Tech News : ICO Cookie Warning To Top Websites
The UK Information Commissioner has warned some of the UK’s top websites that if they don’t offer users fair choices over cookie use, as required by data protection law, they will face enforcement action.
Guidance Not Being Followed
The Information Commissioner argues that although it has previously issued clear guidance that organisations must make it as easy for users to “Reject All” advertising cookies as it is to “Accept All,” this guidance is still not being followed in many cases.
The Issue
The issue is that people are concerned about companies using their personal information to target them with ads without their consent. However, some cookies used by websites track users so that they can serve personalised advertising to the user based on their browsing. Therefore, the ICO says that websites must clearly give users the opportunity to reject (or accept / consent to) these types of cookies in order to be compliant with data protection laws.
Stephen Almond, ICO Executive Director of Regulatory Risk, has given examples on the ICO website, of ways that website users can be negatively affected if the top websites they visit aren’t compliant in this way. Mr Almond says: “Gambling addicts may be targeted with betting offers based on their browsing record, women may be targeted with distressing baby adverts shortly after miscarriage and someone exploring their sexuality may be presented with ads that disclose their sexual orientation.”
Only 30 Days To Comply
The ICO says that it has therefore written to companies running many of the UK’s most visited websites setting out its concerns and giving them 30 days to ensure their websites comply with the law.
Previous Warning
This latest announcement follows a warning and a paper outlining guidance issued back in August. At the time, the ICO warned designers and developers to stop using harmful design practices that could: “Undermine people’s control over their personal information and lead to worse consumer and competition outcomes.”
Legislation Changes Concerning
The current regulations relating to cookie usage are split between General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR). The PECR (known as the “cookie law”) led to the introduction of cookie consent pop-ups on websites.
Concerns Over New Bill
However, a new data protection and digital information bill is on the way which has concerned privacy groups because:
– It will mean fewer cookie consent pop-ups.
– It will allow some websites to collect information (to improve service and security) without consent.
– It will give ministers the power to add new exceptions to cookie consent requirements.
What Does This Mean For Your Business?
As the ICO’s Stephen Almond says, “many of the biggest websites have got this right” yet it appears that the Information Commissioner has now run out of patience with companies that haven’t yet decided (for whatever reason) to get to grips with and comply with data privacy regulations.
The ICO’s warning to the UK’s top websites about cookie consent has significant implications for businesses, especially those with high online traffic. This move signals an increased urgency for these websites to comply with data protection laws – 30 days isn’t a long time for big companies to comply, although some would argue they’ve had years already to do so. Emphasising the need for fair-use, transparancy and user-friendly cookie consent mechanisms is, therefore, the drive behind the Information Commissioner’s latest ultimatum with the focus on high-traffic sites. This seems to indicate that businesses with larger user bases now face greater scrutiny, and compliance may now be not only a legal necessity but also crucial for maintaining user trust and brand reputation.
The ICO’s announcement serves as a stark reminder for all businesses about the importance of adhering to data protection regulations. This includes staying informed about impending legislative changes that could affect cookie consent and data collection practices (remember, the new bill will see ministers able to make changes to cookie exceptions). For web designers and developers, this latest announcement underscores the need to prioritise user privacy in their designs, moving away from methods that subtly coerce users into accepting cookies.
With public concern over the use of personal data in advertising, this story is a reminder that businesses must be transparent in their cookie usage and provide clear consent options and that this approach is vital in enhancing the trustworthiness of the site. Overall, the ICO’s warning highlights the necessity for a comprehensive and proactive approach to data privacy and protection, urging businesses to not only comply with current laws but also prepare for future changes in legislation and public expectations.
Tech News : Autumn Statement Suggests IT Spending Boost
The announcement of measures intended to boost investment in innovation and technology in UK Chancellor Jeremy Hunt’s Autumn Statement could mean increased spending on IT and AI.
Measures To Boost The Tech Sector
The UK Chancellor’s Autumn Statement introduced a range of measures aimed at boosting the tech sector, with potentially significant implications for tech spending and investment in innovation. Some tech commentators have suggested that this could mean that private-sector IT buyers will see a long-term boost. Here we take a look at how the measures announced could affect tech spending, their potential overall impact, and any negative effects they might have.
Positive Impacts on Tech Spending
Some of the key announcements in the Autumn Statement that could have a positive effect on tech spending include :
– A permanent full expensing policy. Mr Hunt’s decision to make the full expensing policy permanent allows private sector IT buyers to write off the cost of IT equipment against tax. This policy, therefore, looks likely to encourage more investment in IT infrastructure, as companies can deduct these expenses from taxable profits.
– Enhanced R&D tax credits. The merger of the R&D Expenditure Credit and SME schemes from April 2024 will make more companies eligible for claims supporting innovation. It’s thought that around 5,000 additional small businesses may benefit, thereby helping to foster a more innovative environment in the UK tech sector.
– Investment in AI and quantum technologies. The government’s commitment of £500 million over two years to establish additional ‘compute innovation centres’ and the funding being part of a larger £1.5 billion investment is intended to enhance the UK’s capabilities in AI. The Statement also outlined five quantum missions as part of the ‘National Quantum Strategy.’ These missions focus on establishing advanced quantum computing capabilities and networks and incorporating quantum technologies in various sectors such as healthcare, transportation, and defence by 2030 and 2035. One key benefit of quantum computing being made available to healthcare could of course be breakthroughs in areas like drug discovery. Thinking back to the pandemic, many peopel may remember how quantum computing was something that was being used to help speed the way to developing effective vaccines.
– Skills development Initiatives. It’s long been known that the UK has a tech skills gap which is something that threatens to hamper its ambition to become an international technology superpower. Therefore, a £50 million investment to pilot ways to increase apprenticeships in key growth sectors (including engineering) aligns with the need for a skilled workforce to sustain tech advancements. Mr Hunt also announced three more investment zones (on top of the 12 announced in March) in order to boost advanced manufacturing in the West Midlands, East Midlands, and Greater Manchester.
– Support for clean energy and infrastructure. The outlined efforts to cut grid access delays and provide financial incentives for clean energy businesses will likely accelerate the UK’s transition to a low-carbon economy, benefiting green tech initiatives. For example, a £960m Green Industries Growth Accelerator fund may help to support emerging technologies in clean energy and the transition to net-zero.
Not All Positive
Some of the Autumn Statement announcements, however, may not be such good news for the UK’s tech sector. For example, some of the potential challenges and negative effects include:
– Negative economic forecasts and tight public spending: Despite some of the ambitious measures announced, their success is essentially contingent on economic forecasts, which are currently revised downwards. A significant squeeze on public spending due to inflation may also hamper the plans for digital transformation, especially if budget constraints affect public sector investments.
– Implementation and collaboration needs. The effectiveness of the many potentially positive measures announced depends on the government’s ability to implement them quickly and efficiently. Also, government collaboration with the tech sector is crucial to ensure these policies translate into tangible growth and innovation. For example, the government will need to work alongside tech companies, startups, and industry experts to understand their needs, address potential challenges, and ensure that the policies are actually practical and beneficial.
– A reliance on estimates and uncertainties. Some reforms, like those to the energy grid and pension and capital market reforms, are unfortunately based on estimates that may not actually materialise as expected. If these projections fall short, it could limit the overall impact of the statement’s measures on tech investment and growth.
What Does This Mean For Your Business?
The Autumn Statement’s initiatives offer a promising landscape for businesses beyond just IT buyers, possibly signalling a transformative shift in the UK’s approach to technological advancement and innovation. The decision to make full expensing permanent, coupled with enhanced R&D tax credits, may help present a financially viable path for businesses across various sectors to invest more boldly in new technology and innovation projects. This change not only eases the financial burden of such investments but may also go some way to encouraging a culture of continuous innovation.
The substantial investments in AI, quantum computing, and compute infrastructure could open up new avenues for businesses to access and leverage advanced technologies. These technologies, for example, have the potential to revolutionise product development and operational efficiency across a wide range of industries. As a result, organisations can look forward to not only improved business-processes but also the possibility of developing groundbreaking new products and services.
The focus on developing much-needed tech skills in the UK workforce through apprenticeships and training initiatives is another critical aspect. This approach could help give UK businesses access to employees equipped with the necessary skills to navigate and contribute to an increasingly complex technological landscape. This is particularly crucial at a time when technology is evolving rapidly, and the demand for skilled professionals is at an all-time high.
Businesses with a focus on green technologies or those looking to transition to more sustainable practices may get support through initiatives aimed at reducing grid access delays and promoting clean energy. This not only aligns with global trends toward sustainability but also offers a competitive edge to businesses that prioritise environmental responsibility.
However, businesses in what are challenging economic times are likely to see the announcements in the broader economic context. The success of these measures is not guaranteed and is contingent upon effective implementation amidst economic uncertainties and potential public spending constraints. Therefore, businesses need to stay informed and agile, ready to adapt to changing regulations and economic conditions.
Looking on the bright side, this year’s Autumn Statement generally appears to present a multifaceted opportunity for businesses to grow, innovate, and adapt in a rapidly evolving technological environment. If UK businesses can capitalise on the initiatives announced and navigate the associated challenges, they may be better positioned to make the most of new technologies like AI.
An Apple Byte : ChatGPT Voice Free To All iOS Users
OpenAI’s president and co-founder, Greg Brockman, has announced that ‘ChatGPT Voice’ in its ChatGPT app, previously only available to Plus and Enterprise subscribers, is now available free to all iOS and Android users.
ChatGPT Voice (originally introduced in September) integrates voice capabilities with the existing ChatGPT text-based model. This allows users to have a conversation with it and ask the ChatGPT chatbot questions and be given answers, all by voice, i.e. talking to the app on your device. Greg Brockman said on X that the feature “totally changes the ChatGPT experience.”
iOS users who want to try ChatGPT Voice can access it in their ChatGPT app now. An example video of what ChatGPT Voice can do has been posted by Greg Brockman on X here.
Security Stop Press : Snapchat Photo Scam Targeting Teen Boys
Police and the US Charity National Center for Missing and Exploited Children have warned of a nude photo Snapchat scam targeting teen boys that could cause emotional trauma.
The Snapchat ‘online sextortion’ scam involves scammers befriending teenage boys online by posing as teenage girls, sharing nude photos of a girl with them, and asking for nude photos in return. Those teen boys who reciprocate are then sent a demand for money with the threat of sharing the boy’s photos with his social media followers if he doesn’t pay (via a peer-to-peer payment app). However, even if the scammers are paid, they don’t go away.
The advice to young victims of a sextortion scheme is first tell their parents, to block bad actors, and to report any instances of this crime to police and Action Fraud.
In September, Snapchat announced new safety features in its app to enhance protections and safeguards for teenage users, which include educational resources highlighting risks, and in-app warnings when a teenager receives a friend request from someone with whom they have no mutual contacts.
Sustainability-in-Tech : Friendlier Alternatives To Lithium-Ion Batteries
In this article, we look at what the issues around lithium-ion batteries are, why we need more sustainable alternatives, then we’ll look at some examples of the latest, environmentally-friendly alternatives.
What Are Lithium-Ion Batteries?
Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are a type of rechargeable battery which function by moving lithium ions between the battery’s positive and negative electrodes during charging and discharging. This movement of ions allows the battery to store and release energy.
These batteries are commonly used in a wide array of electronic devices including smartphones, laptops, tablets, power tools, portable speakers, drones, smartwatches, and backup power supplies. However, one particularly important (and growing) use for them is within electronic vehicles.
What’s So Good About Them?
Some of the main advantages of lithium-ion batteries are:
– High energy density, meaning they can store a large amount of energy in a relatively small and lightweight package.
– Longer lifespan compared to many other types of rechargeable batteries.
– The fact that they don’t suffer significantly from the memory effect, which is where batteries lose their maximum energy capacity if they are repeatedly recharged after being only partially discharged.
Why Do We Need So Many Lithium-Ion Batteries?
LIBs are integral to modern technology and the global shift towards renewable energy and electrification. Their widespread use in consumer electronics, electric vehicles, and energy storage systems, combined with their high energy density and efficiency, plus their wide range of applications and pivotal role in clean energy transition are reasons why we now seem to be so reliant on them. Other reasons why LIBs are so essential in today’s world include:
– Their versatility. Originally commercialised in the 1990s, their versatility means they have been adopted to become integral to so many consumer electronics. This versatility has also led them to become increasingly central to electric vehicles (EVs), also thanks to their high energy density and lightweight design.
– Their importance for the clean energy transition, such as decarbonising the transportation and electricity sectors. For example, they enable high-performance EVs and are critical for energy storage, supporting the grid’s shift towards renewable sources like solar and wind.
Why The Need For Alternatives To Lithium-Ion Batteries?
The escalating demand for batteries (primarily driven by the global push towards electrification and renewable energy) has highlighted the critical need for more sustainable battery technologies. As the world gradually moves away from fossil fuels, the role of batteries becomes increasingly vital, especially for storing energy from intermittent renewable sources like solar and wind.
Environmental, Ethical And Other Concerns
Although LIBs are currently the backbone of energy storage and electric vehicles, producing them is not without its problems. For example:
– Environmental and geopolitical concerns. The production of these batteries involves mining to extract lithium and cobalt, often in environmentally sensitive or politically unstable regions. About 60 per cent of today’s lithium (expected to rise to 95 per cent by 2030) is used for batteries. The extraction, mainly in Argentina, Australia, Chile, and China, is water-intensive and energy-consuming, posing environmental concerns. Also, Lithium batteries contain a variety of chemicals, compounds, and toxic and harmful substances such as mercury, cadmium, lead and of course lithium itself.
– High production costs. These batteries are expensive to produce due to the high costs of raw materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel. These materials are in limited supply and high demand, making mining operations costly. This is why transitioning to non-cobalt batteries could reduce electric car costs significantly. For example, it’s estimated that non-cobalt batteries could enable electric car manufacturers to reduce the cost of their cars by 30 per cent (Berkeley Law Centre for Law, Energy, and Environment).
– Surging global demand. The demand for LIBs is projected to grow to 4.7 TWh by 2030 (it was 2.6 TWh in 2019), increasing the market value to over $400 billion. This growth highlights the need for more sustainable and ethically sourced materials.
– Supply chain and R&D expenses: Supply chain constraints, especially China’s dominance in the lithium and graphite market, impact prices. Additionally, ongoing research and development efforts to enhance battery performance and safety contribute to the high overall costs.
– Their significant weight (in EVs). LIB packs in electric cars can weigh several hundred kilograms, constituting a substantial part of the vehicle’s total weight. This weight impacts vehicle design, including aspects like structure, handling and efficiency. This has recently flagged other concerns, e.g. The Institution of Structural Engineers calling for car park designs to evolve to cope with bigger, heavier electric cars (fuelling fears that car parks could collapse if we all switch to electric cars).
The Alternatives
The environmental and ethical concerns around LIBs have led to the search for more sustainable alternatives. Examples of the alternatives being explored so far include:
– Sodium-ion Batteries. Sodium has properties like lithium and although sodium-ion batteries are larger than their lithium counterparts, they are easier to source (e.g. from seawater) and are more sustainable. This makes them a viable option for non-portable applications such as storing electricity from solar panels.
– Calcium-ion Batteries. Research at New York’s Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute has proposed calcium ions as an alternative to lithium in batteries. Calcium is abundant and inexpensive, making it a promising candidate for sustainable energy storage. Despite challenges like the larger size and higher charge density of calcium ions (which affect diffusion kinetics and cyclic stability), researchers have developed special materials to accommodate calcium ions effectively.
– Organic rechargeable batteries. These batteries are transition-metal-free, eco-friendly, and cost-effective. They represent a significant shift from current lithium-ion technologies and could potentially address the environmental and economic concerns associated with the widespread use of transition metals in batteries.
What Does This Mean For Your Organisation?
As the search for sustainable alternatives to lithium-ion batteries gains momentum, its implications for organisations, especially in the electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing sector, may be profound. Transitioning to alternative battery technologies (e.g. non-cobalt, sodium-ion, calcium-ion, or organic rechargeable batteries) could significantly reduce production costs and address many of the environmental and ethical concerns at the same time. This would align with the rising environmental consciousness and presents an opportunity for EV manufacturers to decrease vehicle prices, potentially widening their market reach and consumer base.
Embracing alternatives would also show a commitment to sustainability, thereby enhancing an organisation’s environmental credentials, and could position companies at the forefront of innovation, offering a competitive edge in an industry increasingly geared towards eco-friendly solutions. Additionally, diversifying battery technology addresses vulnerabilities in the lithium and cobalt supply chain, mitigating risks associated with supply disruptions and price volatility.
Also, the move towards more sustainable batteries aligns with regulatory demands and consumer expectations for environmentally responsible practices and while alternatives to LIBs might introduce new design and efficiency challenges, they may also provide opportunities for innovative vehicle designs and improved performance.
That said, however, we’re still some way off from finding a viable single alternative and it will take something very special to cause a shift away from the economy that’s grown up around lithium and the commitment of countries and industries to it so long as cheap, abundant supply is around. Even at this stage in a climate emergency, economic and political (rather than environmental) aspects appear to have more sway over decisions, e.g. the US Biden administration’s support for a huge lithium mine, now under construction in northern Nevada. Also, it’s worth remembering that building EV’s, never mind the batteries, is a major source of carbon production in itself. For example, to make an EV produces an average of eight tons of CO2, plus two additional tons of CO2 per year to run it (from the energy used to produce the electricity).
In essence, therefore, a real shift in battery technology won’t just be about environmental goals but will also be about addressing economic and political factors and finding ways to drive forward-thinking business strategies in the evolving landscape of EV manufacturing.
Tech Tip – Silence Distracting Website Notifications Using Chrome’s ‘Mute Site’
If you’re often overwhelmed by notifications such as customer service chats or discount alerts when you arrive on a website, Google Chrome has an in-built feature to instantly mute these. Here’s how it works:
– When using Chrome and visiting a website / having different tabs open for different websites, right click on the browser tab (at the top) for the website you’d like to mute the notifications for.
– Select ‘Mute site’.
– Now you can view the website without all the distractions.