Lots has happened this past week in the tech world! With the Smart Travel Project making new headways, Apple planning to update browser options for tech users, GM Cruise agreeing on recalls, and more, there’s much to catch up on. So, let’s get started!
Smart Travel Project Makes New Headways
Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport is set to implement biometric sensors at every identification checkpoint by 2025 as part of its Smart Travel Project.
While airport security and travel experts have largely praised the initiative, some are concerned about the risks of going entirely paperless—from the parking garage to the seat-back tray table. They worry that a Crowdstrike-type outage could cripple the fully electronic boarding systems, potentially halting travel altogether.
Apple Plans to Update Browser Options
Apple announced changes that will affect how users in the European Union choose browser options. The company will add a dedicated section for changing default apps and make more apps deletable. These updates come in response to regulatory pressure following the implementation of the EU’s Digital Markets Act on March 7. This law requires Apple to provide mobile users with a “choice screen” that lists available web browsers the first time they open Safari.
GM Cruise Agrees on Recalls
General Motors’ Cruise unit has agreed to recall nearly 1,200 robotaxis due to hard braking tech issues, according to a statement from the U.S. auto safety regulator on Thursday. This decision follows an investigation into the safety of their autonomous driving systems.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced that the recall has led to the closure of the investigation, which was initiated in December 2022 after reports of two injuries in three rear-end collisions.
Perplexity AI to Start Selling Ads
Perplexity AI, an artificial intelligence startup that has faced controversy over allegations of content plagiarism from media outlets, plans to begin running ads on its search app in the fourth quarter. The company, known for its AI-assisted search capabilities, is promoting the app’s growing reach and user base in a pitch deck.
China’s WeRide Faces Delays
Self-driving tech company WeRide has postponed its initial public offering (IPO) in the U.S., citing the need for additional time to finalize the necessary documentation. WeRide had planned to offer 6.5 million American depositary shares (ADS) at a price range of $15.50 to $18.50, aiming to raise up to $440 million in a U.S. listing that was originally scheduled for this week.
