Tech
Honor CEO Emphasizes Importance of Data Privacy in AI Advancements
HANGZHOU, China — The transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) is meaningless without ensuring user data privacy, according to George Zhao, CEO of Chinese smartphone company Honor. In an exclusive interview with CNBC on Thursday, Zhao highlighted the company’s commitment to data protection amid increasing integration of AI features in smartphones.
His comments come as Apple announced the rollout of personalized AI tools on certain devices in the U.S. this fall. Honor, known for its innovative AI functions like gaze-based notifications and seamless app integration, prioritizes keeping AI operations involving personal data confined to the device—known as on-device AI—rather than relying on cloud computing.
“Without data security and user privacy protection, AI will become worthless,” Zhao said in Mandarin, translated by CNBC. He reiterated that this principle is central to Honor’s value proposition.
Zhao also shared his perspective on AI’s development, noting the growing power of network (cloud) AI, but emphasizing the increasing intimacy and consumer empowerment offered by on-device AI.
Tech
DOJ Proposes Chrome Sale to Curb Google’s Search Monopoly
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has proposed that Google sell its Chrome browser as part of measures to break its dominance in online search. The proposal, included in a court filing on Wednesday, aims to restore competition following a landmark anti-trust ruling in August that found Google illegally suppressed its competitors.
Key Proposals by DOJ
- Chrome Divestiture: The DOJ suggests Google sell Chrome, the world’s leading web browser, to limit its ability to funnel users to its search engine.
- End Default Search Agreements: The government seeks to ban Google from contracts with companies like Apple and Samsung that make Google Search the default on their devices.
- Five-Year Browser Market Ban: Google would be prohibited from re-entering the browser market for five years to allow competition to flourish.
The filing, supported by several U.S. states, argues these steps are necessary to counteract Google’s alleged stifling of competition in general search and search advertising markets.
Google’s Response
Google criticized the DOJ’s proposal as a “radical interventionist agenda,” claiming it would harm both consumers and the broader U.S. technology sector.
- Kent Walker, Google’s president of global affairs, said the plan would “break a range of Google products… that people love and find helpful.”
- Google plans to submit its counter-proposals by December 20.
Impact and Timeline
Judge Amit Mehta is expected to make a final decision by mid-2025. The DOJ’s filing follows revelations that Google controls 90% of global online searches, leveraging its ownership of Chrome and the Android operating system to maintain its dominance.
Tech
Geeksvillage Marks 11th Anniversary
In a remarkable celebration of innovation and dedication, Geeksvillage has proudly announced its 11th anniversary, marking over a decade of transformative impact in the business world.
Founded with a mission to empower SMEs and help them reach international standards, Geeksvillage has consistently provided businesses with tools and solutions that have enabled them to thrive. From affordable web design services to innovative digital strategies, the company has established itself as a trusted partner for growth and success.
Geeksvillage Marks 11th Anniversary Statement
In a statement shared online, Geeksvillage expressed gratitude to its clients and supporters:
“Today, we celebrate not just a milestone but 11 years of passion, innovation, and relentless dedication. For the past 11 years, we have helped SMEs grow into international standards and given businesses the wings to soar. This achievement belongs to everyone who has been part of our story.”
The statement particularly acknowledged the role of its clients, whose patronage has been the cornerstone of the company’s journey.
Geeksvillage also took the opportunity to thank its supportive community for standing by them through the years, underscoring the collective effort that has driven their success.
Reflecting on its journey, the company highlighted the challenges that shaped its evolution and the accomplishments that fueled its growth. As Geeksvillage looks to the future, it remains committed to delivering excellence and empowering businesses on a larger scale.
With 11 years in the bag and countless possibilities ahead, Geeksvillage invites everyone to celebrate this milestone and join them in building an even brighter future.
Here’s to Geeksvillage – 11 years of transforming businesses and counting!
Article you may also like: How To Stop Hacking
Tech
Amazon Launches Haul to Rival Low-Cost Giants Temu and Shein
Amazon has unveiled a new budget-friendly outlet called Haul, aiming to capture the market share of low-cost retailers such as Temu and Shein. Announced on Wednesday, Haul is a mobile-only shopping experience within Amazon’s Shopping app, exclusively available to US customers.
The standout feature of Haul is its price cap, with all products available for $20 (approximately £15.79) or less. The platform promises “crazy low prices” for goods that may take up to two weeks for delivery—a strategy mirroring the business models that have driven the rapid growth of its Chinese rivals.
Temu and Shein have seen explosive growth in recent years by offering inexpensive items with extended shipping times. However, they have also faced scrutiny for their environmental impact and alleged exploitation of import loopholes. “Temu and Shein have faced backlash both for taking advantage of import loopholes and for being wasteful and environmentally irresponsible,” said Sucharita Kodali, a retail analyst at Forrester. Kodali noted that Amazon Haul could face similar challenges.
Despite these potential pitfalls, Amazon is focusing on low-cost offerings with products priced significantly below the $20 cap. The company cited examples such as a three-piece razor set and a necklace, bracelet, and earring set, each priced at under $3. To further attract shoppers, Amazon is offering free shipping on orders over $25, with expected delivery times between one and two weeks.
“Finding great products at very low prices is important to customers, and we continue to explore ways that we can work with our selling partners so they can offer products at ultra-low prices,” said Dharmesh Mehta, Amazon’s vice president of worldwide selling partner services. Mehta emphasized that the Haul shopping experience is still in its “beta” phase, with plans to refine and expand the platform based on user feedback.
Haul also promises that all listed products will be backed by Amazon’s product guarantees, ensuring consumer confidence in product safety. The move comes as global regulators increasingly monitor platforms that push mass-produced goods at exceptionally low prices. For instance, the European Commission initiated action against Temu in October over concerns about illegal product sales.
“It’s still early days,” Mehta stated, adding that Amazon will assess customer feedback to adapt and improve the service in the coming months.
With Haul, Amazon is making its most significant foray yet into the competitive market for ultra-affordable, slower-shipping products—a market that has upended conventional retail practices and attracted millions of budget-conscious shoppers worldwide.
-
Business4 days ago
Trump Names Chris Wright as Energy Secretary in Push for Fossil Fuel Expansion
-
Sports4 days ago
Hungary Coach Szalai Stable After Collapsing During Nations League Match
-
Spotlight2 days ago
The Impact of Quality Apparel Production on Business Branding in Lagos, Nigeria
-
Entertainment1 day ago
Liam Payne’s Funeral Set for Wednesday in Private Ceremony
-
Spotlight1 day ago
The Role of Endocrinology in Managing Chronic Conditions: Insights for Patients in Las Cruces, NM
-
Entertainment2 days ago
Cast of Wicked Shine on the Green Carpet at European Premiere
-
News2 days ago
Hong Kong Sentences 45 Pro-Democracy Activists in Landmark Subversion Trial
-
News4 days ago
Trump Appoints Energy Executive as Energy Department Head; Biden Heads to Amazon Rainforest