Stay connected in the world of tech with our weekly blog. Read on for what you need to know from across the web. We’re breaking it all down from a new AI tool on Meta Tool to Taylor Swift and more!
Google Unveils Titan Security Keys for a Password-Free Future
Google has released two new versions of its Titan Security Key, designed to complement the emerging passwordless passkey technology supported by major players like Apple, Microsoft, and Google. Available now in the Google Store, these keys come in USB-C ($35) and USB-A ($30) variants, both featuring NFC for wireless connection to mobile devices. The reviewer has tested the USB-C version, finding it on par with other keys, including older Titan models and Yubico’s FIDO2 keys. The convenience of NFC in both models eliminates the need to choose between them and supports the recommendation of having at least two keys for backup purposes. These keys are not only FIDO2 compatible for two-factor authentication with existing services but also have the capacity to store over 250 unique passkeys. They offer a more secure alternative to other two-factor methods like code generators and push notifications by using cryptography for verification. This ensures the authenticity of the key and protects against fake websites. Users can register these keys with various online accounts for passwordless authentication, requiring only the key connection and a user-set PIN.
SpaceX Receives Green Light for Another Starship and Super Heavy Test Launch
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved the second test flight of SpaceX’s Starship rocket, confirming that SpaceX has met all necessary safety, environmental, policy, and financial responsibility requirements. Originally scheduled for November 17th, Elon Musk announced a slight delay, moving the test to November 18th with a two-hour launch window beginning at 8 AM ET. This follows an investigation into the first orbital launch test of the Starship and Super Heavy booster in April, which ended in self-destruction after about four minutes due to a propellant leak from the Super Heavy booster that disrupted the connection with the flight computer, as explained in SpaceX’s September report.
Apple Announces RCS Support for iPhones Coming in 2024
Apple has announced that starting in 2024, iPhones will support RCS messaging. Likewise, the standard is predominantly used by Android phones, potentially easing the longstanding friction between iPhone and Android messaging. According to a 9to5Mac report, an Apple spokesperson stated that integrating RCS Universal Profile, as defined by the GSM Association, would improve interoperability over traditional SMS or MMS. This addition is expected to enable features like read receipts and typing indicators. However, this change does not signify Apple opening up iMessage to other platforms. RCS messaging will serve as a replacement for SMS and MMS, existing separately from iMessage. Despite Apple’s plans to appeal against certain EU regulations, tech giants like Google and Samsung have been advocating for Apple’s RCS support.
Meta Unveils Upcoming AI-Driven Editing Features for Facebook and Instagram
Meta is set to enhance Facebook and Instagram with innovative AI-powered creative tools. The feature enables users to edit photos and generate “high-quality videos.” Announced by CEO Mark Zuckerberg, these tools are developed using Emu, Meta’s foundational model for image generation. “Emu Edit” allows Meta users to modify images with text inputs. Users can do so without manually selecting the image portion or having professional editing skills. It focuses on precise changes relevant to the edit request. The second Meta tool, “Emu Video,” can create videos from text prompts or reference images. Although not completely realistic, these videos represent a significant improvement over previous Meta animations.
Taylor Swift Fans Set New Data Usage Records During the Eras Tour
Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour has had a significant cultural and technological impact, notably in terms of data usage. During her three-day stint at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, fans used a colossal 28.9 terabytes of data. This set a new record for the most data transferred during any event at the stadium this year. To put this into perspective, 1TB of data equals roughly 200,000 photos or 400 hours of video. Other Swift tour stops saw similarly high figures, with 23TB in Nashville, 12TB in Atlanta, and 8.6TB in Tampa. This trend underscores the extensive photo and video-sharing activity among Swift’s fans during her concerts.
Hyundai Set to Launch Ioniq 5 N High-Performance EV in March 2024
Hyundai introduced its high-performance electric crossover, at the LA Auto Show. It features unique touches like the N e-shift, creating a sensation similar to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The exterior, subtly different from the standard Ioniq 5, includes N badges. In addition, it has distinctive orange accents, along with design modifications for enhanced airflow and performance. Inside, the vehicle boasts N-branded enhancements, reinforced seats, and additional comfort features for sharp turns. It’s equipped with a larger 84kWh battery, offering rapid charging. The thermal management system is upgraded for better heat resistance. The vehicle’s structure is reinforced for track use and drifting. It also includes improved handling and a one-pedal driving system for efficient cornering and energy regeneration.