Tech

Apple launches cheap iPhone to woo China

Apple launches budget-friendly iPhone 16e with AI features at $599 to reclaim market share in China and India.

Published

8 months ago

February 20, 2025

ticker NEWS

Apple launches budget-friendly iPhone 16e with AI features at $599 to reclaim market share in China and India.

In Short

Apple has introduced the budget iPhone 16e at $599, targeting mid-market customers in regions like China and India, and it features a 48-megapixel camera and strong AI capabilities. This new model aims to boost sales in price-sensitive markets, marking a shift from the SE naming and offering improved tech alongside USB Type-C charging compliance.

This device moves away from the SE naming and is designed to compete with popular Android smartphones featuring AI capabilities. Sales of Apple’s phones have declined recently, particularly in its budget segment.

Despite the price increase of $170 compared to the SE, the 16e boasts features akin to flagship models, powered by a strong chip that supports Apple Intelligence, which includes access to ChatGPT. It features a 48-megapixel camera without a wide-angle lens, a different display, and a notch for the front camera.

The 16e is expected to improve sales in price-sensitive markets as it provides a more affordable entry into Apple’s ecosystem. Analysts have noted that while demand for phone upgrades among existing users is slow, the new model lowers the cost barrier.

Major shift

It is equipped with the A18 chip and the new C1 modem for cellular connectivity, marking a shift from Qualcomm chips. Pre-orders for the 16e will begin on February 21, with shipments starting on February 28, and it will be available in black and white only.

Additionally, the 16e is set to adopt USB Type-C charging, aligning with EU regulations. The previous SE model is now discontinued in the EU, unable to meet new charging requirements.

Still, many Apple analysts are disappointed that the “new product” being teased by Apple is recent weeks was just another small incremental update to it’s lineup.

Tech

OpenAI Unveils ChatGPT Atlas: The Future of Browsing?

Published

4 days ago

October 22, 2025

ticker NEWS

OpenAI has taken another giant leap forward with the launch of ChatGPT Atlas — an AI-powered web browser that could redefine how people search, explore, and interact online. Investors and competitors are watching closely as this new technology challenges the dominance of traditional browsers like Google Chrome.

With ChatGPT Atlas, users may soon experience a web that feels less like typing into a search box and more like conversing with an intelligent assistant. The integration of AI could make browsing faster, more intuitive, and more personalised than ever before — but it also raises serious questions about privacy and data use.

As AI becomes more deeply embedded in the digital world, ChatGPT Atlas could represent the next major step toward a fully AI-driven online experience. What does this mean for users — and for the tech giants trying to keep up?

Tech

OpenAI limits deepfakes after Bryan Cranston’s concerns

OpenAI protects against deepfakes on Sora 2 after Bryan Cranston and SAG-AFTRA raise concerns over unauthorized AI-generated content

Published

5 days ago

October 21, 2025

Ahron Young

OpenAI protects against deepfakes on Sora 2 after Bryan Cranston and SAG-AFTRA raise concerns over unauthorised AI-generated content

In Short:
– OpenAI partners with Bryan Cranston and unions to combat deepfakes on its Sora app.
– The app now includes options for people to control their likenesses and voices.

OpenAI announced it will work with Bryan Cranston, SAG-AFTRA, and actor unions to combat deepfakes on its AI video app, Sora.Cranston voiced concerns after unauthorized AI-generated clips featuring his likeness emerged after Sora 2’s launch in late September. He showed gratitude to OpenAI for taking steps to safeguard actors’ rights to control their likenesses.

The partnership aims to enhance protections against unauthorized AI content. The Creative Artists Agency and United Talent Agency had previously criticized OpenAI, citing risks to their clients’ intellectual property.

Last week, OpenAI blocked disrespectful videos of Martin Luther King Jr. at the request of his estate, following similar pressures. Zelda Williams also requested the public refrain from sending her AI-generated clips of her late father, Robin Williams.

Policy Changes

Following tensions post-launch, CEO Sam Altman revised Sora’s policy to give rights holders greater control of their likenesses.

The app now allows individuals to opt-out, reflecting OpenAI’s commitment to respond quickly to concerns from performers.

OpenAI backs the NO FAKES Act, supporting legislation that aims to protect individuals from unauthorized AI-generated representations.

OpenAI is focused on ensuring performers’ rights are respected regarding the misuse of their voices and likenesses. Altman reiterated the company’s dedication to these protections.

Tech

Major apps down as AWS experiences global outage

AWS outage disrupts Fortnite, Snapchat and multiple services globally

Published

6 days ago

October 20, 2025

Ahron Young

AWS outage disrupts Fortnite, Snapchat and multiple services globally

In Short:
– AWS outage on Monday disrupted major apps like Fortnite, Snapchat, and affected several global companies.
– UK companies including Lloyds Bank and Vodafone reported issues due to the AWS outage.

Amazon’s AWS experienced a significant outage on Monday, impacting major apps including Fortnite and Snapchat. The disruption affected connectivity for numerous companies globally.AWS reported increased error rates and latencies across multiple services and is attempting to recover quickly.

The outage marks the first significant internet disruption since a previous incident last year that impacted essential technology systems globally. AWS offers on-demand computing and storage services and is vital for many websites and platforms.

Multiple companies reported disruptions, including AI startup Perplexity, cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase, and trading app Robinhood. Perplexity’s CEO confirmed on X that the outages were linked to AWS issues.

Amazon’s shopping site, Prime Video, and Alexa services also faced difficulties, according to Downdetector. Other affected platforms included popular gaming applications like Clash Royale and financial services such as Venmo and Chime.

Uber competitor Lyft’s app was reported down for numerous users in the U.S. Messaging platform Signal also acknowledged connection problems stemming from the AWS outage.

British Companies

In the UK, Lloyds Bank, Bank of Scotland, and telecom services provider Vodafone were notably affected. The HMRC’s website also encountered issues during this outage.

Elon Musk stated that his platform, X, remained operational despite the widespread disruptions.