Technology

US House okays renewal of controversial surveillance program
US House okays renewal of controversial surveillance program
by  AFP

The US House of Representatives voted Friday to reauthorize an electronic urveillance program targeting foreigners, a practice officials say is critical to national security but criticized by opponents over concerns for American citizens' privacy.

Japan seeks to reclaim tech edge with overseas help
Japan seeks to reclaim tech edge with overseas help
by  AFP

Massive overseas and domestic investments offer Japan a chance to reclaim its tech crown, but to become a convincing alternative to China the country must embrace rapid innovation, experts say. "The traditional corporate culture in Japan tends to be risk-averse and hierarchical, which can stifle the rapid innovation typically seen in the software industry."

Clouds gather over Japan's ambitious Osaka World Expo
Clouds gather over Japan's ambitious Osaka World Expo
by  AFP

One of the largest wooden structures ever built is taking shape in Osaka, but hopes that Expo 2025 will unite the world are being dogged by cost blowouts and a lack of public enthusiasm. Expo 2025 global PR director Sachiko Yoshimura maintained that global participants would be "united" by the event even though there are conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza and elsewhere.

Apple to fix 'bug' behind Palestinian flag emoji suggestions
Apple to fix 'bug' behind Palestinian flag emoji suggestions
by  AFP

Apple on Thursday promised it would stop a Palestinian flag emoji from being suggested to some iPhone users when they type "Jerusalem" in messages. She pointed out no flag emojis were suggested when an array of other capital cities were typed into iPhone messages.

Sam Bankman-Fried appeals fraud conviction, 25-year jail term
Sam Bankman-Fried appeals fraud conviction, 25-year jail term
by  AFP

Fallen cryptocurrency wunderkind Sam Bankman-Fried has appealed his federal conviction and 25-year jail sentence in a sweeping fraud case, according to a legal filing made public Thursday. He was convicted by a federal jury in New York in November 2023 on seven counts of fraud, embezzlement and criminal conspiracy.

Embattled studio Paramount showcases 'Gladiator 2' footage
Embattled studio Paramount showcases 'Gladiator 2' footage
by  AFP

Paramount Pictures unveiled gory first-look footage from "Gladiator 2" to movie theater bosses at Caesars Palace casino in Las Vegas on Thursday, raising cheers even as the studio and big-screen industry face uncertain times. Promotional marble statues for "Gladiator 2" had adorned the casino floors of Caesars Palace, the Ancient Rome-themed hotel where CinemaCon is being held.