The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is establishing an International Advisory Body for Submarine Cable Resilience to enhance the protection of submarine cables, which are vital for global communication and the digital economy. That initiative is driven by the increasing frequency of service outages and the vulnerabilities faced by these underwater cables, making it imperative to coordinate efforts to bolster their resilience.
The advisory body will bring together diverse stakeholders, including governments, regulatory authorities, industry leaders, and other key participants, fostering multistakeholder collaboration to create a united front in enhancing the safety and protection of submarine cables. ITU calls for nominations from various sectors to join the advisory council, where members will be expected to engage actively in meetings and uphold ethical standards.
Also, the advisory body will provide strategic guidance to improve submarine cable resilience by developing best practices for protecting subsea systems and facilitating international cooperation on technical and policy frameworks. That is particularly crucial given the challenges faced by regions like Vietnam and Africa, which have experienced significant disruptions. To address these issues, members will contribute to the agenda for an upcoming Submarine Cable Resilience Summit in early 2025, where they will strategise on solutions to enhance the resilience of submarine cables worldwide.
Criminal networks in Southeast Asia are increasingly exploiting Telegram for large-scale illicit activities, according to a new report from the United Nations. The encrypted messaging app is used to trade hacked data, including credit card details and passwords, across sprawling, poorly-moderated channels. The report also notes that unlicensed cryptocurrency exchanges on the platform provide money laundering services.
Fraud tools, such as deepfake software and data-stealing malware, are widely sold, enabling organised crime syndicates to innovate and expand their operations. One vendor in Chinese reportedly claimed to move millions in stolen cryptocurrency daily. Southeast Asia has become a hub for these activities, where criminal groups target victims worldwide, generating up to $36.5 billion annually.
The controversy surrounding Telegram escalated when its founder, Pavel Durov, was arrested in Paris for allowing criminal activity on the platform. Durov, who is now out on bail, has since announced steps to cooperate with law enforcement by sharing users’ information when requested legally and removing certain features used for illegal purposes.
As the UNODC report warns, the widespread use of Telegram for underground markets places consumers’ data at heightened risk. Criminals are not only exploiting technology like artificial intelligence but are also leveraging the platform’s ease of use to target victims globally.
In partnership with Romania’s National Authority for Communications Administration and Regulation (ANCOM) and the Ministry of National Defence, Starlink is conducting an innovative real-world test to assess whether its non-geostationary satellite (NGSO) systems can operate without interfering with geostationary satellite (GSO) networks. The test aims to investigate relaxed power flux density (EPFD) limits, which, if successful, could enable Starlink satellites to operate at up to eight times the current capacity allowed by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) while ensuring the protection of GSO networks.
Moreover, the existing EPFD limits, established 25 years ago, were designed to prevent unacceptable interference with GSO Fixed Satellite Service (FSS) and Broadcasting Satellite Service (BSS) networks. However, many experts contend that these limits may no longer be relevant. Consequently, ANCOM has initiated this testing campaign to contribute valuable insights to ongoing ITU studies regarding EPFD limits and their implications for GSO networks.
Furthermore, the test includes installing equipment to monitor signal and interference levels, with specific protection criteria set at a 10% aggregate increase in service unavailability and a 3% increase in individual service unavailability. Over the course of at least six months, SpaceX will exceed the current EPFD limits in a designated area to collect essential operational data.
The findings will subsequently be presented at ITU meetings to demonstrate that efficient NGSO operations can coexist harmoniously with GSO networks. Additionally, Romania underscores the importance of establishing a regulatory framework that balances the protection of geostationary networks with the potential of NGSO networks to enhance connectivity. As a result, ITU is set to review EPFD limits at the upcoming World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-27), where Romania will advocate for a collaborative approach to harness both types of satellites effectively.
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Polish Ministry of Digital Affairs (MDA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to bolster their collaboration in cybersecurity and emerging technology. This MOU strengthens the longstanding partnership between the United States and Poland, providing a structured framework for coordinated efforts in addressing global security challenges, including cyber threats and responsible technology development.
By focusing on key areas such as cyber policy, Secure by Design practices, information sharing, incident response, human capital development, and the safe deployment of AI and the Internet of Things (IoT), both nations demonstrate a shared commitment to transatlantic security. The timing of this MOU, which coincides with the Fourth Counter Ransomware Initiative Summit, reflects a united stance against the growing ransomware threat, as nearly 70 countries gathered to reinforce global resilience against cybercrime.
Various agencies will spearhead the implementation of the MOU as part of the agreement. In the United States, DHS entities like the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), the Office of Strategy, Policy, and Plans, and the Science and Technology Directorate will drive projects that enhance cybersecurity and support critical infrastructure. On the Polish side, the National Research Institute (NASK) will be instrumental in coordinating these efforts, positioning Poland for its upcoming EU Council presidency in 2025, where it aims to strengthen US-EU relations and prioritise European information security.
Why does it matter?
Together, these agencies will focus on collaborative initiatives that ensure safe technology practices, build critical skills, and enable a proactive response to digital threats, securing a stronger digital future for both nations.
Tanzania’s communications regulator has suspended the online platforms of Mwananchi Communications Ltd for 30 days, accusing the company of publishing content that damaged the nation’s image. The Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) cited violations of the country’s Online Content Regulations 2020 and claimed the media company had shared material that disrupted national unity, peace, and harmony. However, the TCRA did not reveal the specific nature of the content.
Mwananchi Communications posted an animated video on its X and Instagram platforms on 1 October, which depicted people expressing concerns about missing or murdered loved ones. The company later deleted the video and apologised, stating that the content was misinterpreted. Opposition party ACT-Wazalendo criticised the suspension, arguing that the government was silencing media outlets that expose the country’s real issues, especially following recent cases of violence against political figures.
This action has raised concerns over press freedom in Tanzania, with critics pointing out a recent shift in the government’s approach. While President Samia Suluhu Hassan has been praised for easing restrictions on political rallies and media, recent incidents such as protest bans and the arrests of journalists have sparked fears of a rollback in democratic freedoms. Mwananchi Communications has stated that it will comply with the suspension order.
Google’s Gemini Nano, a powerful on-device AI model, is now available for developers to integrate into their apps through the newly released AI Edge SDK. By running locally, Gemini Nano offers tasks such as text summarisation and image descriptions, while keeping user data private by processing everything on the device.
Already featured in Google’s Pixel 9 and Samsung’s Galaxy S24 devices, Gemini Nano powers AI functionalities in apps like Pixel Recorder and Google Messages. Developers can now experiment with these tools to bring AI features to their own apps, with Google expanding access to the AI Edge SDK beyond its previous early access programme.
Currently, developers can explore text-to-text prompts, such as smart replies, proofreading, and summarisation. Google plans to add support for other modalities, like image processing, in future updates. This move will enable broader AI integration across third-party apps, offering enhanced user experiences.
By customising Gemini Nano through the AI Edge SDK, developers will have control over how AI processes information, allowing them to adapt responses to suit their app’s needs. This marks a significant step towards more AI-driven apps for Android users.
Microsoft has officially launched the OpenAI library for .NET, offering comprehensive support for OpenAI’s REST API and flagship models like GPT-4.0. Designed to simplify integration for developers, the library enables the use of OpenAI and Azure OpenAI services within .NET applications.
Following a beta release in June, the stable version is now available through NuGet. It includes full support for models such as GPT-4.0 mini and o1-preview, while providing flexibility for developers to create extensions and additional libraries for specific needs.
The library also includes both synchronous and asynchronous APIs, allowing developers to choose between different patterns for their applications. Other key features include streaming completions for more dynamic interactions, and compatibility with .NET Standard 2.0, ensuring broad usage across different platforms.
This open-source library, available on GitHub, complements OpenAI’s existing libraries for Python and JavaScript, making it easier for developers to work with OpenAI technologies in .NET environments.
Children who are chronically ill and unable to attend school can now stay connected to the classroom using the AV1 robot, developed by the company No Isolation from Norway. This innovative technology serves as their eyes and ears, allowing them to engage with lessons and interact with friends remotely. Controlled via an app, the robot sits on a classroom desk, enabling students to rotate its view, speak to classmates, and even signal when they want to participate.
The AV1 has been especially valuable for children undergoing long-term treatment or experiencing mental health challenges, helping them maintain a connection with their peers and stay socially included. In the United Kingdom, schools can rent or purchase the AV1, which has been widely adopted, particularly in countries like the UK and Germany, where over 1,000 units are active. For many students, the robot has become a lifeline during extended absences from school.
Though widely praised, there are logistical challenges in introducing the AV1 to schools and hospitals, including administrative hurdles and technical issues like weak Wi-Fi. Despite these obstacles, teachers and families have found the robot to be highly effective, with privacy protections and features tailored to students’ needs, including the option to avoid showing their face on screen.
Research has highlighted the AV1’s potential to keep children both socially and academically connected, and No Isolation has rolled out a training resource, AV1 Academy, to support teachers and schools in using the technology effectively. With its user-friendly design and robust privacy features, the AV1 continues to make a positive impact on the lives of children facing illness and long absences from school.
Google is ramping up its AI efforts in India, aiming to integrate its Gemini AI model across various products to cater to the world’s most populous nation. The move, announced at Google’s 10th event in India, focuses on enhancing search, visual recognition, and language processing features, with special attention to voice commands and support for multiple Indian languages.
To further this, the company is launching its AI assistant, Gemini Live, initially in Hindi, with plans to expand support for eight more Indian languages soon. Google is also rolling out generative AI tools for search in regional languages such as Bengali, Marathi, and Telugu, alongside expanding its visual search capabilities, particularly through video-based searches, to enhance the user experience.
Google Maps is also being revamped for the Indian market, with new AI-generated summaries and improved local business discovery features. Additionally, the company has introduced several AI-powered tools for merchants, allowing them to easily build engaging online profiles and offer deals through their Google Business Profiles.
Google’s AI push in India is part of its broader strategy to tap into the country’s vast user base and help businesses thrive in the digital era. The company has proposed frameworks to enhance India’s AI adoption, estimating that AI could unlock $4 trillion in economic value for the nation by 2030.
Ello, an AI reading companion designed to help children struggling with reading, has introduced a new feature called ‘Storytime’. This feature enables kids to create their own stories by choosing from a range of settings, characters, and plots. Story options are tailored to the child’s reading level and current lessons, helping them practise essential reading skills.
Ello’s AI, represented by a bright blue elephant, listens to children as they read aloud and helps correct mispronunciations. The tool uses phonics-based strategies to adapt stories based on the child’s responses, ensuring personalised and engaging experiences. It also offers two reading modes: one where the child and Ello take turns reading and another, more supportive mode for younger readers.
The Storytime feature distinguishes itself from other AI-assisted story creation tools by focusing on reading development. The technology has been tested with teachers and children, and includes safeguards to ensure age-appropriate content. Future versions of the product may allow even more creative input from children, while maintaining helpful structure to avoid overwhelming them.
Ello’s subscription costs $14.99 per month, with discounted pricing for low-income families. The company also partners with schools to offer its services for free, and has recently made its collection of decodable children’s books available online at no cost.
