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Mark Zuckerberg Announces Massive Job Cuts In Meta: Affecting 10,000 Employees

By
Avinash A
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Meta office and employees news

Meta, Facebook and Instagram’s parent company, has revealed plans to lay off a further 10,000 workers in addition to the 11,000 layoffs announced in November 2022. This will result in the departure of 21,000 people from the organisation. CEO Mark Zuckerberg indicated in a long message emailed to all workers that the layoffs were essential in making the firm leaner and more effective.

Although conceding that layoffs would result in the loss of brilliant and dedicated employees who had contributed to the company’s success, Zuckerberg underlined the significance of prioritising the company’s top priorities and removing duplicate and low-priority projects.

The company’s technical group will be laid off in late April, followed by its business group in late May, with the reorganisation projected to last through the end of 2023. In addition to the layoffs, Meta will close over 5,000 open positions.

The announcement by Zuckerberg comes as no surprise since reports of huge job layoffs have been circulating for weeks. Meta sees the move as a chance to simplify its operations and focus on its most essential projects.

The layoffs, on the other hand, will almost certainly have a big impact on the personnel leaving the company. Meta has committed to showing thanks and respect to individuals impacted, but losing so many employees in such a short time will be a tough and unpleasant process for many.

As Meta continues to restructure, it remains to be seen what effect these changes will have on the company’s future. Meta, on the other hand, may be better positioned to address the problems and possibilities of the quickly expanding digital world with a smaller and more focused company.

Samsung Confirms Use of Neural Networks for Moon Photos on Galaxy S Ultra Smartphones

By
Vishak
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Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

After coming under allegations of deception emerged about the camera capabilities of its Galaxy S Ultra smartphones. Samsung has confirmed that the Scene Optimizer function is activated when users zoom in on the moon with their Galaxy S Ultra smartphones. This function allows artificial intelligence to enhance the image by reducing brightness and improving detail. In its statement, Samsung acknowledged that it uses neural networks to process photos and did not deny that the images captured through the lens are not the same as the final result displayed to the user.

However, The Verge notes that Samsung’s explanation is unlikely to satisfy consumers, especially since the company has promoted the zoom capabilities of its smartphones without making clear that the final images are not solely captured through the lens. To address these concerns, Samsung has released a detailed article on its website explaining how its Space Zoom technology works.

The article confirms that neural networks are used to create images of the moon and that the Space Zoom function relies on AI to optimize photos. The Reddit user ibreakphotos discovered that the resulting images are not solely due to the camera’s capabilities but also because of the neural networks that enhance the photos. In some cases, the networks may add non-existent elements to the images.

Samsung’s article explains that the neural network works in three stages. First, the Super Resolution option combines ten shots to eliminate noise. Next, the Zoom Lock stabilizes the image and removes blur. Finally, the neural network polishes the image to improve its quality. At this final stage, non-existent craters or shadows may appear, but the AI aims to produce a high-quality result that compares favourably with standard images of the moon.

Scene Optimizer in Galaxy S Ultra Space Zoom

The article emphasizes that the AI has been trained on numerous photographs of the moon and can correct photos taken in challenging conditions, such as bad weather or low-quality images. However, The Verge suggests that Samsung’s reliance on neural networks to enhance photos may be seen as deceptive by consumers, who expect the final images to be captured solely through the camera lens.

Microsoft’s Bing Search Engine Confirmed To Be Using OpenAI’s GPT-4

By
Avinash A
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OpenAI GPT-4

Microsoft has stated that their new Bing search engine uses the newly announced GPT-4 model from OpenAI. The new Bing, first unveiled earlier this year, was believed to be powered by ChatGPT, although the exact version of GPT was not revealed. 

Microsoft has confirmed that it was GPT-4, as rumours said. Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft’s corporate VP and chief marketing officer for consumers, stated that the new Bing is using a modified version of GPT-4 for search and that users who have used the new Bing preview in the last five weeks have already encountered an early version of the model.

The new Bing had a rough start, with Microsoft imposing various limitations in the early days. The company has since iterated and eased the limits. Microsoft revealed yesterday that the number of turns permitted in a single conversation had been increased to 15, allowing users up to 150 talks every day. Mehdi also assured that Bing would always have the most recent OpenAI AI and will benefit from future GPT-4 and later version advancements.

The OpenAI GPT-4 model is a significant upgrade to GPT-3.5 and is expected to offer various improvements over its predecessor. GPT-4 is the biggest language model yet built, with 100 trillion parameters. The model is predicted to be more accurate than GPT-3 and to create more cohesive and fluent writing. GPT-4 is also supposed to be more flexible, with the ability to handle various activities, including language translation, text completion, summarization, and more.

GPT-4 in Bing is expected to enhance the search engine’s capabilities, providing users with more accurate and relevant search results. With its advanced language processing capabilities, GPT-4 can help Bing understand the nuances of human language and provide more personalized and contextually relevant search results. GPT-4 is also expected to make Bing more conversational, allowing users to interact with the search engine more naturally and intuitively.

Meta Ends Support for NFTs on Facebook and Instagram: A Surprising Move

By
Adwaith
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Meta Platforms

Meta has surprised the tech community by announcing that it will end support for NFTs on Facebook and Instagram. This move is unexpected, given the company’s strong push to adopt digital collectibles across its platforms over the past year. Meta’s decision to end support for NFTs is expected to occur in less than a year.

Stephane Kasriel, Meta’s head of commerce and financial technology, announced the decision to suspend digital collectibles via Twitter. Meta spokesperson Joshua Gunter confirmed the news via email to The Verge. Kasriel stated that the company would focus on other ways to support creators, people, and businesses. The company aims to use the knowledge gained from its NFT experiment to develop other products that support people and businesses.

This decision comes almost a year after Mark Zuckerberg announced at SXSW that Instagram was working on NFT support. NFTs debuted on Instagram in May 2022, and the company announced a significant feature expansion in November. The plan was to allow creators to build and sell collectible items directly on Instagram.

The reason for Meta’s sudden shift in policy on NFTs remains unclear. It is surprising, given that Zuckerberg had hinted that NFTs could play a role in the company’s Metaverse plans. In an interview at SXSW last year, Zuckerberg stated that avatars wearing clothes in the Metaverse could be minted as NFTs and carried between different places.

Meta’s decision to end support for NFTs is not the only once-ambitious initiative to fall through the cracks in the past year. The company has shut down Novi, a crypto wallet rumoured to have NFT support on its roadmap. The company is also cutting projects from its metaverse arm, Reality Labs, and a program that rewards Reels creators.

The decision to end support for NFTs is likely related to Meta’s recent efforts to become more efficient. The company has been laying off thousands of employees and shutting down dozens of projects. In his announcement, Zuckerberg described 2022 as a “year of efficiency.”

10 Essential Cybersecurity Tips for Keeping Your Data Safe

By
Nethra Gupta
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strengthen cybersecurity

In today’s daily routine, it makes no sense not to pay attention to your cybersecurity. Computers and technology surround us and we should be more careful with our sensitive data. As they grow and transfer them over the Internet, it’s important to take the necessary steps to protect against cyber threats. Here are ten important cybersecurity tips to help you keep your data safe.

Use Strong Passwords

The first thing to do is to update your passwords. Avoid obvious combinations and for God’s sake remove such as “password” or “admin”, as they are easy to guess even for a child. Instead you can use a password manager. Or use a combination of letters, numbers and special characters to create a strong password yourself. You should also use different passwords for different accounts and change them regularly. This is also very important.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication

This extra level of security requires you to provide two forms of identification to access your account. This can be a password and a security code sent to your phone or email. Also, in some cases, an additional application is used with an identifier that is updated every minute. Enabling 2FA can greatly reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your accounts. Consider this.

Keep Your Software Up-to-Date

Software updates often include security patches that fix vulnerabilities and bugs. Software updates can prevent hackers from exploiting these vulnerabilities and gaining access to your system. Be sure to update your operating system, applications, and antivirus software regularly.

Be Careful When Clicking on Links

Phishing attacks are a common tactic used by hackers to steal personal and confidential data. Be careful when clicking on links in emails or messages, especially if they are from unknown sources. Check the URL before clicking on the link and avoid entering personal information on suspicious websites. We also advise you to use a reliable private search browser. This will reduce the risk of clicking on a scam link.

Back Up Your Data

Regularly backing up your data can help protect it from data loss due to hardware failure, cyberattacks, or natural disasters. Make sure to store your backups in a secure location. Test them regularly to ensure they are working properly.

Be Careful with Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured. Meaning they are a prime target for cybercriminals. Avoid logging into sensitive accounts such as your bank or email on public Wi-Fi networks. If you must use public Wi-Fi then use a VPN to encrypt your internet traffic.

Secure Your Mobile Devices

Mobile devices are just as vulnerable to cyber threats as desktop computers. Make sure to use strong passwords, enable biometric authentication, and keep your operating system and apps up-to-date. Avoid downloading apps from untrusted sources and only use reputable app stores such as Google Play or the App Store.

Be Wary of Social Engineering

Social engineering is a tactic used by cybercriminals to trick people. Thus they into divulging sensitive information. Be wary of unsolicited phone calls, and emails. Some messages that ask for personal or financial information are sus. If in doubt, contact the organization directly to confirm the request.

Educate Yourself

Finally, educating yourself on cybersecurity best practices can help you stay informed and avoid falling victim to cyber threats. Stay up-to-date with the latest security news and trends. Also be cautious when sharing personal information online.

Conclusion

Cybersecurity is a critical aspect of our digital lives. No one would argue that you can’t afford to be complacent about it. By following our top ten cybersecurity tips, you can greatly reduce the risk of cyber threats and keep your data safe. Also, take a look at the Sidekick browser. We recommend it especially for remote workers. Remember to remain vigilant and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your data.

Microsoft Signs 10-Year Deal with Independent Cloud Gaming Provider Boosteroid for PC Games

By
Adwaith
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Microsoft Deal with Independent Cloud Gaming Provider Boosteroid

Microsoft has signed a 10-year deal with Boosteroid, an independent cloud gaming company, to migrate its PC games to a cloud streaming service rather than its own. If the agreement is finalized, Boosteroid will also obtain games from Activision Blizzard, including the blockbuster Call of Duty brand.

Boosteroid presently boasts four million native users worldwide and functions like Nvidia’s cloud gaming services. Players may stream games they own using Boosteroid’s cloud gaming platform, accessible via a browser and specific apps for Windows, Linux, Android, Android TV, and Mac. In addition, the cloud gaming company recently revealed intentions to expand its services to Macs, Chromebooks, Android TV devices, and LG Televisions. 

Microsoft’s agreement with Boosteroid demonstrates the company’s dedication to creating multi-platform games. It hopes these initiatives will assist authorities in the United Kingdom and Europe in approving its $68.7 billion bid for Activision Blizzard.

The partnership with Boosteroid also shows the growing popularity of cloud gaming in recent years. Boosteroid and other companies can give players a smooth gaming experience across numerous devices by providing cloud gaming services. The COVID-19 epidemic has also accelerated the trend for cloud gaming as more individuals seek methods to occupy themselves from the comfort of their homes.

Overall, the deal between Microsoft and Boosteroid is a significant development in cloud gaming and will likely have a major impact on the industry moving forward. With Microsoft’s commitment to multi-platform games and Boosteroid’s existing user base, this deal could begin a new era in cloud gaming.

Sony Announces Camera with Laser Projection System for People with Visual Impairments

By
Adwaith
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HX99 RNV

Sony has announced the release of the HX99 RNV kit, developed specifically to assist persons with vision impairments to take better images. 

This tiny camera has a Retissa Neoviewer module, which features laser projection technology that sends the picture from the viewfinder straight to the user’s retina. This helps those with nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism using the camera to view a clean image.

The Retissa Neoviewer module can show low-light pictures created by a small projector, conveying a 720p image with an 8-bit colour depth straight to the eye’s retina. This picture has a horizontal field of vision of about 60 degrees and a refresh rate of 60Hz. The module has a rechargeable battery with a powerful life of up to 4 hours and can be charged through a micro USB interface.

The HX99 RNV camera kit is based on the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX99, a 2018 mid-range model. It has an 18-megapixel CMOS sensor, 24-720mm focal length, 30x optical zoom, and contrast autofocus technology. The DSC-HX99 camera costs $475, but Sony is offering the complete kit for $600. Sony advises users to test the camera before purchasing it since it may not be suitable for all vision impairment forms.

The HX99 RNV kit was developed in collaboration with QD Laser, a Japanese laser technology firm. Sony’s Vice President, Yang Cheng, stated that the firm is committed to making its goods, services, and experiences more accessible to everyone.

Microsoft Azure Announces Revolutionary Virtual Machines for Accelerated AI Workloads

By
Vishak
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Microsoft Azure Virtual Machines

Microsoft Azure has recently announced the release of a brand-new Virtual Machine (VM) powered by NVIDIA’s top-of-the-line GPU, the H100. This new VM, ND H100 v5, is designed to accelerate generative AI workloads, such as the AI language model ChatGPT.

According to Scott Guthrie, Microsoft’s Vice President of AI and Cloud, the company has spent hundreds of millions building a supercomputer to support large-scale training workloads. Microsoft worked closely with OpenAI to learn what they needed in building their training environment. This collaboration led to the developing of special-purpose clusters that could support such workloads.

The ND H100 v5 VM is the latest innovation resulting from this collaboration. It offers on-demand sizes from eight to thousands of NVIDIA H100 GPUs interconnected by NVIDIA Quantum-2 InfiniBand networking. Customers can expect significant improvements in AI model performance over the previous generation ND A100 v4 VM.

The ND H100 v5 VM features eight NVIDIA H100 Tensor Core GPUs interconnected via next-generation NVSwitch and NVLink 4.0. It also offers 400Gb/s NVIDIA Quantum-2 CX7 InfiniBand per GPU and 3.2Tb/s network per VM for a non-blocking fat-tree network. This VM has NVSwitch and NVLink 4.0 that deliver 3.6TB/s bisection bandwidth across eight local GPUs in each VM. Additionally, it has a 4th Generation Intel Xeon Scalable Processor and a PCIE Gen5 host-GPU interconnect that delivers 64GB/s bandwidth per GPU. It also has 16 channels of 4800MHz DDR5 DIMM.

This new VM is expected to deliver cutting-edge AI innovations to enterprises worldwide. Ian Buck, Vice President of Hyperscale and High-Performance Computing at NVIDIA, said the ND H100 v5 VM would power a new era of generative AI applications and services.

The ND H100 v5 VM is available in preview starting today and will become a standard offering in the Azure portfolio. It will enable anyone to unlock the potential of AI at scale in the cloud. With this new VM, Microsoft is once again demonstrating its commitment to advancing the field of AI and making it accessible to everyone.

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