social media Archives

Elon Musk’s xAI Raises $500 Million in Funding Towards $1 Billion Goal

January 20, 2024January 20, 2024 Business

Elon Musk’s artificial intelligence company, xAI, has raised $500 million in funding towards its $1 billion goal, with a target valuation of $15 billion to $20 billion. The company’s chatbot, Grok, uses social media posts on X (formerly Twitter) as a source of data, enabling it to provide more up-to-date answers. Investors in xAI are also likely to overlap with those who backed Musk’s takeover of Twitter. Equity investors in X are invited to invest at least 25% of their initial investment into xAI. Some parties are also considering obtaining computing power instead of or in addition to xAI equity shares.

Sheryl Sandberg to Step Down from Meta Board: A Look Back at Her Impact

January 18, 2024January 18, 2024 Business

Sheryl Sandberg, former COO of Meta, announced her departure from Meta’s board. Sandberg was instrumental in transforming the social media giant and played a key role in its success. While serving as COO, Meta generated billions in revenue through targeted advertising. Sandberg’s departure leaves a question mark regarding board replacement. Since leaving her role, Sandberg has focused on philanthropic efforts, empowering young girls and promoting women’s sports. She recently organized an event addressing sexual violence at the United Nations.

Robbers Get a Taste of Their Own Medicine When Getaway Car is Stolen Mid-Robbery

December 18, 2023December 18, 2023 Business

Three armed robbers in Colorado experienced an unexpected twist when their getaway car was stolen mid-heist. The robbers had just robbed a check-cashing business when a fourth criminal stole their getaway vehicle, possibly an already stolen car. Two of the three armed robbery suspects have been detained, and the investigation is ongoing. The humorous turn of events has garnered attention and surprise on social media. The Commerce City Police Department has not yet commented on the incident.

Instagram Introduces Two-Second Looping Videos and Direct Replies to Notes

December 14, 2023December 14, 2023 Technology

Instagram has introduced two new features to its Notes feature – two-second looping videos and direct replies. Users can now include mini Boomerang-like videos in their Notes, adding a visual dynamic to the status update feature. Additionally, users can directly reply to Notes with GIFs, stickers, voice notes, photos, or text, enhancing interaction with friends’ updates. These updates aim to encourage sharing and foster meaningful connections within Instagram’s community. Meta, Instagram’s parent company, continues to explore new features to enhance the user experience.

Alex Jones Returns to X, Thanks to Elon Musk’s Poll

December 11, 2023December 11, 2023 Technology

Conspiracy theorist Alex Jones makes a controversial return to the social media platform X after Elon Musk conducts a poll, resulting in over 70 percent of users voting for Jones’ reinstatement. This comes after Musk’s initial opposition to Jones’ return due to his promotion of conspiracy theories surrounding the Sandy Hook tragedy. Jones wasted no time in returning, engaging in a three-hour interview on X alongside other right-wing figures. Prior to being banned, Jones faced multiple deplatforming efforts on various social media sites.

Facebook Messenger Update: Enhanced Encryption and New Features

December 7, 2023December 7, 2023 Technology

Meta has introduced a major update to Facebook Messenger, focusing on enhanced privacy and new features. The update includes default end-to-end encryption for chats and calls, improved image and media quality, and new features inspired by WhatsApp. These updates aim to provide users with a more secure and engaging messaging experience.

Tesla’s Troubles: The Absence of Musk and Concerns over Twitter

November 17, 2023November 25, 2023 Business

Tesla investors have concerns about the company’s future, as sales are propped up by price cuts and there are delays in the launch of a new entry-level car. CEO Elon Musk’s absence and focus on Twitter are causing frustrations among shareholders. Musk’s recent endorsement of an antisemitic post has drawn criticism, with investors urging him to stop making such remarks to protect the Tesla brand. Furthermore, Musk’s political views and actions have raised concerns. Despite these challenges, some investors maintain faith in the company, while others turn to rival carmakers like Rivian.

Meta Refuses to Provide AI Advertising Tools to Political Marketers

November 7, 2023November 22, 2023 Technology

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, has decided not to provide its generative AI advertising tools to political marketers. The decision reflects similar measures taken by other social media platforms and tech giants to restrict political ads. Meta does allow exceptions for parody or satire, and this decision is currently being reviewed by its Oversight Board. Facebook and other Silicon Valley AI companies have committed to implementing safeguards and precautions in the development of generative AI systems.

Why College Students Rely on Family for Financial Guidance

November 6, 2023November 22, 2023 Business

According to a recent survey, college students are more likely to seek financial advice from their parents or family members than from banks, friends, mentors, or celebrities. This indicates a strong reliance on family for financial guidance among the younger generation. Additionally, social media is playing a significant role in shaping their financial knowledge. The survey also highlights the financial expectations of college students and their preference for achieving financial success in their 30s. Microsoft founder Bill Gates emerged as the top financial icon among the respondents.

The Impact of Cellphone Bans in a Florida School District

October 31, 2023November 11, 2023 Technology

Schools in Orange County, Florida implemented a comprehensive ban on cellphone use, even during free periods. While the ban has led to increased student engagement and a reduction in phone-related incidents, parents and students have mixed feelings. Some appreciate the elimination of distractions, while others feel isolated and restricted. The impact and effectiveness of cellphone bans are still being evaluated, as they disrupt the norms of a generation accustomed to constant connectivity.