Tech News Roundup: February 10, 2021

Recent developments include Facebook's efforts to reduce political content visibility, uncertainty surrounding Oracle's potential acquisition of TikTok, and Twitter's firm stance on Donald Trump's permanent ban. This summarizes the key updates from today’s tech landscape.

Facebook Adjusts News Feed Algorithm

Facebook is currently evaluating modifications to its News Feed designed to diminish the prominence of politically focused posts. The company indicates that the outcomes of this testing phase will inform future strategies regarding the handling of such content. Content originating from public health organizations and governmental bodies will remain unaffected by these changes.

This initiative follows a similar adjustment made two years prior, where Facebook prioritized content from personal connections over publisher content. However, this current test specifically targets political material. The trial is limited to a select group of users across several countries, including the United States, Canada, Brazil, and Indonesia.

Updates from Major Tech Companies

The proposed forced sale of TikTok’s U.S. operations to Oracle is facing indefinite postponement, potentially concluding a complex and protracted negotiation.

Twitter has affirmed that Donald Trump remains permanently banned from the platform, irrespective of any future presidential aspirations. According to Twitter CFO Ned Segal, removal from the platform is absolute.

Apple Maps is set to incorporate features akin to those found in Waze, enabling users to report incidents like accidents, road hazards, and speed traps. These enhancements are currently available within the iOS 14.5 beta version.

Startup Funding and Venture Capital News

CYE, an Israeli cybersecurity startup, has secured $100 million in funding to bolster corporate cyber defenses. The company employs a unique approach, conducting authorized offensive security assessments to identify vulnerabilities before malicious actors can exploit them.

SecuriThings has raised $14 million in a Series A funding round to enhance control over edge devices. This encompasses devices such as security cameras, access control systems, and building automation systems.

Podz is innovating the podcast experience by transforming podcasts into a personalized audio newsfeed. The company is founded by a previous Startup Battlefield participant and backed by prominent figures like Katie Couric and Paris Hilton.

Extra Crunch Insights

Three venture capitalists specializing in adtech and martech have identified significant opportunities within the realms of privacy and regulatory compliance. They were surveyed regarding current deal flow and potential future regulations.

The latest edition of the “Dear Sophie” advice column provides guidance on improving international recruiting strategies for startups, addressing immigration-related concerns for tech companies.

Analysts are examining how investors will assess the valuation of MetroMile and Oscar Health, following MetroMile’s recent completion of its merger with SPAC INSU Acquisition Corp. II.

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Additional News

Ancestry reports having resisted two requests from law enforcement agencies to search its DNA database. Both requests were ultimately denied, and no customer data was disclosed.

NASA will utilize Fitbit devices as part of a pilot program aimed at preventing the spread of COVID-19 among its employees, including 150 astronauts. Approximately 1,000 employees will participate.

The EU’s leading privacy regulator is advocating for a ban on surveillance-based ad targeting, proposing its inclusion in upcoming digital services rule reforms.

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