Twitch Reverses Artistic Nudity Policy
In a move that surprised no one but Twitch itself, the streaming platform reversed its decision to allow artistic nudity just two days after making the policy update. The initial change to Twitch’s sexual content guidelines allowed for certain explicit content, including artistic representations that focused on nudity, provided it was properly labeled. This decision came after the viral moment of OnlyFans model Morgpie, who streamed what appeared to be a topless segment, which raised debates about the limits of Twitch’s sexual content policies.
Although Morgpie claimed she was wearing a shirt just out of frame, the ensuing controversy prompted Twitch to clarify its rules. However, the backlash was swift as creators flooded the platform with explicit art content, prompting Twitch to backtrack. In their statement, Twitch acknowledged that their initial policy change was misguided, admitting they didn’t anticipate the massive influx of content that deliberately highlighted nudity.
Intel’s AI-Integrated Chips: Aiming for the Future
Meanwhile, Intel announced their new Core Ultra Mobile processors at their AI Everywhere event. These processors are Intel’s first consumer chips with Neural Processing Units (NPUs) built in. The new H-series is aimed at thin and light gaming laptops and workstation laptops, while the U-series focuses on ultrabooks. With integrated graphics performance significantly improved, Intel is hoping to compete more aggressively in this market.
In addition, Intel introduced the 5th Gen Xeon processors designed for data centers. These chips promise AI acceleration and are being marketed as the best CPUs for AI applications. Intel’s strategy is clear: emphasize AI integration across their product lineup to take on competitors like AMD and Nvidia. Speaking of Nvidia, Intel’s CEO Pat Gelsinger explicitly called out Nvidia’s dominance in the AI space, saying Intel’s new Gaudi 3 AI chip was built to challenge Nvidia’s H100.
Ambient Listening for Ads: Cox Media’s Privacy Violation
In a shocking revelation, Cox Media Group, a marketing company, claimed it could gather data for ad targeting by listening to ambient conversations through devices like smartphones. This “active listening” technique, as they called it, was advertised on their website until they quickly removed it following public backlash. While Cox Media tried to pitch this as a futuristic advertising strategy, it sparked privacy concerns, with many wondering if their smartphones are constantly eavesdropping on them.
Interestingly, despite common fears, conclusive evidence that smartphones are always listening has been hard to come by. Most modern smartphones, especially iPhones, indicate when the microphone is in use. Cox Media’s claims might be overblown, but they fueled ongoing concerns about privacy and data collection in an era where tech companies already have unprecedented access to personal information.
Google’s Privacy Moves: Blocking Cookies and Geofence Warrants
Shifting gears to Google, the tech giant announced that it will begin blocking third-party cookies in Google Chrome starting next year, catching up to browsers like Firefox and Safari. The rollout will begin with just 1% of global Chrome users in early 2024, with plans to reach the full user base by the second half of the year. This move signals a major shift in how Google handles online tracking, particularly in response to increasing concerns about privacy.
Additionally, Google announced changes to how it handles Google Maps data, particularly with regards to geofence warrants. These warrants allow law enforcement to request the location data of all individuals in a specific area at the time of a crime. By limiting the location data that Google can store, the company is making it harder for law enforcement to obtain this data, framing it as a move to better protect user privacy.
