This briefing covers the latest developments in the IT and technology landscape relevant to leaders.
Texas Sues TV Makers Over User Tracking
The state of Texas has filed a lawsuit against major television manufacturers, including Samsung, Vizio, and TCL. The allegations center on data collection from smart TVs via Automated Content Recognition (ACR), which is claimed to enable user tracking without explicit consent. Texas asserts this practice constitutes "mass surveillance" within homes.
Data Centers and Energy Cost Pass-Through
U.S. senators are raising concerns about how large tech companies are passing on the costs associated with the rising energy consumption of data centers to American consumers. According to Ars Technica reports, proposed regulations aim to address this issue and ensure these companies bear a fairer share of these expenses.
Microsoft Retires Obsolete Encryption Cipher
Microsoft has announced its decision to finally retire the obsolete and vulnerable RC4 cipher. For decades, this cipher has been a significant security risk, often exploited by hackers, particularly in administrative authentication. Its discontinuation marks a critical step in enhancing system security.
New iMac Pro and Apple Device Rumors
Software leaks suggest that Apple is preparing a new iteration of its high-end all-in-one computer, the iMac Pro, potentially succeeding the 2017 model. Additionally, there are indications of testing for other Mac devices powered by Apple Silicon chips.
"Slop" Named Word of the Year Amidst AI Content Concerns
Merriam-Webster has declared "slop" as its 2024 Word of the Year, a term used to describe low-quality content generated by artificial intelligence. This choice reflects growing concerns about the proliferation and impact of substandard AI-generated material online.
Other Notable News
- Leaders in Utah are reportedly hindering efforts to develop solar energy supply, despite a significant number of solar projects awaiting grid connection.
- The $4.3 billion space telescope that former President Trump attempted to cancel is now complete and ready for operation.
- Speculation suggests that Half-Life 3 may launch as a flagship title for the upcoming Steam Machine platform.
- The 2026 Mercedes CLA electric sedan is described as a compelling entry-level luxury vehicle.
- Ford is ending production of the F-150 Lightning and pivoting to a battery storage business.
Sources:
- Texas sues biggest TV makers, alleging smart TVs spy on users without consent
- Senators count the shady ways data centers pass energy costs on to Americans
- Microsoft will finally kill obsolete cipher that has wreaked decades of havoc
- Software leaks point to the first Apple Silicon “iMac Pro,” among other devices
- Merriam-Webster’s word of the year delivers a dismissive verdict on junk AI content
Sources
- Texas sues biggest TV makers, alleging smart TVs spy on users without consent
- Senators count the shady ways data centers pass energy costs on to Americans
- Microsoft will finally kill obsolete cipher that has wreaked decades of havoc
- Software leaks point to the first Apple Silicon “iMac Pro,” among other devices
- Merriam-Webster’s word of the year delivers a dismissive verdict on junk AI content