The Comunicano for Monday January 20th 2025

Inauguration Day

Let’s dive into today’s fast-moving headlines—stories shaping our world right now…First, a bombshell in tech: TikTok is under fire, or not, as incoming President Donald Trump is expected to sign an executive order to rescind the ban on the app from U.S. app stores. The prior administration cited national security concerns, claiming the Chinese-owned platform threatens American data….Meanwhile, ByteDance, TikTok's parent company, denies espionage allegations and faces scrutiny over its other apps like CapCut and Lemon8….Creators are scrambling, competitors like Meta and YouTube are ready to pounce, and 150 million U.S. users are left wondering: what’s next?

Speaking of Meta, they’re seizing the moment, launching “Edits,” a new video editing app aimed squarely at TikTok creators. Not to be outdone, Bluesky—a decentralized platform—has unveiled vertical video feeds, courting those looking for an alternative. The race for short-form video dominance is officially on…In AI news, Boston University researchers have developed a groundbreaking tool using artificial intelligence to detect early signs of Alzheimer’s through speech patterns. Meanwhile, the CIA is rolling out chatbots to streamline intelligence analysis. AI continues to reshape sectors from healthcare to national security at a pace many can hardly keep up with.

And let’s not forget the business world. Oxfam’s new report reveals a staggering $2 trillion surge in billionaire wealth last year, even as global poverty levels remain stagnant. The growing gap between the ultra-wealthy and the rest of us is igniting fresh debates on economic equity….On a lighter note, air travelers are abuzz over a peculiar etiquette debate: the rise of “aisle lice.” That’s the term for passengers rushing to stand in the aisle as soon as a plane lands. Social media is split, but one thing’s clear: patience is in short supply….Finally, as wildfires rage in Los Angeles, preparations for the 2028 Olympics face delays. The city’s resilience is being tested, raising urgent questions about climate adaptation and urban planning.

That’s your whirlwind recap. From tech bans to trillionaire debates, this world moves fast—don’t blink, or you’ll miss it, which is why you read THE COMUNICANO.

Andy Abramson

TikTok Watch

Trump Escalates TikTok Ban with Executive Order (NYTimes)—Former President Donald Trump has said he will sign an executive order mandating the immediate removal of TikTok from U.S. app stores. The move, citing national security concerns, aims to curb the app's influence among American users. This decision escalates ongoing tensions between U.S. officials and TikTok, owned by China's ByteDance. Critics argue the move stifles free speech and sets a worrying precedent for tech regulation. The order could reshape the digital landscape as competitors scramble to fill TikTok’s void.
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China Signals Support for TikTok Deal to Stay in U.S. (WSJ)—China has indicated it will not block a deal allowing TikTok to remain operational in the United States. This development follows ongoing negotiations between TikTok parent company ByteDance and U.S. authorities, aiming to address data security concerns. Beijing's stance reflects a strategic shift, likely intended to preserve economic and diplomatic ties amid growing global scrutiny of Chinese technology firms. The deal's approval could ease tensions between the U.S. and China, while ensuring TikTok's continued presence in its largest international market.
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TikTok Ban Casts Shadow Over Other ByteDance Apps (The Verge)—With the TikTok ban taking center stage, questions are rising about the fate of ByteDance’s other apps, including CapCut, Lemon8, and the recently launched Marvel Snap. These apps, popular for their creative tools and entertainment value, face growing scrutiny from regulators worried about data security and foreign influence. While TikTok remains the main focus, ByteDance’s broader portfolio is under examination, raising concerns about the ripple effects on creators and global markets. Competitors like Meta and Google stand poised to absorb the fallout as ByteDance’s U.S. operations face a pivotal challenge.
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TikTok’s Shutdown Notice Sparks Outcry (NYTimes)—TikTok’s notice of impending shutdown in the U.S. has sparked widespread concern among creators and users. As legal battles loom, the app’s 150 million American users face uncertainty. The announcement intensifies debates about data privacy, geopolitics, and the government's authority over digital platforms. ByteDance continues to deny allegations of espionage while exploring avenues to challenge the ban.
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What to Know About the TikTok Ban (NYTimes)—The TikTok ban raises questions about its broader implications for tech users and companies. Beyond concerns about data privacy, the ban highlights how geopolitical disputes increasingly affect social media platforms. TikTok’s unique algorithm and cultural influence face unprecedented challenges as alternatives like YouTube Shorts and Instagram Reels prepare to seize market share.
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Google and Apple Under Pressure to Enforce TikTok Ban (The Verge)—Google and Apple are in the spotlight as the TikTok ban mandates its removal from app stores. Compliance challenges include logistical and legal hurdles as developers voice concerns about app store policies. The case underscores how regulatory decisions can shift app store operations and influence global tech companies’ compliance strategies.
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Social Watch

Meta’s New Video Editing App Targets TikTok Users (TechCrunch)—Meta has unveiled “Edits,” a video editing app tailored to creators looking for alternatives amidst TikTok’s ban. The app integrates advanced editing tools reminiscent of CapCut, aiming to capture creators migrating from TikTok. With this launch, Meta reinforces its strategy to dominate short-form video content and expand its ecosystem.
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Bluesky Introduces Vertical Video Feeds (TechCrunch)—Bluesky has launched a custom feed for vertical videos, enhancing its appeal amid the TikTok ban. The decentralized platform continues to grow, attracting creators and brands eager to experiment with alternative social media models. Bluesky’s move signals the rising demand for innovation in video content platforms.
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Apple Watch

Apple Mail Gets a Redesign (9to5Mac)—Apple is redesigning its macOS Mail app, focusing on an intuitive interface and improved functionality. Expected features include enhanced search, streamlined navigation, and better integration with other Apple services. The redesign aims to elevate user experience and compete with leading email clients like Outlook and Gmail.
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Telecom Watch

Wave of SMS Phishing Linked to Chinese Innovations (KrebsOnSecurity)—A surge in SMS phishing attacks, leveraging Chinese technological advancements, is targeting unsuspecting users globally. The phishing schemes exploit sophisticated methods to bypass traditional security measures. Experts recommend heightened vigilance and adopting multi-factor authentication to counter evolving cyber threats.
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AI Watch

CIA Embraces Chatbot Tech for Intelligence Operations (NYTimes)—The CIA is adopting chatbot technology to enhance intelligence analysis and decision-making processes. The move reflects a broader trend of integrating AI into government operations. However, ethical concerns about transparency and potential misuse linger. The technology could reshape intelligence-gathering methods globally.
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Using an AI Tool to Predict Alzheimer's with Precision (Rolling Out)—Researchers at Boston University have developed an artificial intelligence (AI) tool that analyzes speech patterns to predict the risk of Alzheimer's disease with unprecedented accuracy. This AI system employs advanced natural language processing algorithms to detect subtle changes in speech, such as vocabulary simplicity and rhythm disruptions, which may indicate early cognitive decline. By identifying these signs sooner than traditional methods, the tool enables timely interventions and personalized treatment plans, potentially slowing the disease's progression and improving patient outcomes. This innovation represents a significant leap forward in the early detection and management of Alzheimer's disease.
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AI Tools Revamp Travel Team’s ‘Places to Go’ Lists (NYTimes)—The New York Times Travel Team leveraged AI tools to analyze data and enhance their “Places to Go” lists. By using machine learning models, they gained deeper insights into destinations’ appeal and trends. AI is becoming integral in curating travel content that resonates with readers.
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OpenAI Gears Up for o3 Mini Language Model Release (Tech Monitor)—OpenAI is preparing to launch its new reasoning AI model, o3 mini, within the coming weeks. As part of the o3 series, this model builds upon the capabilities of the earlier o1 reasoning models, which were designed to handle complex tasks in science, coding, and mathematics. The o3 mini aims to deliver enhanced performance in tackling sophisticated challenges, offering a more cost-effective solution for users. Additionally, OpenAI has introduced a beta feature called "Tasks" within ChatGPT, marking its entry into the virtual assistant market and positioning it as a competitor to established products like Apple's Siri and Amazon's Alexa.
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Fire Watch

Olympics Prep Hampered by L.A. Wildfires (Fast Company)—Wildfires have delayed Los Angeles’ preparations for the 2028 Olympics, compounding the city’s logistical challenges. From infrastructure to public safety, officials face mounting pressure to meet deadlines. Climate resilience is now central to the city’s plans as the fires expose vulnerabilities in urban planning.
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Billionaire Watch

Billionaire CEOs Split Over Trump’s Inauguration (TheStreet)—Donald Trump’s upcoming inauguration sees mixed reactions from tech billionaires. While some CEOs plan to attend, others cite political and ethical differences as reasons for their absence. The tech industry’s divergent stances reflect broader debates about corporate political engagement.
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Oxfam Reports Surge in Billionaire Wealth Amid Persistent Poverty (CNBC)—Oxfam International's latest report reveals that in 2024, billionaires' wealth increased by $2 trillion, a rate three times faster than the previous year. The total number of billionaires rose to 2,769, with projections indicating the emergence of five trillionaires within the next decade. Despite this wealth surge, poverty levels have remained unchanged since 1990. Oxfam emphasizes the need for higher taxes on the wealthy and measures to dismantle monopolies to address the growing economic inequality.
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Robot Watch

Speed: Humanoid and Quadruped Robots Are Getting a Lot Faster (New Atlas)—Recent advancements in robotics have led to significant increases in speed and agility for both humanoid and quadruped robots. Chinese companies have showcased robots capable of sprinting at near-Olympic speeds and navigating complex terrains with ease. For instance, the Black Panther V2.0 quadruped robot can allegedly complete a 100-meter dash in under ten seconds, outpacing most humans. Similarly, Unitree's G1 Bionic humanoid robot demonstrates smooth running over rough surfaces and can ascend and descend stairs efficiently. These developments highlight the rapid progress in robotic mobility, bringing us closer to integrating such machines into various real-world applications.
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Drone Watch

Drone Makers Seek Independence from China Amid Rising Tensions (WSJ)—Western drone manufacturers are striving to reduce reliance on Chinese suppliers to avoid regulatory and reputational risks. Concerns over potential espionage and geopolitical instability have prompted many companies to source alternative components and diversify supply chains. This trend aligns with broader efforts by governments and industries to curtail dependency on Chinese technology. However, transitioning to non-Chinese suppliers presents challenges, including higher costs and production delays, as the global drone market continues to expand.
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Travel Watch

'Aisle Lice' Spark Debate Among Air Travelers (Fox News)—The term "aisle lice" has emerged to describe passengers who prematurely stand in the aircraft aisle upon landing, eager to disembark. This behavior has ignited discussions on social media, with many travelers expressing frustration over the practice. The debate follows recent efforts by airlines, such as American Airlines, to address similar issues like "gate lice," where passengers crowd the boarding area before their group is called. These initiatives aim to enhance the overall travel experience by promoting orderly boarding and deplaning processes.
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Startup Watch

7 Business Trends to Watch in 2025 (Startups.co.uk)—Startups.co.uk identifies seven key business trends set to dominate 2025: enhanced support for parents and families, the rise of sustainable and eco-friendly products, increased investment in mental health and well-being services, the expansion of remote and hybrid work models, advancements in artificial intelligence integration, a focus on diversity and inclusion initiatives, and the growth of subscription-based business models. These trends reflect a shift towards more socially responsible and technologically advanced business practices.
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Top UK Tech Startups to Watch in 2025 (Startups.co.uk)—The Startups 100 Index for 2025 highlights the UK's most innovative tech startups making significant strides in various sectors. Notable mentions include Quantum Dice, specializing in cybersecurity solutions; Hoxton Farms, focusing on sustainable food production; and MAGIC AI, developing cutting-edge artificial intelligence applications. These startups exemplify the UK's dynamic tech ecosystem and its potential for substantial contributions to the global market.
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Career Watch

It’s Official: AI is Coming for Your Graphic Design Job (Creative Boom)—AI is reshaping the graphic design industry, with tools like Adobe's Firefly and MidJourney making it possible to create professional-quality visuals in seconds. These platforms use advanced algorithms to generate designs, often bypassing the need for human intervention in tasks like branding, layout creation, and logo design. While these tools enhance efficiency and lower costs, they also pose challenges for human designers who must adapt to new workflows or risk obsolescence. As AI capabilities expand, the debate over creativity, copyright, and the value of human artistry in design intensifies, pushing the industry into uncharted territory.
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Time to Rethink DEI Hiring Programs (Fast Company)—A growing sentiment is emerging that traditional Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) hiring programs may no longer be effective in addressing workplace disparities. Experts propose shifting focus to initiatives that emphasize systemic equity and merit-based hiring while addressing underlying biases in organizational structures. These new strategies advocate for transparent hiring practices, targeted mentorship, and measurable equity goals to create sustainable change. Critics of DEI programs argue that these alternatives better foster diverse talent pipelines without relying on quotas or tokenism. The conversation signals a potential pivot in how companies approach diversity in hiring.
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Wine Watch

Wine Decline: Changing Consumer Habits (NBCNews)—Data reveals declining wine consumption as consumers spend less and drink less. Shifts in generational preferences, health awareness, and economic constraints contribute to this trend. Meanwhile, beer and spirits maintain their popularity, signaling an evolving beverage market.
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Crypto Watch

Trump's Memecoin Sparks Industry Concerns (Politico)—President-elect Donald Trump's recent launch of a memecoin has ignited apprehension within the cryptocurrency community. Critics argue that introducing a speculative digital asset lacking intrinsic value could undermine efforts to legitimize the crypto sector. Notably, a Trump-owned company retains 80% of the coin's total supply, raising ethical questions about potential conflicts of interest as he assumes office. Industry experts caution that such ventures may expose investors to significant risks, potentially eroding confidence in the broader cryptocurrency market.
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Bitcoin Surpasses $109,000 Amid Anticipation of Pro-Crypto Policies (AP News)—Bitcoin's value has surged past $109,000, fueled by expectations of favorable cryptocurrency policies under the incoming Trump administration. The digital currency's ascent reflects growing investor optimism about a regulatory environment that may support the expansion and integration of cryptocurrencies into mainstream finance. This milestone underscores the increasing influence of political developments on the volatile crypto market.
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