In this insight, we look at ‘voice changers’, technology that lets users change and disguise their voices in real time and in playback.

What Do They Do & How? 

Voice changing software (and hardware) alter the sound of a person’s voice in real-time or during playback. Voice changers can be implemented through software applications installed on computers, smartphones, or dedicated devices. Some voice chat programs or messaging apps may also include built-in voice modulation features. The latest voice changers use AI to help change and disguise voices.

Voice changers generally work by applying various effects, such as pitch shifting, modulation, distortion, echo, and other audio manipulations. There are free and paid-for Pro versions (often available on the same platform).

What Are They Used For? 

Voice changers can be used for various purposes, including entertainment, anonymity, and practical applications. Here are a few common use cases:

– Entertainment. Voice changers are often employed in the entertainment industry for creating unique character voices in movies, TV shows, and video games. They enable actors and voice artists to transform their voices to match specific roles or enhance their performance.

– Gaming. In the gaming community, voice changers are popular for online multiplayer games. Players can modify their voices to match the characters they are portraying, adding an extra layer of immersion and fun to the gaming experience.

– Anonymity. Voice changers can be used to conceal one’s identity during online communication. By altering their voice, individuals can protect their privacy and maintain anonymity during voice chats, online gaming, or other virtual interactions.

– Pranks and humour. Voice changers are often used for practical jokes or comedic purposes. They allow users to mimic famous personalities, create funny sound effects, or generate exaggerated voices for amusement.

– Accessibility. Voice changers can also serve as assistive technology, helping individuals with speech impairments or conditions such as laryngitis to communicate more effectively. By modifying their voice, they can overcome communication barriers and make their speech more understandable.

What’s The Difference Between Voice Generators and Voice Changers?

AI voice changers modify an existing voice, while AI voice generators synthesise new voices from scratch. Voice changers alter and manipulate the characteristics of an input voice, whereas voice generators create entirely new voices using artificial intelligence techniques. That said, some AI voice sites offer both voice changers and voice generators.

Examples of AI Voice Changers 

AI voice changers employ artificial intelligence techniques to modify and transform voices. Here are a few examples of AI-based voice changers:

Voice.ai (https://voice.ai/) is a free, real-time voice changer where users can choose from 1000s of different voices in its ‘Voice Universe’ UGC voice library, or use the AI Voice changer to change their voice in real-time across different apps, e.g. Zoom, Discord, Minecraft, GTA5, Fortnite, Valorant, League of Legends, Among Us, Skype, WhatsApp, Teamspeak and more. Voice.ai does, however, have a low Trustpilot rating which appears to be based around several issues including the quality of results, privacy, subscriptions and more.

Lyrebird (https://www.descript.com/lyrebird): Canada-based Lyrebird (AI research division of Descript) is an AI voice synthesis platform that can mimic and imitate human voices. It allows users to generate speech in different voices by training the AI model on a small voice sample. The resulting synthesised voice can be used to alter the speaker’s voice or create entirely new voices.

Modulate.ai (https://www.modulate.ai/). Modulate.ai is an AI-driven voice modulation platform that enables real-time voice changing in video games and virtual reality. It uses machine learning algorithms to transform the user’s voice into various character voices, enhancing the gaming experience and adding immersion.

Replica Studios (https://replicastudios.com/). Replica Studios offers an AI-powered voice synthesis platform that allows users to generate voices for characters, voice-overs, and other applications. The platform utilises AI models to create realistic and customisable voice effects, enabling voice actors to modify their voices to match specific requirements.

Resemble AI (https://www.resemble.ai/). Resemble AI provides an AI-based voice cloning and voiceover platform. It uses deep learning techniques to analyse and recreate a person’s voice based on a few minutes of recorded audio. This technology enables voice actors, content creators, and companies to generate personalised voices for different applications. Resemble AI’s voice changer allows users to use speech-to-speech to apply their voice’s cadence to an AI voice of their choice.

Respeecher (https://www.respeecher.com/). Although it is known as a voice cloning platform, it can transform input voices into a range of output voices.

VoiceMod (https://www.voicemod.net/ai-voices/). This real-time voice changer provides 10+ (and soon many more) different voices and a large number of voice effects for users. It focuses on users in the entertainment industry – games, movie character voices, streaming, and more.

What Does This Mean For Your Business? 

The advent of AI voice changers has ushered in a new era of opportunities for businesses and individuals alike. These innovative technologies have not only opened up new avenues for creativity and entertainment but have also resulted in significant cost and time savings. With free voice changers, voice cloning tools, and other advanced AI tools becoming accessible to everyone, businesses can harness their potential across different industries.

One of the key advantages of AI voice changers is their adaptability. They offer a wide range of uses, allowing businesses to leverage them for various purposes. In the entertainment industry, voice changers enable actors and voice artists to transform their voices, creating unique character voices for movies, TV shows, and video games. Gamers can immerse themselves in virtual worlds by modifying their voices to match their characters. Voice changers also offer a layer of anonymity for online communications, ensuring privacy and security.

Moreover, AI voice generators have revolutionised voice synthesis, enabling businesses to generate artificial voices that sound natural and human-like. This has opened up avenues for virtual assistants, audiobooks, voiceovers, and other applications where synthesised speech is needed. The ability to create personalised voices using AI models has provided content creators, voice actors, and companies with powerful tools to enhance their projects and engage audiences effectively.

Risks

However, as with any technological advancement, there are risks associated with the use of AI tools. The accessibility of AI voice changers and related technologies means that some individuals may employ them for malicious purposes, such as impersonation, fraud, or spreading disinformation. This calls for responsible use and ethical considerations in utilising these tools.

The rise of AI voice changers has brought about unprecedented opportunities for businesses and individuals. These tools have unlocked creative potential, saved time and costs, and opened doors to new experiences across industries. However, it is crucial to be aware of the risks and ensure responsible use of AI tools to mitigate any potential misuse. By harnessing the power of AI voice changers in a responsible manner, businesses can explore new horizons and leverage the transformative capabilities of this technology, from marketing to training & onboarding for example.

Following Apple recently becoming the first publicly traded company to close a trading day with a $3 trillion market value, we look at some of the main reasons for the company’s incredible popularity and growth.

The First $3 Trillion Company 

Although Apple actually reached the $3 trillion market cap at the beginning of last year, it didn’t close at that level until 28 June this year. Its stock has jumped a massive 46 per cent in 2023 and finally getting over the $3 trillion milestone is reported to be down to the 5 June launch of its ($3,499) augmented reality (AR) headset, which some commentators see as its riskiest move since the introduction of the iPhone more than a decade ago.

The surge in Apple’s stock value this year contrast with last year where its market cap fell below $2 trillion in trading for the first time since early 2021.

Started In The 1970s 

Looking back to the beginning, Apple Inc. can trace its roots back to April 1, 1976, in Cupertino, California. The company was founded by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne, with the aim of developing and selling personal computers. Jobs, who is popularly seen as a charismatic visionary, had a profound influence on Apple’s trajectory, while Wozniak, an engineering genius, was instrumental in designing and building the company’s first product.

The fact that Apple started in the 1970s was highly significant in shaping its subsequent success. The company’s early foray into personal computers with the Apple II established Apple as a key player in the emerging technology industry. The Apple II’s user-friendly design and intuitive interface set a new standard, laying the foundation for Apple’s reputation as an innovator.

Furthermore, Apple’s formative years allowed it to establish its core principles and values. The company’s emphasis on superior design, user experience, and attention to detail became integral to its ‘DNA’. These principles continue to be central to Apple’s success, driving the company to consistently deliver products that resonate with consumers on both functional and emotional levels.

Moreover, Apple’s early years provided the company with the opportunity to establish a dedicated fan base. The passionate following that emerged during this period has remained loyal to the brand throughout the decades. This loyal customer base has played a crucial role in Apple’s success, driving sales and fostering a strong ecosystem of products, services, and software.

Apple I & II Computers 

The genesis of Apple can be found in Jobs and Wozniak’s collaboration on the Apple I computer. Initially, they operated from Jobs’ family garage, where they assembled the first units by hand. Encouraged by the positive response, they sold their prized possessions to fund the production of the Apple II, which debuted in 1977.

The Apple II became a resounding success, and its user-friendly design and intuitive interface played a significant role in shaping the modern personal computer industry and therefore played a pivotal role in Apple’s growth, serving as a catalyst for the company’s success. Apple II made personal computers accessible to a broader audience and the Apple II’s success established Apple as a significant player in the industry, providing the foundation for subsequent innovations and solidifying the company’s reputation as a leader in technology.

The Breakthrough Moment – The Macintosh 

Apple’s breakthrough moment came in 1984 with the introduction of the Macintosh, a revolutionary computer featuring a graphical user interface.

The Macintosh computer was a transformative product that propelled Apple’s growth and popularity. With its revolutionary graphical user interface and intuitive design, the Macintosh brought user-friendly computing to the masses. It simplified complex tasks, making computers more accessible and appealing to a wider audience. The Macintosh’s impact was profound, solidifying Apple’s reputation as an innovative technology company and laying the groundwork for future groundbreaking products that would shape the industry.

In the 80s – Trouble At Mill 

However, internal conflicts and leadership changes led to Jobs’ departure from Apple in 1985. The subsequent years were challenging for the company, marked by a decline in market share and product line confusion.

Revitalised By The Return of Jobs 

In 1997, Jobs returned to Apple as interim CEO and set about revitalising the company. Under his guidance, Apple launched a series of groundbreaking products, including the iMac, iPod, iPhone, and iPad. These devices not only revolutionised their respective industries but also transformed Apple into a global brand known for its seamless integration of hardware, software, and services. Jobs’ uncompromising focus on design, user experience, and innovation became the cornerstone of Apple’s success.

Following Jobs 

Sadly, Steve Jobs died in 2011 but Apple has continued to maintain its trajectory and focus under the leadership of Tim Cook, who took over as CEO in August 2011. Cook had previously served as Apple’s Chief Operating Officer and was instrumental in streamlining the company’s operations and supply chain. While Cook’s leadership style differs from Jobs, he appears to have upheld Apple’s commitment to innovation, customer experience, and seamless integration of hardware, software, and services.

Under Cook’s tenure, Apple has expanded its product portfolio, launched new services such as Apple Music and Apple TV+, and continued to push the boundaries of technology with products like the Apple Watch and AirPods. The company’s ability to maintain its focus and trajectory can be attributed to its strong organisational culture, dedicated team of designers and engineers, and a relentless drive to deliver products that exceed customer expectations. Apple’s ability to seamlessly transition leadership and stay true to its core principles has been key to its ongoing success in the technology industry.

So, What Makes Apple So Different? 

The key factors that have contributed to Apple’s differentiation and success as a company include:

– Innovation and Design. Apple has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation, introducing products with groundbreaking features and sleek designs. From the Macintosh to the iPhone, Apple’s focus on user-centric design and seamless integration of hardware and software has set it apart from competitors.

– User Experience. Apple has prioritised delivering exceptional user experiences, emphasising simplicity, intuitiveness, and ease of use. This focus on providing a seamless and enjoyable experience has garnered a dedicated customer base that remains loyal to the brand.

– Ecosystem and Integration. Apple has created a comprehensive ecosystem of products, services, and software that work seamlessly together. The integration between devices like the iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch, along with services like iCloud, App Store, and Apple Music, has fostered a cohesive and interconnected user experience.

– Brand and Marketing. Apple has crafted a strong brand identity and image, positioning itself as a premium and aspirational brand. Its iconic marketing campaigns, memorable advertising, and carefully curated product launches have helped build anticipation and excitement around new releases.

– Leadership and Vision. The visionary leadership of Steve Jobs (and later Tim Cook), has played a crucial role in Apple’s success. Jobs’ emphasis on excellence, design, and innovation set the tone for the company, while Cook’s operational expertise and focus on sustainability have continued to drive Apple’s growth.

These factors, combined with Apple’s ability to anticipate and shape consumer trends, have propelled the company’s success, and made it one of the most influential and valuable technology companies in the world.

Not All Plain Sailing 

It hasn’t been all plain sailing for Apple along the way. Along its journey to becoming one of the world’s biggest and most valuable tech companies, Apple has encountered several difficulties, challenges, and low points. Here are some notable examples:

– Power Struggles and Leadership Changes. Apple experienced internal power struggles and leadership changes, particularly during the 1980s and 1990s. Steve Jobs’ departure in 1985 and subsequent leadership changes resulted in a lack of direction, slowed innovation, and declining market share.

– Declining Market Share. In the 1990s, Apple faced a decline in market share due to intense competition from Microsoft and other PC manufacturers. The company struggled to find its footing in a highly competitive industry, leading to decreased sales and financial challenges.

– Product Missteps: Apple had its fair share of product missteps, such as the Apple III and the Macintosh Portable, which failed to meet market expectations. These product failures highlighted the importance of product innovation, design, and market fit in Apple’s journey.

– Lawsuits and Legal Challenges. Apple has faced numerous lawsuits and legal challenges over the years. Notable examples include the high-profile legal battle with Microsoft over copyright infringement and patent disputes with competitors, such as Samsung, regarding smartphone technology.

– Stock Price Slumps. Apple experienced significant stock price slumps at various points in its history, notably during the mid-1990s and in 2013 when concerns about the company’s ability to sustain growth arose. These periods of volatility reflected the market’s uncertainty and scepticism about Apple’s future prospects.

Despite these challenges, Apple’s ability to adapt, innovate, and reinvent itself has enabled it to overcome setbacks and emerge stronger. The company’s resilience, coupled with its strong focus on design, user experience, and technological innovation, has propelled Apple to become one of the most successful and influential tech companies in the world.

The Future of Apple 

So, where does a $3 trillion tech giant go from here? Apple has some strong competition from four other U.S. companies valued at more than $1 trillion – Alphabet, Microsoft, Amazon and Nvidia, as well as Meta, which has seen a 137 per cent jump on the S&P 500 this year. All these competitors have invested in AI, whereas Apple appears to have stayed away it so far which some commentators have expressed concerns about. However, this hasn’t stopped Apple from posting stronger than expected quarterly earnings in May.

In brief, just some of the areas where Apple could be heading in the next 10 years under Tim Cook’s leadership may be:

– Autonomous electric cars. Apple is reportedly working on an autonomous electric car, potentially entering a new market, and disrupting the automotive industry.

– The Metaverse. Apple has shown interest in the metaverse and is rumoured to be developing a headset that supports augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). This could position Apple to take advantage of the growing metaverse market.

– Even greater smartphone dominance: Apple’s strong position in the global smartphone market, particularly in the 5G segment, positions the company for continued growth as 5G adoption increases.

– Services business growth. With the addition of metaverse-related devices and the potential success of new technologies, Apple’s services business could see significant growth, driven by increased app sales.

– Earnings growth. If Apple achieves a higher-than-expected annual earnings growth rate, the company’s stock price could see substantial gains over the next decade, potentially reaching around $980 per share.

What Does This Mean For Your Business? 

Apple’s recent achievement of reaching a $3 trillion market value has significant implications for the company, its competitors, and business users of Apple’s products.

For Apple as a company, this milestone solidifies its position as one of the most influential and valuable technology companies in the world. The company’s history of innovation, commitment to superior design, and seamless integration of hardware and software have propelled its success and set it apart from its competitors. With a strong emphasis on user experience and a comprehensive ecosystem of products and services, Apple has cultivated a dedicated fan base that remains loyal to the brand. This loyal customer base, combined with Apple’s ability to anticipate and shape consumer trends, positions the company for continued growth and success in the future.

In terms of Apple’s competitors and the market, the $3 trillion valuation sends a clear message that Apple is a force to be reckoned with. It surpasses other U.S. companies with valuations over $1 trillion, such as Alphabet, Microsoft, Amazon, and Nvidia. While these competitors have made significant investments in artificial intelligence (AI), Apple has taken a different approach, focusing on its strengths in design, user experience, and integration. This has allowed Apple to maintain a strong position in the global smartphone market and capitalise on the growing adoption of 5G technology. However, it also raises concerns among some commentators who question whether Apple’s avoidance of AI could hinder its ability to compete in certain areas of technology.

For business users of Apple’s products, the company’s success and ongoing innovation offer several advantages. Apple’s emphasis on design, user-friendly interfaces, and intuitive experiences make its products appealing and easy to integrate into various business settings. The seamless integration between devices, services, and software within Apple’s ecosystem creates a cohesive and interconnected user experience, which can enhance productivity and efficiency for businesses. Additionally, Apple’s commitment to privacy and security provides reassurance to business users concerned about safeguarding sensitive data.

Looking ahead, the future of Apple holds great potential. Rumours of the company’s foray into autonomous electric cars and its interest in the metaverse demonstrate its willingness to explore new markets and technologies. These endeavours could lead to further disruption and expansion for Apple, positioning the company at the forefront of emerging industries. As Apple continues to innovate and deliver products that exceed customer expectations, its $3 trillion market value serves as a testament to the trust and confidence placed in the company by both consumers and businesses.

While challenges and uncertainties may arise, Apple’s ability to adapt, reinvent itself, and stay true to its core principles has been key to its resilience and ongoing success. As it moves forward under the leadership of Tim Cook, Apple’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer experience will likely continue to drive its trajectory. With a strong foothold in the technology market and a dedicated user base, Apple looks to be poised to shape the future of technology and maintain its position as a global leader in the industry for years to come.

A recent update to Android 13 has led to reports of an increase in the number of false 999 calls / ‘silent’ calls.

Reports By Police 

The police have reported that an increase in the number of silent 999 calls in recent months is likely to be the result of the updated ‘SOS’ feature in android phones. For example, the National Police Chief’s Council (NPCC) recently tweeted information it had been given by North Yorkshire Police saying “Nationally, all emergency services are currently experiencing record high 999 call volumes. There’s a few reasons for this but one we think is having a significant impact is an update to Android smartphones”. 

Updated SOS Feature Causing It 

The SOS feature on Android phones is a built-in emergency feature that allows users to quickly and easily contact the emergency services in critical situations. It can be activated through various methods, such as pressing a dedicated SOS button, rapidly pressing the power button multiple times, or using specific gestures on the screen. The exact method may depend on the phone model and the software version, however the main method in the UK (until recently) was by pressing the power button five times.

However, a recent update to Google’s Android OS means that the feature can now be activated by simply pressing and holding the power button on a phone for a few seconds. This has not only made it even easier to contact the emergency services but, it is believed, may also have made it easier to accidentally contact the emergency services and is what the police believe is behind the increase in silent 999 calls from Android phones.

Putting Extra Strain On Emergency Services 

UK emergency services call handlers don’t ignore silent calls and must spend time trying to call the person back to check whether help is needed. The rise in silent calls has, therefore put more strain on the emergency services.

Google Working To Resolve The Issue 

It is up to the Android phone manufacturers who choose to offer Emergency SOS on their devices how to manage the implementation of the SOS feature and Google has been reported as saying that it will be providing guidance and resources to these OEMs to help resolve the issue.

What Does This Mean For Your Business? 

The SOS feature, introduced with Android 12 and made even simpler to operate with the Android 13 update, may have been well intentioned but clearly has a negative downside which has been putting extra strain on the emergency services which could, potentially, have a human cost. It is tempting to ask why the potential for increasing silent 999 calls was not spotted before the update was signed off, and putting the responsibility of OEMs and having to work with different ones to resolve the issue seems a complicated system that could mean that the fix is not as fast as it could be.

For those who do accidentally dial 999, the advice is that people shouldn’t simply hang up but to stay on the line and inform the operator that it was an accident and assistance is not required. Android users can also choose to switch off the SOS feature in their phones, although this may, of course, carry a risk of its own.

Google DeepMind’s AlphaDev artificial intelligence (AI) system has produced new algorithms that can write code better than humans and could create better programs.

Discovering Enhanced Algorithms 

In a recent research paper, Google’s Deepmind has outlined how AlphaDev is able to use ‘reinforcement learning’ to discover enhanced computer science algorithms which surpass those honed by scientists and engineers over decades.

Why? 

Google’s AI research organisation, Deepmind, says that with a digital society driving increasing demand for computation and energy use, plus with only a reliance on improvements in hardware so far to keep pace, microchips are approaching their physical limits. This means that it’s now critical to improve the code that runs on them to make computing more powerful and sustainable going forward.

What Is Reinforcement Learning?

Reinforcement learning is a subfield of AI where an agent learns by interacting with an environment to maximise cumulative rewards. The agent observes the current state, takes actions, and receives feedback to improve decision-making over time. The policy guides the agent’s action selection based on a set of rules. The iterative process involves observing the state, taking actions, receiving rewards, and updating the policy using algorithms like Q-learning or policy gradients.

Reinforcement learning is applied in game playing, robotics, recommendation systems, finance, and healthcare, achieving impressive results such as training agents to play games at superhuman levels and enabling autonomous systems to learn complex tasks independently.

A Faster Algorithm For ‘Sorting’ Discovered 

In computing, ‘sorting’ is a method for ordering data, with sorting algorithms underpinning everything from ranking online search results and social posts to how data is processed on computers and phones.

The recent research paper revealed that using reinforcement learning, following being tasked with developing a new way to sort short sequences in numbers in the popular coding language C++, AlphaDev was able to uncover a faster algorithm for sorting, beating well-established sorting algorithms.

In essence, the AlphaDev has been able to improve how the structure of a working assembly program is represented in the AI code, thereby allowing its reward system to better narrow down the possibilities, making the AI better and faster.

C++ Running Faster, & More 

This discovery has led to C++ running faster and improved algorithms for sorting and other basic tasks like hashing. For example, AlphaDev’s new C++ sorting algorithms are 1.7 per cent more efficient than previous methods for sorting long sequences of numbers, and up to 70 per cent faster for five-item sequences.

When scaled up, this could transform how we program computers and could impact all aspects of our increasingly digital society.

Added To The Main C++ Library 

The improved algorithms have been open sourced and added to the main the main C++ library, used by millions of developers and companies in many industries around the world on AI applications. DeepMind says it’s the first change to this part of the sorting library in over a decade and is the first time an algorithm designed through reinforcement learning has been added to this library.

What Does This Mean For Your Business? 

With so many AI applications in so many industries using sorting algorithms, and with AlphaDev’s improved algorithms being open sourced, AlphaDev’s discovery is already making an impact by speeding many apps and programs. DeepMind believes that many improvements exist at a lower level that may be difficult to discover in a higher-level coding language and sees this as just the beginning and an important steppingstone for using AI to optimise the world’s code, one algorithm at a time.  This means that AlphaDev’s reinforcement learning approach could point to many more small algorithm improvements to come that could be quickly fed into the hands of developers through open sourcing thereby benefitting businesses, industries, and users around the world.

The Circular Drive Initiative (CDI) has reported that millions of usable hard drives are being unnecessarily destroyed, adding to the growing pile of e-waste.

How Big Is The Problem? 

According to reported comments to the BBC from Chia Network’s and secretary and treasurer of the CDI, Jonmichael Hands, millions of hard drives are shredded each year and that One ITAD provider told him they were shredding five million drives for a single customer!

Why Are So Many Hard Drives Being Scrapped? 

The CDI’s spokesperson, William McDonough, Chief Executive of McDonough Innovation and architect of Cradle-to-Cradle design and The Circular Economy, says “Much of the e-waste we see from hard drives today is driven by perceived risk and insufficient secondary markets for this technology”. 

For example, storage devices are usually sold with a five-year warranty, and large data centres, which have zero-risk policies, have to retire them when the warranty expires. This means that an estimated 90 per cent of their hard drives are destroyed when they are removed (CDI estimate).

Also, many industries and organisations are subject to data protection regulations and standards that require them to securely destroy data when it is no longer needed. Shredding hard drives helps to meet these compliance requirements, demonstrating that proper measures were taken to protect confidential information.

What Are The True Costs Of Shredding? 

Shredding hard drives has environmental costs associated with it, primarily related to electronic waste generation and resource consumption. For example:

– E-Waste. Shredding hard drives contributes to electronic waste (e-waste), which is a growing environmental concern. E-waste contains various hazardous materials, including heavy metals like lead, cadmium and mercury, as well as toxic substances like brominated flame retardants. Improper disposal of e-waste can result in these hazardous materials entering the environment and causing pollution.

– Resource Consumption. Shredding hard drives means that the materials used to manufacture them, such as metals (aluminium, copper, etc.) and plastics, are not being recycled or reused. Extracting and processing these raw materials requires energy and resources, including water and fossil fuels. By not reusing or recycling the materials in hard drives, the demand for new resources increases, leading to additional environmental impacts.

– Energy Intensity. The process of shredding hard drives requires energy to operate the shredding equipment. The energy consumption associated with shredding, especially for large-scale operations, can contribute to carbon emissions and further contribute to climate change.

Shredding May Not Stop Data From Being Recovered 

Although melting or incineration would most certainly destroy the drives and any sensitive data on them, the current preferred method (e.g. for data centres) is shredding. However, given that the latest drives have 500,000 tracks of data per square inch, it’s still possible that a determined data recovery person could still read the data from a shredded hard drive simply by taking a piece as small as 3mm.

What Is The CDI & How Can It Help?

The CDI describes itself as “a partnership of global leaders in digital storage, data centres, sustainability, and blockchain collaborating to reduce e-waste by enabling, driving, and promoting the secure reuse of storage hardware”. The CDI is one organisation that’s trying to foster a sustainable future by enabling the circular economy in data storage, i.e. it aims to ensure that data storage devices can be securely reused, significantly reducing e-waste, and reducing carbon emissions linked to manufacturing new storage devices. It says it’s working to try and change the data storage industry by “enabling circularity and by developing, promoting, and implementing standards, transparent reporting, and best practices cantered around a circular economy”. 

What Is The Circular Economy? 

The circular economy is an economic model that aims to minimise waste, maximise resource efficiency, and promote sustainability. It focuses on keeping products and materials in use for as long as possible through strategies like reuse, repair, and recycling.

When it comes to e-waste, such as discarded or shredded hard drives, the circular economy approach seeks to address the environmental and resource challenges associated with electronic waste. Instead of discarding electronic devices such as smartphones, laptops, or appliances, the circular economy promotes strategies like:

– Repair and refurbishment. Encouraging the repair and refurbishment of electronic devices to extend their lifespan and prevent premature disposal.

– Reuse and resale. Promoting the reuse and resale of functioning electronic devices to maximise their value and reduce the need for new production.

– Recycling and material recovery. Ensuring that end-of-life electronic devices are properly recycled to recover valuable materials like metals, plastics, and rare earth elements for use in new products.

By implementing circular economy principles in the management of e-waste, the environmental impact of electronic devices can be reduced, resources can be conserved, and a more sustainable electronic ecosystem can be created. This could allow for a shift from the linear “take-make-dispose” model to a circular system that prioritizes resource efficiency, waste reduction, and the responsible handling of electronic waste.

What Are The Alternatives To Shredding Hard Drives? 

Alternative methods to shredding hard drives that can make the drives re-usable include:

– Purging. This method, which leaves the original data on them unable to be recovered can involve having the hard drives overwritten with new patterns of data. This method can take days.

– Cryptographic erasing. This method, which takes seconds, involves deleting the key for their built-in encryption. This makes the data on the hard drives impossible to read and the hard disks can be re-used/re-sold.

Companies And Organisations Erasing And Refurbishing Hard Drives 

Some companies and organisations are helping to tackle the problem of hard drives being scrapped, helping with sustainability and the circular economy by refurbishing and re-selling hard drives.  For example:

– As outlined previously in this article, the CDI.

– Seagate, led by Amy Zuckerman, and a founding member of CDI, Seagate reports refurbishing and reselling 1.16 million hard drives and solid-state drives (SSDs) in the 2022 financial year, thereby saving more than 540 tonnes of electronic waste (e-waste). Customers for its recycled hard drives include smaller data centres and cryptocurrency mining operations.

What If Hard Drives Can’t Be Refurbished? 

Seagate reports that for any hard drives it can’t refurbish, it looks at parts-extracting and materials recycling. The company reports that in its Taiwan pilot programme, 57 per cent of the material was recycled, made up of magnets and aluminium.

Hard Drives Declining 

Some tech commentators have noted that the use of traditional (spinning) hard drives is declining, with more ambitious predictions suggesting they could be gone within 5 years.

They could be replaced, for example, with solid-state drives (SSDs), which have been increasing rapidly in recent years, and they are gradually replacing traditional hard drives in many areas. SSDs offer several advantages over hard drives, including faster data access times, higher reliability, lower power consumption, and smaller physical size. These benefits make SSDs particularly suitable for portable devices like laptops and smartphones, as well as high-performance computing environments.

The declining cost of SSDs has been a significant factor driving their adoption. As SSD technology advances and becomes more affordable, more consumers and businesses are choosing SSDs over traditional hard drives. This shift in consumer preference has led to a decline in hard drive sales in certain markets.

It should be remembered, however, that hard drives still excel in terms of storage capacity and cost per terabyte. As such, they remain the preferred choice for large-scale storage solutions, such as data centres and archival systems and suggestions that they may be gone within 5 years may be premature.

What Does This Mean For Your Organisation? 

The unnecessary destruction of millions of usable hard drives, leading to the alarming growth of e-waste, calls for immediate action and a commitment to sustainable solutions. The Circular Drive Initiative (CDI), for example, is at the forefront of driving change by enabling the circular economy in data storage. However, the scale of hard drive shredding persists due to perceived risk and the lack of viable secondary markets for this technology.

Addressing this problem requires decisive steps and innovative approaches. Organisations must recognise the environmental costs associated with shredding hard drives, including the generation of electronic waste and resource depletion. By not reusing or recycling the valuable materials within hard drives, we exacerbate the demand for new resources and contribute to climate change through energy-intensive shredding processes.

To combat these challenges, alternatives to shredding hard drives, such as purging or cryptographic erasing, must be explored and adopted more widely. These methods render hard drives reusable while ensuring data security, paving the way for a more sustainable future. Companies and organisations already engaged in erasing and refurbishing hard drives serve as examples of the positive impact that can be achieved.

There is enormous potential for expansion in the hard drive recycling market, especially considering the large number of hard drives sold in previous years that are now reaching the end of their warranty. The industry must embrace innovation and invest in processes that enable the recovery of the 61 chemical elements used in hard drives. This approach will not only reduce resource consumption and waste but also open up new opportunities for sustainable practices and economic growth.

Computers Before Keyboards

Computing was a lot more challenging before July 4th 1956 because that’s when MIT revolutionised their Whirlwind Computer … by introducing a keyboard !

Before that, interacting with computers was a laborious, time-consuming process. Programmers would offer instructions to these mammoth machines by the manual insertion of punched cards, an operation requiring meticulous accuracy. They also changed dials and switches, physically reconfiguring the hardware to implement different instructions.

Believe it or not, punched-cards were relics from the ‘Jacquard-Loom’ – an invention developed during the industrial revolution in 1801 by Joseph Marie Jacquard.

Talking of revolutions, he was a frenchman, so goodness knows what he’d say about the riots in France although he did live during the French Revolution himself so was perhaps no stranger to troubled-times.

His punched-cards enabled weavers to independently fabricate textiles of virtually limitless size and intricacy. Interestingly, he was born on 7th July, albeit 204 years earlier (than the birth of the Computer-Keyboard) in 1752.

With touch-screens, voice-to-text, haptic-clothing and other interfaces heading our way, what will inputs and outputs to computers be like soon? Perhaps with direct-to-brain connections (e.g. from Musk’s Neuralink company) we’ll just be one step closer to living in a virtual-world …

It’s been reported that a BBC investigation has uncovered tech flaws in two top brand, Chinese-made surveillance cameras that could enable hackers to control them and spy on businesses and organisations or use the flaws as a Trojan horse to interfere with computer networks. The software backdoor flaws in the Hikvision and Dahua are now being addressed through firmware updates.

If you’ve less than a minimum threshold of battery life left, Android Phones typically automatically dim the screen (making it almost unreadable) sometimes when you need to be able to read it the most! If you want to force it to be bright (even at the expense of rapidly draining the last of the battery-life) here’s how :

Open Settings: This is usually represented by a gear icon on your home screen or in your app drawer.

Navigate to Display: This is where you’ll find all the settings related to your screen, including brightness.

Adjust Brightness Level: There should be a slider that allows you to manually adjust the brightness of your screen. Slide it all the way to the right to maximize brightness.

Disable Adaptive (or Auto) Brightness: This setting automatically adjusts your screen brightness based on the ambient light. You’ll want to turn this off to maintain a constant brightness level.

Battery Saver Mode: Go back to the main settings menu and find “Battery” or “Power”. If your phone has a battery saver mode that’s turned on, it might be reducing your screen brightness to save power. You can usually adjust the settings of this mode, or turn it off entirely, to prevent it from dimming your screen.

Please note that keeping your screen brightness at maximum will drain your battery more quickly, which could be a problem if your battery is already low. Also, these instructions might vary slightly depending on the make and model of your Android phone, as different manufacturers sometimes use different names for these settings or organize them differently.

In an emergency, it’s also worth considering other ways to conserve battery life, such as closing unnecessary apps, turning off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and disabling background data for apps.

In this insight we look at Google’s updated inactive account policy whereby Google accounts not used for 2 years could be deleted, meaning the loss of important emails, photos, data and more.

Gmail, YouTube, & Google Photos Accounts

The inactive account deletions are part of a policy change for Google’s products and will apply to personal accounts (not business accounts) and their contents, i.e. content within the workspace including Gmail, Docs, Drive, Meet, Calendar, YouTube, and Google Photos.

Why?

The main reason for deletions of inactive accounts is to improve security. For example, older dormant accounts tend to rely on old or re-used passwords that may have been compromised and, Google says, are ten times less likely to have multi-factor authentication (2FA) set up on them. This means they’re more vulnerable to hacking and when compromised, could be used for other malicious activity, e.g., identity theft, or sending spam. Also, the move by Google is a step towards aligning its own policies with “industry standards” around retention and account deletion and is a way to help limit the amount of time Google retains users’ personal information.

When? 

Google says it will begin a slow rollout from 1 December and will give “plenty of notice”, i.e. multiple notifications over months to the account email address and the recovery email (if there is one linked to the account).

How Can You Stop Your Old Account From Being Deleted?

To keep a Google account ‘active’ so it doesn’t end up being deleted as part of the policy, users should sign-in at least once every 2 years and take certain actions such as:

– Reading or sending an email.

– Using Google Drive.

– Watching a YouTube video.

– Downloading an app on the Google Play Store.

– Using Google Search.

– Using Sign in with Google to sign in to a third-party app or service.

– Google Photos, Subscriptions & YouTube Videos.

Users who have subscriptions set up through their Google account, e.g. to Google One, a news publication, or an app won’t have their account deleted as this constitutes activity. As for YouTube videos, Google says it currently has no plans to delete accounts with YouTube videos.

Google says that to retain Googe Photos, users should sign in every 2 years to be show activity and avoid any deletion.

Take A Backup

To avoid any issues, in addition to providing a recovery email address (to receive notifications), Google is encouraging users to take a backup of their account anyway, e.g. using its ‘Takeout’ feature. Users can also try using Google’s ‘Inactive Account Manager’ to tell Google in advance what should happen to their account if it’s inactive for up to 18 months.

What Does This Mean For Your Business? 

Although the policy doesn’t apply to business accounts, many businesses use domestic free Google accounts for business, and may have valued and important photos, archived emails, data and more stored in one or several Google accounts. The good news is that it doesn’t come into force until December so there’s time to revisit old accounts and indicate that they’re active, e.g. by simply sending an email from them. Google’s also made it clear that there’ll be many reminders along the way, which will only really be useful if a recovery email address has been set up. Google account users can, of course, choose to make a backup of their important data and files. It makes sense and is understandable that Google would want to pursue this policy from both a security and privacy (how long they hold on to user data) standpoint.

In this insight, we look at what email trackers are, how they work, what the main concerns about them are, plus how you can protect yourself from email trackers.

What Is An Email Tracker? 

An email tracker is a tool or technology used to monitor and track the activities associated with emails. It provides information about when an email was opened, how many times it was opened, the location of the recipient, and whether any links within the email were clicked. Email tracking is commonly used in marketing and sales to measure the effectiveness of email campaigns, gauge customer engagement, and obtain insights into recipient behaviour.

Not all email services use email trackers and their usage depends on the specific email service provider or client and the settings chosen by the user. Some email services, especially those focused on privacy and security, may automatically block external images, or disable tracking by default to protect user privacy.

How Do Email Trackers Work? 

Email tracking typically works by embedding a small, invisible image or pixel within the email content. When the recipient opens the email and enables the images to display, the image is loaded from the sender’s server. This loading process notifies the sender that the email has been opened. Additionally, the image can include unique identifiers that help identify the recipient and track their interactions with the email, such as link clicks.

What Are The Main Concerns About Email Trackers?

There are several main concerns associated with email trackers, including:

– Privacy. Email trackers can infringe on the privacy of email recipients. Tracking pixels and unique identifiers embedded in emails allow senders to collect information about when and where the email was opened, as well as other user actions. This tracking can be done without the explicit consent or knowledge of the recipient.

– Informed Consent. Many recipients are unaware that their actions are being monitored when they open an email. Transparency and informed consent are important ethical considerations, and the use of email trackers can raise concerns about the lack of explicit consent from recipients.

– User Awareness. In some cases, email clients may not provide clear notifications or warnings about the presence of tracking pixels or the potential tracking of user behaviour. This lack of awareness can lead to a lack of control over personal data and a diminished sense of privacy.

– Legal Considerations. Laws and regulations regarding email tracking vary by country. Organisations must comply with applicable regulations, such as GDPR (and UK GDPR), which requires obtaining explicit consent and providing clear information about data collection practices.

– Trust and Perception. The use of email trackers, particularly in marketing and sales contexts, can erode trust between senders and recipients. When recipients become aware of being tracked, it may negatively impact their perception of the sender and the organisation they represent.

– Counterproductive Effects. Some recipients may feel uncomfortable or invaded by the tracking of their actions. This discomfort can lead to negative reactions, such as marking emails as spam, unsubscribing from mailing lists, or developing a negative impression of the sender’s brand or organisation.

How Can You Avoid Email Trackers? 

To reduce the likelihood of your emails being tracked and preventing senders from knowing when you’ve opened an email, there are several steps you can take. For example:

– Disable image loading. Most email trackers work by embedding a hidden tracking pixel, which is typically an image, within the email. By disabling the automatic loading of external images in your email client or webmail service, you can prevent the tracking pixel from loading and notifying the sender. Check your email client settings for an option to disable image loading.

– Use a privacy-focused email service. Consider using an email service provider that prioritises privacy and security. Some services, such as ProtonMail and Tutanota, have built-in privacy features that can block tracking and enhance your email privacy. Also, DuckDuckGo email protection is a privacy-focused email forwarding service.

– Use a browser extension. There are browser extensions available, such as Ugly Email (an open-source Gmail extension), PixelBlock, Privacy Badger, Ghostery, and uBlock Origin that can help detect and block email trackers. These types of browser extensions work by identifying and blocking tracking pixels within emails.

– Avoid clicking on unknown or suspicious links. Some email trackers operate by tracking link clicks. Be cautious when clicking on links within emails, especially if you’re unsure of the sender’s intentions or the authenticity of the email. Hover over links to see the URL before clicking on them.

– Disable read receipts. Some email clients or services offer read receipt functionality that notifies the sender when you open their email. Ensure this feature is disabled in your email settings to prevent tracking of your email activity.

– Use a VPN. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet connection and can help maintain your online privacy by masking your IP address and location. By using a VPN, you can make it more difficult for senders to track your activities.

While these steps can help reduce email tracking, they may not completely eliminate all tracking methods. Also, taking these precautions may affect your overall email experience or limit certain legitimate functionalities, such as displaying images from trusted senders.

What Does This Mean For Your Business? 

Email tracking has become a widespread practice in the business world, providing valuable insights into email campaign performance and recipient behaviour. However, with growing privacy concerns, many people prefer to be proactive in protecting themselves from having their personal or business emails tracked.

For those looking to safeguard their business from email tracking, there are several measures that can be taken. For example, using an encrypted email service that prioritises security and privacy, e.g. ProtonMail or Tutanota offers end-to-end encryption, making it harder for unauthorised parties to intercept or track your email communications. Other measures businesses can take include:

– Reviewing and updating email infrastructure and implementing technologies like Transport Layer Security (TLS) and Sender Policy Framework (SPF) to secure email transmissions and prevent email spoofing and unauthorised senders.

– Training and educating employees about the risks associated with email tracking and teach them to identify suspicious emails, avoid clicking on unknown links, and promptly report any potential security breaches.

– Disabling image loading in email clients or webmail services.

– Using browser extensions that specialise in privacy protection, e.g. PixelBlock, Privacy Badger, or uBlock Origin to help detect and block email trackers and provide an extra layer of protection for the business.

While implementing these protective measures is essential, it’s important to recognise the impact on companies that rely heavily on email tracking for marketing purposes. Blocking email trackers can result in the loss of detailed metrics such as open rates, click-through rates, and conversion rates, which are valuable for measuring campaign effectiveness. However, businesses can adapt by exploring alternative strategies to gather insights without relying solely on email tracking. Direct feedback mechanisms like surveys, preference centres, or explicit opt-ins can provide valuable information about recipient preferences and interests. Emphasising quality content and engagement strategies can also help drive customer interactions and by delivering personalised and relevant emails, businesses can encourage recipients to actively engage with the content, reducing the reliance on tracking data.

It could be said, therefore, that in the business world there is a balance between privacy protection and gathering valuable insights that is currently needed to help senders create successful email campaigns while helping recipients protect their privacy.