Category: Insights

Five Things Old Media Still Don’t Get About The Web

Posted on by ctrspace

Today the internet seems to have changed the information aspect, it just actually smashed the monopoly of the old media. Newspapers, television networks, and magazines once had the whole say in the news cycle. A viral tweet, a blog post, or a YouTube video can create public opinion faster than any front-page headline today. Yet, even after being around for more than a couple of decades, most of the traditional media still do not get the basic essence of the web.

They still hold on to old business models, underestimate the power of algorithms, and completely fail to grasp that audiences today require interactive engagement with the content and not just passive consumption. The web is a fast-moving, vibrant flux, whereas here credibility is built through engagement and interaction rather than just by authority. Those refusing to either change or adapt will be left behind in the dust of obsolescence.

Far removed are the old dictatorial paramount of media still out of touch with five things concerning the web.

1. People Never Wanted to Pay for the News

People Never Wanted to Pay for the News

Traditional media has long assumed that because people once paid for newspapers, they would be willing to pay for digital news. But the reality is, that people weren’t paying for the news itself, news was just one part of a larger package. Newspapers bundled news with classifieds, weather updates, stock prices, and entertainment sections, all of which are now available online for free and in real-time. This makes selling digital news subscriptions a tough challenge.

Readers today have countless free options for news. Social media, blogs, and independent news sites provide instant updates, often faster than traditional outlets. The old model of paying for access to journalism simply does not align with modern consumer expectations. Unless media companies offer something significantly different and more valuable, people won’t pay.

  • People Pay Only for Something Special:  If a news site offers unique, high-quality content, some people might pay, but it has to be worth it.
  • People Want Free News: If the same news is available for free elsewhere, no one wants to pay for it.
  • Old Newspapers Had More Than Just News: People bought newspapers for job ads, classifieds, and entertainment, not just news.
  • Social Media is Faster: Platforms like Twitter and Facebook break news instantly, often before big news websites.
  • Trust Issues with Big Media:  Many people think traditional news is biased, so they look for independent sources.

2. Paywalls Break the Web and Annoy Your Customers

Paywalls Break the Web and Annoy Your Customers

Paywalls create a frustrating experience for readers. Imagine coming across an interesting article, clicking on the link, and immediately being blocked by a paywall demanding a subscription. Most people will simply close the tab and move on.

The web thrives on openness and sharing, but paywalls restrict access and limit the spread of information. Instead of encouraging engagement, they push readers toward free alternatives. While some premium outlets can sustain a paywall because they provide unique and valuable content, the vast majority of news sites struggle because their audience isn’t willing to pay when free sources are just a click away.

  • Only Exclusive Content Can Justify Paywalls:  Sites with deep investigative journalism or unique insights might succeed, but basic news won’t.
  • Readers Hate Paywalls:  Most people won’t subscribe just to read one article, they’ll leave and find free news elsewhere.
  • The Web is Built for Sharing: Paywalls block content from spreading, making articles less influential and reducing traffic.
  • Free Alternatives Win Every Time:  When so much news is available for free, most people won’t pay unless the content is truly exceptional.
  • Paywalls Kill Engagement:  Instead of building loyal readers, they push visitors away before they even start reading.

3. The Web Needs New Solutions, Not Digital Replicas of Print

The Web Needs New Solutions, Not Digital Replicas of Print

Many media companies assume that converting print articles into digital formats will attract paying subscribers. But the internet demands more than just text, it thrives on interactivity, multimedia, and innovation.

A digital newspaper that merely mimics the print experience offers no additional value. Readers expect engaging visuals, interactive elements, and real-time updates. Successful digital media outlets embrace video content, podcasts, and immersive storytelling instead of relying on static articles.

  • Innovation Drives Success: The best digital platforms experiment with storytelling, AI-driven recommendations, and interactive infographics to keep audiences hooked.
  • Static Text is Boring:  Readers expect interactive content, not just scanned newspaper pages on a screen.
  • Multimedia Wins Attention:  Videos, podcasts, and animations engage users far more than plain text.
  • Real-Time Updates Matter:  Unlike print, digital news must evolve constantly to stay relevant.
  • Readers Want a Two-Way Conversation: Comment sections, polls, and live discussions create engagement, not just passive reading.

4. People Pirate Because They Get a Better Experience

People Pirate Because They Get a Better Experience

Piracy isn’t just about getting content for free, it’s about convenience. When legal options come with restrictions like DRM limitations, region locks, and excessive advertisements, piracy becomes the more attractive alternative.

The best way to combat piracy isn’t through lawsuits or crackdowns, it’s by offering a better user experience. Streaming services like Netflix and Spotify have shown that people are willing to pay for content when it is convenient, affordable, and high-quality. Instead of making access difficult, media companies should focus on making their content more appealing than the pirated version.

  • Convenience Always Wins:  When platforms make content easy to access at a fair price, piracy naturally declines.
  • Piracy is Faster:  No forced ads, no region locks, just instant access.
  • No DRM Hassles: Pirated content doesn’t come with restrictions that limit how and where users can watch.
  • Better Accessibility:  Legal platforms sometimes remove content, but pirated versions stay available indefinitely.
  • High Prices Push Users Away:  Many people pirate simply because legal alternatives are too expensive.

5. Filesharing and Piracy Do Not Always Represent Lost Sales

Filesharing and Piracy Do Not Always Represent Lost Sales

Media companies often claim that piracy causes massive revenue losses. However, not every person who pirates content would have paid for it otherwise. Many people download content they were never planning to buy in the first place, meaning those aren’t truly lost sales.

In some cases, piracy even helps media companies by increasing exposure. Shows like Game of Thrones gained massive popularity by being widely pirated, ultimately benefiting HBO in terms of brand recognition and merchandise sales. Instead of focusing solely on preventing piracy, media companies should look for ways to convert casual viewers into paying customers.

  • People Pay When It’s Easy & Affordable:  Many former pirates now subscribe to platforms like Netflix, proving that convenience wins over restriction.
  • Not Every Pirate is a Lost Customer:  Many people who pirate wouldn’t have paid for the content anyway, so there’s no real revenue loss.
  • Free Publicity Can Drive Sales:  Pirated content often increases awareness, leading to more paying customers in the long run.
  • Merchandise & Spin-offs Make Money:  Shows and movies gain loyal fans through piracy, who then buy official merchandise, tickets, and subscriptions.
  • Piracy Shows Demand:  High piracy rates indicate strong interest, which media companies can capitalize on by improving accessibility.

Also Read: The Currency of The Internet Is Personal Data

The Web Demands a New Approach

The internet isn’t just another distribution channel, it has fundamentally changed how people consume information. Old media companies that cling to outdated models will continue to struggle, while those that embrace new digital strategies will thrive.

Successful media businesses adapt to online habits. They prioritize accessibility, shareability, and user engagement over rigid paywalls and traditional publishing formats. Instead of forcing outdated business models onto digital audiences, they evolve to meet modern expectations

Adapt or Get Left BehindThe media industry faces a choice: continue fighting against the way the internet works or embrace change. Those who resist digital transformation will fade into irrelevance, while those who innovate will define the future of news and content distribution.

The question is, who will adapt before it’s too late?

AI: The Game Changer in Digital Media

Artificial intelligence is reshaping the media landscape. It’s not just about automation, it’s about personalization, efficiency, and smarter content distribution. AI helps media companies:

  • Deliver Personalized Content: AI-powered algorithms curate news feeds, recommend articles, and tailor content to individual interests, keeping audiences engaged.
  • Enhance User Experience:  Chatbots, AI-generated summaries, and interactive tools make consuming information faster and more intuitive.
  • Optimize Ad Revenue:  AI-driven analytics help media companies understand reader behavior, allowing them to target ads more effectively and increase revenue.
  • Detects Trends in Real Time:  AI scans social media, forums, and search trends to predict viral topics before they even break into mainstream news.
  • Automate Content Creation: AI can assist in generating news reports, writing summaries, and even producing video content, speeding up production without compromising quality.

Resources:

Also Read: 5 Reasons That Social Media May Never Die

The Currency of The Internet Is Personal Data

Posted on by Erin Ryan

Imagine a world where money is not the most valuable asset, your data is. Every time you browse, shop, or interact online, you are not just a user,  you’re a product. Cybercriminals don’t care about your name, age, or bank balance, they care about your data because, in the digital age, information is power. From corporations to hackers, everyone is in a relentless race to collect, trade, and exploit this new form of currency. Whether it’s used to predict your next purchase or steal your identity. One thing is clear, data rules the internet, and those who control it hold the keys to the modern world.

The Reality is that:

You are not just surfing the internet, you are feeding it. Every action taken by you, every click, every search, every interaction, adds to an enormous digital marketplace where personal data is most valued. This is an economy where you are not merely a consumer but also the merchandise, and your information is the price you pay to enter it.

Huge tech companies have continuously brushed up their data-collecting techniques, from Facebook-Meta to Google to TikTok, all collecting data for their service to users. AI-driven analytics and machine learning developed the first truly accurate profiles of users. Not too long ago, these tech giants were challenged over their secrecy in handling user data, and today, that very issue is ubiquitous across all digital environments. As human life becomes more integrated with the internet, through wearables, smart assistants, and interconnected apps, more and more personal data is being captured, processed, and monetized.

The Rise of Big Data

Big data means the large amounts of structured and unstructured data being generated every day from Internet activities, smart devices, and digital transactions. Big Data was first used by John Mashey, a computer scientist and former chief scientist at Silicon Graphics, in the 1990s to describe the communications environment. With the ability to process and analyze very large datasets, industries were allowed to develop insights and predict user behavior with a precision never-before-seen.

  • Big Data aids decision-making in organizations regarding various aspects by providing insights from large datasets.
  • It identifies patterns and trends, allowing for better predictions and strategic planning.
  • Big Data, AI, and machine learning work together to automate smarter decisions.
  • Big Data forms a significant part of customer personalization by assessing preferences, behaviors, and interactions.
  • In the medical field, Big Data makes diagnoses, enhances treatment outcomes, and helps produce customized medicine.
  • Big Data is used in the financial sector to detect fraud, assess risk, and optimize investments.
  • In retail, Big Data is used to help manage inventories with better forecasting of demand and enhancing customer experience.
  • Big Data will continue to grow with the increasing interconnectivity of devices (IoT) thereby providing businesses with many opportunities.

AI’s Impact on Big Data and the Surge of Digital Currency

AI is transforming the way we look at and deal with data, unleashing great possibilities into the world of Big Data and changing the face of digital currency. In this data-oriented epoch, AI is more than an instrument, it is the engine driving so many technologies today, especially when coupled with Big Data.

AI is used for the analysis and processing of huge amounts of data at lightning speed, giving businesses valuable insights that can affect decisions, marketing strategies, and consumer behavior. Businesses can react to trends and consumer demand with AI even before its very conception, thus polishing their advertising strategies and optimizing their pricing policy and customer experience, almost in real-time.

The pattern recognition abilities of AI across large datasets are particularly useful to improve decision-making anywhere from flagging irregularities in financial transactions to forecasting price shocks in markets. Coupled with Big Data, AI transforms into a super-enabler of innovation through predictive analytics, increased operational proficiency, and more intelligent decision-making across sectors.

Meanwhile, Digital Currency, like Bitcoin and Ethereum, is becoming important for the invigorated scope of a global economy. Digital currencies are decentralized, secure, and able to conduct almost instantaneous payments across a border without the hindrance of conventional banking systems. Thanks to blockchain technology, digital currencies enforce trustless transactions: validation within their distributed ledger system keeps transparency and security from potential shame.

AI thrives in the world of digital currency as patterns of transactions are studied to optimise the trading strategy with the help of machine learning algorithms. Predicting fluctuations in cryptocurrency markets is a meaningful skill for any trader and investor since it allows for strategic decision-making in volatile markets. Acceptance of this technology could further assist in the detection of fraudulent activities while securing digital wallets and cryptocurrency exchanges.

Moving forward, the integration of AI, Big Data, and digital currency will create and develop more secure, efficient, and personalized financial systems, leaving every business and individual to find ways to ride this transformation. AI and digital currency will go neck and neck to disrupt the traditional banking systems to build a more connected and data-laden economy.

Also Read: 17 Amazing Facts About Wikipedia

Why Is Your Data So Valuable?

The answer is simple:

It is because the business operates with data. Businesses now run on hyper-personalized advertising, predictions through analytics, and artificial intelligence motivating insights into their lifestyles. Companies have moved beyond targeting customers based on demographics-they now foresee what each user wants before they state such. The data that they have gathered decides what kind of advertisement you see, which recommendations appear on your feed, and even the price you may get on shopping sites.

Ethical Concerns and Regulatory Challenges

The new era of AI-powered surveillance capitalism brings different ethical problems than those that were once considered mere data collection. Privacy debates have shifted from social media in 2012 to biometric data voice recognition today, with behavior tracking already in the mix. New attempts at introducing legislation such as that of the EU concerning GDPR and the emerging statutory regulations on privacy in the U.S have seen the governments come up with measures trying to regulate the exploitation of data. Enforcement remains erratic and the tech giants stretch the bounds of ethical data usage.

GDPR: Protecting Individual Information in the Digital Economy

One important piece of European legislation aimed at safeguarding privacy and personal information is the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). GDPR offers a robust framework that gives consumers more control over their information while guaranteeing businesses handle data responsibly in the current digital era, where personal data functions as a kind of currency.

Key GDPR Principles:

Data Transparency: Businesses are required to reveal the methods by which they gather, keep, and utilize user data.

User Consent: Without the express and unambiguous consent of users, businesses are not permitted to acquire personal data.

Right to Access: People are entitled to ask for and see the information that businesses have about them.

Right to Be Forgotten: People have the option to ask for their personal information to be removed from business databases.

Data portability: Data portability refers to the capacity of users to move their data between service providers.

Strict Security Measures: To safeguard personal data, businesses must put in place robust security measures.

Serious Penalties: Violations of the GDPR may incur fines of up to millions of euros.

Why Does GDPR Matter?

Personal information is a useful resource for online businesses. However, user privacy must be balanced with its gathering and utilization. By prohibiting the misuse of personal data, GDPR guarantees that businesses conduct themselves ethically and transparently. Despite being a European rule, it has an impact on businesses worldwide because all companies who handle data belonging to EU people are required to adhere to GDPR.

Since personal data is now the main currency of the internet, this rule is a major step in protecting it.

The Hidden Cost of Free Services

Understand, consumers, that every free service costs something. Be it a Google search, sharing something on Instagram, or using a generative AI tool, whatever you do, you are paying-not in dollars but with insights into your preferences, habits, and behaviors. Convenient internet makes people accustomed to trading their privacy-all at times without even reading the fine print-for convenience.

Becoming Digitally Responsible

And 2025, becoming digitally responsible would mean understanding these trade-offs. Privacy tools, encrypted messaging, and browser extensions that block trackers have become the must-haves for those wanting to minimize data exposure. Quite frankly, even if we are hyper-social and connected, we are giving more data away. Online seems like a free service, but make no mistake, the currency that runs it is and always will be personal data. 

Some key statistics related to personal data, Big Data, AI, and digital currency:

Resource:

Also Read: 5 Reasons That Social Media May Never Die

India’s AI Ambitions: Can It Catch Up in the Global Race?

Posted on by ctrspace

The world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is evolving rapidly, with China and the US leading the way in developing powerful AI models. Recently, China’s DeepSeek stunned the tech industry by dramatically reducing the cost of building generative AI applications. Meanwhile, India is still playing catch-up in developing its foundational AI model.

The Indian government, however, remains confident. It has announced plans to provide thousands of high-end chips to startups, universities, and researchers, aiming to develop an AI model within 10 months. But with China and the US already years ahead, the question remains: Can India close the gap in time?

Global Tech Giants Bet on India’s AI Future

India’s AI potential is not going unnoticed. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, who was once skeptical about India’s AI ambitions, now acknowledges the country’s capabilities, stating:

“India should be playing a leading role in the AI revolution.”

India is now OpenAI’s second-largest market by users, highlighting a rapid adoption of AI-driven tools.

Tech giants are also stepping in with major investments:

With over 200 AI startups, India has an active startup ecosystem working on generative AI. But despite this entrepreneurial energy, experts say India is still far behind in critical areas.

Why Is India Lagging Behind?

Limited AI Funding

While India has announced a $1 billion AI mission, this amount pales in comparison to the $500 billion investment the US has allocated for AI infrastructure (Stargate Project) and $137 billion by China.

Technology analyst Prasanto Roy points out that China and the US have a “four to five-year head-start”, thanks to massive funding in AI research, academia, and military applications.

Lack of India-Specific AI Datasets

A major roadblock for India is the lack of high-quality datasets for training AI models in local languages like Hindi, Marathi, Tamil, and Bengali. Without strong datasets, creating an India-first AI model remains a challenge.

Talent Drain & Weak Research Infrastructure

India has 15% of the world’s AI workforce, but many top Indian AI experts are moving abroad due to better research opportunities. AI consultant Jaspreet Bindra highlights a key issue:
“Foundational AI innovations typically come from deep R&D in universities and corporate research labs.”

Unlike China and the US, India’s academic institutions and corporate research labs have not yet produced groundbreaking AI innovations.

IT Sector Focused on Services, Not AI Development

India’s $200 billion IT outsourcing industry, centred in Bengaluru, employs millions of coders. However, IT companies have traditionally focused on service-based projects rather than foundational AI research.

As Prasanto Roy points out:
“It’s a huge gap which they left to the startups to fill.”

While startups are trying to bridge this gap, experts question whether they have the resources to match China’s and the US’s AI advancements.

India’s Path Forward: Can It Still Catch Up?

Leveraging Open-Source AI Models

Instead of building AI models from scratch, India can modify and improve existing open-source models like DeepSeek.

AI entrepreneur Bhavish Aggarwal, founder of Krutrim, recently wrote on X:
“India can continue to build and tweak applications upon existing open-source platforms like DeepSeek to leapfrog our own AI progress.”

Investing in Semiconductor Manufacturing

AI models require huge computational power, which means India must invest in semiconductor manufacturing. Currently, India depends on imports for AI chips, which increases costs and delays AI research.

Government-Industry Collaboration

Experts say that India’s success in digital payments through UPI (Unified Payments Interface) was possible because of strong government-industry-academia collaboration. A similar strategy is needed for AI, ensuring research, funding, and policy support AI breakthroughs.

Jaspreet Bindra warns that without sustained funding, India’s 10-month AI model deadline may not be realistic, stating:
“Despite what has been heard about DeepSeek developing a model with $5.6 million, there was much more capital behind it.”

The Race Is On, But India Must Act Fast

India has the talent, market size, and growing investment interest. But to truly compete with the US and China, it must address funding gaps, invest in research, and build AI infrastructure.

Experts agree that the next few years will determine whether India will emerge as an AI leader or continue to rely on foreign AI technology.

Read More: Thousands of Apps Removed from EU App Store as Apple Enforces DSA

The Secrets Behind Startup Success and Failures

Posted on by Drew Hendricks

Imagine all good ideas turning into startup successes around the world where mere passion guarantees success. Far from that! The truth about entrepreneurship is an exhilarating and harsh one. It is an odyssey whereby turning dreams into reality is only meant for the strong, the smart planners, and the quick adapters.

For more than 20 years, small businesses have been the backbone of job creation in the U.S. Now, with over 33 million small businesses in the economy, the reality remains stark, only one in ten startups will survive.

According to researchers, 80% of new businesses do not survive first years, the remaining half will fold by the five-year mark. But failure does not mean the end. Those entrepreneurs who are persistent enough to modify their approaches and learn lessons from their failures are the ones who are likely to achieve lasting success. The main takeaway? If at first you don’t succeed, adapt, innovate, and try again.

“Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently.”

Henry Ford

It Is No Longer Just Young People Who Are Entrepreneurs

The stereotype of a young entrepreneur launching a billion-dollar startup from the dorm room has become old. Today’s successful entrepreneurs are mostly in their 30s and 40s; they hail from the middle class; and they often begin their enterprises while supporting their families. In the high-tech industry, a first-time entrepreneur stands a paltry 10% chance of success, but that number shifts dramatically when experience steps in; after one failure, your odds improve by the time you reach your third failure, you stand an excellent chance of starting a successful business.

The only limit to our realization of tomorrow is our doubts of today.

Franklin D. Roosevelt

What Makes An Entrepreneur Successful?

The recently surveyed successful small business owners bring out the top few factors behind their successful track record.

  • Experience matters – 96% of entrepreneurs attribute their success to prior working experience.
  • Failure is a stepping stone – 78% feel that learning from past failures contributed significantly to their growth.
  • Luck plays a part – 60% acknowledge that factors such as timing and conditions in the market may influence success.
  • Failure is worth something – 90% of startups fail so failing at least once is important in achieving success.

As Elon Musk once put it:

“Failure is an option here. If things are not failing, you are not innovating enough.”

How Start-Up Businesses Are Funded in 2025

From the conception of a successful business, it starts being an idea. Yet an idea is only a seed. It needs vision, strategy, and funding to nurture it into existence. Startup financing is more dynamic than it has ever been, with varied opportunities for entrepreneurs that range far from traditional bank loans. While some founders still draw upon their savings, others have some trendy financing options that are influencing the shape of the business world.

The struggle to acquire capital remains one of the biggest obstacles that startups face. Nevertheless, if they use the appropriate methods, the founders can access different modes of financing best suited to their needs. Here is a brief overview of some of the top funding options that young entrepreneurs can utilize to start their business ventures in [year]:

1. Personal Savings & Bootstrapping

Over seventy percent of first-time founders generally apply their savings in starting up their businesses. Bootstrapping allows entrepreneurs to retain 100 percent ownership but often has implications on scaling.

2. Venture Capital & Angel Investors

VC firms show interest in startups that promise very high growth potential in exchange for giving up an equity stake in their companies. Angel investors have more flexible conditions compared to VCs concerning early-stage financing. Close to 60% of entrepreneurs receive first-round funding at an early stage when
it is their second or later venture.

3. Government Grants & Support Programs

All countries have been investing heavily in AI, sustainability, and high-end tech startups. Saudi Arabia, China, the U.S., and the EU launched innovation grants worth billions.

4. Crowdfunding and Community Investments

Crowdfunding platforms Kickstarter, Indiegogo, and GoFundMe invite startups to scrape together funds from individual supporters. Equity crowdfunding allows owning a part of promising firms in exchange for liquidity.

5. Bank Loans & Alternative Lending

Normal traditional loans from banks are still compared, but they demand good creditors and guarantee collateral. Revenue-based finance and peer-to-peer loans are quite flexible in comparison.

6. Corporate Partnerships & Strategic Investments

Most startups fund themselves through partnerships with already established companies. Corporations invest in these startups with the hopes of aligning their investments with their industry’s goals while reaping the benefits of capital and mentorship.

Beyond Funding: The Key to Survival of a Startup

While raising finances is essential, with equal importance in really making it for the long haul are adaptability and resilience.

Adaptability Equals One Great Survival Tool

A startup that can pivot and adjust to changing market conditions is set for success, And research indicates that:

  • Startups that pivot their business model experience 3.6x user growth.
  • Startups in pivot raise 250% additional funding.
  • Adaptable businesses are 52% less likely to fail than those resisting change.

Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon: 

“We are willing to be misunderstood for long periods. If you are not stubborn, you will give up on experimenting too soon. And if you are not flexible, you will waste time banging your head against the wall instead of considering another solution.”

Fighting the Fear of Failure

Even with an expanding array of support systems, 92% of aspiring entrepreneurs never step out and start their businesses simply because they fear what failure could mean. But failure shouldn’t be looked at as the opposite of success; it should be considered part of the journey. Great founders fail fast, learn fast, and move on.

The great Robert F. Kennedy once said,

“Only those who dare to fail greatly can ever achieve greatly.”

Resources:

  • 80% of new businesses fail within the first year.
  • 96% of successful entrepreneurs attribute their success to prior work experience.
  • 83% feel that failures are important for learning and they contributed significantly to their growth.
  • 78% of small businesses use personal savings to fund their businesses.
  • 44.23% is the world median for fear of failure percentage in 2023.
What Are Startups? And What are the factors of Success and Failures.
Startups Success and Failure Infographic by TECHi.com

South Korea Blocks Access to DeepSeek Over Security Concerns

Posted on by Ayesha Riaz

South Korea’s industry ministry has temporarily restricted employee access to the Chinese AI startup DeepSeek, citing security concerns. This move comes amid growing government caution over using generative AI tools.

Government Issues Caution for AI Use in Ministries

On Tuesday, South Korea’s government issued a notice urging ministries and agencies to exercise caution when using AI services like DeepSeek and ChatGPT. The warning highlights increasing concerns around data security and privacy in government operations.

State-run Organizations Take Action Against DeepSeek

Earlier this month, state-run Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power blocked the use of DeepSeek and other AI services. The Ministry of Defense also restricted access to DeepSeek on military computers, while the foreign ministry limited its use to systems connected to external networks.

DeepSeek Faces Scrutiny From Global Authorities

This is part of a wider global response to DeepSeek. Australia and Taiwan have banned the AI service from government devices this week, citing security risks. In January, Italy’s data protection authority ordered DeepSeek to block its chatbot over unresolved privacy concerns. Other nations, including those in Europe, the U.S., and India, are also examining the implications of using DeepSeek.

Privacy Concerns and Investigations into Data Management

South Korea’s privacy watchdog is now planning to inquire about DeepSeek’s management of personal data, particularly how it handles user information, which remains a key issue in the ongoing global debate about generative AI services.

Korean Tech Companies Limit Use of Generative AI

DeepSeek made waves last month with the launch of its latest AI models, claiming they outperform U.S. products at a fraction of the cost. In response, several South Korean tech giants, including Kakao Corp, have advised employees to refrain from using DeepSeek due to security concerns. Kakao recently partnered with OpenAI, a major player in generative AI.

Additionally, SK Hynix and Naver have both implemented restrictions on the use of generative AI services. These companies are limiting access to ensure their data remains secure.

Read More: Italy Bans DeepSeek But Banning AI Model is Harder Than You Think

Tim Cook praises China’s DeepSeek AI Strategy

Posted on by ctrspace

As the AI rivalries are heating up and Tim Cook is praising DeepSeek, calling it a ‘good thing’ is making me wonder about the actual hidden meaning behind it. Does it mean, ‘let’s seal the deal’ or ‘we are watching you closely’? Either way, DeepSeek is floating high in the sky and I believe whether it’s negative comments or appraisals, they don’t bother about it.

After the app stores’ popularity in recent weeks, DeepSeek’s AI models were praised by Apple CEO Tim Cook for their efficiency enhancement. He announced a collaboration with ChatGPT on Apple’s hybrid AI initiative, but refrained from discussing the possibility of incorporating DeepSeek’s models due to competition from OpenAI.

Innovation driving efficiency:

During Apple’s earnings call with investors, Cook was asked about the impact of DeepSeek’ AI models on margins. He replied, “In general, I think innovation that drives efficiency is a good thing. And, you know, that’s what you see in that model.” As DeepSeek was dominating US app stores, it caused quite a chaos among AI giants as their perception of American dominance was challenged. This implies that the Chinese AI startup is leading the way in an efficient AI era, as innovation that drives efficiency is generally beneficial.

When asked about Apple’s AI strategy, Cook went into detail about the hybrid model strategy in the realm of AI, highlighting its effectiveness. He said, “From a CapEx point of view, we’ve always taken a very prudent, deliberative approach to our expenditure, and we continue to leverage a hybrid model, which I think continues to serve as well.” Although Apple has been open about incorporating AI models from Google and Anthropic, there is no definitive agreement on this matter, as it was not disclosed by Cook if Apple would include DeepSeek’s open-source models in future upgrades.

DeepSeek and OpenAI rivalry:

In a paper released last month, DeepSeek revealed that its V3 language model was constructed at apparently $5.6 million and was programmed in a ma\nner to operate on older-generation Nvidia H800 GPUs. Google, Anthropic, and OpenAI have spent billions of dollars on creating similar models as well but fail to surpass DeepSeek’s V3 model. On the other hand, OpenAI alleges DeepSeek that it is using a ‘distillation’ method to train its models with data from other AI systems. Whether this claim by OpenAI is another random assumption or if it holds some accuracy to it, concerns about DeepSeek and its potential impact on competitive AI markets are rising.

As DeepSeek has entered the Tech Industry, the two AI giants are facing a more intense competition. ChatGPT was no longer available on US app stores This is incorrect. Rephrase to clarify DeepSeek’s rise in popularity. “GPUs have not” – The sentence is unclear. Revise for clarity. The OpenAI vs. DeepSeek rivalry section needs better structure. Ensure facts are presented logically. Some sentences are repetitive. Trim unnecessary details for a smoother flow.

Read More: Impossible to Block Deepseek? Why Stopping China’s AI Growth is Harder Than Ever for OpenAI

What is more Controversial, Wall Street Banks Setting to Sell off Musk’s X debt at a Lower Cost or Musk’s Gesture towards Trump?

Posted on by ctrspace

Musk’s acquired debt and impact of a volatile market:

Elon Musk doesn’t shy away from making news now and then. His controversies find a way to take over the internet just as his innovative achievements do. Talk of the town is that Wall Street banks are said to sell the debt of Elon Musk’s purchase of the famous social media site X, which was formerly known as Twitter. Morgan Stanley and various banks are trying to sell a significant portion of the $13 billion debt financing commitment, where Musk agreed to cover the price of his purchase and closing costs in his $44 billion acquisition. According to WSJ, Morgan Stanley is leading the charge and intends to sell senior debt on the dollar at a discounted price of 90 to 95 cents. There is a reason that banks do not usually keep the debts for long. X’s unpredictable finances and the volatile perception in the market caused an interruption and delay in the completion of the sales. There have been serious advertiser concerns surrounding Musk’s debt as brand safety, and challenges with content moderation added another layer of complexity for the banks to clear out the debt. 

Cautious Advertisers on Musk’s Actions:

I never really thought that Musk would be making a debt-related headline, I’m not sure if I am saying that because my perception about him is high or because he is rich, either way after all that controversy, advertisers deserve to have some assurance for the future. In a report by WSJ, Musk himself sent an email to staff where he expressed disappointment in the financial report’s progress.  He showed distress because the company’s growth is still unsustainable and its revenue is not meeting its cost objectives. Musk noted X’s impact on the outcomes of the current market nationwide, the platform was termed as “power”, although, it is unclear if it will be enough to restore the assurance among advertisers that they need. As X’s advertisers are hesitant due to the platform’s concerns about brand safety, it gives an impression that Musk’s performance has been relatively average. Advertisers have been tangled up in a sea of controversy lately due to Musk’s straight arm gesture on the anniversary of President Donald Trump, let’s keep this open for interpretation so you can make a free guess who the hailing is for, this debate is adding to the advertiser’s doubts against association with the site. The banks’ attempt to sell the debt that is associated with X has caused observers to recall larger concerns about Musk’s acquisition. Despite the potential for cash-in on the discounted sale, there is no assurance of the platform’s long-term sustainability or its relationship with advertisers.

Read More: Elon Musk Sued By SEC Over Twitters

Microsoft’s Relationship with OpenAI Cracked When it Hired Mustafa Suleyman, Rival Marc Benioff Says

Posted on by ctrspace

Reportedly, friction has arisen anew between the technology giants Microsoft and OpenAI, whose partnership in the past has broken new ground in artificial intelligence. According to Marc Benioff, the Salesforce CEO, Microsoft hit a snag in negotiating a ‘narrow moment’ after it hired Mustafa Suleyman, DeepMind co-founder, and currently CEO of Inflection AI, a key rival in generative AI.

Microsoft’s welcome to Suleyman is aligned with the company’s aggressive move to boost AI adoption, especially in generative and conversational AI technologies. But this seems to have rattled OpenAI, which has been closely collaborating with Microsoft in various joint ventures, including Azure OpenAI Service and the integration of GPT technology into Office 365 and Bing among other Microsoft products.

Although Suleyman’s vast experience of devising sophisticated AI systems might therefore settle under ‘strategic acquisition,’ it still raises issues regarding Microsoft’s general strategic direction. By attracting a key individual from an anti competitor company, Microsoft could be setting a marker that indicates it wants to develop more independent AI capabilities rather than rely solely on OpenAI.

Benioff’s comments are indicative of the duality within the technology space, which has partnerships but competes at the same time. Thus, alongside this loose partnership of Microsoft and OpenAI, such highly promising breakthroughs are being ushered in but may not necessarily uphold a positive dynamic from here onward.

The two companies are yet to comment on how the hiring of Suleyman by Microsoft would impact their relationship. However, industry experts believe that this development could catalyze further alignments and realignments in strategic partnerships. Today, the stakes are even higher for tech titans as AI technology changes rapidly and competitive boundaries shift.

This latest move underlines just how competitive the AI race is, where alliances can be tested as companies seek to secure their positions at the forefront of innovation.

Read More: Meet Operator: OpenAI’s AI Tool That Could Take Over Your Computer Tasks

ThermoWorks RFX Review: A wireless grilling Tool with Unparalleled Accuracy

Posted on by ctrspace

The ThermoWorks RFX has raised the bar for grilling admirers with its wireless technology and exceptional accuracy. Known for their high-end thermometers, ThermoWorks has once again delivered a product designed to elevate your grilling experience, making it easier and more precise than ever before.
The RFX boasts a Bluetooth-enabled configuration. This means that users can monitor temperatures from their grill or smoker with real-time data streamed directly to them. This gadget has ranges of up to 300 feet, making it perfect to be used outside, where you can never have immediate access to your grill. It gives you the freedom to hang out, kick back, or do anything else while knowing that the temperature of your food is under strict surveillance.

The top highlight of the RFX’s feature set has to be accuracy. Using high-grade sensors, the RFX provides temperature readings within seconds, making sure your steaks, chicken, or vegetables are cooked to perfection and exactly how you want them prepared every time. Be it high-temperature grilling or low-temperature smoking, RFX is fully dependable for intense and serious cooking.

Moreover, it also has a pretty cool, easy-to-use interface with colour-coded displays showing safe temperatures for various categories of meat. It gets you out from under the thumb of guesswork at grilling. It can also work in tandem with your smartphone to notify you in real-time when your grilled item reaches the desired temperature.

Battery life is yet another strong point in favour of RFX- long performance- it can go for several grilling sessions without having to recharge again. Additionally built for difficult outdoor tough conditions, with a durable and weather-resistant capability against spills, rain, and very hot grilling, this device will take everything thrown at it.


Key Benefits:

  • Wireless Convenience: Bluetooth-enabled for real-time monitoring up to 300 feet, giving you freedom to move away from the grill.
  • Exceptional Accuracy: High-grade sensors provide precise temperature readings for perfect results every time.
  • User-Friendly Interface: Color-coded display and smart syncing with smartphones make monitoring effortless.
  • Durability: Built to withstand the elements, ensuring reliability through all grilling conditions.

Considerations:

  • Price Point: The RFX may be on the pricier side compared to standard thermometers, making it more suitable for serious grillers. They currently cost $159, $239 and $349 respectively.
  • Learning Curve: New users may need some time to fully understand the app and settings for optimal use.

Overall, the ThermoWorks RFX is a game-changer for anyone who loves grilling with precision. Its wireless functionality, pinpoint accuracy, and ease of use make it a must-have for both novice and experienced grill masters alike. Whether you’re cooking for the family or hosting a barbecue, the RFX ensures that your food will always be cooked to perfection.

Read More: AI Benchmarking Group Faces Backlash Over Hidden OpenAI Funding

AI Benchmarking Group Faces Backlash Over Hidden OpenAI Funding

Posted on by ctrspace

What’s Happening?

Epoch AI, a nonprofit, created a math test called FrontierMath to measure how good AI systems are at solving tough math problems.

Recently, it was revealed that OpenAI funded this project and used FrontierMath to showcase its new AI system.

Then what’s the main problem?

Epoch AI didn’t tell the public or the people who worked on FrontierMath that OpenAI was funding the project until December 20. Contributors got upset on not knowing that their work was using by OpenAI.

Concerns this problem have raised:

  1. Concerns Raised:

Transparency Issues: 

Here’s the core problem; Transparency. 

Secret collaboration and financial transactions made people doubt the FrontierMath as an unbiased test for AI.

  1. Exclusive Access: 

Exclusive and early access got OpenAI to see the defaults in FrontierMath before its time, giving a competitive advantage to them as they don’t have the same access to other companies competing with FrontierMath.

What does Tamay – the Co-Founder have to say?

Epoch AI Admitted their Mistake: 

One of their leaders, Tamay Besiroglu, said they couldn’t disclose the funding due to contractual limits with OpenAI but they should’ve ensured transparency as their no 1 priority. OpenAI didn’t use FrontierMath to train their AI,

The integrity of FrontierMath hadn’t been compromised – said Tamay.

Epoch AI has a separate set of math problems that they haven’t shown to anyone, including OpenAI. This hidden set is called a “holdout set”, and it’s used to double-check AI performance, ensuring fairness.

While they still tried to bring a fire brigade over the jungle fire, there was still some land left:

Epoch AI trusts that OpenAI is being honest about their AI system’s performance on the FrontierMath test; they haven’t done their checks to confirm if the results are accurate or not. 

Their non-serious actions & responses put a mark on their legacy and credibility.

Why Does It Matter?

This event highlights the difficulty of creating fair tests for AI because of the reliance on funding from companies like OpenAI.

This can lead to further biases on how AI is evaluated.

Read More: MiniMax’s Advanced Models are Industry’s New Competition

Google Stance on European Union Fact-checking Mandates

Posted on by ctrspace

Google acts upon fact-checking commitments:

Google has informed the European Union that it will not involve work from any fact-checking organizations in Search or YouTube until it expands its disinformation laws under the EU plans. Previously, Google voluntarily accepted certain commitments promoted by the European Union in 2022 to improve measures against online disinformation, to now become a law under the Digital Services Act (DSA). As, major US tech companies provide the preferred practices for the elected President Donald Trump, both Tim Cook and Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg seem to be willing to disrupt the international order and join their forces with Trump against EU regulatory measures. In a letter to Renate Nikolay, director for content and technology at the European Commission, Kent Walker, Google’s president of global affairs, announced his decision that “Google will not comply with this requirement, as it would simply be inappropriate and ineffective for our services.” Walker also noted that Google would withdraw from all fact-checking commitments listed in the Code before the DSA Code of Conduct becomes law.

 European Union Code of Practice on Disinformation:

The European Union Code of Practice on Disinformation calls on the signatories to work with fact-checkers from across the EU, providing evidence of their activity in all EU languages and to reduce financial incentives to spread disinformation on their platforms. It will require companies to improve transparency and facilitate the ability of the users to identify, understand, and report disinformation while producing common formats for political advertising and investigating fake accounts, bots, and other harmful platforms. However, these commitments do not have the force of law. Fact-checking is not a current part of Google’s content moderation schemes and they have rejected certain code requirements in the agreement as, YouTube and Search will try to reach agreements with fact-checking organizations in line with this measure but services will not have complete control over this process.

Future of EU and Tech platforms:

A total of 40 online platforms that signed the code included Microsoft, TikTok, Twitch, and Meta as they discontinued their fact-checking program in the US earlier this month. Twitter (now rebranded as X) did sign the code, but it later withdrew from it after Elon Musk purchased the platform. According to the European Fact-Checking Standards Network (EFCSN), most of the other digital platforms which signed the voluntary disinformation code have not bothered to ensure that their pledges are honoured. The EU lawmakers have been in discussions with the signatories over which of the commitments they would be willing to follow. It is yet to be announced by the Commission as to when the code will be officially law because it was, in November, expected by January 2025.

Read More: Apple’s Store App launch in India