David Spark, a cybersecurity expert, shares insights from the Black Hat security conference. He highlights evolving threats like deep fakes and the critical need for diversity in the cybersecurity field. The conversation also covers Apple's new fee structure for app developers linking outside purchases, stirring debate among industry giants. Additionally, Spark discusses the exciting developments in eVTOL air taxis and their potential impact on urban transport, especially in Los Angeles.
The Black Hat Conference underscored rising security threats, notably the impact of deepfake attacks and generative AI in cybersecurity.
Apple's new tiered fee structure for external app payments in the EU showcases the ongoing tension between regulation compliance and business interests.
Deep dives
The Appeal of the Sleep Number Smart Bed
The Sleep Number Smart Bed is designed to cater to couples with differing sleep preferences, effectively addressing the idea that opposites attract. This bed allows individuals to customize their sleep experience, offering options such as firmness versus softness and temperature regulations to meet personal comfort needs. Users can adjust these settings independently, ensuring both partners can enjoy a restful night's sleep tailored to their unique requirements. J.D. Power consistently ranks Sleep Number as the top choice in customer satisfaction, highlighting its popularity among consumers.
Apple's Complex App Store Policies
Apple faces ongoing scrutiny over its App Store policies, particularly its restrictions on app developers linking to external payment options. Despite a recent EU mandate allowing such links, Apple has introduced a tiered fee structure that includes a core technology fee and transaction fees for payments made outside of the App Store. Critics, including major companies like Epic and Spotify, assert that these fees are excessive and punitive. The evolving policies reflect Apple's struggle to balance compliance with regulatory demands and its business interests, illustrating the complexity of the app ecosystem.
Advancements in Air Taxi Technology
Air taxis are progressing closer to reality, with various companies, including Volocopter and Archer Aviation, making strides in developing electric vertical takeoff and landing (EVTOL) vehicles. These air taxis aim to alleviate traffic congestion in urban environments, especially as major events, such as the Olympics, approach. Archer plans to establish a network in Los Angeles, with multiple takeoff and landing locations that cater to high-traffic areas. While potential and interest are high, the commercial viability and public acceptance of air taxi services remain to be fully realized.
Insights from the Black Hat Cybersecurity Conference
The Black Hat Cybersecurity Conference highlighted ongoing security threats, particularly the rising incidence of deep fake attacks, which are reportedly affecting companies regularly. Discussions emphasized the growing role of generative AI in the security sector, with new companies emerging that focus specifically on AI-enabled solutions. Attendees also noted concerns regarding the lack of diversity in cybersecurity, as female representation at the conference appeared alarmingly low compared to their increasing numbers in the workforce. This disparity points to a need for greater encouragement and inclusion of women in cybersecurity initiatives and events.
David Spark is here to give us the highlights from this year’s Black Hat security conference. Plus Apple reveals a fee structure for apps that link to outside websites for purchase in the EU. And eVTOL air taxi startup Archer Aviation hopes to have its service up and running in Los Angeles by 2026.
Starring Tom Merritt, Sarah Lane, David Spark, Roger Chang, Joe.