Transcript

Hello, everyone! Welcome to “Just a Moment News,” I’m your host, Erika, bringing you today’s headlines on August 7, 2024. Let’s dive into the stories making waves today.

Starting off, there’s a significant development in the tech industry as a recent US judicial ruling found that Google has been illegally monopolizing online search and related advertising. This marks the end of a four-year legal battle, with Alphabet, Google’s parent company, expected to appeal. The ruling could lead to remedies like cash fines or even structural changes, such as breaking up Google into smaller entities. This includes potentially separating the search engine from other parts of the business like Android and YouTube. The judge highlighted Google’s practice of paying companies to set Google as the default search engine, which stifles competition. Remedies might also force companies to present users with a choice of search engines, possibly allowing competitors like Microsoft’s Bing to gain market share.

In retail news, Massmart has expanded its e-commerce initiatives through a partnership with Uber Eats. Game stores, a part of Massmart, now offer small appliances and electronics from fifty-one locations on the platform. This follows a successful initial launch in May and includes integration of twenty-three Game stores into its OneCart on-demand delivery app. Massmart is also converting underperforming Game stores in malls to small-format Makro stores to expand its distribution footprint and better compete with online giants.

Turning to technology in household appliances, Michael Rigney, founder of Cala Systems, is pioneering a new AI-powered water heater designed to predict hot water demand and optimize heating efficiency. This innovative water heater combines an advanced heat pump with an AI-driven control system. Despite its higher upfront cost, Cala’s 65-gallon model is expected to offer long-term savings, supported by $5.6 million in seed funding.

In the entertainment sector, Hollywood’s relationship with artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly complex. Following OpenAI’s release of ChatGPT, there’s been a surge in discussions about AI’s role in creative fields. This has led to legislative efforts to protect artists’ voices and appearances from unauthorized use by generative AI tools. Hollywood’s unions and associations like SAG-AFTRA and the Motion Picture Association are navigating a delicate balance between embracing AI for content creation and protecting creators’ rights.

In sports, an extraordinary moment occurred during the 2024 Paris Olympics surfing semifinal in Tahiti when a whale breached in the background. This event highlighted the rich marine environment of Tahiti and added a spectacular natural element to the competition. The surfing semifinals took place at Teahupo’o, Tahiti, renowned for its exceptional surfing conditions.

Lastly, a new architectural concept is emerging as Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, in collaboration with Energy Vault, propose the construction of “battery skyscrapers.” These skyscrapers would use gravity energy storage technology to address the intermittency challenges of a renewable energy grid. These structures could potentially reach heights of 300 to 1,000 meters, integrating energy storage with residential and commercial spaces.

That wraps up our news for today. Thank you for tuning in to “Just a Moment News.” I’m Erika, and I hope you found today’s discussions insightful. Join us again for more updates and in-depth coverage of the latest stories. Have a great day!

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