🔍 HP bets on AI, Signal fights hackers, TikTok’s U.S. slice
Good morning. It’s Wednesday, February 19. Today we are covering:
HP to Acquire Parts of Humane, Ai Pin Startup From Ex-Apple Managers, for $116 Million
A Signal Update Fends Off a Phishing Technique Used in Russian Espionage
TikTok U.S. operations are a small slice of ByteDance's massive global pie, report says
Apple says UK regulator's remedy options on mobile browsers will hit innovation
This new 'Uber with guns' app is the most American thing I've ever seen
Let’s dive in
We're thrilled to bring you ad-free news. To keep it that way, we need your support. Your pledge helps us stay independent and deliver high-quality insights while exploring new ideas. What would you love to see next? Share your thoughts and help shape the future of Newslit Daily. Thank you for being part of this journey!
HP to Acquire Parts of Humane, Ai Pin Startup From Ex-Apple Managers, for $116 Million
By Brody Ford via Bloomberg
HP Inc. is acquiring assets from Humane Inc., the startup behind the Ai Pin, for $116 million, but will not continue the device business.
The deal includes Humane’s software platform, intellectual property, and most employees, while the Ai Pin business is being wound down after a troubled launch.
HP plans to use the acquisition to build a new AI-focused unit aimed at integrating artificial intelligence into future devices.
𝕏: Humane is selling itself to HP for $116 million and shutting down the AI Pin, bringing an end to a once-hot startup that aimed to replace the iPhone and iPad its founders helped create. - Mark Gurman (@markgurman)
A Signal Update Fends Off a Phishing Technique Used in Russian Espionage
By Andy Greenberg via WIRED
Google has uncovered a Russian espionage technique that exploits Signal’s QR-code group invite feature to hijack user accounts, allowing hackers to intercept messages in real time.
Signal has released an update that enhances security by requiring authentication and verifying device links to prevent phishing attacks.
Russian-linked hacker groups UNC5792 and UNC4221 have used this method to target Ukrainian military communications, but experts warn it could be deployed against dissidents and activists worldwide.
𝕏: Today, Google Threat Intelligence is alerting the community to increasing efforts from several Russia state-aligned threat actors (GRU, FSB, etc.) to compromise Signal Messenger accounts. - Dan Black (@DanWBlack)
The best way to reach new readers is through word of mouth. If you click THIS LINK in your inbox, it’ll create an easy-to-send pre-written email you can just fire off to some friends.
TikTok U.S. operations are a small slice of ByteDance's massive global pie, report says
By Hillary Keverenge via Tech Issues
TikTok’s U.S. business accounts for only 10% of ByteDance’s global revenue, with its China-based platforms like Douyin, Toutiao, and Doubao driving the company's massive growth.
Despite a potential U.S. ban or forced sale, ByteDance’s investors remain confident, with estimates valuing TikTok U.S. between $20 billion and $150 billion in a sale.
ByteDance is resisting a sale while exploring ways to address U.S. regulatory concerns, as scrutiny over data privacy and its ties to Chinese tech firms continues to mount.
Apple says UK regulator's remedy options on mobile browsers will hit innovation
By Hillary Keverenge via Reuters
Apple warns that the UK regulator’s proposed remedies for mobile browsers could discourage innovation by limiting its ability to recover development costs.
The company argues that mandating free access to WebKit and iOS features used by Safari would lead to free-riding and reduced investment in browser technology.
Apple and Google’s responses to the UK competition watchdog’s investigation into mobile browsers and cloud gaming distribution were published on Wednesday.
This new 'Uber with guns' app is the most American thing I've ever seen
By José Adorno via BGR
Protector, a new app described as “Uber with guns,” allows users to book armed security agents for private rides, officially launching in Los Angeles and New York City.
The service requires bookings five hours in advance, costs $100 per hour, and lets users choose bodyguards’ attire and the number of escalades for their ride.
The app, available on the US App Store, employs veterans and former law enforcement personnel to provide on-demand personal security.
Trending in AI
Thanks for reading to the bottom and soaking in our Newslit Daily fueled with highlights for your morning.
I hope you found it interesting and, needless to say, if you have any questions or feedback let me know by hitting reply.
Take care and see you tomorrow!
How was today’s email?