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Will Kamala Harris complex ties with big tech be a double-edged sword?

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July 23, 2024

Will Kamala Harris complex ties with big tech be a double-edged sword?

Harris emphasises the inherent risks posed by AI and advocates for more stringent measures to ensure its ethical use.
Her policies could set new standards for how to navigate the complexities of modern technology and individual privacy.
As she prepares for the challenges ahead, the nation will watch closely to see not only how she addresses these critical questions but also how she leverages her experience and connections to shape a future that prioritises ethical responsibility in technological innovations.

As the 2024 US presidential race heats up, Vice President Kamala Harris steps into the limelight following President Joe Biden’s unexpected withdrawal from the contest.

Harris, who has been a prominent figure in American politics and law, especially in her capacity as Vice President, now finds herself at the intersection of political opportunity and urgent, complex issues surrounding technology regulation and artificial intelligence (AI).

With many speculating about her candidacy, the focus on her nuanced perspective regarding critical technological challenges becomes increasingly relevant.

Harris has made it clear that her commitment to addressing the implications of AI is profound. In her November 2023 address, she articulated a stark warning about the “existential” threat posed by AI, stating it could “endanger the very existence of humanity.”

The profound concern reflects her recognition of the vast potential of AI to radically transform societies while simultaneously posing significant risks—risks that demand vigilant oversight. Harris’s strong rhetoric about the dangers associated with artificial intelligence marks her as a serious contender in establishing a framework for responsible usage and development.

Her analysis of the technology landscape, particularly through the lens of regulatory measures, stands in contrast to other political figures in the Democratic Party.

An advocate for consumer rights

During the heated debates of the 2020 presidential campaign, when Senator Elizabeth Warren advocated for the dismantling of large tech corporations, Harris took a more regulatory stance.

She argued that rather than breaking up companies like Amazon, Google, and Facebook, there should be efforts to impose regulations that protect consumer privacy.

The approach positions Harris not just as a proponent of market regulation but also as an advocate for consumer rights in an increasingly digital world.

Under Biden’s administration, significant efforts have been made to establish standards for AI development. Biden issued an executive order calling for technology companies to adopt new voluntary commitments regarding AI usage and safety.

Harris backed this initiative, stating, “These voluntary commitments are an initial step toward a safer AI future with more to come.”

Her insistence on the necessity of regulation reflects an understanding that without government oversight, technology companies might prioritise profits over the safety and wellbeing of users and the integrity of democratic structures.

As Harris navigates this political landscape, her background in San Francisco—a city synonymous with Silicon Valley innovation—affords her a unique advantage.

Bringing justice and fairness to digital age

Her relationships with key figures in the tech world, such as Reid Hoffman, co-founder of LinkedIn, and influential venture capitalists, may provide her with significant resources and support as she campaigns.

Hofmann’s swift endorsement of Harris illustrates a growing commitment within the tech community to back a candidate who exhibits a thorough understanding of both the ethical and practical facets of technological advancement.

Furthermore, Harris’s record extends beyond mere regulatory advocacy. She has adeptly linked issues of AI with broader societal concerns, such as equity and discrimination.

Her assertion that technologies like biased facial recognition can have devastating consequences, exemplified by wrongful imprisonments, emphasises her commitment to addressing systemic inequalities that technology can exacerbate.

Her detailed engagement with these issues posits Harris as not only a candidate concerned with regulatory frameworks but also one devoted to ensuring justice and fairness in the digital age.

“Timely and critical”

At the AI Safety Summit in the United Kingdom last year, Harris expounded upon her concerns regarding AI-driven misinformation, highlighting the urgent need to discern fact from fiction in an age inundated with digital disinformation.

She articulated how misinformation could harm democracies, thus framing AI’s potential threats not just in terms of economic loss or technological stagnation, but also in the context of societal stability and democratic integrity. Harris’s awareness of these complexities positions her as a leader who grasps the multifaceted challenges that AI presents.

As Harris prepares for a potentially historic run for the presidency, her views on technology regulation and AI safety will inevitably be scrutinised.

Chelsea Alves, a consultant with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMiss), aptly notes that “as the landscape of technology continues to evolve rapidly, Kamala Harris’ approach to AI and big tech regulation is both timely and critical.”

Whether Harris can transform her awareness and intentions into effective policy remains to be seen, but her current momentum suggests she is uniquely positioned to set new standards for navigating these intricate technological challenges.

However, Harris’s complicated relationship with big tech could present a double-edged sword. While her friendships with industry leaders may afford her access and resources, they also raise questions about her ability to navigate potential conflicts of interest.

Her background in Silicon Valley resonates with promises of innovation, yet it necessitates a careful balance between fostering technological advancement and ensuring accountability within the digital realm.

Harris will need to articulate a clear and compelling vision that reassures voters of her commitment to regulating the industry while also maintaining the support of influential stakeholders.

Vayu Robotics to redefine e-commerce delivery logistics

Ana Mary Joseph

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July 23, 2024

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Vayu Robotics to redefine e-commerce delivery logistics

Vayu wins large commercial contract for 2,500 delivery robots and collaborating with a leading global robotics manufacturer to incorporate its sensing technology in a variety of robotic applications.
The innovative robot does not require pre-mapping of the roads it traverses, enabling it to operate autonomously in unpredictable urban environments.
Consumers increasingly rely on online platforms to purchase a variety of goods, ranging from groceries to electronics and clothing.

Projections indicate that by 2027, as much as 23 per cent of American retail purchases will take place online. This shift is not merely a trend; it represents a fundamental change in consumer behavior that is reshaping the retail industry.

However, amidst the burgeoning growth of e-commerce, companies face a persistent challenge: the high cost of delivery.

In response to this pressing issue, San Francisco-based Vayu Robotics has introduced a groundbreaking solution—the world’s first on-road delivery robot that leverages modern artificial intelligence (AI) foundation models alongside low-cost passive sensors, revolutionising the way goods are transported in urban environments.

The Sanskrit word “vayu” signifies the intelligence that enables all motion in the universe and all movement of energy. Inspired by this concept, Vayu strives to be the intelligence that will enable autonomous mobile robots to move through the world – the foundation model for every moving machine.

Challenges of traditional delivery systems

Historically, the deployment of mobile robotics for delivery has been hindered by high technology costs, primarily due to the reliance on expensive lidar sensors. Lidar (Light Detection and Ranging) technology has been pivotal in enabling robots to navigate their environments by providing detailed, three-dimensional spatial maps.

However, the associated costs of lidar sensors, combined with software architectures tailored to specific tasks, have rendered traditional delivery robots financially unviable for widespread use. These systems typically struggle to adapt to new scenarios, limiting their operating efficiency and relevance in an ever-evolving market.

The introduction of Vayu Robotics’ delivery vehicle marks a significant departure from this paradigm.

By employing a transformer-based mobility foundation model enriched with passive sensors, Vayu has eliminated the need for lidar, notably reducing the cost of deployment while enhancing operational efficiency.

The innovative robot does not require pre-mapping of the roads it traverses, enabling it to operate autonomously in unpredictable urban environments.

Moreover, it demonstrates versatility by navigating within stores and efficiently unloading packages on driveways or porches—all while carrying loads of up to 100 pounds at speeds under 20 miles per hour. The implications of this technology are profound, positioning Vayu’s delivery robot as the most cost-effective, safe, and reliable option in the marketplace.

Vayu Robotics was co-founded by three esteemed professionals from the robotics and mobility sectors—Anand Gopalan, Mahesh Krishnamurthi, and Nitish Srivastava.

Each founder brings unique expertise derived from their significant tenures in leading technology firms. Gopalan, the former CEO of Velodyne, successfully navigated the company to a public listing, while Krishnamurthi and Srivastava have accumulated vast experience at industry titans such as Apple and Lyft.

Their collaborative vision is profiled in their recognition of a systemic need for innovation within the robotics delivery landscape. Having spent two decades grappling with challenges inherent to robotics and autonomy, the founders understood that overcoming barriers to large-scale applications necessitated a novel technology stack that prioritizes cost efficiency and robust software capabilities.

“The unique set of technologies we have developed at Vayu have allowed us to solve problems that have plagued delivery robots over the past decade, and finally create a solution that can actually be deployed at scale and enable the cheap transport of goods everywhere,” Gopalan said,

Real-world applications

Vayu Robotics is already transitioning its designs into real-world applications.

The company secured a substantial commercial agreement with a prominent e-commerce player, without naming them, to deploy 2,500 delivery robots that facilitate ultra-fast goods delivery—a testament to the feasibility of their innovation.

The deployment underscores the potential for Vayu’s technology to redefine e-commerce delivery logistics, allowing businesses to optimise their distribution processes effectively.

Furthermore, Vayu is collaborating with a leading global robotics manufacturer to incorporate its sensing technology in a variety of robotic applications, signaling the versatility and applicability of its innovations beyond the realm of delivery robots.

Prominent investors, such as Khosla Ventures, recognise the potential of Vayu Robotics to effect significant economic and societal changes through its differentiated technologies.

“Vayu is a great example of this where they have deployed novel sensing and their AI foundation models to a robotic challenge that can have immense economic and societal impact,” Kanu Gulati, a partner at Khosla Ventures, said.

Moreover, Gopalan has expressed aspirations for the scalability of Vayu’s technology, stating, “Our software is robot form factor agnostic and we have already deployed it across several wheeled form factors. In the near future, Vayu’s software technology will enable the movement of quadrupedal and bipedal robots, allowing us to expand into those markets as well.”

HMD’s Skyline with a unique approach to connectivity and reparability

News

Mohammed Fahad

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July 19, 2024

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HMD’s Skyline with a unique approach to connectivity and reparability

Featuring Gen2’s design, the smartphone boasts replaceable components—including a battery that can be swapped out without professional assistance.

HMD Global, renowned for its revival of iconic Nokia dumbphones, has recently announced the launch of its mid-range smartphone, the Skyline.

The innovative device not only embodies the company’s commitment to simplicity but also emphasizes user well-being through its unique features, such as a “detox mode” designed to limit distractions from social media and mobile applications.

The Skyline’s Detox mode stands out in a crowded market by enabling users to customise their experience.

Unlike many competitors who merely silence notifications, HMD’s bespoke app allows for targeted contact blocking, thereby giving individuals the ability to create a digital environment more conducive to real-life interactions and focused engagement.

Minimising distractions

The focus on minimising distractions aligns with HMD’s previous initiatives, including the release of a “Boring phone” in collaboration with Heineken, aimed at promoting meaningful social connections among younger users.

In addition to prioritising user experience, the Skyline introduces a notable advancement in repairability. Featuring Gen2’s design, the smartphone boasts replaceable components—including a battery that can be swapped out without professional assistance.

The progressive approach is supported by partnerships with iFixt, offering tools and guides to facilitate repairs.

HMD’s ongoing commitment to making repairable devices, as evidenced by previous launches like the HMD Pulse, positions the Skyline as a sustainable choice in an era of increasingly disposable technology.

On the hardware front, the Skyline is equipped with an impressive camera system.

Photography aficionados

The front-facing 50MP camera includes autofocus and eye-tracking capabilities, catering to the growing demand for high-quality selfies.

Meanwhile, the rear camera features a robust triple-lens setup, headlined by a 108MP main sensor, ensuring that photography aficionados have the tools they need to capture stunning images.

Complementing its camera capabilities, the smartphone runs on the Snapdragon 7 Gen 2 chip, with a 6.55-inch pOLED FHD+ display boasting a 144Hz refresh rate, further enhancing the user experience.

The Skyline offers several configurations, starting with an 8GB RAM and 128GB storage option at a price point of $499, with an upgraded 12GB RAM and 256GB storage model priced at $600.

Running on Android 14 with minimal modifications from HMD, it keeps pace with industry standards while delivering essential features that resonate with today’s tech-savvy consumers, available in August.

UAE faces challenges in its electrification journey

Naushad K. Cherrayil

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July 19, 2024

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UAE faces challenges in its electrification journey

Bridging the gap between infrastructure readiness, cost dynamics, and energy transition imperatives is vital for propelling its EV targets and ushering in a greener, more sustainable future.
Strategic investments, regulatory support, and industry collaboration will be pivotal in navigating the challenges and seizing the opportunities that lie ahead.

The United Arab Emirates stands at the forefront of the global shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), with electric vehicle sales outpacing overall automotive market growth.

The Emirate has strategically identified the electrification of mobility (eMobility) as a priority policy area, embarking on an ambitious plan to decarbonise its infrastructure and energy production.

As the nation marks seven years into this transformative journey, significant milestones have been achieved, signaling a promising future for sustainable transportation in the region.

One of the key indicators of progress is the successful conversion of 20 per cent of federal government agency vehicles to EV powertrains. The initiative demonstrates the UAE’s commitment to leading by example and sets the stage for broader adoption across the public sector.

With a rapidly growing number of EVs on its roads, Dubai has witnessed a remarkable surge in electric vehicle adoption.

A promising future

As reported by the Dubai Water and Electricity Authority (DEWA), the city saw a significant increase in the number of electric vehicles, reaching 25,929 by the end of 2023, underscoring a substantial shift towards sustainability in urban transportation.

Similarly, Abu Dhabi has made notable strides in embracing electric vehicles, with a growing fleet that includes 2,441 EVs, 4,138 hybrid vehicles, and 9,412 natural gas vehicles as of late 2023.

While EVs currently represent less than 1.3 per cent of the total vehicles in the region, the trajectory suggests a promising future for electric mobility in the Emirate.

Projections by PwC estimate a significant rise in EV market share across the UAE.

According to eMobility Outlook 2024 (UAE Edition), EVs are expected to hold a market share of over 15 per cent by 2030, translating to approximately 58,000 vehicles in new passenger car and light commercial vehicle sales. The figure is poised to increase to 25 per cent by 2035, reflecting a growing preference for sustainable transportation options among consumers.

However, this shift necessitates a significant overhaul in the emobility sector.

Collaboration is key

EVs present a sustainable solution due to their zero-emission nature, yet challenges like limited model availability hinder widespread adoption. Policymakers face the task of incentivising reputable manufacturers to introduce more EV models, addressing cost barriers and alleviating ‘range anxiety’ among consumers.

Collaboration among industry stakeholders is key to attracting Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to the UAE market.

“For EVs to effectively contribute to decarbonisation, they must be accessible, supported by adequate charging infrastructure, competitively priced in terms of ownership costs, and powered by a low emission energy mix,” PwC report said.

Achieving these conditions poses a policy challenge for governments worldwide.

Critical success factors for boosting EV sales and meeting targets include increasing model availability, ensuring optimal operating temperatures for EV efficiency, and enhancing public charging infrastructure.

With a vast majority of available vehicle models in the UAE being ICE cars, accelerating the transition to EVs is imperative. Temperature fluctuations can impact EV performance, with high temperatures reducing range due to increased cooling demands.

Charging infrastructure lags behind

Only a small minority of the vehicle models currently offered by dealers in the UAE are EVs. More than 90 per cent of all available models are ICE vehicles (including hybrids).

By contrast in Europe, while ICE models still outnumber EVs, more than a quarter of all vehicles available are EVs and by 2030 it is forecast that more EVs than ICE vehicles will be available in the market.

In the UAE, 731 ICE models (incl. Hybrid) will be available in 2024 while BEV will have only 56 models.

Compared to Europe, there will be 690 models (incl. Hybrid) will be available in 2024 while 264 EV models will be available.

“Public charging infrastructure remains a significant bottleneck for rapid EV adoption in the UAE, lagging behind increasing demand. Despite substantial investments in renewable energy projects, the number of public charge points is limited, with a majority being slow chargers. Additional efforts are needed to bridge this infrastructure gap and promote widespread EV adoption in the UAE,” report said.

The disparity between the pace of public charging infrastructure deployment and the burgeoning demand for EVs is poised to widen, posing a significant challenge to meeting the ambitious targets outlined in the National Electric Vehicles Policy.

UAE’s energy mix

Projections indicate a need for 45,000 charging points by 2035 to accommodate the anticipated surge in EVs, contrasting starkly with the meager estimate of 10,000 charge points at the current rollout rate.

Cost considerations loom large in the EV landscape of the UAE. While the total cost of ownership for private EVs edges slightly higher than that of traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, primarily due to elevated upfront and insurance expenses, commercial buyers now enjoy a cost advantage in adopting EVs.

The increasingly competitive market, bolstered by new entrants vying for a slice of the commercial EV segment, has fueled price wars and escalated discount offerings, especially catering to fleet clients who wield substantial purchasing power.

Regarding energy dynamics, the UAE appears well-equipped in terms of electrical generation capacity to accommodate a surge in EV numbers. Projections by PwC Middle East suggest that even with over 600,000EVs on UAE roads by 2035, the spike in electricity demand would register a mere 1.6 percent increase.

However, challenges persist in the energy transition realm, with the nation’s energy mix heavily reliant on fossil fuels. To achieve meaningful reductions in carbon emissions, a concerted shift towards green energy sources such as renewables and nuclear power is imperative.

While the introduction of EVs promises a notable 11 percent reduction in emissions compared to an all-ICE vehicle fleet scenario by 2035, substantial strides are needed to bring the country’s overall emissions levels down.

A more substantial adoption of EVs, coupled with a determined push towards cleaner energy sources, holds the key to realising significant emissions cuts and fostering a sustainable transport ecosystem in the UAE.

Digital interactions

The first of the new emojis is a “face with bags under eyes,” intended to effectively convey a state of sleep-deprivation. The proposal, submitted by Erin Collett in 2018, recognises that exhaustion is a universal human experience, one that is particularly relevant for new parents, shift workers, and those who consume heavy amounts of alcohol.

By introducing this emoji, the Consortium aims to provide users with a direct and relatable way to communicate their physical and mental fatigue, fostering a greater understanding and empathy within digital interactions.

The second new emoji is a fingerprint, addressing the need for a visual representation of biometrics, crime, and identity without resorting to more abstract combinations of symbols.

As authors Gregory Fiumara and Rafaella Ferraro argued, the image of a fingerprint is a highly recognizable and visually distinct entity, one that carries significant meaning in various contexts, from security to personal identification.

The addition will enhance the ability of users to convey these concepts effectively and with greater precision.

The third new emoji is a leafless tree, which may be celebrated by climate activists and weather enthusiasts alike. Submitted by Brian Baihaki in 2022, this symbol represents drought, winter, and a barren environment, highlighting the natural cycle of life and the challenges posed by a changing climate.

By incorporating this emoji, the Consortium recognises the growing importance of environmental awareness and the need to provide users with a visual tool to express their concerns and observations about the natural world.

The fourth new emoji is a root vegetable, which could represent a wide range of underground produce, including beets, turnips, kohlrabi, rutabagas, and daikons.

Cybersecurity experts may use this emoji to denote root access, while gardening enthusiasts and food lovers could employ it to convey their passion for horticulture and cuisine.

Range of visual cues

Submitters Thomas Woodside and Nicholas Beninato also noted the potential for the emoji to be used in creative and idiomatic expressions, adding to its versatility and expressive potential.

The fifth new emoji is a harp, which will not only delight musicians but also those with an affinity for love, angels, and Irish culture. As submitters Mary Lattimore and Theo Schear of Emojination argued, the harp is a visually distinct instrument that deserves its own representation, separate from the more commonly used guitar and violin emojis.

The addition will expand the musical and cultural diversity of the emoji ecosystem, catering to a wider range of user interests and experiences.

The sixth new emoji is a shovel, which may appeal to construction workers, gardening enthusiasts, moles, and even criminal gangs, depending on the context.

As one of the most widely used outdoor tools, the shovel represents action, digging, and scooping, making it a valuable addition to the growing collection of emojis that convey physical activities and tools.

Finally, the seventh new emoji is a splat, which could be used to express a variety of concepts, from the dramatic end of a character in a cartoon to the messy result of a culinary experiment.

The emoji adds a new dimension to the range of visual cues available to users, allowing for more expressive and dynamic communication.

Indian fintech industry to expand to $420b by 2029

Mohammed Fahad

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July 18, 2024

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Indian fintech industry to expand to $420b by 2029

Adoption rate of fintech services in India is at 87%, far surpassing the global average of 67%.
NPCI eyes 1b UPI transactions per day in the coming years.

India’s fintech industry is poised for extraordinary expansion, with industry experts projecting it to reach a staggering $420 billion in value by 2029.

The remarkable growth trajectory, with a projected cumulative annual growth rate of 31 per cent, underscores the transformative potential of this dynamic sector.

At the heart of this fintech revolution is the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), which has already made significant inroads globally.

Ajay Kumar Choudhary, the non-executive chairman and independent director of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), has highlighted the widespread adoption of UPI, with nearly 26,000 taxi drivers in Singapore and numerous merchants in the UAE now using this seamless payment platform.

The Indian fintech ecosystem has witnessed remarkable growth, with over 9,000 fintech entities currently operating in the country.

The robust startup landscape has captured the attention of investors, with the fintech sector commanding a substantial 14 per cent of the overall startup funding in India.

The adoption rate of fintech services in India is an impressive 87 per cent, far surpassing the global average of 67 per cent.

The government’s unwavering commitment to driving a digital economy, coupled with a young and tech-savvy population, has been a significant catalyst in propelling the fintech sector to new heights. Archana Vohra, the Managing Director of Google, said that the UPI is not merely a technological infrastructure, but rather an ongoing endeavor to ensure that digital payments are easily accessible to all.

Anand Vijay Jha, the Chairman of the Assocham Fintech Council, has underscored the importance of a collaborative approach, where policymakers, regulators, and various stakeholders in the ecosystem work together to deliver value and attract investors.

“The public-private partnership has been instrumental in building India’s strong position in digital public infrastructure.”

One of the key drivers propelling the fintech sector is the need for improved access to credit, especially for the underserved segments of society.

Vikas Verma, the COO of Mastercard, has highlighted how fintechs can play a pivotal role in enabling credit access, thereby contributing to the government’s “Viksit Bharat” (Prosperous India) vision.

As the Indian fintech industry continues its remarkable ascent, it is poised to transform the financial landscape, bringing about greater financial inclusion, enhanced accessibility, and a more robust digital economy.

The ambitious target set by the NPCI to achieve one billion UPI transactions per day in the coming years underscores the industry’s unwavering commitment to driving innovation and supporting the country’s economic growth.