Egypt Launches First Communication Satellite
Egypt launched its first communication satellite on Tuesday, dubbed Tiba-1. The Egyptian government said that the step will improve communication infrastructure in Egypt. Originally, the satellite was supposed to launch last Friday. However, the government did not give details on why they delayed the launch.
The satellite weighs 5.6 tonnes. It launched with one of Europe’s Arianespace rockets from a space center in French Guiana. In addition, Airbus and Thales Alenia Space worked together to develop the satellite. Egypt plans for the satellite to remain in use for 15 years. They also expect it to provide “every inch” of Egypt with call and internet services.
US Unveils Procedure To Shield Telecom Networks
The US announced a plan to help shield its telecommunication networks from national security threats. It also said it would consider whether or not to bar transactions on a case-by-case basis. After President Trump issued an executive order declaring a national emergency, he ordered the Commerce Department to come up with said plan.
“These actions will safeguard the Information and Communications Technology Supply Chain,” said Secretary Wilbur Ross said in a statement. “These rules demonstrate our commitment to securing the digital economy, while also delivering on President Trump’s commitment to our digital infrastructure.”
US-Based Chip Group Moving To Switzerland
A US-based microchip producer announced plans to move to Switzerland after many international members voiced concerns over the US’s trade curb. Currently, the non-profit RISC-V Foundation wants to ensure that universities, governments, and companies outside the United States can help develop its open-source technology. Therefore, Chief Executive Calista Redmond said that “From around the world, we’ve heard that ‘If the incorporation was not in the U.S., we would be a lot more comfortable’”.
Synchrony Investigates Notification Error
Synchrony said it investigated the cause of an email notification sent erroneously to some customers regarding its co-branded card with Amazon on Monday. In addition, a Synchrony spokesperson said the e-mail did not include any customer data or personal information. “Amazon is aware of a notification that was distributed by Synchrony in error to some customers. They are investigating the root cause,” an Amazon spokesperson said.
Uber Loses London License
Uber lost its license in London due to a “pattern of failures” over safety and security. This is the second time this has happened in the last two years. Almost immediately, Uber said they would appeal the decision. “Over the last two years we have fundamentally changed how we operate in London,” tweeted CEO Dara Khosrowshahi. “We have come very far — and we will keep going, for the millions of drivers and riders who rely on us.”
