Tech
The shopping sensation with a controversial twist
As the holiday season continues, bargain hunters are turning to the Temu app for incredible deals.
Temu’s success story took a grand turn in February 2023 when, at the mere age of five months, the company made its TV debut during Super Bowl LVII, showcasing two commercials that cost an estimated $14 million. With an annual advertising budget of $1.4 billion, Temu is ambitiously eyeing a user base of nearly 100 million people by the end of the year.
What sets Temu apart is its focus on providing ultra-cheap knockoffs, enticing users with Apple Watch dupes for $10, Yeezy knockoffs for $4.99, and gaming consoles for a mere $20. These unbelievable prices, coupled with a barrage of coupons, free shipping countdowns, flash sales, and discount wheels, have catapulted Temu into the limelight.
However, behind the façade of this Boston-based company lies a significant connection to the Chinese retail giant Pinduoduo. This strategic partnership allows Temu to offer products manufactured in China, shipped directly to the U.S., resulting in remarkably low labor costs compared to manufacturing in the U.S. and other countries.
Despite its popularity, Temu has not escaped scrutiny. The U.S. government has accused the e-commerce platform of exploiting shipping rules, allowing it to undercut U.S. retailers. Under these rules, shipments valued under $800 are not subject to duty taxes and undergo minimal customs checks. Additionally, a U.S. House committee has accused Temu of violating U.S. import laws by allegedly using forced labor in the production of its products.
Concerns about data privacy and security have started to emerge. Users are questioning the app’s data handling practices, leading experts to investigate whether Temu is a revolutionary breakthrough or a potential threat to personal information.
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
OpenAI protects against deepfakes on Sora 2 after Bryan Cranston and SAG-AFTRA raise concerns over unauthorised AI-generated content
– 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.
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
AWS outage disrupts Fortnite, Snapchat and multiple services globally
– 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.
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