Russian authorities have recently announced a ban on government employees using Apple devices for official state use, according to the Financial Times. As of Monday, the country’s trade ministry will no longer allow the use of Apple products for work purposes. This ban is not limited to smartphones and tablets, but covers all Apple devices. However, officials will still be able to use their personal Apple devices, including AirPods.
The ban comes after Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) claimed to have uncovered a “spying operation by US intelligence agencies” involving Apple devices. The FSB stated that thousands of iPhones, including those used by the country’s diplomatic missions in NATO countries, had been infected with monitoring software. The FSB further alleged that Apple had collaborated closely with US signal intelligence to provide agents with control tools. Apple has vehemently denied these claims.
This move by Russian authorities to ban Apple devices for government use comes at a time when the country is also attempting to reduce its reliance on foreign-made technology. Other agencies in Russia, such as the telecommunications and mass media ministry, either already have similar mandates in place or plan to enforce them soon.
In other news, Nintendo’s first home console, the NES, is celebrating its anniversary. In honor of this milestone, let’s take a closer look at some of the major ways it has shaped gaming since its release in 1983. The NES introduced innovations like the d-pad, gaming franchises, and iconic game characters that have stood the test of time. It has had a lasting impact on the gaming world and continues to be celebrated by gamers worldwide.
Additionally, the latest iOS beta is offering a preview of new features that will be fully launched later this year. One notable feature is the StandBy feature, which provides a free alternative to smart displays. The iOS beta also includes enhancements to the FaceTime experience, a streamlined Messages app, and a solution for sharing contact details. Apple users can look forward to these improvements in the near future.
In the world of advertising, Elon Musk recently tweeted about the significant drop in advertising revenue for his company. Musk revealed that Tesla had experienced a roughly 50% decrease in advertising revenue, along with a heavy debt burden. According to research firm Sensor Tower, advertising spending dropped by 89% to $7.6 million during a two-month period earlier this year. This news comes as Twitter’s ad-revenue sharing program begins paying out some creators, including controversial far-right influencers. Musk also predicted that Twitter could see record-high user engagement in the coming week.
Apple fans can also anticipate the release of new iMac and MacBook Air models. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, there should be another product launch after Apple’s annual iPhone event in September. This launch is expected to showcase new Macs, with the focus likely on the next iMac, 13-inch MacBook Air, and 13-inch MacBook Pro. While Apple has typically announced new iPad models alongside its latest Macs, it appears that this will not be the case this time. Major upgrades for iPad models are expected to coincide with the release of the M3 chip and OLED screens next year.
Lastly, Ubisoft has partnered with OWO to release an Assassin’s Creed Mirage edition haptic feedback shirt. This innovative shirt allows players to feel parkour movements, impacts, and “exclusive sensations never felt before.” The shirt features haptic points on the chest, stomach, lower back, and arms, and its algorithm adjusts nine wave parameters to simulate various interactions within the game. The shirt will be compatible with popular gaming platforms such as PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. While the pricing and release date are yet to be announced, the OWO Founder Edition shirt was priced at €499 ($560) and included a game code.
In conclusion, Russian authorities’ decision to ban government employees from using Apple devices for official state use is a response to the FSB’s claim of a US spying operation involving Apple devices. This ban reflects Russia’s effort to reduce its dependence on foreign-made technology. Meanwhile, Nintendo’s NES has had a profound impact on the gaming world since its release in 1983. Apple users can look forward to exciting new features in the upcoming iOS release, and Elon Musk has shared concerning news about Tesla’s advertising revenue. Apple fans can also anticipate the release of new iMac and MacBook Air models, while Ubisoft and OWO have collaborated to create an immersive gaming experience with their haptic feedback shirt for Assassin’s Creed.
