Meta Allegedly Offering Netflix Access To Users’ Messages, Nothing Phone 3 On Horizon, More Top Technology News

Meta allegedly allows Netflix sneaky access to user messages. Apple stays true to its not-unlocking-iPhone stance in Kejriwal-ED case. Google looks to make users pay for AI services. The world of technology was dominated by these headlines in the week that was. Take a look.

Meta-Netflix User Messages Fiasco

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, has been accused in a lawsuit of granting Netflix access to users’ private messages in exchange for data. This revelation surfaced in the wake of Meta’s announcement last April to shutter its streaming services, including original programs like Red Table Talk on Facebook Watch, citing cost-cutting measures and workforce reductions.

The lawsuit, which asserts that Meta engaged in anti-competitive behaviour harmful to both social media competition and users, brings fresh insights into the events surrounding the closure of Meta’s streaming division. It alleges that Meta’s decision was swayed by Netflix, a significant advertising collaborator, effectively thwarting Facebook’s potential competition with Netflix in the streaming video arena.

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Third Time Nothing?

The possible release of the Nothing Phone 3 is generating significant buzz in the rumour mill. The new model is set to follow in the footsteps of its predecessor, the Nothing Phone 2, which made its debut back in July 2023. While an official launch date has yet to be confirmed, industry experts speculate that it will adhere to the company’s tradition of unveiling products in July.

Details about the phone’s features and specifications remain shrouded in secrecy. However, recent reports have shed light on some key aspects, particularly concerning the processor and pricing. According to media reports, the Nothing Phone 3 is expected to come equipped with Qualcomm’s cutting-edge Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 SoC.

One notable aspect of the upcoming release is its anticipated price range in India. The smartphone is expected to be priced between Rs 40,000 and Rs 45,000, positioning it squarely within the mid-range segment. This strategic move indicates that the UK-based smartphone manufacturer is keen on solidifying its presence in the Rs 20,000 – Rs. 40,000 price bracket, rather than targeting the premium handset market.

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Tech-ing Polls: Did You Know There’s A Connection Between Homi J Bhabha And EVMs? Here’s How

Google AI May Not Remain Free

In a groundbreaking shift, tech giant Google is considering the implementation of fees for advanced “premium” features driven by artificial intelligence (AI), marking a departure from its traditional stance of providing core services free of charge. Insights shared by anonymous sources with the Financial Times shed light on the company’s internal deliberations, revealing discussions centred on the potential incorporation of AI-powered search capabilities into premium subscription packages.

While Google’s engineers are actively engaged in developing these new features, top executives have yet to unveil a comprehensive roadmap detailing the execution of this strategy.

Notably, even if Google moves forward with the introduction of premium features, the fundamental search engine will remain accessible to all users at no cost, including those subscribed to premium services, and will continue to display advertisements.

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Apple Won’t Unlock iPhones, Even Kejriwal’s

Apple has declined a request to unlock the iPhone belonging to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. This decision comes amidst ongoing investigations involving Kejriwal. The refusal from Apple surfaced after a raid conducted by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) at Kejriwal’s residence on the evening of March 21, coinciding with his detention. During the search, authorities confiscated Rs 70,000 in cash and four mobile phones, one of which is purportedly Kejriwal’s personal iPhone.

According to reports, Kejriwal had powered off his phone and refused to disclose his password to the ED. He expressed concerns regarding the potential exposure of sensitive information about his political party’s strategies and pre-election alliances.

Apple’s stance underscores its commitment to user privacy, asserting that the contents of the device can only be accessed through the user-generated password.

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ALSO READ: From Arvind Kejriwal To San Bernardino Shooters: Why Apple Doesn’t Unlock iPhones Under Investigation 

Google Bringing ‘Find My Device’

In a recent development, Google’s highly anticipated Find My Device network is set to launch imminently, as per reports from various media outlets. According to information obtained by 9to5Google from an email, Google has notified users that the feature will become operational within three days. This innovative feature utilises data from a vast network of Android devices to help users locate their misplaced phones and accessories. This approach is reminiscent of tracking technologies already employed by competitors such as Apple and Tile.

The genesis of this initiative can be traced back to earlier collaborations between Google and Apple in 2023. Concerned about the proliferation of unwanted tracking facilitated by devices like AirTags, the two tech giants joined forces to develop a tailored specification to address this issue. As a result of this collaboration, Google introduced unwanted tracker alerts to devices running Android 6.0 and later, several months following the announcement.

Despite the imminent launch of the Find My Device network, Google had previously deferred its introduction. This delay was contingent upon Apple’s implementation of similar safeguards against unwanted tracking in its iOS ecosystem. Now, with the impending rollout of the Find My Device network, users can expect enhanced security and peace of mind in managing their Android devices.

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That’s it from the world of tech headlines this week. Stay tuned to this space for more top stories next week.

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