Amazon's cashier-less "Just Walk Out" stores utilized 1,000 Indian workers to manually verify transactions, despite the company's assertion of relying solely on computer vision. Reportedly, 70% of transactions required manual review. Amazon defends the Indian team's role as aiding in model training. Consequently, Amazon plans to replace "Just Walk Out" with Dash Carts at its Fresh stores, catering to customer preferences for simplified shopping experiences. This change addresses desires for easier product location, receipt access, and savings tracking.

A recent Microsoft report has raised concerns about China potentially leveraging AI-generated content to disrupt the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in India. The report highlights China's use of sophisticated influence techniques, including memes, videos, and audio, distributed through social media platforms. Microsoft identified three target areas for these cyber campaigns: South Pacific Islands, South China Sea region adversaries, and the US defense industrial base. The report underscores the need for vigilance against foreign interference in electoral processes and emphasizes the importance of safeguarding the integrity of democratic elections.

Elon Musk's platform, X, formerly known as Twitter, expands its Community Notes feature to India, allowing select users to add fact-checks and context to posts. Musk confirms the rollout, aiming to curb misinformation ahead of the general election. Contributors can rate and eventually write notes on text, images, and videos. The move follows a global trend to tackle fake news. Interested users must meet eligibility criteria to become contributors. Google and Meta also implement measures in India to combat fake news and hate speech. Community Notes offer a collaborative approach to promoting truth and transparency on social media platforms.

India's cybersecurity team warns users of Apple devices about a critical threat. The advisory flags a dangerous loophole in iPhones, MacBooks, iPads, and Vision Pro headsets. Attackers could remotely control these gadgets. It's crucial to update Apple devices immediately to the latest software versions. Users should avoid risky Wi-Fi networks and activate Two-Factor Authentication for added protection. Stick to trusted app sources and back up data regularly. This proactive approach can mitigate the risk of potential cyber threats and safeguard users' sensitive information from falling into the wrong hands.

OpenAI postpones the release of Voice Engine, a tool capable of replicating voices with just 15 seconds of audio, citing election year risks. The AI lab prioritizes responsible deployment to mitigate misinformation threats. Partners previewed its uses, from scripted voiceovers to accent-preserving translations. OpenAI advocates for safeguards and public education on AI capabilities and limitations. While Voice Engine's simplicity stands out, competitors offer similar tools with longer audio requirements. ElevenLabs, for instance, implements safeguards to prevent voice cloning of political candidates during elections. OpenAI emphasizes cautious tech adoption for societal resilience.

In a 45-minute chat at PM Modi's home, the PM and Bill Gates talked about using technology for good. PM Modi declared, "I won't let a digital divide happen in India." He discussed drones helping farmers and digital health services, saying, "My goal is to vaccinate all girl children." They also talked about using AI and data privacy. PM Modi emphasized reusing things and changing how we measure development. They discussed the Statue of Unity, with PM Modi gifting Gates pearls, terracotta horses, a shawl, saffron, and tea.

In a candid conversation at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence, PM Modi and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates explored India's progress in digital innovation. Gates lauded Indians for their swift adoption of technology, citing the widespread use of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) as an example. PM Modi showcased initiatives like the 'Namo Drone Didi' scheme, empowering women in tech, alongside advancements in UPI. Reflecting on the 2023 G20 Summit, PM Modi emphasized India's commitment to inclusive digital progress, with AI at its core. Gates expressed enthusiasm for India's achievements, pledging support for extending them globally.

During a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, billionaire Bill Gates praised India's technological prowess, stating, "Indians are not only adapting to technology but also leading the way." Gates emphasized India's commitment to inclusive technology, affirming, "One of the themes that India brings to the table is that technology should be for everyone." The full interaction, set for release on Friday, promises deeper insights. Gates, optimistic about India's AI leadership, noted the country's unique growth trajectory, where services play a pivotal role alongside manufacturing. His remarks came during a virtual address at the Times Now Summit 2024.

YouTube took down over 2.2 million videos in India between October and December 2023, marking the highest removal rate globally. The United States and Singapore followed with 788,354 and 1,243,871 takedowns, respectively. Globally, YouTube removed 9 million videos during the same period, mainly flagged by machines. Videos were removed for various violations, including harmful content and misinformation. The platform emphasized its commitment to maintaining a safe community and enforcing strict guidelines against pornography, violence, harassment, and hate speech. The removals highlight efforts to combat inappropriate content and ensure user safety on the platform.

Analysts caution of increasing cyber-attacks linked to Chinese intelligence agencies, following UK and US sanctions over mass hacking of UK data. Western governments accuse China-backed hacking group APT 31 of targeting politicians and journalists. New Zealand also raises concerns about Chinese involvement in past attacks. Analysts note escalation in cyber threats, suggesting China seeks to test foreign responses and cause instability. Despite denial, China's cyber activities raise tensions with Western nations, prompting calls for robust defense measures.