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France Takes a Stand: Telegram's Durov Under Fire with Pioneering Cybercrime Law

France Takes a Stand: Telegram's Durov Under Fire with Pioneering Cybercrime Law

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Updated on: 18-Sep-2024
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In a bold move, French prosecutors have initiated an investigation against Telegram founder Pavel Durov, leveraging a tough new law aimed at holding tech leaders accountable for illegal activities on their platforms. The law, known as LOPMI, was enacted in January 2023 and is unique in its provisions, targeting executives whose services facilitate illicit transactions.

This pioneering legislation positions France at the forefront of international efforts to crack down on online crime. Prosecutors allege that Durov is complicit in allowing Telegram to serve as a platform for organized criminal activities. He faces serious penalties if convicted, including a maximum 10-year prison sentence and hefty fines.

What is LOPMI Law?

The LOPMI law (Loi d’Orientation et de Programmation du Ministère de l’Intérieur) is a French legislative measure enacted in January 2023 to strengthen the government's ability to combat cybercrime and organized crime. This law introduces several provisions that hold technology companies accountable for the content on their platforms, allowing for stricter penalties against tech leaders if their services facilitate illegal activities.

Key AspectDescription
Accountability for Tech PlatformsCriminalizes executives whose platforms enable illegal transactions or activities.
Enhanced Law Enforcement ToolsGrants authorities increased the power to investigate and prosecute organized crime online.
Unique LegislationNo equivalent law exists in other countries, making France's approach groundbreaking.
Focus on CybercrimeAims to combat various cyber threats, including trafficking and exploitation, through tech company obligations.

As the case unfolds, it reflects a growing frustration among French authorities with major tech companies perceived as uncooperative in tackling online crime. The ambitious J3 cybercrime unit in Paris, which is overseeing the investigation, is already involved in high-profile cases, demonstrating the law's potential to significantly impact tech regulation in France.

Durov's situation highlights a pivotal moment in the relationship between tech companies and regulators, as France sets a new precedent that could reverberate across the globe. The world watches closely as this high-stakes drama unfolds in the digital age.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra With Snapdragon 8 Elite Chip Achieves Impressive Benchmark Scores

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra With Snapdragon 8 Elite Chip Achieves Impressive Benchmark Scores

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Updated on: 06-Nov-2024
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The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, the upcoming successor to the Galaxy S24 Ultra, has made a significant appearance on Geekbench with promising benchmark results. Equipped with Qualcomm's latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, the Galaxy S25 Ultra has posted higher scores compared to earlier listings, indicating a considerable performance boost over its predecessor.

Key Highlights:

  • The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra achieved improved scores in both single-core and multi-core tests.
  • The smartphone is expected to feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, 12GB of RAM, and Android 15 out-of-the-box.
  • It is set to launch in early 2025 with One UI 7 and additional features.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Benchmarks: A Leap in Performance

The latest Geekbench listing for the Galaxy S25 Ultra shows that the device scored 3,148 points in the single-core test and 10,236 points in the multi-core test, showing a marked improvement over the earlier listing from September, where the device scored 3,069 and 9,080 points, respectively.

These scores represent a significant jump over the Galaxy S24 Ultra, which achieved 2,236 points in the single-core and 6,813 points in the multi-core tests, as reported in earlier reviews.

What’s Inside the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra?

The Galaxy S25 Ultra will feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, which promises to deliver exceptional performance and efficiency. It will be paired with 12GB of RAM and run on Android 15, complemented by Samsung's One UI 7.

Additionally, rumors suggest the entire Galaxy S25 series could ship with the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, though there are hints that the Galaxy S25+ variant might feature a new Exynos 2500 processor in certain markets. Samsung has yet to confirm this, and it remains unclear whether the Exynos chip will appear in specific models.

What to Expect from the Galaxy S25 Ultra?

As we approach the early 2025 release date for the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, these benchmark improvements suggest that the device will offer a noticeable leap in performance compared to the current-gen Galaxy S24 Ultra. The addition of Snapdragon 8 Elite, Android 15, and One UI 7 will make the S25 Ultra an exciting prospect for users looking for top-tier performance in 2025.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: A Look Ahead

With Samsung focusing on enhancing both the hardware and software experience, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is shaping up to be a major contender in the premium smartphone market. The company is committed to offering more powerful, efficient, and feature-packed devices as it gears up for the 2025 launch.

Nintendo Switch Games Will Be Playable on Its Successor, Company Confirms

Nintendo Switch Games Will Be Playable on Its Successor, Company Confirms

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Updated on: 06-Nov-2024
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Nintendo has officially confirmed that its upcoming Switch successor, expected to be announced before the end of the current fiscal year (March 31, 2025), will feature backwards compatibility with Nintendo Switch games. This means players will be able to continue enjoying their current Switch library on the new console, a move aimed at preserving user investment and offering continuity for loyal customers.

Key Highlights:

  • The Nintendo Switch successor will support backwards compatibility for Switch games.
  • Nintendo Switch Online will be available on the new console, maintaining access to online services and classic game libraries.
  • The Switch 2 will be revealed during FY 2025 but may not launch before April 2025.

What Does This Mean for Players?

Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa shared the news during the company’s quarterly financial briefing for Q2 FY 2025. He highlighted that Nintendo values its long-term relationships with customers, with over 100 million active Switch users annually. By ensuring that Switch games can be played on the next-gen console, Nintendo is ensuring that players can keep their existing titles when transitioning to the new system. Additionally, Nintendo Switch Online—which offers access to multiplayer features, cloud saves, and retro games—will carry over to the successor as well.

This strategy will help Nintendo maintain a strong connection with its fanbase and encourage future purchases from players already invested in the Switch ecosystem.

Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Timeline and Sales Performance

Though Furukawa did not specify the exact release date for the Nintendo Switch 2, he did confirm that it would be officially announced before March 31, 2025. However, it may not hit store shelves until April 2025 or later.

Nintendo’s latest financial results revealed a 31% drop in Switch sales during Q2 FY 2025, with 4.72 million units sold in the quarter, compared to the previous year. As a result, Nintendo lowered its sales forecast for the year from 13.5 million to 12.5 million units. Despite the slowdown, the Nintendo Switch has reached an impressive 146 million units sold globally since its launch in March 2017.

Looking Ahead:

The introduction of backwards compatibility and continued support for Nintendo’s online services signals Nintendo’s commitment to ensuring a smooth transition for users as it gears up for the release of its Switch successor. While the company faces some challenges in terms of current sales figures, the announcement of the Switch 2 is likely to reignite interest in the Nintendo ecosystem, especially with the promise of continued game compatibility and online features.

Nintendo’s strategy to carry over user data, purchases, and game libraries from the current Switch to its successor could prove crucial in maintaining the loyalty of its large fanbase, making the Switch 2 an anticipated release in 2025.

Honor X9c Launched: 108MP Camera, Snapdragon 6 Gen 1, and 66W Fast Charging

Honor X9c Launched: 108MP Camera, Snapdragon 6 Gen 1, and 66W Fast Charging

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Updated on: 06-Nov-2024
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Honor has officially launched the Honor X9c in Malaysia, a smartphone packed with impressive features like a powerful Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 SoC, a 108MP rear camera, and a robust 6,600mAh battery. With its IP65M rating for water and dust resistance, the Honor X9c stands out as a durable yet feature-rich device in the mid-range segment.

Honor X9c: Key Features and Specifications

The Honor X9c offers a solid combination of performance, photography capabilities, and design, catering to consumers looking for both reliability and innovation. Here’s a detailed look at its specifications:

FeatureSpecification
Display6.78-inch AMOLED, 1.5K (1,224 x 2,700 pixels), 120Hz refresh rate
ProcessorSnapdragon 6 Gen 1, Adreno A710 GPU
RAM & StorageUp to 12GB RAM, 512GB internal storage
Rear Camera108MP primary (OIS), 5MP ultra-wide
Front Camera16MP selfie camera
Battery6,600mAh with 66W fast wired charging
OSAndroid 14-based MagicOS 8.0
Water & Dust ResistanceIP65M rating, 2m drop resistance
Dimensions162.8 x 75.5 x 7.98mm, 189g
PriceMYR 1,499 (Rs. 28,700) for 12GB + 256GB variant

Display and Design

The Honor X9c features a large 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 1.5K resolution, providing clear and vibrant visuals. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures a smooth scrolling and gaming experience, while the display’s 4,000 nits of brightness ensures readability under direct sunlight. The screen also comes with eye protection features, making it easier on the eyes during extended use.

Performance and Software

Under the hood, the Honor X9c is powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset, paired with the Adreno A710 GPU for efficient performance in both day-to-day tasks and gaming. It offers up to 12GB of RAM and 512GB of internal storage, making it suitable for users who store a lot of content or run multiple apps simultaneously. The device runs on Android 14 with MagicOS 8.0, ensuring a fluid and customizable interface.

Camera Capabilities

One of the standout features of the Honor X9c is its 108MP rear camera, supported by optical image stabilization (OIS) for sharper, clearer shots. Alongside the primary sensor, there’s a 5MP ultra-wide lens to capture more in each shot. For selfies, the phone features a 16MP front camera, designed to provide high-quality pictures for video calls and social media.

Battery and Charging

With a 6,600mAh battery, the Honor X9c offers all-day battery life, even with intensive usage. The device also supports 66W wired fast charging, allowing you to power up quickly and get back to using your phone without long wait times.

Durability

The Honor X9c is built to withstand everyday mishaps. With an IP65M rating, the phone is resistant to dust and water exposure, even while in motion. Additionally, it can handle drops from up to 2 meters, making it a durable option for users who prioritize toughness in their smartphones.

Pricing and Availability

The Honor X9c starts at MYR 1,499 (approximately Rs. 28,700) for the 12GB + 256GB model, and the 12GB + 512GB variant is priced at MYR 1,699 (around Rs. 32,500). The phone is available for pre-order in Singapore, and it is offered in three color options: Jade Cyan, Titanium Black, and Titanium Purple.

In conclusion, the Honor X9c is a well-rounded smartphone that offers excellent value for money, particularly for those seeking a high-performance device with an impressive camera and long-lasting battery life. With its durability features, fast charging, and modern design, it’s a solid option for users in the mid-range market. Whether you're a photography enthusiast, a heavy multitasker, or someone looking for a phone with lasting power, the Honor X9c checks all the boxes.

Apple Hit with First Fine Under EU's Digital Markets Act

Apple Hit with First Fine Under EU's Digital Markets Act

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Updated on: 06-Nov-2024
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Apple has been fined for the first time under the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), a new law designed to curb the power of tech giants. The penalty comes after investigations into Apple's anti-competitive practices in its app ecosystem. The EU aims to ensure fair competition, with the DMA setting rules for large companies like Apple to promote openness and equal access for third-party developers.

Key Highlights:

  • Apple was fined under the EU's Digital Markets Act for restricting third-party developers.
  • The DMA aims to prevent dominant tech firms from stifling competition and creating unfair market practices.
  • The EU can impose fines of up to 10% of a company’s global revenue for violations.

What Led to the Fine?

The fine follows investigations into Apple’s App Store policies, which have been criticized for limiting third-party developers' freedom. The EU claims these restrictive practices prevent smaller developers from competing fairly with Apple’s services.

Apple's app store is central to this investigation, as the company’s rules have previously been viewed as overly controlling, restricting developers’ ability to direct users outside of the App Store or use alternative payment methods. This is a violation of the DMA’s requirement to ensure openness and fair access for all developers.

What Does This Mean for Apple and Other Tech Giants?

This penalty is part of the EU's broader strategy to regulate gatekeeper companies—those that dominate key sectors of the digital economy, such as app stores and online platforms. The DMA aims to create a level playing field by preventing anti-competitive practices before they harm market competition. Companies like Apple, Google, and Amazon may face more scrutiny in the future as the EU seeks to promote consumer choice and foster fair competition.

Under the DMA, fines can reach up to 10% of a company’s global revenue, and if violations are repeated, the fine could rise to 20% of global revenue. Apple, which has already faced regulatory challenges in the past, is likely to see further investigations related to its App Store and other business practices shortly.

Further Scrutiny Ahead

This fine is not Apple’s first brush with EU regulators. In addition to the current case, the EU previously warned Apple to allow more freedom for developers to direct users outside the App Store and face more competition in payment options. The penalty also follows other EU investigations into Apple’s tax advantages and its restrictive rules against Spotify.

The EU’s competition chief, Margrethe Vestager, has been leading the charge against tech giants, ensuring that they adhere to the new rules under the DMA. The fine marks a significant move in the EU’s continued efforts to regulate the tech industry, making it clear that the era of unchecked dominance for companies like Apple may be coming to an end.

Oppo and PolyU Renew Partnership to Drive AI Imaging Technology Research

Oppo and PolyU Renew Partnership to Drive AI Imaging Technology Research

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Updated on: 05-Nov-2024
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Oppo has officially renewed its three-year partnership with Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), aiming to push the boundaries of AI imaging technology. Originally begun in 2022, this strategic collaboration is set to expand with a renewed commitment to groundbreaking research and innovation. Under the terms of the renewed agreement, Oppo has pledged a generous investment to support PolyU’s Joint Innovation Research Centre and its ongoing focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and imaging technologies.

A New Chapter in Oppo-PolyU Collaboration

On Friday, representatives from Oppo and PolyU gathered for a formal signing ceremony to mark the renewal of their collaboration. The partnership has already led to several important breakthroughs in technology over the past three years, with many of the resulting innovations being integrated into Oppo's consumer products. The new agreement aims to elevate this partnership by increasing financial support and expanding technological investment from Oppo.

As part of the agreement, Oppo will provide CNY 30 million (approximately ₹35.5 crores) over the next five years to fund research activities and expand the scale of co-trained PhD and postdoctoral programs at PolyU. This long-term investment will contribute significantly to advancing AI imaging technologies, with the goal of creating next-generation solutions for smart devices and other applications that rely on AI-powered image recognition and processing.

Oppo and PolyU.webp

The newly allocated funds will be used to establish the Joint Innovation Research Centre at PolyU, which will be the heart of this ongoing collaboration. The centre, slated for construction in January 2025, will focus on key developments in computer vision and other AI technologies that are integral to modern imaging applications.

Focus on AI Imaging and Future Potential

While specific details on the precise nature of the AI imaging technology have not been revealed, the partnership’s objectives suggest a focus on cutting-edge computer vision and image processing technologies. These fields are central to AI-driven applications that can interpret and analyze visual data from various sources, including photos, videos, and even real-time environments.

This innovation could have a broad range of implications across Oppo’s smartphone lineup, enhancing camera capabilities, improving augmented reality (AR) applications, and refining image recognition features. Oppo’s investment is poised to empower both the academic and industrial sectors, providing a platform for researchers and students to explore and develop the future of AI-based imaging systems.

The new research centre will be housed within PolyU’s Faculty of Computer and Mathematical Sciences, a new department set to officially launch in January 2025. This facility will not only focus on AI imaging but also address the evolving challenges and opportunities presented by the growing role of artificial intelligence in everyday technology.

Strengthening the Industry-Academia Link

The renewed partnership is also aimed at fostering closer ties between industry and academia, providing PolyU researchers with the resources to collaborate directly with Oppo’s technical teams. By aligning with one of the leading global players in the smartphone and AI industry, PolyU will further strengthen its reputation as a hub for cutting-edge AI research. In return, Oppo will gain access to the latest advancements and breakthroughs coming from one of Asia’s most prestigious universities.

Professor Jin-Guang Teng, a key figure at PolyU, emphasized the significance of the new research centre and its alignment with the university’s broader goals to tackle the challenges of the AI era. With the rise of technologies like machine learning, deep learning, and AI-powered vision systems, this partnership will be crucial in shaping the next generation of imaging solutions for a wide variety of applications.

The Road Ahead

Oppo’s continued support for PolyU underscores its commitment to advancing AI technology and developing smart imaging solutions for its users. The collaboration with PolyU aligns with Oppo’s broader vision of innovation and technological leadership in the smartphone industry. This renewed partnership is expected to yield both academic and practical applications, with future products benefiting from AI advancements that push the boundaries of what smartphones can achieve in terms of imaging, video processing, and real-world interaction.

As Oppo continues to lead in the AI imaging space, the outcomes of this collaboration will likely influence not only Oppo devices but also shape the future direction of AI research within the tech industry.

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