Tech – July 2016

Yahoo has created a new algorithm to detect spam comments, Edward Snowden has created an anti-spy phone case, and now anyone can apply for a verified Twitter account. Here’s what happened in the technology world last month, it’s tech – July 2016!

Amazon gets UK drone test permission

Amazon announced it has permission to run tests for its drone delivery service from the UK Civil Aviation Authority. Amazon’s Prime Air plan is to be able to deliver packages to a customer within 30 minutes of ordering it.

Yahoo AI weeds out abusive comments

Yahoo has created a new algorithm that targets online trolls and abusive comments on articles. The AI has analysed Yahoo News and Finance articles for abusive and non-abusive comments where comment length, the number of insult words used and punctuation helped identify typical features of an abusive message.

Facebook’s secret self-destruct messages

Facebook has been testing secret conversation functionality, where messages have self-destruct options. Facebook said the option will “better support conversation about sensitive topics”. Is Facebook looking to branch onto dodgy chat territory?

Anti-government spy phone case

Edward Snowden, famed WikiLeaks whistleblower, has co-designed an iPhone case that detects government spying by showing when the device is transmitting information. The case functions like a battery pack which has a display showing whether the device is ‘dark’ or transmitting. The creators are considering adding an option that disconnects power to the phone in case the radio is found to be transmitting.

O2 customer data sold on Dark Web

Following a data breach from gaming website XSplit three years ago, data of O2 customers is apparently being sold on the Dark Web which includes names, phone numbers, dates of birth, emails and passwords. O2 said in a statement that it has not had a direct data breach of its accounts and has reported the incident to police.

Twitter opens up verification to the masses

Twitter is now allowing anyone to apply for the blue tick verification on their profile. Applicants have to fit certain specifications to get approved, with Twitter’s VP of user services stating they want to make it easier for people to find creators and influencers.

Do you think there were any other big tech – July 2016 stories that should be included in this article? Mention it in the comments below!

[Image credits: Amazon, Lucian Milasan, Jakraphong Photography / Shutterstock, Huang and Snowden, 360b / Shutterstock, AFP/Getty Images]