Big data is an overarching term that refers to immense datasets of information, surpassing the capabilities of conventional data-processing applications. This domain poses multifaceted challenges such as analysis, capture, curation, search, sharing, storage, transfer, visualization, querying, and safeguarding information privacy. Characteristically, big data is delineated by the three defining attributes known as the three V’s:…
Abbas Ibn Firnas: The First Human to Attempt Heavier-Than-Air Flight Abbas Ibn Firnas, a remarkable 9th-century polymath, is celebrated as the first person to attempt and achieve heavier-than-air flight, predating modern airplanes by more than a thousand years. Born in Ronda, in what is now Spain, and later residing in Cordoba—a prominent center of learning…
Meta has been actively enhancing its social media platforms with artificial intelligence (AI) tools in recent months. A recent development in this direction is Instagram’s new feature, allowing users to generate AI-powered profile pictures. This feature is reportedly based on Meta’s advanced Llama AI model, aiming to give users more creative control over their profile…
O2 Launches “Daisy” AI Tool to Outsmart Phone Scammers Mobile network operator O2 has introduced a unique AI tool to counter phone scams. Named “Daisy,” this AI impersonates an elderly woman, keeping scammers on long calls to prevent them from targeting real customers. This clever tool is part of O2’s broader strategy to protect users…
EU Commission Launches Antitrust Probe Into Visa’s Retailer Fees The European Commission (EC) has opened a preliminary investigation into fees charged by Visa to retailers. This probe follows a recent report indicating that both Visa and Mastercard are under scrutiny for potentially harming competition in the payments market. Allegations of Anti-Competitive Practices The EC informed…
Apple Faces £3 Billion Lawsuit Over iCloud Service Monopoly in the UK Consumer group Which? has launched a £3 billion lawsuit against Apple over its iCloud service, claiming the tech giant has breached competition law. According to Which?, Apple pressures users to subscribe to iCloud for data storage, making it harder for alternative services to…