Binance is mandating all users in India, both new and existing, to re-verify their Know-Your-Customer (KYC) details as part of a database refresh. This announcement follows the exchange’s return to the Indian market in August 2024 after settling a $2.25 million fine. The penalty stemmed from violations of India’s Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) of 2002. The re-verification process aims to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and enhance the security of the platform for Indian users. This measure is likely a direct response to the previous violations and reflects Binance’s commitment to operating legally within the Indian regulatory framework.
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Nintendo Switch 2 Sets Record, Sells Over 3.5 Million Units in First Four Days of Launch
The Nintendo Switch 2 has smashed sales records, moving over 3.5 million units in its first four days after launching on June 5th. This makes it Nintendo’s fastest-selling console ever, surpassing even the original Switch’s launch success.
This impressive performance comes despite a higher price tag compared to its predecessor and a relatively sparse launch lineup of major Nintendo titles. The upgraded hybrid console boasts a larger screen, enhanced processing power, redesigned “Joy-Con 2” controllers, and new social functionalities.
Nintendo announced the sales milestone via a post on X, further solidifying the Switch 2’s position as a dominant force in the gaming market. Its strong start indicates continued success for the console, even with the initial lack of flagship Nintendo games.
Perplexity Launches Comet AI Web Browser, Comes With an In-Built Sidebar Assistant
Perplexity AI has introduced Comet, a new web browser exclusively for Perplexity Max subscribers. Comet leverages Perplexity’s AI search engine and integrates several AI functionalities, most notably a sidebar assistant. This assistant can analyze all open tabs to provide users with comprehensive summaries, answer questions by synthesizing information across multiple sources, and even execute actions on their behalf. This integration aims to streamline online research and improve efficiency. While currently limited to Max subscribers, Perplexity has initiated a waitlist, signaling its intention to broaden Comet’s accessibility to a wider user base in the future. This move highlights the growing trend of incorporating AI directly into core internet browsing experiences.
Ethereum’s Upcoming ‘Pectra’ Upgrade to Improve Blockchain’s Stability, Efficiency: All Details
Ethereum, the leading blockchain for commercial applications, is preparing for its “Pectra” upgrade, designed to enhance its efficiency, stability, and user-friendliness. Originally planned for early April, the upgrade’s deployment has been delayed due to ongoing testing. Tim Beiko, who oversees Ethereum’s core protocol meetings, estimates Pectra could launch by April 30th.
Pectra aims to streamline the network, making it more appealing for developers and users alike. Specific improvements are expected to lower transaction costs and speed up processing times, addressing some of the current limitations of the Ethereum network. The focus remains on ensuring a smooth and secure transition during the upgrade process.
Nintendo Announces Splatoon Raiders Spinoff Title for Switch 2 Alongside Splatoon 3 Update
Nintendo has announced Splatoon Raiders, a new spinoff title coming exclusively to the Nintendo Switch 2. Teased initially on the “Nintendo Today!” app and revealed with a trailer, the game will take players to the Spirhalite Islands, where they’ll assume the role of a mechanic. The announcement coincided with news of a major update coming to Splatoon 3 this week. Further details from the trailer are expected to be released soon, as fans eagerly await more information about this new direction for the popular Splatoon franchise.
Google Announces Rollout of Ads in AI Overviews in India, AI-Powered Ad Solutions
Google announced plans to integrate ads into its AI Overviews for Indian users later in 2024. The announcement was made at the Google Marketing Live (GML) India event, alongside the unveiling of new AI-powered advertising tools for businesses.
A key tool is “Generated for You,” which leverages AI to automatically create image and video ads from a brand’s product catalog. This tool aims to streamline ad creation while maintaining brand consistency. The introduction of ads in AI Overviews and the launch of AI-driven ad tools signal Google’s focus on leveraging AI to enhance advertising experiences for both users and businesses in the Indian market.
Paul Atkins has been appointed the 34th chairperson of the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), following nomination by President Trump and Senate confirmation. Atkins, a former SEC Commissioner from 2002 to 2008, brings a track record of engagement with the cryptocurrency sector to the role.
Addressing the Senate Banking Committee last month, Atkins pledged to accelerate the SEC’s regulatory efforts surrounding cryptocurrencies. His prior experience and familiarity with the digital asset landscape suggest a proactive approach to establishing clear guidelines and oversight for the burgeoning crypto industry within the US. The appointment signals a potential shift towards more defined regulatory frameworks for cryptocurrencies under Atkins’ leadership.
Days Gone Developer Bend Studio Confirms Layoffs, 30 Percent of Staff Reportedly Impacted
Sony’s Bend Studio, known for “Days Gone,” is reportedly experiencing significant layoffs. While the studio confirmed the job cuts in a recent statement, they didn’t specify the number of employees affected. However, Bloomberg’s Jason Schreier reported via Bluesky that the layoffs amount to 30% of Bend Studio’s workforce.
This news follows the cancellation of their planned live service game earlier this year. The layoffs mark a period of change for the Oregon-based studio, raising questions about its future projects and direction within Sony’s PlayStation Studios. The confirmation from Bend Studio included gratitude towards the departing staff for their contributions. The exact reasons behind the restructuring remain unconfirmed by Sony or the studio.
Elon Musk Says Grok Chatbot Is Coming to Tesla Vehicles by Next Week
Elon Musk’s AI startup, xAI, is set to integrate its Grok chatbot into Tesla vehicles, potentially as early as next week. Musk announced the rollout on X, just days after Grok generated antisemitic content on the platform. The announcement followed a livestream showcasing an updated Grok, with improved voice capabilities and performance benchmarks exceeding OpenAI models. This move signifies Musk’s commitment to integrating AI into his various ventures, even amidst concerns regarding the chatbot’s potential for generating harmful content. The integration aims to enhance the in-car experience, offering drivers and passengers advanced voice interaction and potentially other AI-powered functionalities.
USDC-Issuer Circle Plans Payment Network to Process Transactions via Stablecoins
Circle is developing the Circle Payments Network (CPN), an international payments system leveraging stablecoins to streamline settlements for large corporations. A recently released whitepaper outlines how stablecoins can modernize global payment infrastructure.
The CPN functions as a protocol layer supporting stablecoins like USDC and EURC, with potential for future expansion. Circle intends to provide corporations with cross-border transaction capabilities. The goal is to improve speed, reduce costs, and increase transparency compared to traditional methods. By utilizing blockchain technology, the CPN aims to offer a more efficient and accessible global payment solution.
