This Week in Tech:
November 9th – November 16th:
Epic facial expressions, Mudge on Twitter security, ransomware attack on Capcom, transferring of POTUS accounts, T-Mobile’s 988 mental health support service, new UEI remote, Airbnb’s long awaited IPO, and more.
The world of tech seems to move at the speed of light, with new developments happening around the clock. Since it can be hard to keep up with all of them, we’ve rounded up the notable tech headlines of this week so you can stay in the loop.
Facial Expressions Coming to Fortnite?
Epic Games, the creator of the popular Fortnite, has acquired a company called Hyprsense, which can put facial expressions onto video game characters using a webcam. At this point, Epic has not yet disclosed if and when it will incorporate the technology into its popular game.
Twitter Hires New Head of Security
Twitter has hired a new head of security, the famous hacker Mudge, whose real name is Peiter Zatko. The hire comes several months after the now-infamous Bitcoin hack that took place in July. According to CNBC, Mudge will take over after a 45-60 day review and will report directly to Jack Dorsey. Mudge previously worked on security research at Google, oversaw several programs at DARPA, and created a framework for the Defense Department.
Capcom Ransomware Attack
Capcom, the famous Japanese video game developer and publisher, revealed that it was hit by a ransomware attack that may have compromised the personal information of about 350,000 people across Japan and North America. The company said it will “endeavor to further strengthen its management structure while pursuing legal options regarding criminal acts such as unauthorized access of its networks.”
Twitter and Facebook Take a Stand
Twitter and Facebook have released statements saying that they will transfer the official POTUS accounts to Joe Biden on inauguration day, whether Trump has conceded or not.
T-Mobile Introduces 988 Support
T-Mobile announced that it has already added support for the 988 emergency mental health service, a year and a half ahead of the deadline set by the Federal Communications Commission. The new emergency number will be connected to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which can now be reached through 10 digits. The hope is that with a shorter number reminiscent of 911, more lives will be saved.
New UEI Television Remote
Universal Electronics (UEI) has created its own version of the unpopular Apple TV remote, but this one is specifically designed for cable, satellite, and MVPD customers. The UEI remote connects to Siri so users can speak commands and it can be integrated with any television or audio device.
Airbnb Files IPO
Airbnb will finally be launching its long-awaited IPO in December, and it’s expected to raise about $3 billion. The IPO was supposed to launch earlier but the company suffered serious setbacks due to COVID-19. In the second quarter of 2020, its revenue plunged 72% and the company laid off 25% of its workers. Late in the second quarter, as domestic travel resumed, revenue picked up. In the third quarter, Airbnb had already made a significant recovery, making it one of the fastest recoveries in the hospitality industry.