Microsoft Edge Browser URL Leak Raises Privacy Concerns

April 29, 2023

Microsoft Edge has recently come under scrutiny as users discovered that the browser sends the URLs of the websites they visit the Bing API website. This was first noticed by Reddit users who found that the latest version of the Edge browser was sending requests to “bingapis.com” with the full URL of almost every page visited by the user.

Many users are now left trying to figure out why their online movements are being tracked, and it seems that the issue may stem from a feature called Creator Subscription. This feature allows users to follow their favourite creators on YouTube and social media and receive notifications when latest content is available. However, security experts have discovered that URLs are no longer sent to “bingapis.com” after disabling this feature.

Raphael River, a programmer and one of the developers of the EarTrumpet app for Windows 10, shed some light on the situation, stating, “Microsoft Edge now has a subscription to authors feature, which is enabled by default. The feature seems to notify Bing when the user is on certain pages, such as YouTube, The Verge, or Reddit. But the feature doesn’t seem to work correctly, instead sending almost every domain you visit to Bing.”

Although Microsoft has not yet explained why the list of visited websites is sent to “bingapis.com,” the company has issued a statement saying, “We are aware of incoming messages. We are investigating and will take appropriate action to resolve any issues.” It is believed that this issue may simply be due to a configuration error.

Cybersecurity experts advise temporarily removing the subscription to creators function until Microsoft works out how to implement it appropriately. This may be accomplished by putting “creators” into the search bar and disabling the appropriate item in the Edge browser settings.

This incident highlights the importance of privacy and data protection, especially as more and more users rely on technology for their daily activities. Tech companies must prioritize user privacy and take appropriate measures to protect their users’ personal information.

Google Authenticator Cloud Sync Feature Lacks End-to-End Encryption

Vishak

April 29, 2023

Google has launched a new feature to its Google Authenticator app called Cloud Sync, which allows users to sync their two-factor authentication (2FA) tokens across various devices. While this was a much-anticipated innovation, it lacks end-to-end encryption (E2EE), leaving users susceptible to possible security breaches.

A Mysk security researcher discovered that Google Authenticator information was not end-to-end encrypted when syncing between devices, making it easy for attackers to access this information and control the 2FA code. Additionally, QR codes for 2FA usually contain other information, such as account name and service name, which Google can see, potentially using this information for personalized advertising.

However, Google has acknowledged users’ concerns and stated that it would add E2EE to future versions of Google Authenticator. Google Group Product Manager Christiaan Brand said they are careful to roll out this feature in their products, as E2EE can lock users out of their data.

While Google Authenticator encrypts data in transit and at rest, users should be cautious when using the sync feature and consider using the app without signing in or syncing secrets. Additionally, Google already offers E2EE in some services, such as Google Chrome, where users can set a passphrase to encrypt data synced with their Google account.

The convenience of syncing 2FA codes across devices comes at the cost of privacy, but Google is taking steps to address this issue and prioritize user security and safety. Users need to stay informed about the security features of their online accounts and take necessary precautions to protect their personal information.

Microsoft Consolidates Cloud Services into a Single New Domain

Adwaith

April 29, 2023

Microsoft has announced its plans to migrate Microsoft 365 cloud services for documents and communications to a new cloud.microsoft domain.

The move aims to combine all of the company’s office solutions and greatly simplify access to the suite of office applications and related products. The new system will allow users to use URLs such as outlook.cloud.microsoft and teams.cloud.microsoft to access the app they want, making it easier for users to access the needed services.

Currently, Microsoft’s Office apps are spread across various domains, making it difficult for users to locate specific services unless they have memorized or bookmarked them. By migrating to a single domain, Microsoft aims to streamline the user experience by reducing the number of login requests, redirects, and delays when navigating through applications.

Consolidating all services and applications into one domain will replace domains such as .sharpoint.com, .microsoft.com, .office.com, and many more. This transition is expected to significantly improve the user experience, making it easier for users to access the services they need.

However, there is a catch. Users should not expect to be able to use .cloud.microsoft right away, as only new applications will work on it initially. Existing services will be gradually moved to the new domain over time. Microsoft has not yet given an exact date for the transition.

GM Partners with Samsung to Invest $3 Billion to Build Battery Cell Plant for EVs

Avinash A

April 29, 2023

General Motors (GM) and Samsung SDI, the South Korean battery maker, have announced a partnership to construct a battery cell manufacturing plant in the United States. The $3 billion investment will contribute to more than 30 GWh production and bring GM’s total production capacity in the US to about 160 GWh.

GM’s partnership with LG for most of its battery cell supply has brought three battery plants into production and construction in Ohio, Tennessee, and Michigan. The two companies had been negotiating a fourth US battery plant, but talks stalled, leading GM to partner with Samsung SDI instead.

Interestingly, the new battery plant will produce “nickel-rich prismatic and cylindrical cells.” This partnership will enable GM to integrate cells directly into battery packs and reduce weight, complexity, and cost. Recently Samsung announced its plans to integrate EV battery tech into future Samsung flagship smartphones.

GM’s Executive Vice President, Doug Parks, stated that this partnership with Samsung SDI would allow the company to scale up production and optimize pouch cell chemistries for performance, range, and cost. He also added that having multiple strong cell partners would enable GM to grow its electric vehicle business faster than it could do alone.

The partnership’s battery production plant’s location is yet to be announced, and operations are set to begin in 2026. GM’s partnership with Samsung SDI to construct a battery cell manufacturing plant for EVs is a significant change for the automaker, which has been heavily investing in battery manufacturing in the US to support the transition to electric vehicles.

Opera Introduced Opera One Browser with Contextual Tab Grouping and Focused on AI

Vishak

April 28, 2023

Opera has announced the release of its new browser, Opera One, which is set to replace its current default browser. According to the developers, Opera One comes with elements that make it ready for a “generative future based on artificial intelligence.” While the exact meaning of this statement remains unclear, the browser’s innovative features are already turning heads.

One of the most significant changes in Opera One is the modified concept of grouping tabs called “Tab Islands.” This feature automatically groups open tabs based on their context, making it easier for users to manage their browsing experience. For example, when a user is looking for a place to have dinner, the browser will group different catering establishment tabs together. Similarly, when interacting with different Google documents, the tabs will be combined to make it easier for the user to work with them.

Each group of tabs is marked with a vertical bar of a particular colour, and users can expand or collapse a group with just one click. When collapsed, each group of tabs is complemented by hints, making it easy for users to find their desired island of tabs. Opera has noted that the new approach to grouping tabs is “a natural way to organize tabs into contextual groups.”

Another notable feature of Opera One is the browser’s new engine, which provides smooth rendering of complex web animations using the device’s graphics accelerator. This improves performance when interacting with tab groups and other features appearing in the new browser later.

While Opera has remained tight-lipped about the browser’s AI-focused features, it has been revealed that Opera One will receive integration with ChatGPT and ChatSonic. These AI-powered chatbots can assist users with various tasks, including answering questions and generating creative prompts, just like Bing AI chatbot in Edge browser.

Opera One also boasts a modular architecture that automatically adjusts elements when new features are added to the sidebar or when new tabs are opened. The sidebar includes workspaces, multiplayer with built-in widgets for popular music streaming services, and a block with messaging apps such as WhatsApp and Telegram. The generative AI block, which includes ChatGPT, AI Prompts, and ChatSonic, is also available in the sidebar.

Opera One is already available in a preview version for developers, and the final release is scheduled for later this year. With its innovative features and AI integration, Opera One promises to be a game-changer in browsing.

UK Regulator Halt Microsoft’s Acquisition of Activision Blizzard Over Cloud Gaming Concerns

Bhasker Das

April 28, 2023

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) of the United Kingdom has reaffirmed its intention to halt Microsoft’s large acquisition of Activision Blizzard, citing worries about the impact on competition in the cloud gaming sector. Microsoft would become the world’s third-largest gaming firm, with direct control over major games like Call of Duty and World of Warcraft.

The CMA has been investigating the merger since July 2021 and has expressed concerns about higher prices, less choice, and less innovation for UK gamers. In its latest statement, the CMA concluded that acquiring Activision’s gaming portfolio would “significantly reduce competition” in the cloud gaming market and that Microsoft would be incentivised to withhold games from competing platforms.

The CMA also noted that Microsoft’s proposed remedy for the situation did not address various areas, including the business models of various cloud game services and providers who wanted to offer games on non-Windows operating systems.

The acquisition has also drawn criticism in other regions of the world. The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has filed a lawsuit to block the acquisition. Still, Microsoft recently won another private antitrust lawsuit filed by a gamer to be dismissed. In Europe, a detailed investigation has been under consideration for some time, and early reports suggest that Europe may allow the deal after Microsoft offers further relief.

However, the UK’s decision to block the merger sets a precedent for the future, and Microsoft has contested the decision, saying it would “disrupt investment, competition and job creation across the UK gaming industry.” Microsoft’s vice chairman and president Brad Smith also wrote on Twitter that the decision “appears to reflect a flawed understanding of how this market and related cloud technologies actually work.”

The UK’s decision to block Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard highlights the importance of competition and innovation in the cloud gaming market. The CMA’s worries about the impact on competition and choice for UK gamers must be taken seriously. How Microsoft will respond to the ruling and the consequences for the gaming industry’s future remains to be seen.

Qualcomm Snapdragon Game Super Resolution to Revolutionize Android Gaming Graphics and Battery Life

Adwaith

April 28, 2023

Qualcomm has announced Snapdragon Game Super Resolution, a technology that can improve the graphics of high-end Android games.

The technology will enable Android game developers to maximize their games’ resolution and frame rate and extend the battery life of Android phones. The Snapdragon Game Super Resolution technology is optimized for Snapdragon Adreno graphics processing units (GPUs) and is a single-pass spatial upscaling technology that uses range-aware dynamic scaling customized for the Adreno GPU pipeline.

Single-pass upscaling method in Snapdragon Game Super Resolution can deliver the promised performance boost while improving the device’s battery life. According to the company, games using this method on the Snapdragon chip will see 1080p resolution games upscaled to 4K, and framerates will also increase from 30fps to as high as 60fps.

According to Qualcomm, several games that support Snapdragon GSR are already in development. These games include popular titles such as Activision’s Call of Duty Warzone Mobile, Jade Dynasty, New Fantasy, Return to Empire, Justice Online Mobile, and Farming Simulator 23 Mobile. These games are expected to significantly improve graphics quality, resolution, and frame rate thanks to Snapdragon Game Super Resolution.

Snapdragon GSR technology is expected to be a game-changer for Android game developers who want to create high-end games that compete with the best titles on other platforms. With this technology, Android game developers can deliver a superior gaming experience to their customers, which will help to increase the popularity of Android games.

TSMC Faces Challenges with Lithography Tools for Apple’s Next-Gen 3nm Processors

Avinash A

April 28, 2023

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC), one of the largest chipmakers in the world, is having difficulties meeting the demand for 3nm chips from its top customer, Apple.

According to analysts surveyed by EE Times, TSMC has been struggling with tools and yields, which have prevented it from mass-producing its world-leading technology.

TSMC’s CEO, CC Wei, acknowledged that the company has yet to meet “customer demand,” which almost certainly refers to Apple. The manufacturer recently finished developing its 3nm process, and reports from December 2020 indicated that Apple had placed a full production order for its 3nm processors with TSMC.

However, TSMC is said to be delaying the introduction and ramp-up of 3nm due to the need to adopt multi-patterning with EUV lithography from tool supplier ASML. Analysts believe that TSMC will start ramping up production of Apple’s A17 and M3 processors on its N3 node in late 2023, with a yield of around 55%.

The delay in production is a setback for both TSMC and Apple, as it could lead to supply shortages and potentially impact the release date of upcoming Apple products. TSMC’s struggles with lithography tool troubles also highlight chip manufacturers’ challenges in developing and producing advanced technologies.

The next big step for TSMC is the 2nm chip, which is expected to enter production in 2025. The iPhone 17 is expected to be one of the first devices to adopt this upcoming process. However, TSMC must first overcome its current challenges in mass-producing its 3nm chips for Apple.

While TSMC is expected to ramp up production of Apple’s 3nm processors in late 2023, the delay could lead to supply shortages and potentially impact the release date of upcoming Apple products. The development of the 2nm chip is also an important milestone for TSMC, but it must first overcome the current challenges it faces in mass-producing its 3nm chips.

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