Here is the top trending news from the world of technology. News that every tech enthusiast should keep a tab on.
1)
IOS 17.3 is out with Extra Security feature
iOS 17.3 is out and it comes with a new exciting security feature called ‘Stolen Device Protection.’ Adding an extra layer of security to your Apple devices, it basically pushes Face ID or Touch ID for a variety of sensitive actions when your iPhone or iPad is away from familiar locations like your home or work. For instance, you’ll need to use Face ID or Touch ID for changing your Apple ID password and adding or removing trusted phone numbers. For the most sensitive actions, like changing your Apple ID password, there’s an additional one-hour security delay. This gives you time to react if your phone is lost or stolen. Overall, Stolen Device Protection is a valuable addition to iOS.
2)
SEC’s X account gets hacked in SIM Swapping Attack
In a shocking hacking incident, America’s Securities and Exchange or SEC confirmed that its X account got hacked earlier this month. According to reports, the hackers managed to get unauthorized access to SEC’s official cell phone number that was associated with the X account. SEC added that hackers used a technique called SIM-swapping attack for hacking its X account through a mobile phone. However, the exact identity of hackers is still not known. Cyber-attack on high-profile American companies has been increasing over the years. Barely few days ago, Microsoft confirmed that Russian hackers managed to access the emails of its senior employees.
3)
TikTok is cutting Jobs as layoffs continue to mount
In a major bad news, TikTok, the wildly popular short-form video platform, has become the latest tech giant to opt for job cuts. The company has reportedly cut dozens of jobs, primarily in sales and advertising, across locations like Los Angeles, New York, Austin, and international offices. While the exact number of impacted employees remains unclear, sources estimate it to be around 100. Even though the number looks lower, exact number of impacted employees remains unclear, sources estimate it to be around 60. TikTok’s job cuts add to the mounting tally of tech industry layoffs, which have already surpassed 10,000 in 2024 alone.
4)
Voice Cloning AI startup ElevenLabs gains Unicorn Status
ElevenLabs, a voice AI startup specializing in creating realistic synthetic voices, has achieved unicorn status following a series B funding round. ElevenLabs raised total $80 million in its latest fundraising round led by Andreessen Horowitz. It develops AI models and tools that synthesize human voices with various languages, accents, and emotions. ElevenLabs recently hit the headline after Pakistan’s former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is currently in jail, used it for giving speech to his supporters. Overall, ElevenLabs’ unicorn achievement is a significant milestone for the voice AI industry. However, as voice AI becomes more sophisticated, there are concerns about its potential misuse.