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Reddit partners with OpenAI for ChatGPT integration

Reddit has announced a new partnership with OpenAI, allowing the popular chatbot ChatGPT to access Reddit’s content. The partnership caused Reddit’s shares to surge by 12% in extended trading, and it is part of Reddit’s strategy to diversify its revenue streams beyond advertising, complementing its recent agreement with Alphabet, which enables Google’s AI models to use Reddit’s data.

OpenAI will utilise Reddit’s application programming interface (API) to access and distribute content, marking a big step in integrating AI with social media data. Additionally, OpenAI will serve as a Reddit advertising partner, potentially boosting Reddit’s advertising revenue.

Why does it matter?

The development follows Reddit’s IPO in March and its lucrative deal with Alphabet worth around $60 million annually. Investors see these partnerships as crucial for generating revenue from data sales, supplementing the company’s advertising income. Reddit’s recent financial reports indicate strong revenue growth and improving profitability, reflecting the success of its AI data deals and advertising initiatives. Consequently, Reddit’s stock has risen by 10.5% to $62.31, showing a significant increase since its market debut.

EU investigates disinformation on X after Slovakia PM shooting

The EU enforcers responsible for overseeing the Digital Services Act (DSA) are intensifying their scrutiny of disinformation campaigns on X, formerly known as Twitter and owned by Elon Musk, in the aftermath of the recent shooting of Slovakia’s prime minister, Robert Fico. X has been under formal investigation since December for disseminating disinformation and the efficacy of its content moderation tools, particularly its ‘Community Notes’ feature. Despite ongoing investigations, no penalties have been imposed thus far.

Elon Musk’s personal involvement in amplifying a post by right-wing influencer Ian Miles Cheong linking the shooting to Robert Fico’s purported rejection of the World Health Organization’s pandemic prevention plan has drawn further attention to X’s role in spreading potentially harmful narratives. In response to inquiries during a press briefing, EU officials confirmed they are closely monitoring content on the platform to assess the effectiveness of X’s measures in combating disinformation.

In addition to disinformation concerns, X’s introduction of its generative AI chatbot, Grok, in the EU has raised regulatory eyebrows. Grok, known for its politically incorrect responses, has been delayed in certain aspects until after the upcoming European Parliament elections due to perceived risks to civic discourse and election integrity. The EU is in close communication with X regarding the rollout of Grok, indicating the regulatory scrutiny surrounding emerging AI technologies and their potential impact on online discourse and democratic processes.

EU launches investigation into Facebook and Instagram over child safety

The EU regulators announced on Thursday that Meta Platforms’ social media platforms, Facebook and Instagram, will undergo investigation for potential violations of the EU online content rules about child safety, potentially resulting in significant fines. The scrutiny follows the EU’s implementation of the Digital Services Act (DSA) last year, which places greater responsibility on tech companies to address illegal and harmful content on their platforms.

The European Commission has expressed concerns that Facebook and Instagram have not adequately addressed risks to children, prompting an in-depth investigation. Issues highlighted include the potential for the platforms’ systems and algorithms to promote behavioural addictions among children and facilitate access to inappropriate content, leading to what the Commission refers to as ‘rabbit-hole effects’. Additionally, concerns have been raised regarding Meta’s age assurance and verification methods.

Why does it matter?

Meta, formerly known as Facebook, is already under the EU scrutiny over election disinformation, particularly concerning the upcoming European Parliament elections. Violations of the DSA can result in fines of up to 6% of a company’s annual global turnover, indicating the seriousness with which the EU regulators are approaching these issues. Meta’s response to the investigation and any subsequent actions will be closely monitored as the EU seeks to enforce stricter regulations on tech giants to protect online users, especially children, from harm.

Small business owners rally against TikTok ban threat in US

Paul Tran and his wife Lynda experienced a transformative moment when their skincare brand gained viral attention on TikTok. The couple, based in Atlanta, saw their business, @loveandpebble, skyrocket in popularity after showcasing their Beauty Pops ice face masks on the platform in 2021. The viral exposure led to sold-out inventory and features on major shows like ‘The Today Show’ and ‘Shark Tank.’

However, their success is now threatened by a bill passed by the US Senate, signed into law by President Joe Biden in April, which could ban TikTok in the US if its owner, ByteDance, fails to divest the app within a year. The legal move is driven by concerns over data security and potential spying by China. TikTok creators, including small business owners like Tran, are fighting back, with some suing the US government to block the law and preserve their livelihoods.

Why does it matter?

For many small businesses, TikTok has been a lifeline, offering unparalleled opportunities for exposure and growth that American-owned platforms like Meta, Alphabet, and Snap have struggled to replicate. The app’s algorithm, combined with features like TikTok Shop, which allows creators to sell directly within the app, has been instrumental in propelling businesses to success.

The stories of entrepreneurs like Summer Lucille and Felicia Jackson underscore TikTok’s unique ability to level the playing field for small creators. Lucille found rapid success with her plus-size clothing company after years of frustration on other platforms, while Jackson credits TikTok with revitalizing her business, CPRWrap, after previous attempts on platforms like Facebook and Pinterest fell short. As rivals like Meta’s Instagram attempt to address disparities in content reach, the enduring appeal of TikTok lies in its ability to foster communities and provide equal opportunities for creators of all sizes.

Social media users block celebrities in solidarity with Palestine

Every year, the Met Gala courts controversy, but in 2024, a TikTok audio track ignited outrage before the event even began. Influencer Haley Kalil faced backlash for using a snippet from the film ‘Marie Antoinette,’ featuring the infamous line, ‘Let them eat cake,’ as she showcased her lavish attire. Critics likened the spectacle to ‘The Hunger Games,’ criticising the disconnect between opulence and global suffering, particularly in light of ongoing conflicts like the Gaza crisis.

Social media platforms have become battlegrounds for shaping public discourse, especially concerning the Israel-Palestine conflict. With audiences primarily exposed to the issue through digital channels, platforms like Instagram and TikTok have become outlets for frustration and activism. Simultaneously, a grassroots movement known as ‘Blockout 2024’ emerged, urging users to block celebrities to diminish their influence and redirect attention to pressing global issues.

The Blockout movement has gained momentum, with thousands participating in calls to action on social media. Alongside blocking celebrities, efforts to provide direct aid to Gaza have intensified. Influencers are facing pressure to promote fundraising initiatives like Operation Olive Branch, highlighting the role of social media in mobilising support for humanitarian causes amidst geopolitical conflicts.

While the impact of social media activism remains uncertain, the Blockout movement seems to be a shift towards digital solidarity and accountability. As the conflict unfolds through short-form videos and Instagram posts, the conversation sparked by events like the Met Gala indicates a growing intersection between celebrity culture, social media activism, and global crises.

Malaysia condemns Meta for removing posts on prime minister’s meeting with Hamas leader

Malaysia’s communications minister has criticised Meta Platforms for removing Facebook posts by local media covering Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s meeting with a Hamas leader in Qatar. Anwar clarified that while he has diplomatic relations with Hamas’s political leadership, he is not involved in its military activities.

Expressing Malaysia’s support for the Palestinian cause, the government has asked Meta to explain the removal of posts by two media outlets about Anwar’s meeting. Additionally, a Facebook account covering Palestinian issues was closed.

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil condemned Meta’s actions, noting the posts’ relevance to the prime minister’s official visit to Qatar. He emphasised concerns about Meta’s disregard for media freedom.

Last October, Fahmi warned of potential actions against Meta and other social media platforms if they obstructed pro-Palestinian content since Malaysia consistently advocates for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict.

YouTube to block Hong Kong protest anthem videos following court directive

Alphabet’s YouTube announced its compliance with a court decision to block access to 32 video links in Hong Kong, marking a move critics argue infringes on the city’s freedoms amid tightening security measures. The decision followed a government application granted by Hong Kong’s Court of Appeal, targeting a protest anthem named ‘Glory to Hong Kong,’ with judges cautioning against its potential use by dissidents to incite secession.

Expressing disappointment, YouTube stated it would abide by the removal order while highlighting concerns regarding the chilling effect on online free expression. Observers, including the US government, voiced worries over the ban’s impact on Hong Kong’s reputation as a financial hub committed to the free flow of information.

Industry groups emphasised the importance of maintaining a free and open internet in Hong Kong, citing its significance in preserving the city’s competitive edge. The move reflects broader trends of tech companies complying with legal requirements, with Google parent Alphabet having previously restricted content in China.

Why does it matter?

Despite YouTube’s action, tensions persist over the erosion of freedoms in Hong Kong, underscored by ongoing international scrutiny and criticism of the city’s security crackdown on dissent. As the city grapples with balancing national security concerns and its promised autonomy under the ‘one country, two systems’ framework, the implications for its future as a global business centre remain uncertain.

TikTok creators sue US government over ban threat

A group of TikTok creators has taken legal action against the US federal government over a law signed by President Joe Biden. The law would either require the divestiture of the popular short video app or potentially ban it altogether. TikTok creators argue that the app has become integral to American life, with 170 million users nationwide.

Among those suing are individuals from diverse backgrounds and professions, including a Marine Corps veteran, a woman selling cookies, a college coach, a hip-hop artist, and an advocate for sexual assault survivors. Despite their differences, they all believe TikTok provides a unique platform for self-expression and community-building.

The lawsuit, filed by Davis Wright Tremaine LLP on behalf of the creators, alleges that the law infringes on free speech rights and threatens to eliminate an important communication medium. The White House has refrained from commenting on the matter, while the US Department of Justice asserts that the law addresses national security concerns while remaining within constitutional boundaries.

Why does it matter?

The ongoing legal battle echoes past disputes involving TikTok, including a similar lawsuit filed by the company and its parent company, ByteDance. Courts have previously intervened to block attempts to ban the app, citing concerns about free speech and constitutional rights.

Dating app Bumble faces criticism for anti-celibacy ads

Bumble, a popular dating app, recently apologised following backlash over a series of advertisements that critics argued undermined the freedom of choice for daters. The company acknowledged that the ads, which suggested celibacy was not the answer to modern dating frustrations, had unintentionally offended rather than brought joy and humour as intended.

Launched in late April alongside a redesign of the app, the ads featured billboards with slogans such as ‘A vow of celibacy is not the answer’ and ‘Thou shalt not give up on dating and become a nun’. However, the swift criticism accused Bumble of delegitimising celibacy and pressuring individuals into sexual activity.

In response to the controversy, Bumble announced the removal of the ads and pledged donations to the National Domestic Violence Hotline and other organisations supporting women, marginalised communities, and victims of abuse. Founded in 2014, Bumble, initially recognised for its feature allowing only women to send the first message to potential heterosexual partners, changed with the recent redesign, eliminating this distinctive trait.

Why does it matter?

Despite its popularity and innovative features, Bumble has encountered challenges, including turnover and layoffs, with Whitney Wolfe Herd, its founder, stepping down in the previous year. Moreover, like its counterparts in the dating app industry, Bumble has introduced premium features and pricing tiers to attract users, boasting over 2.7 million paying subscribers in its recent quarterly report. However, Bumble’s stock closed at $11.51 on Monday, marking a 22% decrease for the year, reflecting broader challenges within the company and the sector.

In a study from 2020, the Norwegian Consumer Council found that popular dating apps collect sensitive information and share it with many advertisers. The data included the user’s exact location, sexual orientation, religious and political beliefs, drug use and other information, which were then sent to at least 135 different third-party companies.

EU designates Booking as a gatekeeper under DMA

The European Commission announced on Monday that it has classified Booking as a ‘gatekeeper’ under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), signifying its strong market influence. At the same time, the Commission has initiated a market investigation into the regulatory status of social media network X to delve deeper into its market dominance. Despite this, according to the EU, online advertising services such as X Ads and TikTok Ads have not been designated as gatekeepers.

In March, the European Commission identified Elon Musk’s X, TikTok’s parent company ByteDance, and Booking.com as potential candidates for gatekeeper status, subjecting them to stringent tech regulations. While Booking has been officially designated as a gatekeeper, a market investigation has been initiated to address X’s opposition to such a classification. ByteDance was previously labelled as a gatekeeper in July last year, but TikTok has contested this designation at the EU’s second-highest court.

Why does it matter?

The Digital Markets Act (DMA) represents a significant step towards regulating the market dominance of large tech companies. It imposes stricter obligations on these firms, compelling them to moderate content, ensure fair competition, and facilitate consumer choice by making it easier to switch between services. As the EU continues to navigate the complexities of digital market regulation, the classification of gatekeepers and subsequent investigations serve as crucial measures to promote fair competition and protect consumers’ interests in the digital sphere.