Weekly Tech News Roundup: Google Android Changes, Meta AI Lawsuit, Apple vs OpenAI & More
Weekly Tech Round-Up: Steam Fix, Google Embraces Android Openness, Meta Faces AI Lawsuits, Apple v OpenAI & Much More
There is always something happening in technology every week, and this week is no exception. From Steam device overheating fix to Google embracing Android openness, and Meta getting sued by some for its AI projects, there is a lot to discuss. Also, here is what happened with Apple, Sony, NY and a new AI phone.
It's time to cover the most important tech stories of the week in simple words.
Valve Fixes Steam Device Overheating Alert
If you use any of Valve's Steam devices, then you might be aware of a red alert that was saying your device was overheated. The good news is that Valve said that it was just a false alert.
The problem came from the BIOS, which is the system that allows the smooth functioning of your device. Due to incorrect temperatures settings, the users started getting fake overheating notifications.
Valve is currently offering an update in order to increase the warning limit up to 100°C and thus avoid those false alarms.
It is important to mention that not all the warnings refer to damage done by the hardware. Sometimes, it is enough to update your software.
Google To Allow Third Party App Stores On Android
There are some great news for Android users.
After the Epic Games vs Google trial, Google will soon allow third-party app stores for Android phones starting from July 22.
Until now, the majority of Android users were downloading applications via Google Play Store. It is now possible for developers to install an alternative app store on Android.
This would have many advantages:
- Increased competition among app stores
- Improved choice for users
- Lower fees for app developers
- Alternative payment methods
Certainly, users need to be cautious and install apps from verified providers only in order to ensure safety.
On balance, this would further increase the openness of Android.
Meta is Sued for AI-based Layoffs
AI is assisting organizations in making decisions quicker, however, at the same time, this new trend brings about new problems.
Meta is facing lawsuits filed against it by former employees, accusing it of using a performance monitoring AI system which discriminated against employees on medical leave.
Based on the complaint, AI used by Meta could have unfairly assessed employees' performance regardless of their circumstances.
If it turns out to be true, it might become an important precedent in terms of using AI in workplace in the future.
While many businesses apply artificial intelligence for increasing efficiency, however, specialists note that human intervention in decision-making process is crucial in many cases.
Apple Sues OpenAI for Stolen Trade Secrets Related to Hardware
Apple is said to be suing OpenAI on the basis of theft of its trade secrets related to hardware production.
This particular case revolves around the secret technology and corporate information and not the ChatGPT service itself.
In this context, the legal proceedings have just begun; therefore, it will take months before we find out how it all turns out.
With increased competition in the realm of AI, there will likely be more such legal conflicts among large tech companies.
New York Halts Data Centre Construction Projects Temporarily
New York becomes the first US state to put construction of new hyperscale data centres on hold.
The government wants to have enough time to come up with regulations.
Data centres are necessary for cloud computing, AI, websites, online storage, and so forth. However, these constructions require a lot of electricity and water.
Thus, regulation will allow achieving a proper balance between technology development and environmental conservation.
Other regions might also follow the example of this state.
Millions of Gamers Still Can’t Use PlayStation Network
PlayStation Network by Sony is not accessible to millions of gamers from numerous countries.
It causes difficulties as a lot of contemporary games require access to PlayStation Network for online functionality and even activation.
There is some concern that in the future it will become impossible to use physical game discs. In spite of that fact, some features will stay locked even with having the physical copy due to lack of PSN access.
Gamers expect Sony to provide support in more countries in the future.
StepFun Creates Smartphones with AI Assistant
A startup StepFun is developing an interesting smartphone solution.
It doesn’t include a need to open apps manually but gives an opportunity to just command an AI assistant.
So, for example, it means that a user will be able to say to it something like this:
“Book my train ticket and remind me tomorrow morning.”
It will help the smartphone to make it automatically.
The idea is not fully realized yet, but it proves how future smartphones can become smarter.
AI-Based Dating Company Launched By Hinge Founder
The founder of Hinge has now secured an $18 million investment into a new startup known as Overtone.
Overtone hopes to use artificial intelligence to learn about people first before pairing them with compatible individuals, unlike the current generation of dating apps that require constant swiping.
The intention behind this move is to foster more sincere connections rather than having users scroll through countless profile pictures.
It still remains to be seen whether Overtone will succeed in this plan or not, but one thing is for sure – AI seems to be infiltrating all spheres of our lives.
Conclusion
The latest tech news clearly demonstrates just how fast-paced this industry has become.
Google is opening up Android for more competition. Valve is addressing user experience problems. Meta is dealing with tough questions regarding AI at work. Apple is once again involved in a big lawsuit. At the same time, AI is revolutionizing phones, dating apps and many other industries.
It is going to be an exciting few months to come as these stories unfold
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