Walmart bought Vizio

 

After announcing its intention to acquire Vizio in February, Walmart has officially completed the $2.3 billion purchase as of Tuesday. The retail giant expects the acquisition to strengthen its advertising business, particularly through Platform Plus—Vizio’s advertising and data division—which currently generates the entirety of Vizio's gross profit.

This influx of data is expected to significantly benefit Walmart’s expanding ad operations, which have already begun using shopper information to target ads on platforms like Disney Plus and Hulu. The acquisition could also provide Walmart with more opportunities to increase in-store advertising on Vizio TVs, a strategy it mentioned earlier this year, and potentially extend ad placements to Vizio TVs in customers’ homes.

However, privacy advocates have expressed concerns. Vizio has faced scrutiny over its data-tracking practices, including a 2017 case where it paid a $2.2 million fine to settle a Federal Trade Commission lawsuit accusing the company of tracking users without their consent.

What happened to Intel?

 

On Monday, Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger unexpectedly announced his retirement after less than four years in the role. But the real story emerged quickly—according to reports from Reuters, Bloomberg, and The New York Times, Gelsinger didn’t step down voluntarily; the board forced him out.

Gelsinger had unveiled an ambitious plan to turn Intel around in four years, yet now finds himself ousted before he could see it through. His departure was so sudden that Intel hasn't named a successor, and he won’t even stay on as an adviser—he's completely gone.

Intel has been struggling for years. The company missed the smartphone revolution, has been plagued by persistent quality control issues, lost major customers like Apple, and now risks falling behind in the race for AI dominance. Gelsinger’s abrupt exit only adds to the turbulence as Intel faces mounting challenges in the tech industry.

A universal ‘Plug and Charge’ protocol for EV charging is coming in 2025

 

The fragmented and often frustrating state of our current EV charging system is frequently—and rightly—pointed out as one of the biggest obstacles to widespread electric vehicle adoption. Why invest in a plug-in car when every charging session involves signing up for yet another EV charging app, entering payment details, authorizing accounts, and hoping it all leads to a successful charge?

Imagine if, instead, you could simply plug in your vehicle, and everything worked seamlessly, without any hassle. That’s the vision behind a new partnership between nonprofit SAE International, a group of automakers, EV charging operators, and the Biden administration. They’ve just announced a framework for a "universal Plug and Charge" system, set to launch early next year.

“You'll be able to plug in anywhere, and everything will happen automatically. The system will handle everything through the cloud, charge your card, and let you walk away,” said Gabe Klein, executive director of the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation.

This initiative aims to streamline the EV charging experience, removing a major barrier to adoption.

Pakistan’s Hadiqa Kiani and Mahrang Baloch Secure Spot in BBC 100 Women 2024

 The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) has announced its 100 Women for 2024 list, which features two distinguished individuals from Pakistan, signifying a moment of pride for the nation.

Renowned Pakistani vocalist and songwriter Hadiqa Kiani, along with medical doctor and political activist Mahrang Baloch, both of whom have made substantial contributions to society, were acknowledged alongside a varied assembly of international influencers.

The global influencers comprised stranded astronaut Sunita Williams, rape survivor Gisèle Pelicot, actress Sharon Stone, Olympic athletes Rebeca Andrade and Allyson Felix, singer Raye, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Nadia Murad, visual artist Tracey Emin, climate activist Adenike Oladosu, and writer Cristina Rivera Garza, among others.

The list recognizes the significant impact this year has had on women by honoring those who, through their resilience, are advocating for change amidst the evolving global landscape.

What Sets Kiani and Baloch Apart as Influential and Inspiring Figures?

Emerging into prominence in the 1990s, Kiani quickly garnered recognition for her multifaceted vocal abilities, establishing herself as a significant figure among Pakistan’s musical icons. She was renowned within the South Asian female mainstream music landscape.

However, music may not be the sole passion she has pursued, as she is also recognized for her significant contributions to humanitarian endeavors. She additionally holds the position of goodwill ambassador for the United Nations Development Programme.

As reported by the BBC, in reaction to the catastrophic floods that occurred in Pakistan in 2022, Kiani initiated the Vaseela-e-Raah initiative, which is specifically aimed at assisting the victims in the areas of Balochistan and South Punjab.

She implored the public to extend their support to families who have been displaced, and last year, the initiative reported the construction of 370 residences and additional facilities in the impacted regions.

On the other hand, Baloch is one of the numerous women throughout Pakistan who participated in protests against purported enforced disappearances in Balochistan.

In late 2023, Baloch spearheaded a march comprising hundreds of women, traversing a distance of 1,600 kilometers to Islamabad, to solicit information regarding the whereabouts of their missing family members. She was apprehended on two occasions throughout the course of the voyage.

Since that time, the medical specialist has emerged as a prominent activist, leading her own human rights organization, the Baloch Yakjehti (Unity) Committee (BYC).

Furthermore, her contributions to the domain of human rights were acknowledged in the TIME100 Next 2024 list, which highlights emerging influencers.

Google Introduces Lock Screen Calling and Messaging with Gemini Assistant

 Google is making communication more seamless for Android users with a significant update to its Gemini assistant app. The latest feature allows users to make calls and send text messages directly from the lock screen, eliminating the need to unlock the device. This innovation enhances convenience while maintaining robust security measures.

Previously, Android users were required to activate their devices and traverse through various applications to initiate conversations or dispatch messages. The newly introduced feature, designated as “Make calls and send messages without unlocking,” streamlines the process. By simply tapping, users can promptly initiate communication, thereby conserving both time and effort.

Despite its focus on ease of use, the update prioritizes security. Users are required to establish a Personal Identification Number (PIN) or an alternative secure screen-locking mechanism to gain access to this functionality. Google may impose limitations on the types of messages that can be sent through the lock screen to prevent unauthorized usage.

How to Enable the Feature?

To activate the new functionality, follow these steps:

1. Open the Gemini app and access the Settings section.
2. Navigate to the Gemini on the Lock Screen page.
3. Go to the Outgoing calls and messages section.
4. Toggle on the option for Make calls and send messages without unlocking.
   

This feature is being implemented progressively for users of Gemini. Please ensure that the most recent version of the application is installed and activate the “Phone” and “Messages” Gemini Extensions to achieve optimal functionality.

This feature will be incorporated into the forthcoming 15.48 update of the Google application, which is presently undergoing Beta testing. Although Gemini already facilitates calling and messaging, this update eliminates the necessity of unlocking the device wholly. However, functionalities such as Gmail still necessitate that the device be accessible.

This enhancement highlights Google’s dedication to optimizing communication and augmenting the functionalities of its voice assistant. As Gemini continues to expand its versatility, Android users can anticipate a more intuitive experience.

Apple Faces Allegations of Worker Suppression and Unauthorized Surveillance of Personal Devices

 Apple is facing significant allegations in a lawsuit filed in California state court on Sunday, accusing the tech giant of unlawfully monitoring its employees’ personal devices and iCloud accounts. The lawsuit also claims that Apple enforces strict confidentiality policies that prevent employees from discussing their pay and working conditions, including whistleblowing on legal issues, according to a report from Reuters.

The complaint, brought by Amar Bhakta, a digital advertising employee with Apple since 2020, alleges that the company mandates employees to install monitoring software on their devices. This software reportedly gives Apple access to personal data, such as emails, photos, health information, and data from "smart home" devices. Bhakta argues that these surveillance practices violate employee privacy rights.

Additionally, the lawsuit claims that Apple enforces policies restricting employees from discussing their working conditions, particularly with the media, and from participating in legally protected whistleblowing activities. Bhakta claims he was explicitly told not to discuss his professional activities on podcasts and was instructed to remove any mention of his working conditions from his LinkedIn profile.

“Apple’s surveillance policies and practices stifle and thus unlawfully restrain employee whistleblowing, competition, job market mobility, and freedom of speech,” the lawsuit asserts.

In response, Apple stated through a spokesperson that the claims in the lawsuit are without merit, adding that employees are annually trained on their rights to discuss working conditions.

“At Apple, we focus on creating the best products and services in the world, while also working to protect the innovations our teams develop for customers,” the company said.

This lawsuit comes amid additional legal challenges Apple is currently facing. Bhakta’s attorneys are also representing two women who filed lawsuits in June, accusing Apple of systematically underpaying female employees in its engineering, marketing, and AppleCare divisions. Apple has denied these claims, emphasizing its commitment to inclusivity and fair pay.

Furthermore, Apple is dealing with at least three complaints filed by the U.S. National Labor Relations Board, alleging that the company has unlawfully discouraged employees from discussing workplace issues, including pay disparities and sexual discrimination. These complaints include accusations of restricting employees' use of social media and internal communication tools like Slack. Apple has again denied any wrongdoing.

Under a specific California law that allows employees to file lawsuits on behalf of the state, this case could result in penalties, with 35% of any recovered funds going to Bhakta and other affected employees.

Faraar Episode 4 | Hamza Ali Abbasi | Ahmed Ali Akbar | 2 Dec November 2024 | Green TV

 

Bigg Boss 18 3rd December 2024 Episode 59 Live

 

France's LightOn Aims for Secure AI Growth in Europe and Middle East

 French AI company LightOn is setting its sights on driving secure and innovative AI growth across Europe and the Middle East. Known for its cutting-edge generative AI technologies, LightOn focuses on privacy-first solutions tailored for enterprises, offering an alternative to U.S. tech giants.

The company’s expansion aligns with growing demands for ethical and localized AI systems that prioritize data security and compliance with regional regulations. With AI adoption surging globally, LightOn is leveraging its expertise to empower industries like finance, healthcare, and manufacturing with secure, high-performance AI solutions.

By targeting the European and Middle Eastern markets, LightOn aims to build robust partnerships and create AI systems that respect cultural and legal frameworks while delivering transformative results. This strategic move underscores the growing importance of independent AI innovation to balance global technological leadership.

U.S. Proposes $7.54 Billion Loan for Stellantis and Samsung SDI Battery Joint Venture

 In a significant move to boost electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing, the U.S. Department of Energy has proposed a $7.54 billion loan to support a joint venture between Stellantis and Samsung SDI.

This venture aims to establish cutting-edge EV battery plants in Kokomo, Indiana, enhancing the production of next-generation lithium-ion batteries and supporting the transition to sustainable energy.

The proposed loan comes under the DOE’s Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing (ATVM) Loan Program, which supports clean energy projects to accelerate EV adoption. The collaboration between Stellantis, a global automotive leader, and Samsung SDI, a pioneer in battery technology, is set to create thousands of jobs and strengthen the U.S. EV supply chain.

Stellantis and Samsung SDI plan to invest heavily in advanced battery technology, focusing on high-capacity, long-lasting cells that will power future EVs. This project aligns with the Biden administration’s goal of making EVs 50% of all new vehicle sales by 2030.

With this loan, the U.S. reinforces its commitment to a greener automotive future, driving innovation and reducing carbon emissions.

This topic highlights the U.S. commitment to clean energy, making it highly engaging for tech and EV enthusiasts.

NASA’s Tiny Robot Fish Could Search for Alien Life in Icy Moons’ Oceans

 NASA has unveiled a futuristic vision with its SWIM bots—tiny robotic fish designed to explore hidden oceans on the icy moons of Jupiter and Saturn. These autonomous robots could dive into uncharted waters, potentially uncovering extraterrestrial life.

SWIM, which stands for Sensing With Independent Micro-swimmers, aims to probe the subsurface oceans of Jupiter’s Europa and Saturn’s Enceladus, long considered prime locations for finding signs of life.

Since sending humans to these alien seas remains a distant dream, NASA’s miniature robots could safely venture where no human can.

Small but Mighty Prototypes
Current prototypes measure 16.5 inches and weigh five pounds. However, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory plans to shrink the final version to about the size of a smartphone.

Ethan Schaler, a robotics engineer at NASA, explains the significance:
"Why is NASA developing an underwater robot for space exploration? It’s because we want to explore places in the solar system where life might exist, and life as we know it needs water. So, we need robots that can navigate and operate autonomously, millions of miles from Earth."

Testing in Simulated Oceans
The prototypes have already been tested in a 75-foot swimming pool at the California Institute of Technology, showcasing their two propellers and four steering flaps designed for underwater navigation.

The robots are equipped to function independently, crucial for missions far from Earth. A sophisticated underwater acoustic communication system allows them to determine positions and transmit data.

NASA also ran simulations to replicate Europa’s harsh conditions, unleashing virtual swarms of 5-inch versions of the robots. In the simulations, these swarms—deployed in waves of a dozen robots each—could explore volumes as large as three million cubic feet of water within a two-hour battery lifespan.

A Step Towards Exploring Alien Oceans
While these prototypes are only the beginning, NASA is optimistic.
"It’s incredible to see a robot we’ve built from scratch operate successfully in a relevant environment," Schaler said.
The project marks a significant step toward preparing for missions to explore the oceans of distant worlds.

With advanced capabilities, these SWIM bots could one day unlock the mysteries hidden beneath icy alien oceans, bringing us closer to discovering life beyond Earth.

Latest Punjab Population Innovation Fund PPIF Lahore Job

 Punjab Population Innovation Fund PPIF jobs advertisement dated about 1 December 2024 in daily Jang Newspaper invites application for the vacant post of assistant manager grant in Lahore, lahore Punjab Pakistan. Persons with Bachelor, Master and MS etc. education can apply.

Latest Management jobs and others Government jobs in Punjab Population Innovation Fund PPIF closing date is around December 23, 2024, see exact from ad. Read complete ad online to know how to apply on latest Punjab Population Innovation Fund PPIF job opportunities.

Original Source: https://e.jang.com.pk/lahore/01-12-2024/page9

AIOU SSC & HSSC Spring Semester Exams 2024 Result

 

Allama Iqbal Open University AIOU has unveiled the results for the Spring 2024 semester, covering Matriculation SSC, Intermediate HSSC, and a variety of open courses through its Open Distance Learning ODL platform.

Spring 2024 AIOU Results for SSC and HSSC

Students enrolled in Matric SSC and Intermediate HSSC programs can now access their exam results. These programs are designed to facilitate students across Pakistan through AIOUs flexible learning model.

• AIOU Matriculation Results Spring 2024
• Intermediate Results AIOU 2024
  
  

Open Courses and FA Program Results Now Available

In addition to traditional programs, results for the FA Program and other open courses offered under ODL have also been announced. This step ensures inclusivity and caters to diverse learners across the country.

• FA Result AIOU 2024
• AIOU Distance Learning Programs Results
  
  

How to Check AIOU Spring Results Online

Students can easily verify their results by visiting the university’s result portal:

👉 AIOU Results Portal

To resolve any concerns or obtain further clarification, learners are advised to contact their respective regional offices.

You Can Check Online Result From Here:

AIOU SSC & HSSC Spring Semester Exams 2024 Result