Tech Wrap: PS5 event, Zoom suspends accounts and more

Sony had more than games to reveal at its PS5 event. It showcased for the first time its next-gen console. Zoom admitted it removed meetings involving the Hong Kong crisis. Twitter on the other hand deleted 170,000 accounts tweeting about Covid-19 in China’s favour.

More tech news include YouTube and Apple making fresh pledges as part of their efforts to fight racism. Google also expanded its tool to find Covid-19 testing centers on Search and Assistant

Sony PS5 event

Sony unveiled the PlayStation 5 and it looks very futuristic to say the least. There’s even a ‘Digital Edition’ of the PS5 along with the regular version. More PS5 hardware include Pulse 3D Wireless Headset, Media Remote, DualSense Charging Station and a New HD camera. Sony also unveiled the first games coming to PS5 later this year.

Zoom suspends accounts

Zoom admitted it suspended accounts of human rights activists on orders of the Chinese government. Zoom will also block future meetings related to the ongoing protests in Hong Kong. These activists held online events related to the Tiananmen Square massacre anniversary or the crisis in Hong Kong. The Chinese government termed these events as illegal.

Twitter deletes accounts

Twitter said it shut down over 170,000 accounts that were found to be linked with the Chinese government. Particularly for spreading “geopolitical narratives favourable to the Communist Party of China”. Twitter found that these accounts were spreading deceptive narratives on Covid-19 and Hong Kong protests as well.

YouTube and Apple's new pledges

YouTube announced it is launching a $100 fund to amplify the voices of Black creators and artists on its platform. YouTube plans to highlight and create shows that support Black artists. One of the first shows is Bear Witness, Take Action that will air on June 13. 

Apple also pledged $100 million for its new Racial Equity and Justice Initiative. It will first begin in the US and expand globally. Apple plans to use the fun to address economic equality, criminal justice reform and education.

Covid-19 testing centers on Google

Google will now show Covid-19 testing centers nearby on Assistant and Search. For this Google has partnered with ICMR and MyGov India. This feature is available in English and eight Indian languages including Hindi.