Wednesday, September 30, 2020

Study Finds ‘Single Largest Driver’ of Coronavirus Misinformation: Trump

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/30/us/politics/trump-coronavirus-misinformation.html
October 01, 2020 at 02:30AM

Cornell University researchers analyzing 38 million English-language articles about the pandemic found that President Trump was the largest driver of the “infodemic.”

False G.O.P. Ad Prompts QAnon Death Threats Against a Democratic Congressman

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/30/technology/false-gop-ad-prompts-qanon-death-threats-against-a-democratic-congressman.html
October 01, 2020 at 01:46AM

Palantir Shares Go Up in Wall Street Debut

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/30/technology/palantir-stock-initial-public-offering.html
October 01, 2020 at 01:15AM

The Silicon Valley company leads a wave of tech outfits hoping to test the public markets in the busiest season for I.P.O.s in two decades.

They Watched the Debate … on Twitch

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/30/business/media/twitch-trump-biden-debate.html
October 01, 2020 at 12:25AM

The Amazon-owned platform, known for livestreams of video games, was a gathering spot for viewers seeking a different spin.

How Facebook Entrenches Itself

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/30/technology/facebook-instagram-messenger.html
September 30, 2020 at 08:06PM

The more Facebook knits together its apps, the harder it becomes for a government to break it up.

Drudge Report, a Trump Ally in 2016, Isn't in 2020

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/30/business/media/drudge-report-trump-coverage.html
September 30, 2020 at 05:45PM

A rift between the president and the online news pioneer Matt Drudge is playing out in pithy headlines and needling tweets as the campaign heats up.

Now You Can Use Instagram to Chat With Friends on Facebook Messenger

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/30/technology/instagram-facebook-messenger-integration.html
September 30, 2020 at 04:52PM

Facebook began integrating its Instagram and Messenger apps, allowing users of the services to directly communicate with each other.

How Voting by Mail Tops Election Misinformation

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/30/technology/how-voting-by-mail-tops-election-misinformation.html
September 30, 2020 at 01:00PM

Misleading information about voting by mail is the biggest category of election falsehoods — and it includes many flavors.

The Future of Unstructured Data Management

Source: https://gigaom.com/2020/09/30/the-future-of-unstructured-data-management/
September 30, 2020 at 04:00PM

One of the most interesting and successful research projects I’ve worked on lately was the one about unstructured data management. Our clients loved the Key Criteria and Radar reports, and I had many fascinating conversations with vendors and users about what is coming next in this space.

Why Unstructured Data Management

First, let’s be clear here—explosive data growth is not something you can bargain with or avoid. You can’t stop it. Human-generated data has been joined by a growing host of sensors, cameras, and countless other devices that are capable of producing overwhelming amounts of data for an incredibly diverse range of use cases. Most of this data we are keeping in our on-premises and cloud storage systems. Some of this data is analyzed almost immediately and then lays dormant for quite a long time, sometimes forever. There are plenty of reasons to keep data around for long periods of time—internal policy, compliance, regulations, you name it.

Traditional storage systems are not designed to cope with this. The capacities required by all this data gets out of hand, which is why scale-out architectures are being broadly adopted by organizations of every type, no matter the size. Scale-out Infrastructure complexity is no longer an issue and it can be managed by every system administrator. But there are at least three challenges that remain:

  1. Correct data placement: Data is not created equal and its value may change over time. The concept of primary and secondary storage are well worn, but it offers insight into where your spending should go. Primary, secondary, and tertiary data provide bright targets for budgeting spend based on $/GB, with attendant impacts on latency, throughput, and scalability in the storage system. Modern solutions can take advantage of object and cloud storage to further optimize data placement, leaving the user with several options to expand system capacity at a low cost.
  2. Data silos: These have always been a challenge, even with new technology like automated tiering to address them. The rise of hybrid and multi-cloud infrastructures has organizations working to get data closer to users and applications, and that is creating a growing amount of data silos. They are difficult to manage and can turn even the most basic operations into a nightmare.
  3. Understand value: Dispersing data across multiple environments makes it harder to find it, analyze it, and ultimately understand its real value. And without that understanding, it is very hard to manage cost or data placement strategies.

Figure 1. Traditional Storage Systems

This is only the beginning. In my report I talked about infrastructure-focused and business-oriented data management: The first is aimed at improving infrastructure TCO, but it is the latter that can really bring the biggest return on investment (ROI) and amplify the value of your data. At the end of the day, you need to adopt the right data management practices and tools to respond correctly to the demanding requirements imposed by business and regulations.

Why the Future of Data Management is in the Cloud

The trend is clear: The future of IT infrastructures is hybrid, with data distributed across on-premises systems and multiple clouds no matter the size of your organization. If you think about this scenario, you realize that it requires a different and modern approach to data management. Some of the key criteria I analyzed in my GigaOm report will become even more important and provide the foundation for the next generation of products and services to manage your unstructured data estate. These include:

  • Virtual global data lakes: You can’t fight data growth or its inevitable sprawl of data silos. The larger the organization, the more data sources and repositories you must manage. What you can do is consolidate these repositories into a single, virtual domain. This approach lets you implement global indexing and establish the foundation for everything you need on top of it: search, analytics, reporting, security, auditing, and so on.
  • SaaS-based tools: Data management should be global, flexible, and adaptable. You don’t want to court risk with a data management solution — including SaaS-based solutions — that are limited in reach (i.e. the use cases they support) or available resources, or, are unable to scale quickly in capacity and functionality when needed. Additionally, by concentrating on a single SaaS platform, the infrastructure is dramatically simplified and data silos virtually eliminated. Users and system administrators can take advantage of a global view of all the data to manage multiple applications and workflows while saving time and getting results faster. More so, a SaaS-based data management solution is more approachable by mid-size IT organizations, making data management affordable to a broader spectrum of organizations.
  • App marketplaces: App marketplaces are still a new thing, but extending the basic functionality of the product to address new use cases has several benefits. First, a SaaS deployment model eliminates the need for physical infrastructure to accommodate the application and its necessary copies of the data. And second, it enables organizations to extend the data management platform with additional applications, improving reach across the org and taking advantage of the virtual global data lake to improve several processes.

Figure 2. Hybrid Storage Systems

The connection between virtual global data lakes, SaaS, and marketplaces is important. It creates a universal data domain that enables complete visibility and reuse of data.

Virtual data lakes are easy to create with the right technology. For example, as described in the following flow chart, the backup process can be instrumental in the creation of a virtual data lake. All data is automatically collected and indexed while ingested, becoming immediately available for data management tasks.

Figure 3. Unstructured Data Management Flow Chart

At this point, the potential use cases are limited only by the applications offered in the marketplace. Think about it:

  • Global search: Imagine a private Google-like experience with all the necessary access control mechanisms. Creation of legal holdings on specific queries. Creation of data sets for compliance checks or other applications.
  • Security analytics: AI-based analytics tools that scan your data for access patterns to discover every possible security threat including ransomware, data leaks, and data breaches.
  • Compliance: Scan for specific patterns inside your files to prevent data privacy issues. System to create “Right to be forgotten” reports for authorities, document checks, and so on.

These are only a few examples. Having access to all of your data from a single and extensible platform will open a world of possibilities and cost savings. What’s more, the pay-as-you-go model of the cloud enables enterprises of all sizes to use only the apps they need when they need them, simplifying adoption and testing of new use cases while, again, keeping costs under control.

At the end of the day, by adopting a SaaS-based global data management solution, the user can quickly optimize costs and improve overall infrastructure TCO. This is only the low hanging fruit though. In fact, the business owners will have powerful tools to increment the value of data stored in their systems while responding adequately to several threats posed by poor data management.

Figure 4. All Risks Associated With Poor Unstructured Data Management Are Connected

Closing the Circle

Data management is becoming the pillar to make storage infrastructures sustainable over time and it is the only way to plan investments in the right way.

Users are starting to adopt multi-cloud infrastructures and they need to respond to a growing number of challenges, with some of them around infrastructure efficiency and cost reduction. But with data dispersed across several repositories, the focus is shifting toward more complex and business-focused requirements.

Cloud-based data management solutions can be the answer if implemented correctly, by creating global virtual data lakes that can be accessed by many applications and users simultaneously. In this context, the ease of use and the consistent user experience provided by a SaaS solution and a good app marketplace will be key to attract different personas in the organization. And not only that, with this kind of approach (SaaS and app marketplace), data management is democratized and available to a broader audience no matter how small is your IT staff or size of the organization.

Tuesday, September 29, 2020

The Facebook Pages With the Largest Share of Debate Conversation

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/29/technology/the-facebook-pages-with-the-largest-share-of-debate-conversation.html
September 30, 2020 at 02:48AM

Which Facebook pages are engaging people the most about Tuesday’s presidential debate? Here are the top 10.

Right-Wing Sites Falsely Claim Biden Got Debate Questions in Advance

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/29/technology/biden-debate-questions.html
September 30, 2020 at 02:29AM

Fox News, which is providing the moderator for the debate tonight, called the claim “entirely false.”

Seattle Passes Minimum Pay Rate for Uber and Lyft Drivers

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/29/business/economy/seattle-uber-lyft-drivers.html
September 30, 2020 at 02:14AM

The city became the second in the nation to create a compensation standard for ride-hailing drivers, after New York.

The Long History of ‘Hidden Earpiece’ Conspiracy Theories

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/29/technology/the-long-history-of-hidden-earpiece-conspiracy-theories.html
September 30, 2020 at 12:04AM

Ahead of Tuesday’s debate, right-wing commentators (and President Trump’s campaign) speculated that Joe Biden might be equipped with a hidden earpiece. It’s a decades-old charge without much evidence.

Monday, September 28, 2020

TikTok Wins Reprieve From U.S. Ban

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/27/technology/tiktok-ban-ruling-app.html
September 28, 2020 at 04:01AM

A federal judge’s preliminary injunction means the app stores can continue offering the video app for downloads for now.

Ron Cobb, a Pioneer in Science Fiction Design, Dies at 83

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/23/movies/ron-cobb-dies.html
September 27, 2020 at 10:13PM

An artist and movie production designer, he helped shape the aesthetics of science fiction with his work on movies including “Star Wars,” “Alien” and “Back to the Future.”

TikTok and WeChat: What They Tell Us About the Global Internet

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/22/style/tiktok-ban-geopolitics.html
September 27, 2020 at 07:30PM

Banned apps, nefarious theories, trade wars, voiceless users. The case of TikTok isn’t news to most of the world.

In Isolating Times, Can Robo-Pets Provide Comfort?

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/26/health/coronavirus-elderly-isolation-robot-pets.html
September 27, 2020 at 03:50PM

As seniors find themselves cut off from loved ones during the pandemic, some are turning to automated animals for company.

U.S. Places Restrictions on China’s Leading Chip Maker

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/26/technology/trump-china-smic-blacklist.html
September 26, 2020 at 08:58PM

The export controls follow a review in which the United States concluded that Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation’s chips may be used by the Chinese military.

Pasta, Wine and Inflatable Pools: How Amazon Conquered Italy in the Pandemic

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/26/technology/amazon-coronavirus-pandemic.html
September 26, 2020 at 12:00PM

The e-commerce giant had struggled to gain a foothold in a society that prefers to shop in person, with cash, but now Italians are hooked on online shopping.

Inside eBay’s Cockroach Cult: The Ghastly Story of a Stalking Scandal

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/26/technology/ebay-cockroaches-stalking-scandal.html
September 26, 2020 at 12:00PM

“People are basically good” was eBay’s founding principle. But in the deranged summer of 2019, prosecutors say, a campaign to terrorize a blogger crawled out of a dark place in the corporate soul.

California County Enlists Social Media to Thwart a Misleading Election Photo

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/25/technology/california-county-enlists-social-media-to-thwart-a-misleading-election-photo.html
September 26, 2020 at 02:27AM

Officials moved swiftly when old images of discarded mail-in ballots were circulated and portrayed as new pictures.

Alphabet Settles Shareholder Suits Over Sexual Harassment Claims

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/25/technology/google-sexual-harassment-lawsuit-settlement.html
September 25, 2020 at 11:40PM

Google’s parent company was hit with a wave of lawsuits after The New York Times reported that an accused executive had received a $90 million exit package.

What Went Viral This Week

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/25/technology/what-went-viral-this-week.html
September 25, 2020 at 10:36PM

Ruth Bader Ginsburg obituaries, reports of missing children and stories from a right-wing satire site made up the week’s most highly engaged stories on social media.

A Hopeful Forecast: More Accurate Long-Term Weather Predictions

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/25/science/weather-predictions-forecasts.html
September 25, 2020 at 08:38PM

Improving technology could make it possible to better anticipate weather conditions weeks in advance, especially in the tropics.

Facebook’s Power This Election

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/25/technology/facebook-election.html
September 25, 2020 at 08:19PM

How much should Facebook be held responsible for what happens on its site?

Google Services Go Down in Some Parts of U.S.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/24/technology/google-service-outage.html
September 25, 2020 at 06:16AM

People experienced outages of services like Gmail, YouTube and Google Meet.

Without Evidence, Right-Wing Commentators Link Soros to Louisville U-Haul

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/24/technology/without-evidence-right-wing-commentators-link-soros-to-louisville-u-haul.html
September 25, 2020 at 05:49AM

A spokeswoman for the liberal financier said he had “absolutely not” paid for the rental of a truck used in a protest in Louisville.

Facebook Takes Down Networks Linked to Russian Disinformation

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/24/us/politics/facebook-russia-networks.html
September 25, 2020 at 03:03AM

The social network said it was moving proactively to dismantle infrastructure Russia could use against the American presidential election.

The Truth About ‘The Truth About Breonna Taylor’ Meme

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/24/technology/truth-about-breonna-taylor-meme.html
September 25, 2020 at 12:04AM

Videos and viral images claiming to tell “the truth about” Black victims of police shootings are years old. This week, they are circulating about Breonna Taylor.

The Truth About ‘The Truth About Breonna Taylor’ Meme

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/24/technology/truth-about-breonna-taylor-meme.html
September 25, 2020 at 12:04AM

Videos and viral images claiming to tell “the truth about” Black victims of police shootings are years old. This week, they are circulating about Breonna Taylor.

Kevin Mayer in Talks to Join RedBird Capital

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/24/business/kevin-mayer-tiktok-redbird.html
September 24, 2020 at 09:21PM

Mr. Mayer, for years a top dealmaker at Disney, is in advanced talks with RedBird Capital, which has holdings in sports, entertainment and financial services.

What’s the Deal With Google Now?

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/24/technology/google-antitrust.html
September 24, 2020 at 08:12PM

Google is facing the possibility of multiple antitrust lawsuits. Here’s why and what’s ahead.

To Fight Apple and Google, Smaller App Rivals Organize a Coalition

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/24/technology/apple-google-coalition-epic-match-spotify.html
September 24, 2020 at 05:30PM

Spotify, Match Group, Epic Games and others have created a nonprofit alliance that they hope will amplify a protest against the power of the giants.

YouTube Tries Again to Amplify Accurate Voting Information

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/24/technology/youtube-mail-voting.html
September 24, 2020 at 01:00PM

Tech platforms have struggled to keep false and misleading information about mail-in ballots off their services.

TikTok Files for Injunction to Stop Ban of App

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/23/technology/tiktok-injunction-ban-app.html
September 24, 2020 at 04:07AM

While President Trump has blessed a deal for TikTok, the video app filed to stop a ban of its service that is set to go into effect on Sunday.

Justice Dept. Urges Congress to Limit Tech’s Legal Shield

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/23/technology/social-media-internet-speech-section-230.html
September 24, 2020 at 02:27AM

President Trump and his allies have made criticism of major tech platforms a regular talking point as he campaigns for re-election.

How ‘Save the Children’ Is Keeping QAnon Alive

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/28/technology/how-save-the-children-is-keeping-qanon-alive.html
September 28, 2020 at 09:08PM

Appropriating anti-trafficking narratives is helping the pro-Trump conspiracy theory fuel its community’s hunger for vengeance.

Google Demands Its 30% Cut From App Developers in Play Store

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/28/technology/google-play-store-30-percent.html
September 28, 2020 at 08:03PM

Some companies like Netflix and Spotify had avoided making the payment when people paid for something inside their apps.

Can Amazon Conquer the World?

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/28/technology/can-amazon-conquer-the-world.html
September 28, 2020 at 07:13PM

And what might we gain and lose from that?

Uber Can Continue Operating in London, Judge Rules

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/28/business/uber-london-court.html
September 28, 2020 at 01:08PM

After a battle with transportation regulators, the ride-hailing firm was granted an 18-month license.

Sunday, September 27, 2020

Ransomware Attacks Take On New Urgency Ahead of Vote

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/27/technology/2020-election-security-threats.html
September 28, 2020 at 01:41AM

Attacks against small towns, big cities and the contractors who run their voting systems have federal officials fearing that hackers will try to sow chaos around the election.

U.S. Judge Hears Arguments on Trump’s TikTok Ban

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/27/technology/tiktok-ban-ruling-app.html
September 27, 2020 at 07:10PM

The government said a ban would address its national security concerns. But lawyers for its owner said a ban would be “no different from the government locking the doors to a public forum.”

Saturday, September 26, 2020

Strangers' Things

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/26/style/selling-things-online-sex-work.html
September 27, 2020 at 01:20AM

Earning money online by selling intimate objects that aren’t obviously sexual (including emotions).

U.S. Places Restrictions on China’s Leading Chip Maker

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/26/technology/trump-china-smic-blacklist.html
September 26, 2020 at 05:46PM

The export controls follow a review in which the United States concluded that Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation’s chips may be used by the Chinese military.

Pasta, Wine and Inflatable Pools: How Amazon Conquered Italy in the Pandemic

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/26/technology/amazon-coronavirus-pandemic.html
September 26, 2020 at 12:00PM

The e-commerce giant had struggled to gain a foothold in a society that prefers to shop in person, with cash, but now Italians are hooked on online shopping.

Inside eBay’s Cockroach Cult: The Ghastly Story of a Stalking Scandal

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/26/technology/ebay-cockroaches-stalking-scandal.html
September 26, 2020 at 12:00PM

“People are basically good” was eBay’s founding principle. But in the deranged summer of 2019, prosecutors say, a campaign to terrorize a blogger crawled out of a dark place in the corporate soul.

In Isolating Times, Can Robo-Pets Provide Comfort?

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/26/health/coronavirus-elderly-isolation-robot-pets.html
September 26, 2020 at 12:00PM

As seniors find themselves cut off from loved ones during the pandemic, some are turning to automated animals for company.

Friday, September 25, 2020

California County Enlists Social Media to Thwart a Misleading Election Photo

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/25/technology/california-county-enlists-social-media-to-thwart-a-misleading-election-photo.html
September 26, 2020 at 02:27AM

Officials moved swiftly when old images of discarded mail-in ballots were circulated and portrayed as new pictures.

What Went Viral This Week

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/25/technology/what-went-viral-this-week.html
September 25, 2020 at 10:36PM

Ruth Bader Ginsburg obituaries, reports of missing children and stories from a right-wing satire site made up the week’s most highly engaged stories on social media.

Alphabet Settles Shareholder Suits Over Sexual Harassment Claims

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/25/technology/google-sexual-harassment-lawsuit-settlement.html
September 25, 2020 at 09:12PM

Google’s parent company was hit with a wave of lawsuits after The New York Times reported that an accused executive had received a $90 million exit package.

A Hopeful Forecast: More Accurate Long-Term Weather Predictions

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/25/science/weather-predictions-forecasts.html
September 25, 2020 at 08:38PM

Improving technology could make it possible to better anticipate weather conditions weeks in advance, especially in the tropics.

Facebook’s Power This Election

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/25/technology/facebook-election.html
September 25, 2020 at 08:19PM

How much should Facebook be held responsible for what happens on its site?

Google Services Go Down in Some Parts of U.S.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/24/technology/google-service-outage.html
September 25, 2020 at 06:16AM

People experienced outages of services like Gmail, YouTube and Google Meet.

Without Evidence, Right-Wing Commentators Link Soros to Louisville U-Haul

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/24/technology/without-evidence-right-wing-commentators-link-soros-to-louisville-u-haul.html
September 25, 2020 at 05:49AM

A spokeswoman for the liberal financier said he had “absolutely not” paid for the rental of a truck used in a protest in Louisville.

Thursday, September 24, 2020

Facebook Takes Down Networks Linked to Russian Disinformation

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/24/us/politics/facebook-russia-networks.html
September 25, 2020 at 03:03AM

The social network said it was moving proactively to dismantle infrastructure Russia could use against the American presidential election.

The Truth About ‘The Truth About Breonna Taylor’ Meme

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/24/technology/truth-about-breonna-taylor-meme.html
September 25, 2020 at 12:04AM

Videos and viral images claiming to tell “the truth about” Black victims of police shootings are years old. This week, they are circulating about Breonna Taylor.

The Truth About ‘The Truth About Breonna Taylor’ Meme

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/24/technology/truth-about-breonna-taylor-meme.html
September 25, 2020 at 12:04AM

Videos and viral images claiming to tell “the truth about” Black victims of police shootings are years old. This week, they are circulating about Breonna Taylor.

Amazon Unveils Drone That Films Inside Your Home. What Could Go Wrong?

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/24/technology/amazon-ring-drone.html
September 24, 2020 at 11:50PM

On social media, people had some concerns about the Ring Always Home Cam. To put it mildly.

What’s the Deal With Google Now?

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/24/technology/google-antitrust.html
September 24, 2020 at 08:12PM

Google is facing the possibility of multiple antitrust lawsuits. Here’s why and what’s ahead.

Kevin Mayer in Talks to Join RedBird Capital

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/24/business/kevin-mayer-tiktok-redbird.html
September 24, 2020 at 06:57PM

Mr. Mayer, who was a top dealmaker at Disney for years before his three months as TikTok’s chief executive, is in advanced talks with RedBird Capital, a private firm with holdings in sports, entertainment and financial services.

YouTube Tries Again to Amplify Accurate Voting Information

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/24/technology/youtube-mail-voting.html
September 24, 2020 at 01:00PM

Tech platforms have struggled to keep false and misleading information about mail-in ballots off their services.

Justice Dept. Case Against Google Is Said to Focus on Search Dominance

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/22/technology/justice-dept-case-google-search-dominance.html
September 23, 2020 at 01:00AM

The decision to narrow the case to search could set off separate lawsuits from states over Google’s power in other business segments.

To Fight Apple and Google, Smaller App Rivals Organize a Coalition

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/24/technology/apple-google-coalition-epic-match-spotify.html
September 24, 2020 at 02:00PM

Spotify, Match Group, Epic Games and others have created a nonprofit alliance that they hope will amplify a protest against the power of the giants.

Wednesday, September 23, 2020

TikTok Files for Injunction to Stop Ban of App

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/23/technology/tiktok-injunction-ban-app.html
September 24, 2020 at 02:23AM

While President Trump has blessed a deal for TikTok, the video app filed to stop a ban of its service that is set to go into effect on Sunday.

Justice Dept. Urges Congress to Limit Tech’s Legal Shield

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/23/technology/social-media-internet-speech-section-230.html
September 24, 2020 at 01:03AM

President Trump and his allies have made criticism of major tech platforms a regular talking point as he campaigns for re-election.

False Claims, Spread by a Trump Son, That Biden Used a Teleprompter

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/23/technology/false-claims-spread-by-a-trump-son-that-biden-used-a-teleprompter.html
September 24, 2020 at 12:16AM

An edited version of a video has been shared by people close to the president, including his son Eric Trump.

Ron Cobb, a Pioneer in Science Fiction Design, Dies at 83

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/23/movies/ron-cobb-dies.html
September 23, 2020 at 09:35PM

The artist and movie production designer, who brought a meticulous eye for detail to movies including “Star Wars,” “Alien” and “Back to the Future,” helped shape the aesthetics of science fiction.

Beyond TikTok, Walmart Looks to Transform

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/23/business/walmart-tiktok-groceries.html
September 23, 2020 at 09:24PM

Away from the political drama of the TikTok deal, Walmart has been taking steps that are already changing the company and, by extension, the broader retail sector.

Hooray (Mostly) for the Government!

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/23/technology/hooray-mostly-for-the-government.html
September 23, 2020 at 07:40PM

U.S. lawmakers are digging into questions about how to steer technology to make our lives better.

Ron Cobb, a Pioneer in Science Fiction Design, Dies at 83

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/23/arts/ron-cobb-dies.html
September 23, 2020 at 07:13PM

The artist and movie production designer, who brought a meticulous eye for detail to movies including “Star Wars,” “Alien” and “Back to the Future,” helped shape the aesthetics of science fiction.

Young People More Likely to Believe Virus Misinformation, Study Says

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/23/technology/young-people-more-likely-to-believe-virus-misinformation-study-says.html
September 23, 2020 at 01:00PM

The results diverge from past research that said older people were more likely to share false news articles on social media.

Elon Musk Promises to Make a $25,000 Tesla (in 3 Years)

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/22/business/tesla-elon-musk-battery-day.html
September 23, 2020 at 03:34AM

Tesla said it was working on advances that would lower the cost of batteries and increase their capacity to store energy.

Tuesday, September 22, 2020

Facebook Takes Down Fake Pages Created in China Aimed at Trump, Biden

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/22/us/politics/facebook-china-election-interference.html
September 23, 2020 at 03:00AM

The social media campaign was small but targeted all sides of the debate. Officials said Beijing had not decided whether to wade more directly in the American presidential race.

Justice Dept. Case Against Google Is Said to Focus on Search Dominance

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/22/technology/justice-dept-case-google-search-dominance.html
September 23, 2020 at 01:00AM

The decision to narrow the case to search could set off separate lawsuits from states over Google’s power in other business segments.

‘Birtherism’ Lies About Kamala Harris Exceed Those About Obama

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/22/technology/birtherism-lies-kamala-harris.html
September 23, 2020 at 12:45AM

Mentions of the racist theory about Ms. Harris spiked higher than the peak of similar lies about President Barack Obama in 2017.

TikTok and WeChat: What They Tell Us About the Global Internet

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/22/style/tiktok-ban-geopolitics.html
September 22, 2020 at 11:42PM

Banned apps, nefarious theories, trade wars, voiceless users. The case of TikTok isn’t news to most of the world.

This Misinformation Was Coming From Inside the House

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/22/technology/this-misinformation-was-coming-from-inside-the-house.html
September 22, 2020 at 10:18PM

William B. Crews was especially focused on undermining efforts to persuade the public to wear masks.

Newsroom: Insider Intelligence names Steve Dodman SVP of Sales

Source: https://www.emarketer.com/newsroom/index.php/insider-intelligence-names-steve-dodman-svp-of-sales/
September 21, 2020 at 07:01AM

September 21, 2020 (New York, NY) – Insider Intelligence today announces that Steve Dodman is joining the company as senior vice president of sales. At Insider Intelligence, Dodman will lead […]

Newsroom: Pay TV Suffers Historic Cord-Cutting

Source: https://www.emarketer.com/newsroom/index.php/pay-tv-suffers-historic-cord-cutting/
September 21, 2020 at 07:01AM

More than 6 million US households will cut cable this year September 21, 2020 (New York, NY) – While pandemic-driven lockdowns may have benefited certain forms of media, the traditional […]

A Capitalist Fix to the Digital Divide

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/22/technology/digital-divide-solutions.html
September 22, 2020 at 07:43PM

What if big tech companies paid for lower income Americans to have fast internet access?

No, Trump Did Not Hold the Bible Upside Down at Lafayette Square

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/18/technology/no-trump-did-not-hold-the-bible-upside-down-at-lafayette-square.html
September 19, 2020 at 01:10AM

Monday, September 21, 2020

Justice Dept. to Brief States on Google Antitrust Inquiry

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/21/technology/google-antitrust-justice-department.html
September 22, 2020 at 03:28AM

The department is expected to outline a potential antitrust case against Google, which could be filed in the coming days.

Trump Jump-Starts Misinformation on Ginsburg’s ‘Dying Wish’

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/21/technology/trump-jump-starts-misinformation-on-ginsburgs-dying-wish.html
September 21, 2020 at 10:51PM

Baseless claims about the legitimacy of the justice’s final statements were not circulating online in any significant way before the president said them on Fox News.

Microsoft Acquires Video Game Company ZeniMax in $7.5 Billion Deal

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/21/technology/microsoft-zenimax-video-game-deal.html
September 21, 2020 at 10:34PM

The company’s acquisition of ZeniMax Media puts it in a strong position against Sony just weeks before the release of their next generation of gaming consoles.

TikTok Deal Trips Over U.S.-China Power Struggle

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/21/technology/tiktok-bytedance-deal-walmart-oracle.html
September 21, 2020 at 10:28PM

Companies involved in a deal to resolve TikTok’s future publicly clashed over the arrangement, while President Trump threatened to block any deal that left the service in Chinese hands.

Ex-Georgia Tech Researcher Can Proceed With Lawsuit Against University Officials

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/21/technology/joy-laskar-georgia-tech-lawsuit.html
September 21, 2020 at 10:27PM

Ten years after state agents raided his home, an engineer fights to prove he was wrongfully attacked over a computer chip start-up.

Newsroom: Insider Intelligence names Steve Dodman SVP of Sales

Source: https://www.emarketer.com/newsroom/index.php/insider-intelligence-names-steve-dodman-svp-of-sales/
September 21, 2020 at 07:01AM

September 21, 2020 (New York, NY) – Insider Intelligence today announces that Steve Dodman is joining the company as senior vice president of sales. At Insider Intelligence, Dodman will lead […]

Newsroom: Pay TV Suffers Historic Cord-Cutting

Source: https://www.emarketer.com/newsroom/index.php/pay-tv-suffers-historic-cord-cutting/
September 21, 2020 at 07:01AM

More than 6 million US households will cut cable this year September 21, 2020 (New York, NY) – While pandemic-driven lockdowns may have benefited certain forms of media, the traditional […]

How Facebook Can Slow QAnon for Real

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/21/technology/facebook-qanon.html
September 21, 2020 at 07:59PM

Social media sites cracked down on terrorist recruitment. Imagine what they could do about QAnon.

TikTok Deal Exposes a Security Gap, and a Missing China Strategy

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/20/us/politics/tiktok-trump-national-security.html
September 21, 2020 at 03:09AM

Technological progress has outpaced the political debate again. What will happen when the next TikTok arrives in the United States?

This Deal Helped Turn Google Into an Ad Powerhouse. Is That a Problem?

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/21/technology/google-doubleclick-antitrust-ads.html
September 21, 2020 at 12:00PM

The $3.1 billion acquisition of DoubleClick in 2007 was a “game changer.” A growing number of antitrust experts say it’s the sort of deal that should no longer be possible.

Sunday, September 20, 2020

‘There’s No There There’: What the TikTok Deal Achieved

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/20/technology/tiktok-trump-victory.html
September 21, 2020 at 01:21AM

The agreement for the social media app falls short of President Trump’s promises.

U.S. Judge Temporarily Halts Trump’s WeChat Ban

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/20/business/economy/court-wechat-ban.html
September 20, 2020 at 08:34PM

The order is a setback in the president’s efforts to block a Chinese social media app that he has labeled a national security threat. The ban had been set to go into effect on Sunday night.

A New York Clock That Told Time Now Tells the Time Remaining

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/20/arts/design/climate-clock-metronome-nyc.html
September 20, 2020 at 09:29PM

Metronome’s digital clock in Manhattan, has been reprogrammed to illustrate a critical window for action to prevent the effects of global warming from becoming irreversible.

Saturday, September 19, 2020

Trump Approves Deal Between Oracle and TikTok

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/19/technology/trump-oracle-and-tiktok.html
September 20, 2020 at 03:26AM

The approval delays President Trump’s threat to block a popular Chinese-owned social media app from the United States until it receives investment from American partners.

Trump Says Deal Between Oracle and TikTok Has His ‘Blessing’

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/19/business/economy/trump-oracle-and-tiktok.html
September 20, 2020 at 01:01AM

The remarks suggested the Chinese-owned social media app may be allowed to continue to operate in the United States after receiving investment from American partners.

In South Korea, Covid-19 Comes With Another Risk: Online Bullies

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/19/world/asia/south-korea-covid-19-online-bullying.html
September 19, 2020 at 12:00PM

The country’s extensive response has been praised around the world but has led to harassment and slander, raising questions about privacy protections.

After Trump’s TikTok Ban, China Readies Blacklist of Foreign Companies

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/19/technology/china-tiktok-wechat-blacklist.html
September 19, 2020 at 10:57AM

Beijing issued rules that could allow it to halt exports, imports and investments by businesses accused of endangering national security.

Friday, September 18, 2020

No, a Black Lives Matter Co-Founder Didn’t Partner With a Pro-Communist Chinese Group

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/18/technology/no-a-black-lives-matter-co-founder-didnt-partner-with-a-pro-communist-chinese-group.html
September 19, 2020 at 01:49AM

A Heritage Foundation investigation went viral on Thursday, but it conflated two nonprofits with the same name.

‘It’s So Essential’: WeChat Ban Makes U.S.-China Standoff Personal

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/18/technology/wechat-ban-united-states-china.html
September 19, 2020 at 01:01AM

When downloads of the Chinese-owned messaging service are barred in the U.S. starting at midnight on Sunday, the feud between the countries will hit home for millions of people.

Fox News Is Accused of Hiding George Soros’s Influence

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/18/technology/fox-news-george-soros.html
September 18, 2020 at 11:16PM

It’s a twist for the cable channel, which regularly airs criticism of the billionaire investor and Democratic donor.

Facebook Tried to Limit QAnon. It Failed.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/18/technology/facebook-tried-to-limit-qanon-it-failed.html
September 18, 2020 at 10:30PM

The social network tried cracking down on the spread of the conspiracy theory and other extremist material. But QAnon groups are still flourishing on the site.

Hyperconvergence and Kubernetes

Source: https://gigaom.com/2020/09/15/hyperconvergence-and-kubernetes/
September 15, 2020 at 09:30PM

Hyperconverged infrastructure (HCI) has quickly earned a place in the datacenter, mostly due to the promise of infrastructure simplification. HCI has already worked very well for virtualized infrastructures, but will this be the case with Kubernetes? There’s reason for optimism, and I offer a couple thoughts here as to why.

HCI is one of many ways to build your computing stack. The idea is to virtualize and collapse several components of the stack, including storage and networking, alongside compute resources (virtual machines). The approach trades off some performance for enhanced flexibility and ease of use. In its early iterations, HCI was a good fit for mostly small-to-medium sized businesses (SMBs) and vertical applications such as virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI). Now the performance gap has narrowed and HCI can be leveraged across a broader range of applications. Some IT organizations have made HCI their go-to technology, with 90% of their data centers built around HCI!

Kubernetes and HCI

The question before us now is: “Is HCI good for Kubernetes?” The short answer is yes, but there are a few aspects to consider first.

Kubernetes is a container orchestrator that usually runs on Linux operating systems. Applications are deployed in containers that are then organized in Pods (a pod being the minimal allocation unit for Kubernetes and which can comprise one or more containers). Unlike virtualized infrastructures, where each single VM has a different operating system, the container shares most of its basic components with the underlying operating system. From this point of view virtualization is unnecessary and expensive, but (and there is always a but), the reality is more complex for two reasons.

First, few enterprises can migrate to a 100% container environment overnight. This means that VMs and containers must live together for a very long time. In some cases the application will be hybrid forever. Some components will remain virtualized—an old commercial database in a VM for example—accessed by the containerized application. This could happen for several reasons, sometimes just because the virtualized component can’t be deployed in a container or it is too expensive to migrate.

Second, Kubernetes is just an orchestrator. Additional components are needed to make the Kubernetes cluster able to respond adequately to enterprise needs. This includes data storage and networking, especially when the applications are stateful. And managing stateful applications was considered non-essential at the beginning, but which is becoming a standard for many Kubernetes deployments.

So, in the end, we have two needs: management of a hybrid environment and infrastructure simplification. Again, HCI looks more interesting than ever in this context.

HCI for Kubernetes

There are at least three examples that I can make to explain why HCI can be beneficial to your Kubernetes strategy:

  1. VMWare. You probably already know about VMware’s efforts around Kubernetes (here’s a free report I wrote not long ago about VMware Tanzu Portfolio). VMware simply integrated Kubernetes with its hypervisor. Even though this could be seen as an aberration by Kubernetes purists, there are advantages in having VMs and containers integrated. The cost of the VMware licenses can be challenging but, if we think in terms of TCO, it will be easier to manage than a complex hybrid environment.
  2. Nutanix. Nutanix has a solution that allows you to implement Kubernetes transparently on top of its own hypervisor (and cloud now). It takes a different approach to the problem than VMware, but the benefits to the user are similar.
  3. Diamanti. Diamanti goes in an entirely different direction, with storage and networking components that are integrated in the platform and optimized for Kubernetes. This design overcomes some of the limitations of the orchestrator and improves its overall efficiency to bring performance and simplicity to the table. If you plan to invest heavily in Kubernetes, Diamanti offers a valid alternative to both general-purpose HCI and bare-metal Kubernetes.

Here a video about the Diamanti Architecture and how it is different from the others.

Closing the Circle

Enterprises should look into HCI for Kubernetes for the same reason they loved HCI for virtualization. There are two approaches to consider: One that extends the existing HCI platform to include Kubernetes, and the other that employs a dedicated HCI for Kubernetes. Both approaches have benefits and drawbacks and your choice will depend on how critical Kubernetes is to your overall IT strategy now and for the next couple of years. Other important aspects to consider include the scope of your infrastructure and the level of efficiency you need to achieve from it.

The VMware and Nutanix solutions are both solid and will help you manage a seamless transition from virtualization to a hybrid (VMs + containers) environment. Meanwhile, solutions like Diamanti can combine the simplicity of HCI with the efficiency of a dedicated solution.

Explaining Trump Ban on TikTok, WeChat

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/18/technology/tiktok-wechat-ban.html
September 18, 2020 at 09:18PM

The Commerce Department announced that it was prohibiting downloads of WeChat and TikTok in U.S. app stores. Here’s what you need to know.

Don’t quit Facebook. Change laws.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/18/technology/quit-facebook-campaign.html
September 18, 2020 at 07:54PM

What to do if you think Facebook worsens misinformation and hate speech.

Trump Admin to Ban TikTok, WeChat From U.S. App Stores

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/18/business/trump-tik-tok-wechat-ban.html
September 18, 2020 at 07:17PM

The Trump administration issued new rules Friday morning that will cripple the operation of two popular Chinese-owned apps in the United States.

What Is Happening With TikTok and WeChat as Trump Tries to Ban Them?

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/18/technology/personaltech/tiktok-wechat-ban.html
September 18, 2020 at 07:07PM

The Commerce Department announced that it was prohibiting downloads of WeChat and TikTok in U.S. app stores. Here’s what you need to know.

Computing Pioneers Endorse Biden, Citing Immigration

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/18/technology/turing-scientists-endorse-biden.html
September 18, 2020 at 06:54PM

They said the administration’s policies were driving away technology talent and could do long-term damage to their industry.

Inside the Social World of Shift-Scheduling Apps

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/18/style/shift-scheduling-apps-hotschedules.html
September 18, 2020 at 06:33PM

There’s no such thing as remote restaurant work. But there is HotSchedules.

Isolated Ballot Errors Do Not Equal a ‘Rigged Election’

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/17/technology/ballot-errors.html
September 18, 2020 at 12:24AM

President Trump continued his assault on voting by mail, but printing and mailing errors are nothing new, and have affected Republican and Democratic candidates alike.

Thursday, September 17, 2020

TikTok Accepts Deal Revisions as Trump Prepares to Review Proposal

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/17/technology/tiktok-deal-revisions-trump-review.html
September 17, 2020 at 10:25PM

The video app is also looking for a new chief executive and has talked to candidates including a founder of Instagram.

One Family’s Remote-School Tale

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/17/technology/remote-school-coronavirus.html
September 17, 2020 at 07:31PM

Like many parents, Valerie Cruz is dealing with a tough situation and making it work.

The New Apple Watch Measures Your Blood Oxygen. Now What?

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/17/technology/personaltech/new-apple-watch-blood-oxygen-level-review.html
September 17, 2020 at 04:00PM

Blood oxygen readings can be a useful indicator of wellness, but context is important — and so is medical advice from a doctor.

A Car Insurance Claim Estimate Before the Tow Truck Is Called

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/17/business/car-insurance-claim-estimate-artificial-intelligence.html
September 17, 2020 at 01:00PM

Using algorithms, tech companies are helping insurers speed up the process after an accident, make it more accurate and keep estimators out of the field — a plus during a pandemic.

A New Ship’s Mission: Let the Deep Sea Be Seen

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/17/science/ocean-exploration-dalio-ship.html
September 17, 2020 at 12:00PM

A giant new vessel, OceanXplorer, seeks to unveil the secrets of the abyss for a global audience.

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

Celebrities Plan an ‘Instagram Freeze,’ but Reaction Is Icy

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/15/technology/instagram-freeze-facebook.html
September 16, 2020 at 03:41AM

Stars including Kim Kardashian West, Katy Perry and Mark Ruffalo said they would protest Facebook by freezing their Instagram accounts on Wednesday. The responses were far from positive.

Backlash Grows to TikTok-Oracle Deal

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/16/technology/tiktok-oracle-opposition.html
September 17, 2020 at 01:52AM

Senate Republicans and others criticized the latest plan to allow TikTok to continue operating in the United States, citing national security concerns.

Backlash Grows to TikTok-Oracle Deal

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/16/technology/tiktok-oracle-opposition.html
September 17, 2020 at 01:52AM

Senate Republicans and others criticized the latest plan to allow TikTok to continue operating in the United States, citing national security concerns.

China-Backed Hackers Broke Into 100 Firms and Agencies, U.S. Says

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/16/us/politics/china-hackers.html
September 16, 2020 at 10:34PM

In indictments against five Chinese nationals, the Justice Department described sophisticated attacks to hijack networks and extort universities, businesses and nonprofits.

Former Parody Account Was Early in Spreading False Rumors on Fires

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/16/technology/former-parody-account-was-early-in-spreading-false-rumors-on-fires.html
September 16, 2020 at 10:04PM

The rumors have overwhelmed local law enforcement agencies, leading them to plead with the public to verify information before sharing it.

No, a Molotov Cocktail Didn’t Start the West’s Wildfires

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/16/technology/molotov-cocktail-wildfires-rumors.html
September 16, 2020 at 09:23PM

Viral posts about a man who was arrested and accused of setting fires in Portland, Ore., have left out one important fact: Those fires were quickly put out.

Snowflake More Than Doubles in Debut as Wall Street Embraces Tech IPOs

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/16/technology/snowflake-tech-ipo.html
September 16, 2020 at 08:30PM

The data storage company is among several prominent start-ups going public this year as the tech industry thrives in the pandemic.

Facebook Oculus Quest 2 Review: Solid V.R. Headset, but Few Games

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/16/technology/personaltech/facebook-oculus-quest-2-review-vr-headset-games.html
September 16, 2020 at 08:30PM

The new $300 virtual-reality headset works well and feels comfortable. But good luck finding games that will keep you entertained.

‘Good Enough’ Rules the World

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/16/technology/good-enough-rules-the-world.html
September 16, 2020 at 08:10PM

The success of TikTok and Netflix shows that if you have enough eyeballs, mediocrity is totally OK.

A Chinese Billionaire Is Barred From Spending Over Unpaid Debts

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/16/business/hna-chairman-debt-blacklist.html
September 16, 2020 at 03:45PM

A court-ordered ban on first-class flights and vacations is a humbling turn of events for Chen Feng, the head of the once high-flying conglomerate HNA Group.

Tuesday, September 15, 2020

Celebrities Plan an ‘Instagram Freeze,’ but Reaction Is Icy

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/15/technology/instagram-freeze-facebook.html
September 16, 2020 at 03:41AM

Stars including Kim Kardashian West, Katy Perry and Mark Ruffalo said they would protest Facebook by freezing their Instagram accounts on Wednesday. The responses were far from positive.

Driver Charged in Uber’s Fatal 2018 Autonomous Car Crash

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/15/technology/uber-autonomous-crash-driver-charged.html
September 16, 2020 at 02:18AM

Investigators said the woman had been watching a video on her phone when the vehicle killed a pedestrian in Arizona.

Yoga Teachers Take On QAnon

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/15/technology/yoga-teachers-take-on-qanon.html
September 16, 2020 at 01:24AM

Online wellness influencers are pushing back against an influx of misinformation related to QAnon, the vast pro-Trump conspiracy theory.

Newsroom: UK: TikTok Sees Explosive Growth amid Pandemic

Source: https://www.emarketer.com/newsroom/index.php/uk-tiktok-sees-explosive-growth-amid-pandemic/
September 09, 2020 at 07:01AM

Usage will exceed 10% of the UK population in 2020 September 9, 2020 (London, UK) – TikTok’s future may be uncertain in the US, but its UK operations continue to […]

'Tenet' Didn't Bring Audiences Back to Movie Theaters. Now What?

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/15/business/media/tenet-movie-theaters-coronavirus.html
September 15, 2020 at 10:40PM

People aren’t going to the movies at anywhere close to the numbers that Hollywood hoped, prompting studios to postpone more big releases. Marvel’s “Black Widow” could be the next to retreat.

The Search for Life on Venus Could Start With Rocket Lab

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/15/science/venus-life-rocketlab.html
September 15, 2020 at 10:26PM

Rocket Lab may be able to send a small spacecraft to probe the clouds of Venus long before NASA or other space agencies are able to do so.

Hyperconvergence and Kubernetes

Source: https://gigaom.com/2020/09/15/hyperconvergence-and-kubernetes/
September 15, 2020 at 09:30PM

Hyperconverged infrastructure (HCI) has quickly earned a place in the datacenter, mostly due to the promise of infrastructure simplification. HCI has already worked very well for virtualized infrastructures, but will this be the case with Kubernetes? There’s reason for optimism, and I offer a couple thoughts here as to why.

HCI is one of many ways to build your computing stack. The idea is to virtualize and collapse several components of the stack, including storage and networking, alongside compute resources (virtual machines). The approach trades off some performance for enhanced flexibility and ease of use. In its early iterations, HCI was a good fit for mostly small-to-medium sized businesses (SMBs) and vertical applications such as virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI). Now the performance gap has narrowed and HCI can be leveraged across a broader range of applications. Some IT organizations have made HCI their go-to technology, with 90% of their data centers built around HCI!

Kubernetes and HCI

The question before us now is: “Is HCI good for Kubernetes?” The short answer is yes, but there are a few aspects to consider first.

Kubernetes is a container orchestrator that usually runs on Linux operating systems. Applications are deployed in containers that are then organized in Pods (a pod being the minimal allocation unit for Kubernetes and which can comprise one or more containers). Unlike virtualized infrastructures, where each single VM has a different operating system, the container shares most of its basic components with the underlying operating system. From this point of view virtualization is unnecessary and expensive, but (and there is always a but), the reality is more complex for two reasons.

First, few enterprises can migrate to a 100% container environment overnight. This means that VMs and containers must live together for a very long time. In some cases the application will be hybrid forever. Some components will remain virtualized—an old commercial database in a VM for example—accessed by the containerized application. This could happen for several reasons, sometimes just because the virtualized component can’t be deployed in a container or it is too expensive to migrate.

Second, Kubernetes is just an orchestrator. Additional components are needed to make the Kubernetes cluster able to respond adequately to enterprise needs. This includes data storage and networking, especially when the applications are stateful. And managing stateful applications was considered non-essential at the beginning, but which is becoming a standard for many Kubernetes deployments.

So, in the end, we have two needs: management of a hybrid environment and infrastructure simplification. Again, HCI looks more interesting than ever in this context.

HCI for Kubernetes

There are at least three examples that I can make to explain why HCI can be beneficial to your Kubernetes strategy:

  1. VMWare. You probably already know about VMware’s efforts around Kubernetes (here’s a free report I wrote not long ago about VMware Tanzu Portfolio). VMware simply integrated Kubernetes with its hypervisor. Even though this could be seen as an aberration by Kubernetes purists, there are advantages in having VMs and containers integrated. The cost of the VMware licenses can be challenging but, if we think in terms of TCO, it will be easier to manage than a complex hybrid environment.
  2. Nutanix. Nutanix has a solution that allows you to implement Kubernetes transparently on top of its own hypervisor (and cloud now). It takes a different approach to the problem than VMware, but the benefits to the user are similar.
  3. Diamanti. Diamanti goes in an entirely different direction, with storage and networking components that are integrated in the platform and optimized for Kubernetes. This design overcomes some of the limitations of the orchestrator and improves its overall efficiency to bring performance and simplicity to the table. If you plan to invest heavily in Kubernetes, Diamanti offers a valid alternative to both general-purpose HCI and bare-metal Kubernetes.

Here a video about the Diamanti Architecture and how it is different from the others.

Closing the Circle

Enterprises should look into HCI for Kubernetes for the same reason they loved HCI for virtualization. There are two approaches to consider: One that extends the existing HCI platform to include Kubernetes, and the other that employs a dedicated HCI for Kubernetes. Both approaches have benefits and drawbacks and your choice will depend on how critical Kubernetes is to your overall IT strategy now and for the next couple of years. Other important aspects to consider include the scope of your infrastructure and the level of efficiency you need to achieve from it.

The VMware and Nutanix solutions are both solid and will help you manage a seamless transition from virtualization to a hybrid (VMs + containers) environment. Meanwhile, solutions like Diamanti can combine the simplicity of HCI with the efficiency of a dedicated solution.

A Job That Isn’t Hard to Get in a Pandemic: Swindlers’ Helper

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/15/technology/money-mules-fraud-pandemic.html
September 15, 2020 at 07:54PM

Criminals are increasingly using people like Denise Newton to move their money, just as many have lost their jobs and are vulnerable.

Apple Watch Is a Private Road

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/15/technology/apple-watch-is-a-private-road.html
September 15, 2020 at 07:45PM

With newer technologies, we risk losing the open highways that have defined our digital lives.

Newsroom: UK: TikTok Sees Explosive Growth amid Pandemic

Source: https://www.emarketer.com/newsroom/index.php/uk-tiktok-sees-explosive-growth-amid-pandemic/
September 09, 2020 at 07:01AM

Usage will exceed 10% of the UK population in 2020 September 9, 2020 (London, UK) – TikTok’s future may be uncertain in the US, but its UK operations continue to […]

Gen Zers Say Silicon Valley Is Elitist and Exclusive. Can They Build a New System?

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/15/style/gen-z-tech-mafia.html
September 15, 2020 at 12:00PM

A group of young tech enthusiasts are carving their own path on Discord.

Coming This Fall: Return of the Video Game Console Wars

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/15/technology/xbox-series-x-playstation-5.html
September 15, 2020 at 10:00AM

Gamers are awaiting Sony’s PlayStation 5 and Microsoft’s Xbox Series X, though supply might be limited because of the pandemic.

Newsroom: UK: TikTok Sees Explosive Growth amid Pandemic

Source: https://www.emarketer.com/newsroom/index.php/uk-tiktok-sees-explosive-growth-amid-pandemic/
September 09, 2020 at 07:01AM

Usage will exceed 10% of the UK population in 2020 September 9, 2020 (London, UK) – TikTok’s future may be uncertain in the US, but its UK operations continue to […]

Monday, September 14, 2020

TikTok’s Proposed Deal Seeks to Mollify U.S. and China

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/14/technology/deal-tiktok-us-china-trump.html
September 15, 2020 at 02:10AM

The Chinese-owned app designed a compromise to satisfy U.S. security concerns. The terms are now under review by the Trump administration.

Facebook Is Failing in Global Disinformation Fight, Says Former Worker

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/14/technology/facebook-manipulation-whistleblower-sophie-zhang.html
September 15, 2020 at 01:30AM

The employee, who worked in a group dedicated to rooting out fake accounts, said executives ignored or were slow to react to her warnings.

TikTok Was a Wasted Opportunity

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/14/technology/tiktok-oracle.html
September 14, 2020 at 08:52PM

The TikTok battle was a chance to debate big questions about technology and government. We missed it.

The Woman Taking Over TikTok at the Toughest Time

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/11/technology/tiktok-vanessa-pappas-bytedance.html
September 14, 2020 at 02:09AM

Vanessa Pappas is keeping a focus on the app’s community of creators and users as it deals with pressure from President Trump, Beijing and a possible sale.

ByteDance's Need for a TikTok-Oracle Deal: China is Slowing

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/14/technology/china-bytedance-tiktok-sale.html
September 14, 2020 at 04:36PM

ByteDance’s founder has long urged his employees to think beyond the world’s No. 2 economy, where growth is easing and competition is rising.

ByteDance's Need for a TikTok-Oracle Deal: China is Slowing

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/14/technology/china-bytedance-tiktok-sale.html
September 14, 2020 at 04:36PM

ByteDance’s founder has long urged his employees to think beyond the world’s No. 2 economy, where growth is easing and competition is rising.

Is Scale-Out File Storage the New Black?

Source: https://gigaom.com/2020/09/14/is-scale-out-file-storage-the-new-black/
September 14, 2020 at 03:42PM

Storage vendors, especially startups, are finally supporting new media types in their systems. In this article I want to talk about the impact that quad-level cell (QLC) NAND memory and Intel Optane have in the development of scale-out systems and how vendors like VAST Data are taking full advantage of them in their product design.

In my recent GigaOm report about scale-out file storage (Key Criteria for Evaluating Scale-Out File Storage), I mentioned several key criteria that can help users evaluate this type of storage system. Today I want to explore specific solution functionality that can make a difference in a scale-out storage deployment, and how it should impact your thinking.

Key Criteria, Considered

Before I go further, however, I want to dive into the structure of our GigaOm Key Criteria reports and how they help inform decision making. For each sector we assess, the Key Criteria report explores three sets of criteria specific to that sector. They are:

Table stakes are solution features or characteristics that you should be able to take for granted in a product class. For example, if the class were cars, things like infotainment systems and air conditioning are now standard in every car, and therefore are not generally significant in driving a decision.

Emerging technologies are all about what’s next—what features or capabilities can you expect to emerge in the near future (12-18 months). For cars, that might be the first implementation of autonomous driving for highways. I honestly don’t know—I’m not an expert in car technology.

Key criteria are the core of the report and address features and characteristics that really make a difference in assessing solutions. In a car, this might be the use of an electric powertrain or advanced safety devices to protect you and pedestrians from accidents.

In addition, the Key Criteria report breaks down a number of evaluation metrics, which are broad, top-line characteristics of solutions being evaluated, and are helpful in comparing the relative value of solutions in specific areas. For cars, these top-line characteristics might be performance, comfort, fuel efficiency, range, and so on.

These reports finish with an analysis of the impact that each of the key criteria has on the high-level evaluation metrics. This indicates whether a particular solution might meet your needs. For example, an electric powertrain may have a significant, positive effect on metrics like comfort, performance, and fuel efficiency, while its impact on vehicle range is less beneficial.

In the Key Criteria report for scale-out storage, the important differentiating key criteria we analyzed were:

  • Integration with object storage
  • Integration with the public cloud
  • New flash-memory devices
  • System management
  • Data management

Now I want to focus on one of these key criteria and give you an example of a vendor that has interpreted this important metric in a very innovative and efficient way.

Flash Memory and Scale-Out

I explore the impact of flash memory storage on scale-out systems in depth. The following excerpt comes directly from my GigaOm report, “Key Criteria for Evaluating Scale-Out File Storage.”

Modern scale-out file storage is utilized for a growing number of workloads that need capacity associated with high performance. The data stored in these systems can be anything from very large media files down to files a few kilobytes in size. Finding the right combination of $/GB and $/IOPS is not easy but in general, active data is only a small percentage of the total capacity. As a consequence, flash memory is becoming the standard for active workloads, while object storage (either an on-premises, HDD-based or cloud-object store), houses inactive data. This two-tier approach is explained in this gigaom report.

Hard drives still provide the best $/GB ratio, but to stay performance-competitive with solid state flash media solutions, HDD vendors are developing new technologies and access methods to close the gap. Unfortunately, these approaches add complexity that can actually make HDD utilization in standard enterprise arrays more and more difficult.

On the other hand, even though MLC and TLC flash memory prices have been falling steadily for quite some time, the $/GB ratio remains too high to satisfy the capacity requirements of some applications. Meanwhile, performance of standard flash memory falls short for applications that require accessing data at memory speed without the cost, persistence and capacity limitations imposed by RAM. To address this price/performance conundrum, the memory industry has come up with two solutions:

Quad-level cell (QLC) NAND memory is the next iterative leap in the evolution of flash memory, thanks to new manufacturing techniques that stack up to 96 layers of cells in the same chip (and even more for the next generation). This density enables vendors to build very cheap and high-capacity storage devices.

Unfortunately, these devices have a few important drawbacks. They have a very weak write endurance (up to just 500 write cycles) and a much lower write speed compared to MLC SSDs. In comparison, an MLC NAND device can endure between ten and twenty thousand write cycles, and write speeds can reach up to four times higher than QLC. The combination of lower $/GB ratios and higher media density and efficiency can significantly impact the overall TCO of a solution. Not all architectures are ready for QLC 3D NAND. How it is implemented makes the difference in terms of efficiency, TCA, and TCO.

Memory-class storage (i.e. Intel Optane) is gaining traction in the enterprise storage market. This new kind of device bridges the gap between DRAM and NAND memory in terms of latency, cost, and features. It is not as fast as RAM, but prevents access to slower storage and improves overall system response and availability when used in persistent mode.

In addition, storage vendors can use this media for caching and as a landing zone for hot data for performing operations like compression, optimization, and erasure coding. It is also useful for fast handling of metadata. In any case, the user can expect a general improvement in performance, at reasonable cost.

These new classes of memory do not remove HDDs from the game. Spinning media remains viable as near-line tier storage in modern systems and can be effective in large systems that consolidate multiple workloads on a single storage system, providing a capacity tier at low cost. That said, organizations are moving away from hybrid configurations in favor of all-flash storage systems associated with an external object store, or they take advantage of the cloud to develop the necessary capacity.

Impact Analysis: VAST Data

VAST Data, a startup that is doing really well with its scale-out file storage solution, has implemented Intel Optane and QLC-NAND synergistically in their system with great results. Intel Optane is used as a landing area for all data. This really isn’t a cache but more a staging area where data is prepared, chunked, and organized to minimize write amplification and optimize operations in the QLC back end.

By implementing this data path, which is associated with innovative data compaction and protection techniques, the system can achieve impressive $/GB while maintaining performance throughput at the front end. This makes the solution a good fit for workloads that need both capacity and performance at a reasonable cost. This is an oversimplification, perhaps, but I encourage you to check out the videos recorded during Storage Field Day 20, to get a good grasp of VAST Data architecture.

As mentioned earlier, the impact that key criteria have on evaluation metrics provides a better understanding of the solution and, ultimately, how well the product might fit your needs.

Table 2 shows the high impact that new flash memory devices have on performance, scalability, system lifespan, TCO and ROI, and flexibility. Only usability is minimally impacted. What this means is if you place value on the metrics that are highly impacted by this key criterion, you should put VAST on your short list for a scale-out storage evaluation.

Figure 1. The Impact of Key Criteria on Evaluation Metrics

Closing the Circle

The research at GigaOm extends beyond the Key Criteria report, which sets the table for the detailed market sector analysis in our GigaOm Radar reports. The Key Criteria report is essentially a structured overview of a product sector, while the Radar report presents a market landscape that summarizes all the key criteria and metrics evaluations for each vendor and positions them together on a chart.

One of the most important characteristics of the Radar report is that it is technology focused and doesn’t really take into account market share. This may sound odd when compared to analysis available from other sources, but our commitment is to put the technology first, and to help IT decision makers understand both what a solution can do for their organizations and where its development is going. As I often say, it is a forward-looking approach rather than a conservative, backward-looking approach–which approach would you prefer to inform your IT organization?

As you can see in the diagram below (Figure 2), VAST is well-positioned in the Leaders circle of the GigaOm Radar report chart and was graded as an Outperformer. This reflects the company’s aggressive forward movement not just with its flash-memory implementation, but its success shaping its solution to solve challenges with unstructured data. VAST is a storage vendor that is worth a look.

Figure 2. GigaOm Radar Chart for Scale-Out File Systems

Sunday, September 13, 2020

Oracle Chosen as TikTok’s Tech Partner, as Microsoft’s Bid Is Rejected

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/13/technology/tiktok-microsoft-oracle-bytedance.html
September 14, 2020 at 04:09AM

The moves came as the clock ticks down on President Trump’s executive order to block the Chinese-owned social media app.

Nvidia Buys Arm From SoftBank for $40 Billion

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/13/technology/nvidia-arm-softbank.html
September 14, 2020 at 04:02AM

The move gives Nvidia a way into mobile chips, but the acquisition is likely to face regulatory scrutiny.

SoftBank Said to Be Near Deal to Sell British Chip Designer Arm

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/12/business/dealbook/softbank-arm-nvidia-computer-chips-sale.html
September 13, 2020 at 04:08AM

A sale to Nvidia for more than $40 billion would net billions of dollars for the Japanese tech investor and create a powerhouse in the semiconductor industry.

Friday, September 11, 2020

Europe Feels the Squeeze as Tech Competition Heats Up Between U.S. and China

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/11/world/europe/eu-us-china-technology.html
September 12, 2020 at 02:44AM

As the rapid pace of change mixes with national security issues, Europe’s role as a global regulator is increasingly tested — and may not be enough.

The Woman Taking Over TikTok at the Toughest Time

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/11/technology/tiktok-vanessa-pappas-bytedance.html
September 12, 2020 at 01:47AM

Vanessa Pappas is keeping a focus on the app’s community of creators and users as it deals with pressure from President Trump, Beijing and a possible sale.

For These Shows, Take a Hike

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/11/theater/sound-walks-promenade-plays.html
September 12, 2020 at 12:57AM

If you participate in a sound walk and no one is there to applaud, does it count as theater? Our critic argues that it does. Or at least that it can.

False Rumors That Activists Set Wildfires Exasperate Officials

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/10/us/antifa-wildfires.html
September 11, 2020 at 11:03PM

Law enforcement agencies said claims on social media that antifascist activists had set fires on the West Coast were unfounded.

Gig Work Is Risky for Apps, Too

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/11/technology/gig-work-business-model.html
September 11, 2020 at 08:19PM

New and proposed laws and regulatory challenges threaten the business model of apps like Uber and Handy.

Are Gender Reveals Cursed?

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/10/style/gender-reveal-parties-cursed.html
September 11, 2020 at 04:55AM

Several parties, meant to mark a milestone in the journey of pregnancy, have resulted in devastation. Is it time to temper the spectacle, or embrace the celebratory spirit?

Social Media Shaming Your College

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/10/technology/coronavirus-quarantines-college.html
September 11, 2020 at 04:40AM

Students are using apps to shame their schools into better coronavirus plans.

Russian Intelligence Hackers Are Back, Microsoft Warns, Aiming at Democrats and Republicans

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/10/us/politics/russian-hacking-microsoft-biden-trump.html
September 11, 2020 at 03:49AM

China is also growing more adept at targeting campaign workers. But contrary to Trump administration warnings, Beijing is mostly aiming at Biden campaign officials.

Return of the King: Ninja, a Video Game Star, Goes Back to Twitch

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/10/business/ninja-stream-twitch.html
September 10, 2020 at 10:48PM

After months of speculation, one of the world’s most famous video gamers announced his next move.

Cleaners Demand Harassment Safeguards From the Booking Service Handy

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/10/business/handy-service-cleaners-harassment.html
September 10, 2020 at 07:27PM

Workers for a home services company say they face sexual harassment and unfair fees. A civil rights group is asking California regulators to step in.

Chinese Ambassador Liu Xiaoming ‘Likes’ an X-Rated Video. Awkward.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/10/world/asia/liu-xiaoming-twitter-video.html
September 10, 2020 at 11:58AM

China demanded that Twitter investigate, suggesting that Liu Xiaoming’s account had been compromised. But the account has a history of unusual likes.

Facebook May Be Ordered to Change Data Practices in Europe

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/09/technology/facebook-european-union-data-privacy.html
September 09, 2020 at 11:42PM

Irish regulators have started an inquiry into Facebook’s movement of data on European users to the United States.

No, Facebook Does Not Reflect Reality

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/09/technology/facebook-mark-zuckerberg.html
September 09, 2020 at 08:01PM

Despite what Mark Zuckerberg says, Facebook shapes our world.

‘The Social Dilemma’ Review: Unplug and Run

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/09/movies/the-social-dilemma-review.html
September 09, 2020 at 02:00PM

This documentary from Jeff Orlowski explores how addiction and privacy breaches are features, not bugs, of social media platforms.

Parents Got More Time Off. Then the Backlash Started.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/05/technology/parents-time-off-backlash.html
September 08, 2020 at 08:36PM

Pandemic policies at tech companies have created a rift between parents offered more benefits and resentful workers who don’t have children.

Computers Can’t Cut Red Tape

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/08/technology/government-technology-coronavirus.html
September 08, 2020 at 07:34PM

Modernizing government technology can be helpful during a crisis. To a point.

Chess (Yes, Chess) Is Now a Streaming Obsession

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/07/technology/chess-new-streaming-obsession-twitch.html
September 07, 2020 at 10:16PM

Viewers are flocking to games during the pandemic, entranced by a charismatic grandmaster and his lightning-fast play.

When Learning Is Really Remote: Students Climb Trees and Travel Miles for a Cell Signal

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/05/world/asia/coronavirus-indonesia-school-remote-learning.html
September 05, 2020 at 10:02PM

Schools are closed in Indonesia because of the pandemic, but for the rural poor who lack internet access and smartphones, online education is particularly difficult.

TikTok Influencers, Harassment and Fans: Who's to Blame?

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/04/style/tiktok-lgbt-harassment-donelij.html
September 05, 2020 at 06:15PM

Fan armies are harassing gay and trans people on TikTok.

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