February 16, 2024
Tech News
Apple has announced that it will no longer support progressive web apps on iPhones in the EU due to the changes required by the EU’s Digital Markets Act. This means that homescreen web apps will now only function as bookmarks, losing their previous capabilities such as sending notifications and storing data separately. Apple cites security concerns and low user adoption as reasons for this decision.
In other Apple news, the company is incorporating AI into its development tools and consumer products. They are introducing an AI-powered code completion tool in Xcode, similar to Microsoft’s GitHub Copilot. Additionally, Apple is exploring the use of generative AI in consumer products like Apple Music and Spotlight search. These efforts are part of Apple’s broader strategy to integrate AI into its ecosystem, despite being more cautious about generative AI compared to other tech giants.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is proposing a rule change to combat the misuse of deepfakes. The proposed modification would make it unlawful for GenAI platforms to provide services used for harmful impersonation. This move aims to address the increasing use of AI tools for scams and impersonation, reflecting growing public concern over the spread of misleading deepfake content.
Moving to Malaysia, PLUS Malaysia Bhd and the Malaysian Highway Authority are collaborating to simplify the deployment of electric vehicle (EV) chargers along the PLUS highway. This initiative, supported by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry, aims to increase the number of EV chargers and ensure sufficient electricity supply. It addresses challenges faced by EV charging operators in licensing and power sourcing.
Lastly, Apple’s Vision Pro offers a new way to read comics through ported iPadOS apps from publishers like Marvel and Dark Horse. While not groundbreaking, the experience of reading comics in a mixed reality environment is described as better than expected, with detailed art display and a unique reading setting. However, it is not seen as a game-changer for the comics industry or a sole reason to subscribe to digital comics services.
Tech Explained
Progressive web apps – These are web applications that can be accessed through web browsers but have functionalities similar to native mobile apps. They can work offline, send push notifications, and store data separately.
AI – Artificial intelligence refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines that are programmed to think and learn like humans. In the context of the news, AI is being used to enhance development tools and consumer products, as well as combat the misuse of deepfakes.
Deepfakes – Deepfakes are manipulated or synthesized media, such as images or videos, that appear to be real but are actually created using artificial intelligence. They are often used for harmful impersonation or spreading misleading content.
Electric vehicle (EV) chargers – These are devices used to recharge electric vehicles. They provide the necessary electricity to power the vehicles and are essential for the widespread adoption of electric transportation.
Mixed reality – Mixed reality combines elements of both virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) to create a new environment where physical and digital objects coexist and interact. In the context of the news, the Apple Vision Pro offers a mixed reality environment for reading comics.
