Kap10: This Week in Tech – November 9th

1. ChatGPT Gets Real-Time Web Search
OpenAI now offers real-time web search with ChatGPT. Initially available to paid users, this feature will gradually roll out to all, positioning ChatGPT more competitively against Microsoft Copilot and Google Gemini.

2. Social Network Friendster Hits 275 Million Users
Launched in July 2023, Friendster has already reached 275 million monthly active users, though it continues to grapple with moderation challenges to maintain a safe space for all users.

3. X’s New User Blocking Policy Sparks Debate
X (formerly Twitter) has altered its blocking feature: blocked users can still view some public information. This decision, defended by Elon Musk, raises questions about compliance with Apple and Google’s user safety policies.

4. Meta Scraps Nuclear-Powered Data Center Project
Due to the discovery of a rare bee species, Meta has abandoned plans for a nuclear-powered data center. The company continues to explore other clean energy solutions to reduce its environmental footprint.

5. Japan’s Wooden Satellite in Space
In a world-first, Japan launched a wooden satellite, LIGOSAT, into orbit to test wood’s resilience under extreme space conditions, aiming to offer a greener alternative to traditional metal satellites.

6. Mozilla Lays Off 30% of Workforce
Mozilla has announced a major restructuring, cutting 30% of its workforce (around 120 employees) in a move to enhance organizational agility.

7. Apple Facing Record EU Fine for Market Abuse
Apple may face a $38 billion fine for breaching the European Digital Markets Act. This unprecedented penalty is expected to be confirmed by the European Commission later this month.

8. Elon Musk’s Political Influence in the U.S.
Musk’s investment in Trump’s campaign has boosted Tesla shares by 15%. In return, Trump is expected to appoint Musk to a government efficiency commission if re-elected.

9. Google’s New AI Assistant, Jarvis, Accidentally Revealed
Powered by an advanced version of Gemini, Jarvis promises to automate daily web tasks, intensifying the tech race among major AI players.

10. OpenAI’s Ad-Free Web Search Stance
Unlike other platforms, OpenAI has stated it will not introduce ads in its real-time web search feature, addressing rising ethical concerns in the industry.