Ditch the Banner, Keep the Trust: 
Why Zero-Consent Architecture Is the Way Forward

Voice assistants have evolved significantly over the years, transforming how we interact with technology. From simple command recognition to advanced AI-driven conversations, these tools have become integral to our daily lives. Their ability to streamline tasks and enhance user experience makes them a vital part of the future of technology. As we look ahead, the potential for voice assistants to integrate with more devices and improve accessibility is exciting, promising a more connected and efficient world.

The recent paper on Large Language Model (LLM) serving highlights the importance of user experience by examining service level objectives (SLOs) and system level metrics (SLMs). It points out critical issues in current metrics, such as the potential benefits of delaying token delivery to enhance SLOs and the implications of abandoning requests. This research is significant as it aims to improve the performance and reliability of LLM systems, ultimately leading to better user satisfaction and more efficient AI applications.

WB Electronics SA, Europe's leading drone manufacturer, is planning to go public on the Warsaw stock exchange. This move comes as the company aims to expand its investments in response to increased EU funding for defense initiatives. This is significant not only for the company but also for the European defense sector, as it highlights the growing importance of drone technology in modern warfare and security.

The European Union is collaborating with private investors to establish a multibillion-euro scale-up fund, aiming to grow it to €25 billion. This initiative is significant as it reflects the EU's commitment to fostering innovation and supporting startups, which can drive economic growth and job creation across the region.

In 2025, Big Tech's lobbying expenditures in the EU reached a record €151 million, a significant increase from €113 million in 2023 and €97 million in 2021. This surge in spending reflects the growing influence and interest of major tech companies in shaping EU regulations. Between January and June 2025, these companies held 146 meetings with EU officials, highlighting their proactive approach to engage with policymakers. This trend is important as it raises questions about the balance of power in regulatory processes and the potential impact on legislation affecting technology and innovation.

A recent study highlights the importance of reliable A/B testing in online markets, especially when dealing with non-Gaussian data. This research emphasizes that traditional methods, like the pairwise t-test, may not always be sufficient for accurate decision-making. By addressing the challenges of Type I error, the findings could significantly enhance how platforms launch features and optimize pricing strategies, ultimately improving user experience. This matters because better testing methods can lead to more effective strategies and increased customer satisfaction.

Oppo has officially launched its latest smartphones, the Find X9 and Find X9 Pro, in the UK and EU markets, priced at €999 and €1,299 respectively. These devices feature impressive silicon-carbon batteries with capacities of 7,025mAh and 7,500mAh, ensuring long-lasting performance. Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9500 chip, the Find X9 series promises to deliver a powerful user experience. This launch is significant as it showcases Oppo's commitment to innovation in the competitive smartphone market, particularly with its focus on battery technology and performance enhancements.

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has expressed strong support for Gotion High-Tech Co.'s decision to invest €1.2 billion in an electric-car battery plant in Slovakia. This development is significant as it highlights Slovakia's growing role in the electric vehicle sector, especially amid rising tensions between China and the European Union. Fico's endorsement of the project reflects a strategic move to bolster the country's economy and position in the global automotive industry.

Exciting news for tech enthusiasts! The Mixed Reality Link and Windows App for Meta Quest are now generally available, allowing users to harness the full capabilities of Windows 11 and Windows 365 on mixed reality headsets. This development is significant as it enhances productivity and offers a new way to interact with digital environments, making work more immersive and engaging.

ScaleAI is making significant strides in the field of artificial intelligence, showcasing how enterprise leaders are effectively leveraging generative and agentic AI technologies. This progress is crucial as it highlights the potential for businesses to enhance their operations and innovate, ultimately driving growth and efficiency in various sectors.

Delta Sharing is experiencing remarkable growth, boasting a 300% increase year-over-year. This surge highlights the platform's effectiveness in facilitating data sharing across organizations, making it a vital tool for businesses looking to enhance their analytics capabilities. As more companies adopt this technology, it signifies a shift towards more collaborative and data-driven decision-making processes.

The recent partnership between Databricks and Palantir is already making waves, with over 100 customers leveraging their combined strengths to transform their businesses. This collaboration not only enhances data analytics capabilities but also empowers organizations to make more informed decisions, driving innovation and efficiency. It's exciting to see how these companies are shaping the future of business through their strategic alliance.

WhatsApp is enhancing its security features by allowing users to utilize passkeys for their backups. This update is significant as it adds an extra layer of protection for personal data, making it harder for unauthorized access. With cyber threats on the rise, this move reflects WhatsApp's commitment to user privacy and security, ensuring that sensitive information remains safe.

The article highlights the significance of standard-cell architecture in adaptable ASIC designs, emphasizing its benefits such as being fully testable and foundry-portable. This innovation is crucial for developers looking to create flexible and reliable hardware solutions without hidden risks, making it a game-changer in the semiconductor industry.