point for every Rs 100 spent on various retail purchases, excluding fuel, property rental, and wallet top-ups.

• Receive a Reliance Retail voucher worth Rs 500 upon payment of the joining fees.

• Acquire 5 Reward Points for every Rs 100 spent at participating Reliance Retail Stores (except for UPI payments).

• Get 5 Reward Points for every Rs 100 spent on dining and movie expenses.

• Enjoy additional discount vouchers worth Rs 3,200 from various participating Reliance Retail Stores, delivered within 45 days after the realization of joining fees.

• Qualify for a waiver of renewal fees upon achieving annual spending of Rs 1 Lakh in the previous year.

• Benefit from a 1% fuel surcharge waiver at all petrol pumps.

For the Reliance SBI Card Prime, the rewards and features are even more extensive, including:

• An annual renewal fee of Rs 2,999, plus applicable taxes.

• Renewal fee waiver upon reaching an annual spending milestone of Rs 3,00,000.

• Earn 10 Reward Points for every Rs 100 spent at participating Reliance Retail Stores (except for UPI payments).

• Gain 5 Reward Points for every Rs 100 spent on dining, movies, entertainment, domestic airlines, and international expenditures.

• 
  Earn 2 Reward Points for every Rs 100 spent on various retail purchases, excluding fuel, property rental, and wallet top-ups.

• Receive a Reliance Retail voucher worth Rs 3,000 upon payment of the joining fees.

• Enjoy additional discount vouchers worth Rs 11,999 from various participating Reliance Retail Stores, delivered within 45 days after the realization of joining fees.

• Qualify for a renewal fee waiver upon achieving annual spending of Rs 3 Lakh in the previous year.

• Benefit from a 1% fuel surcharge waiver at all petrol pumps.

• Receive 8 complimentary visits at domestic airport lounges per calendar year, along with 4 complimentary visits at international airport lounges per calendar year.

• Enjoy one movie ticket worth Rs 250 every month when booking through BookMyShow.