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Here’s a quick round up of some of the articles I’ve found interesting this week:
1) Microsoft’s Silicon Valley Envy – Vauhini Vara
An run through of Microsoft’s current outlook and its change from ‘devices and services’ to one that ‘facilitates experiences’.
2) Audi to Retain WPP’s AKQA for Digital – Alexandra Bruell
Quick analysis of Audi USA’s digital agency roster, including the news that they’re continuing a search for a social media agency.
3) Facebook Offers Life Raft, but Publishers Are Wary – David Carr
The ongoing debate around whether Facebook becoming a content host is good or bad for publishers – accessibility and audience access versus data handcuffs?
4) Uber: The Next Logistics Framework – Lindsay Rego
The how, why and what of Uber’s model and growth with reference to Malcolm Gladwell’s Tipping Point.
5) Touchtronic III – Advanced Technology Advancing AM.com – Pete Norwood
A look at how we created a unique web experience to launch and explore our latest 15MY Vanquish and Rapide S transmission.
A nice wash-up of the f8 conference here. My salient take out / conclusion:
“Zuckerberg said Facebook wants to be a “cross-platform platform” that rides across iOS, Android, Windows Phone, the web, and more. That’s a convenient framing of the fact that Facebook doesn’t own a mobile operating system.”
That’s clearly something that keeps Zuck up at night.
One other element which peaked my interest was AppLinks to allow users to load content held deep within apps as opposed to having start at the top level.
On Saturday we hit the fantastic mark of Two Million Aston Martin facebook fans. You may think that this is not such a big achievement when you look at other massive brands or indeed some of the Aston Martin competitor set, but, as a business we have never ever, ever spent any money on facebook advertising, and therefore every single one of those likes is either organic or referred. Not a bad achievement, even more impressive when you consider that our second million was generated in just 13 months.
And to celebrate? We thought we’d do something a little quirky, I liked the idea of a video which was light hearted and had the potential to be consumed by people (and fans) around the world. We’ll be releasing the full version in February but we’ve released this initial teaser…


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Kaspersky co-founder Eugene Kaspersky, has launched a bizarre attack on Apple over its ban on iOS antivirus app, predicting that it will ultimately “mean disaster” for the company as malware developers target the mobile operating system.
Speaking with The Register in Sydney, Kaspersky described his disappointment that Apple wouldn’t let the company develop software for iOS smartphones and tablets, to develop a “true endpoint security” for the operating system.
Then things get curious.
Kaspersky states that iOS infections won’t be introduced via iOS (which “by design is more secure”) but instead it will force developers to develop malware that uses vulnerabilities, with the only way to infect devices by ‘inject[ing] it into the source code of legal software.”
He adds: “It will take place in a marketplace and then there will be millions or tens of millions of devices.”
How Apple planned it.
Well, not exactly. No company wants people to attack its operating systems. However, Apple has systems in place to attempt to deal with such an attack vector.
Kaspersky says malware writers and ‘criminals’ have not chosen such a route previously because it’s “more complicated” than other attacks. By default, Apple places each app (including its preferences and data) in a sandbox when it is installed. This only permits the app to access files, preferences, resources and hardware that are permitted by the OS.
Not to mention the ASLR, DEP and code signing features that Apple uses to protect its operating system and user data.
Malware writers have to circumvent these in-built protections to access the more important parts of the filesystem and kernel, proving more difficult for would-be attackers.
No security measure is 100% secure but Kaspersky’s comments stating that attackers will resort to introducing new vulnerabilities appears to be nothing more than scaremongering. Apple’s protections are probed every day and are often broken (take the Jailbreaking scene as one example).
By not allowing Kaspersky to release an antivirus app, its co-founder believes that device owners will be left with no protection, resulting in (wait for it) a boost for Android, a platform that he recognises is less secure but allows his company to provide security software for.
The Register writes:
A severe attack, Kaspersky argues, therefore has the potential to highlight the problems of a closed ecosystem and damage Apple permanently.
Apple has bargained on attackers trying to side-load malware via an approved App Store app. The company has end-to-end security that can remotely remove installed applications, it can send over-the-air updates to fix vulnerabilities and the company also employs its own App Store approval teams to vet submissions to its marketplace.
Thom Shannon, app developer with Glow New Media, told The Next Web:
Apple has gone back to basics in iOS and built an operating system from the ground up to be secure. There isn’t much a third-party antivirus program could add to it. The only areas for improvement would possibly be anti-phishing measures built into Mail or Safari.
It must also be noted that antivirus apps utilise a lot of resources on a mobile OS and various reports have confirmed that existing Android security apps fail to detect some of the most common forms of malware (although Kaspersky does rank higher than most in the test).
In April, Kaspersky ruffled feathers when he made the comment that Apple is “ten years behind Microsoft in terms of security.”
For many years I’ve been saying that from a security point of view there is no big difference between Mac and Windows. It’s always been possible to develop Mac malware, but this one was a bit different. For example it was asking questions about being installed on the system and, using vulnerabilities, it was able to get to the user mode without any alarms.
Mac security was recently thrust into the public discourse as security issues turned into real stories. The Flashback malware hit a huge number of machines, with some 650,000 Mac machines still running the affected code.
At last year’s MWC, Eugene Kaspersky predicted Android will end up with an 80 percent share of the smartphone market in 2015, with Apple’s iPhone and RIM’s BlackBerry splitting the resulting share with 10 percent each.
Gartner’s most recent research report suggests Google’s mobile OS holds 56% of the smartphone market in the first quarter of this year, more than double Apple’s 23% share.
Kaspersky believes that this will only rise, helped by Apple’s lack of focus on antivirus solutions. Android will almost certainly continue to thrive, thanks to its heavy backing from Samsung, HTC and other vendors, but security oversights on Apple’s part are highly unlikely to play a part in the growth of its rival ecosystem.

domain: news


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With the entry deadline of Friday 30 June looming, now is the last opportunity for companies and individuals within the heating and ventilating industry to enter the 2017 HVR Awards.
The HVR Awards is designed to recognise and reward those that demonstrate excellence and innovation within the building services sector, and represent an independent endorsement of the highest calibre.
Winning an award separates companies from their competitors and raises its profile within the industry, opening doors to new suppliers, customers, investors and partners as well as providing motivation to all of its employees to raise the bar even further.
With so much to gain, companies are encouraged to submit their entries online and make sure that they are in with a chance to join the ranks of the prestigious HVR Awards alumni.
This year’s categories include: Commercial/Industrial Ventilation Product of the Year, Commercial/Industrial Heating Product of the Year, Commercial/Industrial Air Conditioning Product of the Year, Sustainable Product of the Year, Sustainable Project of the Year, Contractor of the Year and the brand new Wholesaler/Distributor of the Year.
Nominations are also being accepted for the Customer Service Person of the Year and Trainee of the Year awards, so if you know a shining star that goes above and beyond the call of duty make sure their hard work does not go unnoticed – submit a nomination by Friday 30 June.
Be a part of the awards!
The 2017 HVR Awards are set to be a night to remember – so why not make sure your brand is visible to the very best in the industry? A range of sponsorship packages are available, ensuring maximum visibility to a highly targeted audience throughout the awards campaign and on the night.
For more information, contact Sharon Holloway on 01622 699166 or at email@example.com.


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Cyber-security firm Imperva recently uncovered a serious security flaw on OpenSea, the world’s largest NFT marketplace, that could have been exploited to steal users' identities.
A team at Imperva called the Red Team exposed a major security flaw on OpenSea that left the site’s users vulnerable to identity theft.
The Red Team discovered that the site’s cross-site search (XS-Search) had a bug that a hacker could use to uncover a user’s identity.
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To uncover a user’s true identity, a hacker only needed to link an IP address, email, or browser session to a given NFT, which would give them access to a wallet address, revealing the user’s identity. Consequently, it would take away anonymity on OpenSea.
However, the security flaw has now been fixed. The fix was announced just four days after Imperva published its detailed report. While shocking, it is not the first time OpenSea has faced a security issue.
Malicious actors would usually target OpenSea users by creating fake copies of its official site in an attempt to steal customer data. The platform suffered a major phishing incident in February 2022, leading to users losing $1.7 million of NFTs.
In another incident in October 2021, Check Point detailed how OpenSea users could have their accounts drained by hackers. At that time, Check Point claimed that users would receive a malicious NFT gift, giving hackers full access to their account holdings.
OpenSea has not revealed whether anyone fell victim to the latest security vulnerability. Additionally, no one has complained about losing their NFTs to malicious actors.
At the end of February, OpenSea declared plans to decrease fees and offer enhanced creator royalties as rival marketplaces keep stealing its once-leading user base.


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Sony Interactive Entertainment CEO and President Jim Ryan will retire next year after more than thirty years with the company, it's been announced.
"The agreement also would ensure that Call of Duty console games are offered on PlayStation at parity with Xbox,” said Microsoft to the FTC.
Microsoft's Matt Booty says a "decision has not been made", regarding the sequel, currently in development for Xbox Series X/S and PC.
Sony-owned developer Firewalk Studios has unveiled its first title. Set to be a PvP multiplayer game titled Concord, it also got a short teaser.
Microsoft has committed to measures that “address the competition concerns" and "represent a significant improvement for cloud gaming."
Across consoles, handhelds, and VR, we rank all of Sony's illustrious platforms from worst to best.
The rumored handheld will reportedly arrive after the new PS5 model with a detachable disc drive, says insider Tom Henderson.
It's been claimed that Sony is working on a new handheld device that will launch sometime before the rumoured PS5 Pro releases.
Activision Blizzard EVP/CCO Lulu Cheng Meservey reveals the SIE President and CEO said this on February 21st in Brussels.
Developed for consoles and PC, the online fantasy RPG is a new IP "built from the core to entertain players and expand for many years to come."
The Competition and Markets Authority in the UK says there's a "realistic prospect" of lessened competition for consoles, game streaming, and more.
With the loyalty program's Japanese launch, gamers in the country are unhappy that customer service is a high-tiered reward rather than a baseline expectation.
Microsoft says that its "ability to continue expanding Game Pass has been hampered by Sony’s desire to inhibit such growth."
PlayStation has announced its newest esports-related acquisition—an esports technology platform called Repeat.gg. This is the company's second major esports acquisition since becoming co-owner of Ev...
The developer says it will explore "various possibilities with games, movies, and music through platforms that evolve with time and technology."
More than 30 partners are confirmed with "events, activities and updates" for fans planned. Even more are still to be announced.
[drop-cap]S[/drop-cap]ony has made many missteps over the last year or so, but the one that may have generated the biggest backlash was when they decided to shut down the PS3, PSP, and PS Vita stores ... Read More
Additional details on Sony's rumoured Game Pass competitor have emerged, courtesy of renowned industry insider Jeff Grubb.
"The last one is not Elden Ring," Shuhei Yoshida, Sony indies evangelist explains, as he teases a yet-to-release Soulslike game.
Sony has acquired Bungie, but the studio will remain autonomous and multiplatform- so what exactly does this deal mean for PlayStation?


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Ricky Khaxab – Peace on a string around your neckMay 23, 2013
Snap! … new bird species found in Namibia – Wing-snapping CisticolaMay 23, 2013
Namibia exhibited in the ever-growing SADC Hall along side other Southern African Countries like, Angola, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Swaziland and many others. As usual, the SADC Hall proved to be the busiest hall this year, bustling with all international visitors flocking to network and putting up packages together to make their way to Southern Africa.
Namibia’s call for joint marketing and strengthening continental relationships with other members was echoed by the South African Tourism Minister Marthinus Van Schalkwyk who visited the Namibian stand and said: “As part of the growth and expansion plans, South Africa will be gradually increasing African participation at the Indaba in 2014″.
Key activities at the Namibian stand was to maximize awareness on the hosting of the Adventure World Travel Summit (ATWS) from 26th – 31st October 2013. With its excellent infrastructure, efficient telecommunications, rich cultural heritage and an award-winning community-based natural resource management programme that combines the areas of tourism, conservation and community development, Namibia proved to be the destination of choice.
Held on an annual basis, the ATWS brings together decision makers of the global tourism industry, as well as travel enthusiasts keeping abreast of current tourism trends. Organisers of the summit, the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) is a global membership organisation consisting of 700 people representing tour operators, destination marketing organisations, tourism boards, speciality travel agents, guides, accommodations, members of the media as well as service providers.
For the first time ever, the ATWS will be hosted in Africa which will result in not only creating awareness of this diverse travel destination, but will also yield positive returns to the Namibian economy in terms of increased tourism bookings and future arrivals, with direct economic impacts for Namibia as host of this international event. This event can also further improve the diplomatic positioning of brand Namibia as a stable, forward-looking, progressive country open for visitors and investment alike, by showcasing its unique tourism offering coupled with a steady and established business sector.
30 Namibian Tourism Operators exhibited under the umbrella of Namibia Tourism Board. A total of 26 000 square meters of carpets were laid for the 1 386 exhibitors at the show this year, as Indaba again proved to be the biggest and most relevant tourism trade show on the African continent. Of the 14 970 square meters of sellable space available throughout the venue, a total of 14 712 square meters (98%) was sold and occupied at Indaba 2013.
Issued by the Namibia Tourism Board


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3M's Investment Thesis To Worsen Before It Gets Better, Analyst Says
BenzingaJan. 25, 2023, 11:54 AM
- RBC Capital Markets analyst Deane Dray reiterated an Underperform rating on the shares of 3M Co (NYSE:MMM) and lowered the price target from $113 to $106.
- 3M reported headline adjusted EPS of $2.28, 8 cents below consensus at $2.36. 2023 EPS guidance range of $8.50- $9.00 was 14% below the consensus of $10.22 at the midpoint, said the analyst.
- Organic sales are expected to be down -3.0% to flat in 2023, and compared to consensus of up 2.3%, the analyst noted.
- The analyst said that the weaker 1Q23 guidance, $1.25-$1.65 vs. $2.50 consensus, is already setting the company up for an unappealing back-half weighted year in a challenging macro.
- Management noted that the supply chain continues to improve but inflation pressures remain, albeit at lower levels, added the analyst.
- The analyst is reducing 2023 EPS estimate by $1.60 to $8.75, introducing 2024 estimate at $10.20, and decreasing the price target by $7 to $106.
- While there are a laundry list of headwinds from disposable respirators, Russia, FX, raw material headwinds, and divestitures, the analyst was surprised how far below consensus guidance was set.
- 3M noted that demand across industrial markets was mixed, but that overall industrial demand was moderating.
- As such, the company has taken actions to adjust manufacturing output and cost controls, said the analyst.
- All segments expected to see flat to down organic sales in 2023 except Health Care, added the analyst.
- With exposure to the most challenged verticals, namely consumer, consumer electronics, and China, 3M is seeing destocking by retailers and tepid consumer spending, cited the analyst.
- The analyst said an underwhelming 1Q23 guide is already skewing 3M to an unappealing 2H-weighted 2023.
- The analyst expects MMM’s investment thesis to worsen before it gets better.
- Price Action: MMM shares are trading lower by 1.83% at $112.89 on the last check Wednesday.


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This will sound like a brain teaser, and it is. Why would someone walk into an Apple Store and demand the Mac that comes in the smallest box – no other spec matters? CC-licensed photo by Jamie McCall on Flickr.
You can sign up to receive each day’s Start Up post by email. You’ll need to click a confirmation link, so no spam.
A selection of 11 links for you. Does a metaverse imply the existence of a metamiddle eight? I’m @charlesarthur on Twitter. Observations and links welcome.
Learning to live with Mark Zuckerberg • The New York Times
Ben Smith talks to Jessica Lessin (whose outlet was one of just four, none including “big legacy” outlets, to get a Mark Zuckerberg why-the-metaverse interview:
Ms. Lessin dates the hostility between journalists and Silicon Valley to the rise in the mid-2010s of Uber, whose leaders treated the worst features of tech culture — arrogance and misogyny, among them — as features, not bugs, and faced a new kind of adversarial coverage for it.
But Donald J. Trump’s election in 2016 was also central to the shift. Mainstream publications woke up to the centrality of Facebook in a new and sometimes violent and anti-democratic strain of global right-wing populism, a connection that Mr. Zuckerberg at first glibly dismissed. (Reporters also resented being forced to police Facebook’s informational byways like underappreciated mall cops, when Facebook should have been doing that itself.)
In their frenzy to provide a simple explanation for Mr. Trump’s victory, journalists sometimes botched the details and oversimplified the story. This was particularly true in the overhyped case of the political consultant Cambridge Analytica, which embodied fears of a new kind of algorithmic propaganda but which, a British government report later found, never actually did most of the sinister things it bragged about. Accurate reporting and erroneous articles alike bred a deep sense of embattlement in Palo Alto.
Ms. Lessin said she sees a few patterns, and a lot of symmetry. One is that journalists and tech figures are bad at reading one another’s motives.
“Tech companies say journalists are doing this hard-hitting reporting for profit motives” and because they’re angry about losing advertising, she said. “That’s obviously absurd.”
“But journalists who are accusing Facebook of making bad content moderation decisions because they’re only concerned about profits are also missing the point. Most of the time the challenges are around free speech.”
“They’re actually making the same mistake in reverse directions about each other,” she said. “I’m kind of baffled by it.”
Ms. Lessin’s second observation is that many tech chief executives see themselves in a battle with news outlets for the hearts and minds of their own employees. When they blast media coverage, they are also speaking to the people whose salaries they pay.
“The woke revolution in Silicon Valley is fueling this, too,” she said. “Tech executives are completely associating their employees’ activism with media outlets.”
|• Want to understand Facebook and social networks, and especially our reaction to them, better? Read Social Warming, my latest book, and find answers – and more.|
Snap, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube lose nearly $10bn after iPhone privacy changes • Financial Times
Apple’s decision to change the privacy settings of iPhones caused an estimated $9.85bn of revenues to evaporate in the second half of this year at Snap, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube, as their advertising businesses were shaken by the new rules.
Apple introduced its App Tracking Transparency policy in April, which forced apps to ask for permission before they tracked the behaviour of users to serve them personalised ads.
Most users have opted out, leaving advertisers in the dark about how to target them. Advertisers have responded by cutting back their spending at Snap, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube and diverted their budgets elsewhere: in particular to Android phone users and to Apple’s own growing ad business.
Sheryl Sandberg, Facebook’s chief operating officer, has said the iPhone changes meant “the accuracy of our ads targeting decreased, which increased the cost of driving outcomes for our advertisers. And . . . measuring those outcomes became more difficult.”
Lotame, an advertising technology company whose clients include The Weather Company and McClatchy, estimated that the four tech platforms lost 12% of revenue in the third and fourth quarters, or $9.85bn. Snap fared the worst as a percentage of its business because of its focus on smartphones, while Facebook lost the most in absolute terms because of its size.
Is it “iPhone privacy changes” or is it “customer privacy changes”? Apple doesn’t force anyone to opt out; it just asks them if they want to let an app track them. Seems that a very large proportion don’t want that, where they didn’t have the chance before.
Which raises the interesting question of how much money, and how big, those companies would be if such a block had been in place to begin with; and also whether it will be, or is, or would have been, something that would lead to Android customers changing to iOS.
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Google revelations help explain local-news crisis • The Seattle Times
Brier Dudley is editor of the Seattle Times Free Press:
New details of the ad-market distortions were revealed Friday when, under a judge’s order, the shroud was lifted from much of a multistate antitrust case against Google. Key details about how extensively the search giant dominates the marketplace for buying, selling and pricing online display advertising, and manipulates things to benefit itself, had been redacted since the case was announced in December.
Among the revelations: Google gets up to a 42% cut of ad sales handled through its system. The extraordinary take shows how much the company dominates the marketplace, the state case led by Texas argues.
Google’s ad exchange handles more than 60% of display ad inventory sold in the US. The company’s own ad buying tools also win more than 80% of auctions hosted on its dominant exchange, unredacted passages state.
In one example cited, a $6 bid for an advertising spot came through Google’s advertising exchange and an $8 bid from a different exchange. But because Google designed the system to prioritize itself, the $6 bid won, shorting the publisher $2.
“Internally, Google employees grappled with the fact that Google was falsely telling publishers that Google’s header bidding alternative enabled competition and improved yield, since in reality, Google created a program that advantaged itself at the expense of publishers,” the case states.
The case also revealed what it called “an illegal agreement” between Google and Facebook made in 2018, when Google’s dominance was threatened by a new bidding system for online ads that Facebook supported. In return for backing off, Facebook received preferential treatment in Google’s system.
Worth pointing out how Google is putting its finger on the scale all the time here. But, again, the realisation comes much too late, when ripping these things out will be much more difficult.
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No, you can’t save £30 per year by switching off your “standby” devices • Terence Eden’s Blog
The aforesaid Eden with a post that annoys me, for reasons I’ll explain:
Every few years, a dodgy stat does the rounds claiming you can save £££ if you switch off all your gadgets at the wall. The standby mode of your TV is bleeding you dry!!!
[The BBC quoted the Energy Saving Trust in a story about fuel bills, saying that you’d save £30 per year by switching off devices that were on standby.]
This is known as “Vampire Energy” and, amusingly, is a bit of a zombie statistic. Being the party-pooper that I am, I emailed the Energy Saving Trust to ask how they calculated the stat. They replied quickly with:
The calculation for £35 savings from turning off stand-by devices per year per household comes from average 201KWh for stand-by power times GB average standard electricity price 16.471 £p/KWh, then rounded to nearest £5.
201KWh comes from “Further Analysis of the Household Electricity Survey Early Findings: Demand side management”. Please note that the term “stand-by” used in this situation also include device on idle mode. Please refer to the report in more detail about the assumptions used in the analysis. Here is the link for this report.
Eden then takes those claims apart. It’s nothing like £30 per year these days, and even in the old days it was probably questionable. My annoyance? Because I emailed the EST’s press office, and it took them 10 working days and four emails to come up with a response that wasn’t even as good as Eden got just trying to “Contact” page.
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Nilay Patel on Facebook’s reckoning with reality—and the Metaverse-size problems yet to come • Vanity Fair
Delia Cai speaks to Patel, who has been running The Verge for a decade now:
DC: One more Facebook question. What’s the deal with the rebrand?
NP: They want it to be about the metaverse, right? They’re really focused on Oculus and A.R. But A.R. is a really hard problem. If you step back to the beginning, you’ve gotta build the display that goes on your face that doesn’t make you look ridiculous. You have to find a way to power it; you have to put a battery on your body somewhere; you’ve gotta find a computer that’s fast enough to look at the world around you and put stuff on top that’s also small enough to run off the battery. Very challenging. But that’s just the tech problem.
Once you build it, who is going to augment reality? Who is in charge of that project? If I’m standing at the United States Capitol and you’re standing there, and we’re both looking at the Capitol, what are we seeing—what is the label on that building? Is it the “home of democracy,” or is it “where Donald Trump got screwed”? We’ll actually live in different realities.
Facebook is trying to pivot away from its Facebook problems, which is a content-moderation-at-scale problem. It might well be unsolvable. Meanwhile, they are still racing toward the hardest content moderation at scale that will ever exist: that you and I will live in different realities because we’re wearing headsets on our faces that present to us different realities in the same moment, in the same physical space.
DC: God, that’s spooky.
NP: I think about it all the time.
But then he suggests something even worse. (An idea that multiple companies seem to be running towards, and which one is already building for certain.) His comments on data-driven journalism are on point too.
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Kids and their computers: several hours a day of screen time is OK, study suggests • The Conversation
Katie Paulich is a PhD student at the University of Colorado, Boulder:
Even when kids spend five hours a day on screen – whether computers, television or text – it doesn’t appear to be harmful. That’s what my colleagues and I at the University of Colorado Boulder discovered after analyzing data taken from nearly 12,000 participants in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study – the largest long-term study of its kind ever in the U.S.
The participants included children between the ages of 9 to 10, from diverse backgrounds, income levels and ethnicities. We investigated how screen time was linked to some of the most critical aspects of their lives: sleep, mental health, behavior and friendships.
Our results, recently published in the journal PLOS One, found no association between screens and a child’s depression or anxiety. Greater amounts of screen time were associated with stronger peer relationships for both boys and girls – both have more male and female friends. Social screen use may drive that association; video gaming, for instance, is a social activity that seems to foster more friendships. So does social media and texting.
…Our study also found negative correlations: More screen time predicted higher levels of attention problems, worse sleep, poorer academic performance and an increase in aggression and misbehavior.
Taken at face value, these contrasting positive and negative correlations are confusing. Is screen time good or bad?
Perhaps neither one: when looking at the strength of the correlations, we see only very modest associations. That is, any association between screen time and the various outcomes, whether good or bad, is so small it’s unlikely to be important at a clinical level.
Willingness to look stupid • Dan Luu
Luu on the benefits of asking (what seem to be) stupid questions:
when I look at people who have a very deep understanding of topics, many of them frequently ask naive sounding questions and continue to apply one of the techniques that got them a deep understanding in the first place.
…In general, I’ve found willingness to look stupid to be very effective. Here are some more examples:
• Going into an Apple store and asking for (and buying) the computer that comes in the smallest box, which I had a good reason to want at the time.
The person who helped me, despite being very polite, also clearly thought I was a bozo and kept explaining things like “the size of the box and the size of the computer aren’t the same”. Of course I knew that, but I didn’t want to say something like “I design CPUs. I understand the difference between the size of the box the computer comes and in the size of the computer and I know it’s very unusual to care about the size of the box, but I really want the one that comes in the smallest box”. Just saying the last bit without establishing any kind of authority didn’t convince the person.
I eventually asked them to humor me and just bring out the boxes for the various laptop models so I could see the boxes, which they did, despite clearly thinking that my decision making process made no sense (I also tried explaining why I wanted the smallest box but that didn’t work).
There are more, but this one is the most intriguing, because he doesn’t answer it. See if you can think of the potential answers. (Via Ian Leslie’s excellent Substack.)
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Science confirms it: websites are all starting look the same
We found that across all three metrics—color, layout, and AI-generated attributes—the average differences between websites peaked between 2008 and 2010 and then decreased between 2010 and 2016. Layout differences decreased the most, declining over 30% in that time frame.
The graph shows website similarity of companies in the Russell 1000. Lower values mean that the sites studied were more similar, on average. [Image: courtesy of the author]
These findings confirm the suspicions of web design bloggers that websites are becoming more similar. After showing this trend, we wanted to study our data to see what kinds of specific changes were causing it.
You might think that these sites are simply copying each other’s code, but code similarity has actually significantly decreased over time. However, the use of software libraries has increased a lot.
The graph on the left shows a decline in code similarity among Russell 1000 websites, while the graph on the right indicates an increase in library overlap. [Image: courtesy of the author]
Libraries feature collections of generic code for common tasks, such as resizing a page for mobile devices or making a hamburger menu slide in and out. We looked at which sites had lots of libraries in common and how similar they looked. Sites built with certain libraries—Bootstrap, FontAwesome, and JQuery UI—tended to look much more similar to each other.
A new world of cronut lines • Garbage Day
During Facebook Connect, Zuckerberg showed of a slew of VR and AR products, including the Project Cambria headset, the Oculus Quest 2 (soon to be Meta Quest), and a social virtual lobby-like platform for Oculus users called Horizon Home. And Bloomberg got ahold of leaked photos of a Facebook Smart Watch, which is believed to have front and back facing cameras and connect to the internet via a cellular connection that wouldn’t require a smartphone.
What we can tell, from all of this, is that for Zuckerberg, the metaverse is an ill-defined hodgepodge of virtual productivity tools and lame wearables. It’s in line with this broader feeling in Silicon Valley right now that if you jam together a conference call and a FitBit, somewhere in the middle there, you’ll end up with the metaverse.
Look, here’s the thing. The metaverse will probably happen at this point, but it won’t look like anything in Zuckerberg’s stupid Connect video. It will be weird and janky and people will use it to have sex with cartoon characters and hide video game achievements in parks and interact with their favorite influencers, who may or may not be real…
…Big platforms will inevitably create products that will facilitate this, but they won’t be Facebook. They’ll be stranger and more specific. They’ll emphasize small localized networks and faster and more visual communication: A Discord-like messaging app that has a Snap Map functionality and seamless live video filters. Digital assets, whether they’re NFTs or just memes you save on your phone, will be displayed in jewelry or small picture frames. You’ll turn a corner on the street and see a group of people standing together, staring at their phones or watches, and you’ll have no idea that they’re seeing together. Maybe one of them airdrops you the piece of content they’re all looking at. Maybe this has already happened to you.
But just think about the internet right now and think about how far beyond Facebook is already. It is laughable to think Zuckerberg is capable of creating a brand new VR-based internet. He couldn’t even beat TikTok!
Meta acquires VR fitness subscription service Supernatural • CNET
Supernatural was one of the first subscription-based services on the Oculus Quest (soon to be called the Meta Quest). The app, which uses video avatars of instructors in combination with motion-tracked workout routines (boxing was just added), sometimes feels like a ramped-up fitness version of the VR game Beat Saber.
“Our partnership with Meta means we will have more resources to expand and bring you even more music, more creative ways to work out, more features and more social experiences for VR,” Within CEO Chris Milk said in a statement Friday.
It looks like a move that could let Meta evolve more fitness and health aspirations on future headsets or products. “Together we will also explore ways we can enhance future hardware to support VR fitness apps, encouraging other developers to bring new fitness experiences to VR. We believe fitness will be a massive success in VR where multiple third-party fitness apps can succeed,” Meta VP of Play Jason Rubin said in a statement.
Ssupport for connected smartwatches for live heart rate readings during workouts may be the app’s most intriguing feature as it applies to Meta. Meta has its own movement-tracking fitness app on the Oculus Quest called Oculus Move, but no deeper support for connected smartwatches yet. Mark Zuckerberg spoke to CNET earlier this year, expressing an interest in both fitness and fitness sensors. Meta is expected to be making its own smartwatch, and is working on wrist-based neural input accessories for future smart glasses.
Well, it’s nice to have dreams.
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Zuckerberg announces fantasy world where Facebook is not a horrible company • Vice
Moments before announcing Facebook is changing its name to “Meta” and detailing the company’s “metaverse” plans during a Facebook Connect presentation on Thursday, Mark Zuckerberg said “some people will say this isn’t a time to focus on the future,” referring to the massive, ongoing scandal plaguing his company relating to the myriad ways Facebook has made the world worse. “I believe technology can make our lives better. The future will be built by those willing to stand up and say this is the future we want.”
The future Zuckerberg went on to pitch was a delusional fever dream cribbed most obviously from dystopian science fiction and misleading or outright fabricated virtual reality product pitches from the last decade. In the “metaverse—an “embodied” internet where we are, basically, inside the computer via a headset or other reality-modifying technology of some sort—rather than hang out with people in real life you could meet up with them as Casper-the-friendly-ghost-style holograms to do historically fun and stimulating activities such as attend concerts or play basketball.
These presentations had the familiar vibe of an overly-ambitious video game reveal. In the concert example, one friend is present in reality while the other is not; the friend joins the concert inexplicably as a blue Force ghost and the pair grab “tickets” to a “metaverse afterparty” in which NFTs are for sale. This theme continued throughout as people wandered seamlessly into virtual fantasy worlds over and over, and the presentation lacked any sense of what this so-called metaverse would look like in practice. It was flagrantly abstract, even metaphorical, showing more the dream of the metaverse than anything resembling reality.
Lovely use of “flagrantly”. People have been lining up to dump on Facebook for this, but I think Koebler did it best.
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Errata, corrigenda and ai no corrida: none notified


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By Tarirai Chivore, VP, Strategy & Analytics at Big Spaceship
With skinny jeans, avocado toast, and filtered photos on the way out, brands must shift strategies to reach younger demographics in a meaningful way. But how?
To understand Gen Z’s relationship with travel, let’s start with how they engage on social media. Unlike previous generations, Gen Z has the desire to not come across as oversharing publicly. This mindset marks a departure from millennials, whose paragraph-long captions and posed Positano posts came to define the ideal Instagram back in 2017. Travel brands hopped on the fixation, offering sponsored deals to promote everything from hotels to airlines through hyper-curated, aspirational content. Now, brands must shift their approaches, finding organic ways to sell to a generation that hates feeling sold to.
Marketers can understand Gen Z’s travel experience through four key touchpoints in the consumer journey: Dreaming, Planning, Booking, and Experiencing.
Where Millennials idolize influencers and aspire toward exclusivity, Gen Z responds to people who look, sound, and feel like them. That means brands need to look, sound, and feel like Gen Z, toeing the line between aspirational and inspirational. They prioritize posts from friends, trusted sources, and, in a true generational shift, the algorithm, perhaps the most trusted friend of all.
Budget airline Ryanair has embraced this approach and emerged as one of TikTok’s most successful travel brands. With an audience of over 1.9 million and a view count of nearly 750K on several videos, Ryanair’s strategy succeeds according to Econsultancy because it “pokes fun at the reality of the travel industry (and its own reputation), referencing everything from difficult passengers to canceled flights…[proving] that younger consumers prefer honesty and relatability rather than polished content on social.”
Speaking of budget airlines, one Gen Zer said: “I would fly underneath the plane with all of the luggage if it was cheaper. I have zero brand loyalty.” Gen Zers will fly Southwest Airlines to avoid bag fees, but won’t fall for a mileage program that offers free bag checks after spending $20,000 on a brand-sponsored credit card. Compared to Millennials, Gen Z is 1.6 times less likely to belong to an airline loyalty program and nearly twice as unwilling to stay loyal to a hotel, according to Think by Google. Practical and savvy, Gen Z suffers zero fools and stays highly attuned to insider information. Brands need to prove loyalty by becoming one of those insiders.
According to The National Retail Federation, Gen Z spends four and a half hours online compared to their Millennial counterparts, making finding that one negative review the equivalent of finding hay in a haystack. As a result, brands need to actively work to build positive perceptions. One approach? User generated content. Delta Airlines embraced this mindset with the launch of its first-ever TikTok campaign, #FavoriteTripHashtagChallenge. The brand invited TikTokers to share videos about their favorite trips with the hashtag, generating engagement and positive sentiment around the brand. According to Skift, the campaign “garnered over 19.5 million views in its first 36 hours, thanks partly to a partnership with TikTok.”
Gen Z seeks authentic experiences, favoring local and underrated destinations over aesthetics and trends. Customized, values-driven recommendations go a long way, and brands should share these tips by embodying the same tone as Gen Z’s preferred insider: itself. Orbitz showcased its understanding of this mindset in 2021 with the launch of “Travel as You Are,” an LGBTQ+-focused campaign consisting of a film and microsite with search tools to find hotels that signed an inclusion pledge. The spot featured an all-LGBTQ+ cast filmed by LGBTQ+ director and photographer Cass Bird set to a cover of Lesley Gore’s 1964 hit, “You Don’t Own Me,” by experimental Brooklyn-based gay musician Serpentwithfeet.
Despite its debut in tandem with Pride Month, “Travel As You Are” marked a far cry from the rainbow-washing members of the LGBTQ+ community condemn. As The Drum notes: “The brand has a rich history of LGBTQ+ allyship; its advertising and marketing efforts have not only highlighted LGBTQ+ celebrities but have often commented on major social and political moments, including the 2015 decision to legalize gay marriage in all 50 states and the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall riots in 2019.” This reaffirmation of allyship is just the kind of thing Gen Z looks for when shaping its experience.
Pitfalls and Promise: Rethinking Commerce to Reach Gen Z
Sometimes, brands get it right: that perfect balance between aspirational and inspirational, speaking-to and speaking-with, overtly selling and making a friend. But, often, they crack and come back to the commerce of it all. Previous generations might tolerate an overtly capitalistic approach, but Gen Z will not. If you claim to have fabulous service, a trending TikTok will put your subpar snacks on blast. There’s only one way to grab hold of Gen Z: provide good experiences and then amplify those offerings within the language of social media. Because when it comes to travel, Gen Z means business.


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Table of contents
Welcome to our weekly roundup! Let's dive right into some of the most impactful stories in the world of tech from the past week.
3 MidJourney Prompts you can try:
-> "/imagine a serene beach at sunset with a hammock tied between two palm trees."
-> "/imagine a bustling city skyline at dusk, with lights just starting to twinkle."
-> "/imagine a tranquil forest with sunlight filtering through the leaves."
Divize: A New-Age Company Worth $50 Million, All Bootstrapped
We started the week with the story of Divize, a software company that became a $50 million empire with zero external funding. Read about their incredible journey here.
Pepe Coin: Crypto Whales Take the Dive
In the crypto world, whales took a deep dive into the Pepe meme coin, accumulating 2 trillion amidst a price drop. Get the details here.
Google I/O: A Future Shaped by AI, Pixel Fold, and Android 14
Midweek brought us the excitement of Google I/O, where the tech giant unveiled its future plans shaped by AI, the Pixel Fold, and Android 14. Learn about their big reveals here.
Ashneer Grover: Legal Battles and a ₹81 Crore Fraud Case
In the fintech world, Ashneer Grover, co-founder of BharatPe, faces legal heat as an FIR is filed in a ₹81 crore fraud case. Understand the legal complications here.
Twitter's New CEO: Linda Yaccarino Takes the Helm
Finally, the week ended on a high note with Linda Yaccarino stepping in as Twitter's new CEO, succeeding the former CEO appointed by Elon Musk. Get to know her here.
Stay tuned for more updates in the world of tech. Here's to another week of innovation, surprises, and advancements.


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Currently, there are a few pre orders for the Microsoft Xbox mini fridge, and it looks like the one you’re interested in will be sold out in just a matter of seconds. If you’re looking to get one, it may be time to head to your local Target.
Xbox versus Skittles vs Microsoft xbox mini fridge
Earlier this year, Xbox beat Skittles in a Twitter competition. The competition required the winner to receive the most votes. If they did, then Microsoft would produce mini fridges inspired by Xbox Series X.
The contest was part of Microsoft’s 20th anniversary celebrations. The company announced that it would be holding a livestream event to celebrate its success. It would not feature new games or other updates. The focus of the stream was to showcase the accomplishments of the Xbox franchise.
The contest was held on the Twitter marketing account. Aside from the regular tweets, fans were asked to vote for their favorite overactive marketing Twitter accounts. The Xbox account ranked first.
After the contest ended, Xbox had a lot of questions about the mini fridge. Aaron Greenberg, the GM of Xbox Marketing, said that they were not trying to trick people. The campaign was a friendly Twitter brand competition. He said that they had not intended to make any mini fridges, but that they would put a quirky cooler in production if they won.
It’s a one-off
During E3 conference this year, Microsoft announced a mini-fridge based on its Xbox Series X game console. It’s not the first Xbox-related refrigerator, but it’s certainly the most powerful. It can hold up to ten 12-ounce cans of soda and up to twelve cans of beverage, plus it has a USB port for charging devices.
Xbox mini fridge pre order started on Tuesday morning, but it quickly sold out. People could buy the fridge at Target stores in the US and Canada. Some customers also bought it at local GAME stores.
The Xbox “Mini Fridge” is a 6-feet tall, 400-pound fridge that is shaped like an Xbox. It features LED lighting, two shelves for snacks, and a USB port for charging devices. Despite the design, it will not play the best Xbox games. It was designed to be a promotional item, but it’s also available in a miniature version.
In April, Xbox won a Twitter marketing contest for its “Mini Fridge” tweet. The company worked with a firm called Ukonic! to produce the merchandise. Its products include tie-in items for Marvel and Halo Infinite.
It’s sold out in 30 seconds
Until recently, the Xbox mini fridge was only available for pre-order at Target. It was created in partnership with a Las Vegas-based merchandise firm called Ukonic, and it resembles the console. It can hold up to 12 cans of drinks at a time, and it comes with a DC power adapter. It also has a USB port, so you can charge your phone or other devices while you’re gaming. It will ship in December.
Originally, the Xbox mini fridge was a viral joke, but after Microsoft won the “Brand Bracket” competition on Twitter, they decided to make the fridge a reality. Then, they started to receive requests for a smaller version. They ultimately manufactured a full-sized fridge in October of 2020, and sent it to Snoop Dogg. The door of the fridge opened up with a signature green glow, and when it opened, it made a very similar sound to the Xbox console.
It’s still unclear how the Xbox mini fridge has become such a hit, but some fans say they got one in their cart, while others reported getting them at local GAME stores. They’ve also been spotted on eBay. Although there are no official details about the resale market, these popular items often sell out quickly.
It’s available exclusively at Target
Initially released as a viral Internet joke, the Xbox Mini Fridge is now a real product. It’s a replica of the Xbox Series X game console that’s designed for gamers. It’s got LEDs, shelves for snacks and a USB port for charging devices. It’s priced at $99.99 and will ship in December.
The first wave of pre-orders sold out in about 30 minutes. The second wave of pre-orders was opened this week, and it also sold out quickly.
While it’s unclear whether or not the Xbox Mini Fridge will be on sale online, Target has confirmed that it will be available for purchase in store. It’s currently only available in the US, but Microsoft says it plans to expand the product’s availability across several other regions in 2022.
In April, Microsoft announced that it was teaming up with Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson to promote his ZOA energy drink. The marketing campaign included a limited-edition Xbox mini fridge, and Xbox said the mini fridges were only meant for promotional purposes.


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Cannabis-infused alcoholic beverages would become illegal under a bill passed by the Michigan legislature Tuesday and is now waiting the signature of Gov. Rick Snyder to become law. The bill was passed in anticipation of the legalization of recreational cannabis in the state at next month’s election.
Under the measure, House Bill No. 4668, all possession of alcoholic beverages that contain marijuana, even solely for personal use, would be prohibited. The only exception to the ban will be for research institutions.
“A person shall not use or offer for use, possess, sell, or offer for sale marihuana-infused beer, wine, mixed wine drink, mixed spirit drink, or spirits. A person that violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor,” the statute reads.
Proponents of the bill say it is necessary in case voters decide to legalize the recreational use of cannabis in the statewide election in November. Opponents fear that alcoholic beverages infused with cannabis will lead to dangerously intoxicated driving and make the state’s roadways unsafe.
Opponents of the measure say it is unnecessary because it is a solution to a problem that does not exist. They note that there is not yet a legal market for alcoholic beverages infused with marijuana. And even if there were, selling the products would still be illegal under federal law.
Josh Hovey is the spokesperson for the Coalition to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol, the spearheading Michigan’s cannabis legalization initiative, Proposal 1. He told High Times that his group hasn’t taken a position on House Bill No. 4668 because passing Proposal 1 is their prime objective. But if the initiative passes, he says the coalition will turn to other related issues including infused beverages and the expungement of criminal records for cannabis-related offenses.
House Bill No. 4668 was passed by the Michigan House of Representatives on Tuesday by a vote of 101-40. The state Senate voted in favor of the measure in September by a margin of 35-1. Gov. Snyder is expected to sign the legislation.
In a similar move in July, regulators in California ruled that alcoholic beverages infused with cannabis were illegal in the Golden State. Officials also decided that pubs and bars were prohibited from allowing patrons to use their own cannabis products, as well.
Michigan Votes On Legalization Next Month
The bill was passed before the expected legalization of cannabis by voters who will be voting on the legalization of recreational cannabis for adults. Proposal 1 will appear on the ballot in next month’s general election. Last month, a statewide poll found that 56.2 of voters supported the measure.
If it is successful, Proposal 1 would legalize the recreational use and sale of marijuana and establish a legal framework for the regulation and taxation of the commercial cannabis industry.
In a campaign update from the National Cannabis Industry Association, Hovey said that cannabis legalization has strong support in Michigan.
“Multiple opinion polls have shown that 60 percent of Michigan voters want to end cannabis prohibition and create a legalized and regulated system, so that’s a very strong starting position as we head into the campaign season,” said Hovey. “However, we know we can’t just rely on polls and we know the prohibitionists will continue to spread ‘Reefer Madness’ era misinformation about the initiative.”


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Apple Stepping Up Environmental Friendliness with New Halogen-Free Cables
The London Evening Standard reports (via GigaOM) that Apple is requiring cable supplier Volex to spend up to $6 million retooling its production lines to eliminate halogens from the power and USB cables used in the company's products. The move will make the cables less toxic to the environment upon disposal.
Apple is the biggest customer of Volex, 23%-owned by billionaire financier Nat Rothschild, which makes the power cables and USB leads used in everything from laptops to iPhones and iPads.
But the US firm is on a drive to move its products towards halogen-free power cables, which are less harmful to the environment when disposed of.
The start-up costs in designing and making the new cables will cost it up to $6 million in the current financial year, Volex said today, although, stripping out these one-off costs, profits will be in line with market expectation.
Apple has in the past received criticism from environmental advocacy groups such as Greenpeace, but the company has been performing better in recent surveys as it has continued to shift to more environmentally-friendly alternatives and has become more open about its efforts on the environmental front.
In 2009, the company launched an expanded environmental footprint section of its website to help provide information on its impact and progress in the area.
There's just about a month to go until Apple holds its annual September event focusing on new iPhone and Apple Watch models. We thought we'd take a quick look at everything that's rumored for Apple's September event to give MacRumors readers a rundown on what to expect when the first fall event rolls around.
The iPhone 14 can probably be described more as an "iPhone 13S" because...
Apple's second-generation AirPods Pro are finally nearing launch, with a release expected later this year. If you are considering upgrading to the new AirPods Pro once they are released, keep reading for a list of five new features to expect.
In addition to all-new features, the second-generation AirPods Pro will likely adopt some features added to the standard AirPods last year.
Samsung this week launched its fourth-generation foldable devices, the $1,000 Galaxy Z Flip and the $1,800 Galaxy Z Fold. Though there's no sign of a comparable Apple foldable device on the horizon, rumors suggest prototypes are in the works, so we thought we'd take a look at Samsung's newest smartphones to see what Apple needs to measure up to when a foldable iPhone does come out.
This week brought some shocking news for iOS 16 beta testers, with Apple bringing back the iPhone battery percentage to the status bar after a number of years.
Other news and rumors this week included word that Apple has started recording portions of its media event planned for next month to introduce the iPhone 14 and Apple Watch Series 8, claims about iPhone 14 Pro pricing and Apple's...
It has now been over a year since Apple announced plans for three new child safety features, including a system to detect known Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) images stored in iCloud Photos, an option to blur sexually explicit photos in the Messages app, and child exploitation resources for Siri. The latter two features are now available, but Apple remains silent about its plans for the CSAM...
The Apple Watch SE was announced in September 2020 and has been a popular Apple Watch model for customers looking for their first smartwatch or an affordable Apple Watch. Apple Watch SE customers may be wondering, however, what's in store for them with the upcoming Apple Watch Series 8 and what new features they can expect. Continue reading to find out. Apple Watch SE vs. Apple Watch Series ...


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- 67% of people have been regularly stressed about finances over the last 6 months
- 68% of people have cut spending to build emergency savings
- 61% of people are transferring between accounts more frequently to afford bills
- 60% of people feel the biggest challenge they face is understanding how to afford bills or pay off debt
Brits are experiencing high levels of stress in response to financial concerns and 67% of people have been regularly stressed about finances over the last 6 months. In addition to this, Quantum Metric’s research reveals that 68% of people have cut spending to build emergency savings funds.
The research also reveals that 61% of people are transferring between accounts more frequently to afford bills and 65% of UK consumers prefer to diversify where their money is kept and opt for banks with different interest rates to build their wealth.
Despite 60% of people’s biggest challenge is understanding how to afford bills to pay off accrued debt, data found that 32% of people say their bank isn’t doing enough to provide financial guidance. As a result of this, people aren’t completely confident that they are making the right financial decisions (50%).
To combat financial concerns, financial institutions must build consumers’ financial confidence. One way this can be achieved is by not only identifying pain points but empathising with customers’ financial anxiety. By providing the right (mobile-friendly) tools and investing in self-service, financial institutions can help customers feel more secure and assured, fostering long-term loyalty as a result.


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By getting rid of the polymer backing, researchers have found a way to stamp electronic tattoos directly on your skin -- making them wearable throughout your daily activities. Technology Review reports.
Epidermal electronics -- consisting of ultrathin electrodes, electronics, sensors, and wireless power and communication systems -- record electrophysiological measurements, helping to track health and monitor healing.
Earlier versions were more like temporary tattoos. They were applied with a thin, soft elastic polymer backing... which was fine if you never showered.
“What we’ve found is that you don’t even need the elastomer backing,” says John Rogers from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. “You can use a rubber stamp to just deliver the ultrathin mesh electronics directly to the surface of the skin.”
Printing it directly on the skin makes it more durable and rugged: you can wear it for up to two weeks before the skin’s natural exfoliation process causes it to flake off. Commercially available spray-on bandage can add a thin protective layer, bonding the system to the skin.
Eliminating the elastomer backing also makes it one-thirtieth as thick, allowing it to better conform to the skin’s rough surface (pictured).
The device can measure things like temperature, strain, and the hydration state of the skin. Specifically, it could monitor a surgical wound as it heals: when attached before the patient leaves the hospital, the device could take measurements and transmit that wirelessly to doctors and nurses.
The lab is working on refining wireless power sources and communication systems to be integrated into the system. The technology could potentially be commercialized by MC10, a company Rogers cofounded.
[Via Technology Review]
Image: University of Illinois
This post was originally published on Smartplanet.com


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ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - It’s hard to find bad ice cream and sweet treats but when it’s good, it’s really good!
For some of us who want to cool down this summer with something sweet, a scoop of ice cream may be one of the best treats.
According to a report, U.S. ice cream makers churned out over 1.3 billion gallons of ice cream last year, and Georgia residents might be wondering where the best spots are in town to grab a scoop.
If you’re looking to catch up with friends or get out of the house, Atlanta Eats’ Joey Weiss joined Atlanta News First anchor Lana Harris to talk about the best treats to beat the heat in Atlanta.
You can catch Atlanta Eats on Peachtree TV at 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 7 p.m. Saturday, and 10:30 a.m. Sunday.
Copyright 2023 WANF. All rights reserved.


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FRESH AIR: When CBS All Access unveiled its new version of The Twilight Zone earlier this year, the general consensus was that the initial episodes in the new series had fallen short of Rod Serling’s original version. Not only were they unworthy of The Twilight Zone of old, but they also weren’t nearly as good, or as smart, as a show that had begun in England in 2011, Black Mirror.
Watching Black Mirror‘s three brand-new installments on Netflix makes it clear that the series, in our current TV universe, claims and holds the fantasy anthology series crown. Charlie Brooker and Annabel Jones head the team behind this show, which uses the technology of today — and the possible technology of tomorrow — to frame, inform or drive its stories.
Brooker wrote all three of these new episodes, and their scope is as wide as their impact is deep. One story is about a pop star whose personality is marketed in an Alexa-style computer figurine. Another is about a driver for an Uber-type company who blames a social media company for his personal tragedy. And a third — the most haunting and daring of the three — is about two buddies who try out a new, virtual reality version of a favorite hand-to-hand combat video game they played some 10 years earlier. MORE


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Bridget Dolan and her team at Sephora’s Innovation Lab, based in San Francisco, were a year into developing a new virtual reality tool for the retailer’s mobile app when the technology used to power the experience saw a breakthrough.
“When it comes to augmented and virtual reality, it can only be successful if it’s truly useful,” said Dolan, Sephora’s head of innovation. “We weren’t interested in just buzzy. A lot of things like technical accuracy and timing had to come together, and there was a time last year when, during testing, we hit a tipping point.”
Sephora’s team and its technology provider, augmented reality platform ModiFace, had pushed facial recognition technology to a new point of sophistication. After months of development, the technology can break down one virtual makeup application into a step-by-step layering process, while maintaining critical accuracy and reaching mass scale.
Sam’s Club wants to ‘broaden awareness’ in cinemas with a faux-movie trailer starring Kevin Hart
For the holiday season, Sam's Club has teamed up with Kevin Hart to help launch its ad featuring a movie trailer style and is hoping to connect with moviegoers by boosting brand awareness for the holiday season.
Why HelloFresh struck an ad deal with StreamElements to reach the gaming community
StreamElements’ plug-and-play interface creates a lighter lift for brands looking to reach the gaming community, eschewing the protracted negotiations and production time that can come along with brand partnerships with prominent individual streamers.
What these latest consumer affinity trends tell us about marketing in 2023
Video views could guide marketers on where consumers will shop after watching content on social networks.
SponsoredPublishers are adapting advertising strategies for a privacy-first world
Tina Iannacchino, senior publisher director, Seedtag So much of the attention around the death of third-party cookies and its impact on the digital advertising industry is focused on the implications for brands and consumers, which is far from the complete picture. The digital publishing industry in the U.S. is massive and set to be shaken […]
Why YouTube’s focus on competing with streamers may have hurt the platform as brands focus on TikTok
As competition continues to heat up in the digital video and content creation space with TikTok, Instagram and the recent addition of social app BeReal, YouTube may be feeling that heat more and more.
Dentsu’s new global gaming lead reflects on gaming strategy ‘void’ in advertising, media
Despite the rapid rise of gaming in recent years — or perhaps because of it — many brands and marketers are still confused about how to best reach the gaming community. Dentsu's new global gaming lead Brent Koning is equipped to navigate these uncertain waters.


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Huobi Plans Expansion in Hong Kong After New Regulation
Huobi Global, a major cryptocurrency exchange, is seeking a license in Hong Kong to expand its services to retail customers.
The business also plans to open a new Huobi Hong Kong exchange that will focus on institutional and high-net-worth individuals.
According to Justin Sun, the founder of Tron, Huobi may increase its staff in Hong Kong from 50 to 200 this year.
This move comes after the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) recently opened new licensing and regulatory proposals for public comment.
Exciting news! Huobi is stoked about Hong Kong's pro-crypto policies & we're working hard to secure our crypto license there. Our aim is to be one of the first fully compliant exchanges in HK & collaborate with our Asia-Pacific users to drive digital asset growth! #Huobi #Crypto pic.twitter.com/ktZw1WE2cs
— Huobi (@HuobiGlobal) February 20, 2023
The proposed new framework would require cryptocurrency exchanges to register with the SFC, allowing them to expand their services to Hong Kong. The new regime is set to go into effect in June. It has already led to financial service providers lining up to participate in the expanded system.
Huobi’s decision to expand in Hong Kong is motivated by the city’s friendlier stance on cryptocurrencies and the possibility of retail sales, according to Sun. This starkly contrasts China’s regulatory crackdown on cryptocurrencies and initial coin offerings (ICOs).
Huobi’s parent company, Huobi Group, was forced to move its headquarters from Beijing to Singapore in 2017 due to the Chinese government’s restrictions on cryptocurrency trading.
In January, Huobi announced that it was cutting 20% of its staff, characterizing it as part of a company restructuring after Sun’s takeover in October. The exchange later announced in February that it was closing down its Huobi Cloud Wallet in May due to “strategic and product adjustments.”
The business is also expanding its services in other regions. In January, it announced the launching of a Visa-backed crypto-to-fiat debit card that Huobi customers residing in the European Economic Area can use worldwide. The card is expected to be available in the second quarter of this year.
In addition, Huobi is considering moving its headquarters from Singapore to Hong Kong. The company’s decision to move would be significant, as Singapore has long been seen as a cryptocurrency-friendly jurisdiction.
Nonetheless, Hong Kong is becoming increasingly attractive to cryptocurrency businesses due to its regulatory approach and proximity to mainland China, which is home to many cryptocurrency traders and investors.
Huobi’s expansion in Hong Kong and the launch of its new exchange are part of the company’s efforts to diversify its services and reduce its reliance on China. With the increasing regulatory crackdown on cryptocurrencies in China, Huobi’s move to Hong Kong could help it tap into a new market and expand its global reach.


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AI-capable PCs will transform the way we work
19 September 2023
The boom in generative AI was a watershed moment for the technology industry. PCs are the central tool with which businesses and consumers approach modern productivity and leisure, and they are now set to undergo a significant transformation in both hardware and software capability to enable the next wave of large-scale AI usage. Under an initial definition, Canalys expects a rapid trajectory for the penetration of AI-capable PCs into the market over the next four years.
As generative AI tools continue to proliferate, both businesses and consumers are actively integrating AI features to enhance productivity and leisure experiences. PCs, which are central to modern work and life, are now set to evolve in both software and hardware domains to keep pace with this trend.
Defining the parameters of this emerging product category is crucial to sizing the market opportunity. Many PCs equipped with powerful CPUs and GPUs can already make use of AI functionality, often through leveraging cloud-based applications. However, truly meaningful AI use cases on PCs must prioritize real-time responsiveness, low latency and enhanced security. Therefore, an "AI-capable" PC must possess a dedicated chipset or block to accelerate AI computing. Prominent examples in the current landscape include Qualcomm's Hexagon Tensor Accelerator, Apple's Neural Engines, Intel's Movidius VPU and AMD's APU.
While this definition provides a starting point, Canalys acknowledges the potential for its future obsolescence. As AI-dedicated chipsets are expected to become commonplace in all mainstream processors in the long term, this sole distinction of an AI-capable PC may lose its meaning. Consequently, we anticipate that the definition will evolve as AI applications diversify, transitioning to a nuanced grading system based on each PC's AI functionalities and capabilities.
A thorough examination of each processor manufacturer's strategic direction and roadmap is essential for evaluating the evolving landscape of AI-capable PCs.
Apple introduced AI integration with its M1 Neural Engine in Q4 2020. By Q2 2023, with the upcoming M3 series and Intel's exit from Mac products, Apple became the first wholly AI-capable PC manufacturer. Meanwhile, Qualcomm enhanced its ARM-based 8cx Gen3 chipset's AI capabilities, aiming for greater market presence with a 2024 upgrade featuring the Nuvia architecture and Windows Copilot integration.
In the x86 realm, AMD introduced its AI offering with the "Phoenix" Ryzen 7040 series in Q2 2023, stealing a march over Intel’s Meteor Lake debut. This move encouraged PC OEMs to adopt AMD's technology early, capitalizing on the market's momentum. By H2 2024, AMD's anticipated 8050 series to promise further AI enhancements. Intel, despite its late entry, emphasized AI by embedding the Movidius VPU in its Meteor Lake range. Given Intel's market dominance, this strategy is set to drive more significant AI-PC adoption from 2024 onward. With its forthcoming Arrow Lake and Lunar Lake editions, Intel will up the ante with regard to AI chipsets, positioning itself at the forefront of the AI-capable PC revolution.
Moreover, vendors with substantial shipment volumes may consider developing their own processors using ARM or RISC-V architectures. While this approach would involve higher initial costs, it offers optimized performance, power efficiency and enhanced security. Over time, as shipment volumes grow, this strategy can lead to reduced costs, granting vendors greater resilience and ownership over their technology.
Our current definition of an AI-capable PC represents a foundational benchmark. With the most basic specifications, these PCs can manage basic functions such as running digital assistants like Cortana and Siri, real-time background blurring in video conferencing tools, and performing voice-to-text conversions.
For advanced AI software and tools, enhanced component performance becomes vital. Canalys expects that AI functionality available to users will undergo a rapid evolution over the coming years, ramping up in complexity. These advancements will amplify the need for components such as memory, storage and GPUs, eventually tailored to specific use cases. For instance, as optimized Large Language Models (LLMs) become pre-installed on PCs, a combination of increased storage capacity with high-speed interfaces becomes essential. Similarly, running these LLMs will necessitate more memory and a robust GPU.
Based on our initial definition and the level of investment signaled across the industry, Canalys' projects a robust upward trajectory for AI-capable PCs. As of Q2 2023, driven by Apple's aggressive integration of Neural Engines, the AI-capable PC market witnessed shipments exceeding 5 million units. As x86 architectures enhance their AI capabilities, Canalys foresees a drastic surge in new AI-enabled models, beginning in the first half of 2024. By Q4 2024, shipments are expected to rise to around 20 million units, capturing over 25% of global PC shipments.
With the anticipated release of AI-enhanced features in the latest version of Windows by late 2024 and the widespread integration of AI tools in commercial and productivity software, the AI-capable PC market is set for substantial growth in 2025 and 2026. By 2027, shipments are forecasted to exceed 175 million units, constituting over 60% of total PC shipments. Between now and then, this sector is set to rise at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 94%.


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When most people talk about gaming, they typically have PCs or consoles in mind. However, there’s one space that many don’t realize has overtaken the gaming world—smartphones, specifically Android devices.
This is what Google is planning to cement its crown as the king of gaming.
Google Play Games, Coming Soon to Your PC
According to The Verge, Google will bring Android games to Windows PCs in 2022. The Google Play Games app will natively run on Windows 10 and Windows 11, with no special integration with the latter. That means that games will run locally and won’t rely on cloud streaming.
Although it isn’t clear how Google will emulate the Android apps on Windows, Google spokesperson Alex Garcia-Kummert said they built the app without support from any third-party company like Microsoft or Bluestacks. That means they probably created an environment to run Android apps from the ground up.
Google also said they’ll distribute the app themselves, so it’s unlikely to be available in the Microsoft Store.
Android Gaming, Now More Convenient
With this news, gaming is now more convenient than ever. Users’ in-game progress is saved across platforms, so if you’re playing on your phone, you can continue it on your computer when you get home.
While many hardcore gamers prefer playing on computers and consoles due to the larger screens and generally better performance, the portability of Android smartphones and tablets is second-to-none. Compared to most laptops, they have superior battery life, and newer-gen mobile chips now rival cheaper processors in power.
With this newfound convenience, Google can entice major game developers to create AAA titles that will work on PC and mobile. And since you can generally find Android games and apps in the Google Play Store, this means these developers will have to make their products available there, further increasing Google’s market share and profit margins.
This development can also sway PC gamers on iPhone to switch to Android, especially those who value playing the same game and keeping their progress across devices.
The Number One Gaming Platform
When you look at the phone in your pocket, you may not think of it as a gaming device. However, the market begs to differ.
According to analytics company Newzoo, smartphone gaming overtook both the PC and console platforms in 2020. Mobile games made an astounding $77.2 Billion in revenue—way more significant than the PC’s $36.9 Billion and the console’s $45.2 Billion. That means smartphones and tablets now corner almost half of the market.
The main reason is that smartphones have the lowest barrier to entry. Consoles typically cost around $300, and a decent gaming PC will set you back by around $500. The chip shortage further pushes the acquisition cost, with scalpers doubling or tripling their retail price.
And while a decent mid-range phone costs $200 to $300, almost the same as a second-hand console, they have more use beyond gaming, and you could easily pocket and bring them around.
Google Play on PC Is a Win for Cross-Platform Compatibility
As some companies increasingly isolate their userbase from other tech providers (ahem, Apple), Google’s recent move is a breath of fresh air. This native compatibility with Windows can make other Android apps available on PC.
This action could open up more markets for Android developers and give Windows users more options when choosing apps. However, we should watch out and ensure that Google doesn’t monopolize the gaming industry.
How to Play Android Games on Your PC
Playing Android games on PC can improve your score and let you play games whenever you like. Here’s how to play Android games on a PC or Mac!
About The Author
Jowi Morales (138 Articles Published)
Jowi is a writer, a career coach, and a pilot. He developed a love for anything PC ever since his father bought a desktop computer when he was 5 years old. From then on, he has been using and maximizing technology in every aspect of his life.


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Lithium price: Battery capacity of electric cars doubles from last year
Battery metals tracker Adamas Intelligence says that in March 2019, battery capacity deployed worldwide in battery electric cars (including hybrids) nearly doubled from the same month last year.
The Dutch-Canadian research company, which tracks EV registrations and battery chemistries in more than 80 countries, says 9.76 GWh of passenger EV battery capacity was deployed globally – a 94% year-over-year surge:
This increase in battery capacity deployed is especially remarkable when considering that global EV sales increased by a mere 25% over the same period, speaking to the fact that a far greater number of high-capacity battery EVs (like the Tesla Model 3) were sold this March than the last.
Adamas says based on data from its EV Battery Capacity Monthly study, the sales-weighted average capacity of batteries used in electric cars was 55% higher in March compared to 2018.
Lithium prices have remained under pressure despite the surge in global demand for lithium-ion battery-powered vehicles. The lithium price index compiled by battery supply chain research and advisory firm Benchmark Mineral Intelligence retreated in April and is now down 38% over the past year.
The free-on-board price of lithium carbonate exported from South America’s brine fields now sits at $12,750 a tonne, while spodumene concentrate (6% lithium oxide) from hard-rock lithium mines in Australia is priced at $640 a tonne, down 27% so far in 2019.


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No so fast; if you received an email that looks like it's from a friend of yours - sharing a document via Google Docs, you may want to investigate before you click into it. A phishing scam is making its rounds through the web using what looks like legitimate contacts of yours.
Have you ever searched yourself online? Digital mapping engines are a modern marvel - allowing you the opportunity to find out information on just about everyone and everyplace in the world. But what happens if there's an error and the web starts to give out false information about you?
I just received a new replacement for one of my department store credit cards - and I'm angry! While I'm aware of the move towards security chip credit cards by the end of the year, I wasn't very happy to learn that this particular department store is now going to require me to come up with a alpha-numeric, case-sensitive pin-number - with a length of their choosing - for me to remember in order
Since the advent of smart computers, people have always said they will take over. Look at the grocery store and some department stores with the self check out. Auto assembly lines too. There are some jobs safe from computer take over.
Industry researchers say the sales of PCs this year will decline for the first time ever. According to IHS and other industry forecasting companies, sales will decline by 1.2 percent. Not much you say, but that translates to millions of dollars.
It's a changing world and Boston Scientific is at the forefront. Recently, the medical device manufacturer decided to do away with paper sales brochures in favor of IPads and cloud-based technology that would allow their sales staff to walk into a potential client without a single piece of paper on them.
The FBI recently made a bust of a company that was using malware to make your computer visit certain web sites. After further investigating they found that close to 300,000 computers may crash on Monday because of this viral malware. Here's how you can fix it.


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Editor's Guide: There is no doubt that online education is the craziest and most watched industry this year. The giants have stepped up to enter the game one after another, which is so lively. Who will be the final winner? Where is online education now? Where will the future go? The article analyzes buy email list and discusses this, I hope it will be helpful to you. Who is the most promising industry this year? Judging from various discussions in various media in the industry, the answer seems to point to this industry, that is "online education". Since the epidemic at the beginning of the year, the "online education" industry has been determined to have a keynote of coexistence of great impact and great opportunities.
The ceiling of the industry has been greatly increased - from "optimized selection" to With the change of "rigid demand", online education has completely entered the "incremental era"; on the other hand, with the continuous buy email list entry of players, the ranking of this "ranking battle" has been continuously disrupted, and the online industry (enterprise or industry? ) has gradually become an industry consensus in the process of being constantly "disrupted". By the end of 2020, "online education" seems to have ushered in a "match point" again. On November 9, New Oriental was listed in Hong Kong for the second time, and its share price rose by nearly 15% on the first day, making it the most expensive Hong Kong stock at present. On the "Double Eleven" two days later, GSX reported that it was planning to acquire Park.
However, it is not limited to the top players in the industry who continue to increase their size. From the beginning of the year to the end of the year, "big money owners" will enter the market in groups: Since last year, buy email list several online education giants have burned 4 billion to 5 billion marketing expenses in one summer vacation. The advertisements of education giants such as children's English and children's programming continue to appear in various variety shows and evening parties. This trend has also continued this year. From March to May, TAL's marketing expenses were more than 200 million US dollars.


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After debuting private signings for Hilary Swank, Geena Davis, and Gene Hackman on Monday, it turned out that the folks at Official Pix still had another trick up their sleeve: the company launched a surprise private signing with Andy Serkis. The Black Panther, Planet of the Apes, The Lord of the Rings, and Star Wars star will sign items related to every chapter of his versatile career.
Official Pix is offering over 60 different pre-order items, and collectors can send in their own items using the send-in service. Serkis will sign personalizations, character names, and quotes as add-ons, and CGC will be at the signing to witness comics and magazines through their Signature Series program.
Fans can pre-order items on the Official Pix website between now and June 4th, 2021. Stay tuned to Conskipper for complete coverage of the hottest private signings as soon as they break!


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How the ‘UCANN v. Pure Hemp’ IP Lawsuit Will Affect the Cannabis Industry
Marijuana Industry News July 29, 2019 MJ Shareholders
Patent litigation has long been a battlefront for technology-focused companies, but it has begun its expansion into the cannabis field. Last summer, in the first case of its kind, United Cannabis Corporation (“UCANN”) sued Pure Hemp Collective Inc., for patent infringement.
UCANN, a publicly-traded biotechnology company headquartered in Golden, Colo., specializes in the development, distribution, licensing, and sales of medical cannabis products for the U.S. and Australian markets. Pure Hemp is a privately-held company located in Conifer, Colo., that manufactures and retails cannabis-based wellness products online and through distributors across the U.S.
This case highlights the growing competition between cannabis companies and the ways by which at least one company is seeking to gain an edge over its competitors. This case serves as a reminder that cannabis companies also must be mindful that methods of production, the technologies and business processes, and of course logos and packaging of products are all subject to legal protection, which also means they may also be the subject of enforcement efforts, like litigation in Federal District Courts. As the laws surrounding production and sale of cannabis begin to relax, companies may be more willing, or even eager, to enforce their intellectual property rights than before.
While this case is still in its infancy, with the continuing proliferation of concentrated cannabis products and producers in the market, the ramifications of the case could extend far beyond a spat between the two Colorado companies: Sales of products containing 95 percent cannabis extracts are now widespread and growing throughout the country.
Not only that, but these extracts are an intermediate used to produce a wide variety of consumer products, from edibles like candies and sodas, to wellness products such as tinctures and salves. If this patent is upheld, it would potentially be infringed by an entire segment of the cannabis industry, making producers and sellers alike vulnerable to infringement suits from UCANN.
On July 30, 2018, UCANN filed a lawsuit against Pure Hemp in the U.S. District Court for the district of Colorado, claiming that Pure Hemp’s “Vina Bell” products infringe UCANN’s U.S. Patent No. 9,730,911 (the “911 Patent”). According to the lawsuit, the 911 Patent essentially covers any liquid cannabinoid formulation of at least 95 percent total cannabinoids that contains one or more terpene or flavonoid. In its lawsuit, UCANN alleges that Pure Hemp’s product line includes a variety of topical and ingestible cannabis preparations that have concentrations of CBD in excess of 95 percent.
On November 29, 2018 Pure Hemp made an early attempt to dispose of the case and filed a motion for partial summary judgement. In the motion, Pure Hemp argued to the court that the 911 Patent is invalid because the claims (which define the scope of protection afforded by the patent) are directed to “natural phenomena,” namely, cannabinoids and terpenes that are found naturally in the cannabis plant. Certain subject matter is not subject to patent protection, such as something that exists naturally in the wild, like DNA.
On April 17, 2019, the court denied Pure Hemp’s motion, applying a test set forth by the Supreme Court in Alice Corp. v. CLS Bank International. The court found that Pure Hemp failed to show that a liquefied version of cannabinoids and related chemicals at the concentrations specified in the ’911 Patent is like a natural phenomenon, primarily because it didn’t show that “these precise concentrations [95% pure cannabinoids], or anything close to them, occur in liquid form in nature.” Thus, from the information the parties provided, the court held that the ’911 Patent was not patent ineligible, and was unwilling to dispose of the case at this very early stage based on Pure Hemp’s argument.
The significance of this latest decision is two-fold. First, had the court ruled cannabis extracts to be patent ineligible, the case would be over, and the patent would be thrown out. Such a ruling could also temper any future patent enforcement efforts in the cannabis space. Second, that cannabis extracts were found not to be patent-ineligible subject matter means that at least this court suggests that there could be other valid patents covering cannabis extracts in the future. This is good news for industry players investing in cannabis, as technologies for creating cannabis extracts, particular formulations, or treatment regimens that rely on cannabis extracts all still may be eligible for patent protection. Thus, companies may want to explore whether they have any patentable subject matter in their business and seek patent protection.
But that was not the end of the court’s opinion. In a move that may foreshadow future developments in the case, the court went out of its way to note that it “sees reason to question whether the ’911 Patent claims anything novel, useful, or nonobvious.” Under U.S. patent laws, an invention has to meet all three of these requirements in order to be patentable. In noting this, the court pointed back to its overview of what the ’911 Patent does not claim, such as, for example:
- A process for extracting cannabinoids from cannabis plants
- A process for making the “liquid cannabinoid formulation”
- Particular ratios between the cannabinoids and the inactive ingredients in a formulation
- A process for ensuring that the 95 percent threshold has been met
- A method for using any claimed formulation to treat any particular disease, condition, or symptom
The court was, in essence, giving categorical examples of concepts that it would expect to see in a valid cannabis patent, instead of a mere extract percentage, which arguably is the scope of the UCANN patent.
Pure Hemp stated in its response to the lawsuit that anyone in the cannabis industry would be aware that all of these processes and their resulting products had been in use for years before 2014, when UCANN filed its patent application, and that their use has been growing rapidly with the increasing demand for concentrates and related products. This is an attempt to argue that the patent is not novel and UCANN’s patent is invalid.
Although the outcome of this motion is an early setback for Pure Hemp, the court seems to be signaling that this patent may eventually be invalidated—a cue that Pure Hemp will likely attempt to capitalize on in a future motion.
MJShareholders.com is the largest dedicated financial network and leading corporate communications firm serving the legal cannabis industry. Our network aims to connect public marijuana companies with these focused cannabis audiences across the US and Canada that are critical for growth: Short and long term cannabis investors Active funding sources Mainstream media Business leaders Cannabis consumers


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The enterprise is finding its digital capabilities have been put to the test amid the coronavirus crisis, and a new report from Vodafone Business shows IoT’s significant impact.
When it became apparent to Americans that our only recourse in dealing with COVID-19 was to isolate, as well as work and learn remotely, businesses were finding their digital capabilities tested. The response? The Internet of Things (IoT) is vital to the success of US businesses (92%), according to a new report, 2020 IoT Spotlight from the communications company Vodafone Business.
During the pandemic, the report showed, 84% of IoT-adopter businesses in the US increased the pace of their IoT projects, 76% of US businesses considering IoT agreed COVID-19 accelerated adoption plans, and 79% of US businesses launched new IoT projects as a result of the crisis.
Vodafone queried 1,639 companies to unveil the positive effects that IoT has had on their businesses, and the resilient strategies they’re building with tech to survive and thrive.
SEE: TechRepublic Premium editorial calendar: IT policies, checklists, toolkits, and research for download (TechRepublic Premium)
Key IoT business benefits
- Achieve sustainability goals: 84% use IoT to fundamentally improve their environmental sustainability.
- Improve productivity: 73% of mature IoT adopters have seen a significant return on Investment from IoT: 84% felt IoT was a key factor in maintaining their businesses during the pandemic, and 55% saw operating costs decrease by 21%.
- Support business continuity: 84% of IoT adopters feel IoT has ensured business continuity.
- Drive innovation: 95% of respondents saw a positive return on investment, primarily in two areas, improving operational efficiency and creating new and connected products and services.
- Business success: 87% said IoT is critical for future success, and 49% said it boosted employee productivity.
- Improve customer experience: 59% said customer experience was improved.
- Data is the key to future readiness: 80% said IoT has changed the way they approach analytics and the value of data, 87% agree their core-business strategy changed positively as a result of IoT, 84% believed they can now do things they couldn’t pre-IoT, and 59% said IoT is essential to support business decisions.
- Benefits outweigh risks: 73% said they believe organizations that failed to embrace IoT will fall behind competitors within five years, and 43% believe the IoT’s business opportunities greatly outweigh the challenges of implementation.
Vodafone’s report showed that because IoT continues to generate value and return on investment for the majority of businesses surveyed during the pandemic, IoT adoption has continued to grow.
A majority of IoT adopters (84%) said IoT ensured business continuity and maintained operations. For businesses which paused IoT projects because of local lockdowns and downturns in their sector, 81% said they are now prioritizing IoT higher than they did previously.
SEE: 5 Internet of Things (IoT) innovations (free Pdf) (TechRepublic)
As adoption of IoT increases, it changes the way businesses operate, how they invest, and how competitive they are, with 63% of businesses reporting IoT is “completely disrupting their industry,” and as the business proceeds with an eye to digital readiness, they see IoT as an essential future component.
Eighty-four percent of businesses said IoT helps them meet their company’s sustainability goals, as it has the potential to be life-changing and improve business, and as it enables new, more sustainable services like electric car sharing to improve energy efficiency, from remote healthcare to ensuring the operation of mission-critical services. Businesses simply see immediate business and societal benefits from IoT, and how it will power innovative, new connected services.
SEE: The Internet of Wild Things: Technology and the battle against biodiversity loss and climate change (TechRepublic)
Vodafone found that businesses have changed their approach to IoT, as attitudes within the enterprise are changing as the benefits of it are revealed, and 73% of mature adopters say IoT brought them a significant return on investment.
“IoT has grown up,” said Erik Brenneis, Internet of Things director at Vodafone Business. “It’s no longer just about increasing return on investment or providing cost savings to businesses: It’s changing the way they think and operate. And it’s giving them an opportunity to re-design their operations and future-proof their business model. This research proves IoT is an essential technology for businesses that want to be resilient, more flexible and quicker to adapt and react to change.”