Tech

Data wars: Why technology advocates believe privacy regulations need serious reform – Financial Post

Published

4 years ago

June 20, 2020

As chief executive of Tehama Inc., an Ottawa-based tech company that provides software tools to facilitate remote work, Paul Vallee knows quite a bit about data and technology, but even he doesn’t know where all his data goes these days.

In theory, every Canadian is supposed to give consent to any collection of their personal information, but in practice, he said, people just click “I agree” without knowing what they’re signing up for.

“We need to make consent real. I don’t even get a receipt for my consent,” Vallee said. “You know, normally when I sign a contract, I receive a copy of my contract in the mail, and I can at least inventory all my contracts. This is the Wild West. It’s ridiculous.”

Technology advocates and political leaders say a detailed report last week by the Financial Post on how Tim Hortons’ mobile ordering app tracks users and figures out where they live, work and visit competitors shows how commonplace such activity is, but also highlights the need for serious policy reform on how we regulate data and privacy issues.

The Tim Hortons app is just one of many that may have confusing privacy policy statements. For example, mall owner Cadillac Fairview Corp. Ltd. earlier this week released a new app that asks users for permission to access the phone’s GPS device: “Your location lets us deliver you custom content special to your location,” the app states.

Language in the app’s privacy policy appears to give the company latitude to do the same kind of broad-based tracking that Tim Hortons does in the name of providing targeted promotional offers.

“We may also retain information about the frequency and duration of your visits to particular shopping centres and use this information to provide you with location-based offers and promotions,” the Cadillac-Fairview app states in the location section of its privacy policy.

This is the Wild West. It’s ridiculous

Paul Vallee

Such language could potentially give Cadillac-Fairview latitude to track customers’ visits to competing retailers, but a company executive said the company only meant to say the app may track users inside its shopping malls.

“The app does not log user location data away from CF shopping centres; as such, the policy is referring to particular CF shopping centres,” Jose Ribau, executive vice-president, Digital & Innovation, said in an email. “We recognize the opportunity to be more clear about this and will address this in the next iteration of our privacy policy.”

Ribau said customers cannot create an account through the app, so none of the data is identifiable to particular individuals.

The Cadillac-Fairview’s app is just another one whose privacy policies are written with broad language that gives companies enormous latitude to collect user information in the name of targeted marketing and product improvements.

The Tim Hortons app is just one of many that may have confusing privacy policy statements.

Photo Illustration by Gigi Suhanic/National Post

Without seeking clarification from the company on how location information is collected and processed, individual users often have no way of knowing what a company is doing behind the scenes.

Technology advocates say the broader issue of data collection and privacy is something governments urgently need to regulate.

Jim Balsillie, former co-CEO of the company now known as BlackBerry Ltd., has been calling for a national data strategy that would set limits on how companies can use data, but also offer a clear framework for how Canadian business can thrive in the data economy.

“You have to have a strategy for this to say, how do we get the good and not the bad? And we’ve done this a lot with worker rights and social welfare and environmental stuff,” he said. “Like, we want a production economy, but we don’t want people pouring mercury in the water table.”

Balsillie said people should be thinking about individualized, targeted advertising as more than a benign innovation, because it really amounts to behaviour modification.

“It’s an economic opportunity, but it’s also an enormous threat,” he said. “We lose free markets and we lose democracy in this new mutant form of capitalism, and it’s permeating everybody’s business model.”

One constant among nearly everyone who spoke to the Financial Post for this story is the sense that data privacy rules need to change.

Conservative MP Michelle Rempel Garner, who serves as the party’s critic on innovation, science and industry issues, has been calling for individuals to have more control and ownership over their data. But she said that can only happen if the government puts policies in place to force companies to be more transparent about what data is being collected and why.

We lose free markets and we lose democracy in this new mutant form of capitalism, and it’s permeating everybody’s business model

Jim Balsillie

“From my perspective, the policy intervention should be more control toward the consumer,” Garner said. “If one coffee shop is using your data in the background and another one isn’t, you might use that as a determining choice on which store to frequent, but the point is that you can’t make that choice if the information isn’t transparent.”

More than a year ago, the federal government released a “Digital Charter” that laid out a series of principles meant to guide future privacy law reforms. At the time, the government acknowledged that people have a hard time trusting technology because they don’t know how their data is being used.

“What is clear is that Canadians want more transparency in how their data is being collected and how it is being used,” the Digital Charter said. “Current consent-based models with complex and lengthy privacy policies are inadequate and do not help to build trust.”

The government has yet to reform privacy and data protection laws based on the principles outlined in that document, but Innovation, Science and Industry Minister Navdeep Bains said it might bring legislation forward in the fall.

Bains said that without clear rules and stronger enforcement mechanisms, citizens are liable to lose trust in the digital services that companies provide, and that will have a corrosive effect on the economy.

Innovation, Science and Industry Minister Navdeep Bains.

Blair Gable/Reuters files

“It’s important not only for consumers, but companies need to recognize that if they break this trust, this hurts their brand, this hurts their ability to move forward,” he said. “It’s important to protect Canadians, but I think it’s important for companies to understand as well that they cannot continue to operate like this, because it fundamentally erodes the most important aspect of any relationship which is founded on trust.”

Technation, the country’s main technology industry lobby group, acknowledges that reforming Canada’s privacy laws would be a good thing. Nevin French, vice-president of public policy at Technation, said technology companies want rules that are broadly in line with other countries, and ones with enough flexibility to change over time in order to keep up with the pace of innovation.

“We want to work with government, but we don’t want to be surprised. Knowing what’s coming allows the industry to get ready for that,” he said.

Vallee has a more radical idea. He warns that he gets passionate when he talks about data and privacy issues. But he doesn’t use the normal cliches — data is not a gold rush, nor is it the new oil — instead, he said data should be regulated like music.

Putting a value on the collection and use of data, even a small cost, forces businesses to ask if it’s really worth it

“What I’m calling for is for data being a personal property right much in the way a song that you wrote is yours to monetize, and others can use it but not without paying you,” he said. “It doesn’t need to be a large cost for this to have economic advantage. Suddenly you might be getting 25 to 50 bucks a months in your pocket from these licensing fees, but the other advantage is that you would also be able to have an inventory of who is monetizing data about you.”

One of the problems with the big data economy at its core is that information is so cheap to harvest, everyone does it even if they don’t know how to use it.

Putting a value on the collection and use of data, even a small cost, forces businesses to ask if it’s really worth it.

“We had big data a long time ago, we just had expensive big data. What’s happening with the march of time is that the cost of storing and accumulating and analyzing that data has been declining every year,” Vallee said. “I should be willing to pay the equivalent of a performance fee for the data about you.”

Financial Post

• Email: jmcleod@nationalpost.com | Twitter: jamespmcleod

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Tech

How to Preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada

Published

2 days ago

September 10, 2024

Harry Miller

Sony has made it easy for Canadian consumers to preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada directly from PlayStation’s official website. Here’s how:

Visit the Official Website: Go to direct.playstation.com and navigate to the PS5 Pro section once preorders go live on September 26, 2024.
Create or Log in to Your PlayStation Account: If you don’t have a PlayStation account, you will need to create one. Existing users can simply log in to proceed.
Place Your Preorder: Once logged in, follow the instructions to preorder your PS5 Pro. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready and double-check your shipping information for accuracy.

Preorder Through Major Canadian Retailers

While preordering directly from PlayStation is a popular option, you can also secure your PS5 Pro through trusted Canadian retailers. These retailers are expected to offer preorders on or after September 26:

Best Buy Canada
Walmart Canada
EB Games (GameStop)
Amazon Canada
The Source

Steps to Preorder via Canadian Retailers:

Visit Retailer Websites: Search for “PlayStation 5 Pro” on the website of your preferred retailer starting on September 26.
Create or Log in to Your Account: If you’re shopping online, having an account with the retailer can speed up the preorder process.
Preorder in Store: For those who prefer in-person shopping, check with local stores regarding availability and preorder policies.

3. Sign Up for Notifications

Many retailers and websites offer the option to sign up for notifications when the preorder goes live. If you’re worried about missing out due to high demand, this can be a useful option.

Visit Retailer Sites: Look for a “Notify Me” or “Email Alerts” option and enter your email to stay informed.
Use PlayStation Alerts: Sign up for notifications directly through Sony to be one of the first to know when preorders are available.

4. Prepare for High Demand

Preordering the PS5 Pro is expected to be competitive, with high demand likely to result in quick sellouts, just as with the initial release of the original PS5. To maximize your chances of securing a preorder:

Act Quickly: Be prepared to place your order as soon as preorders open. Timing is key, as stock can run out within minutes.
Double-Check Payment Information: Ensure your credit card or payment method is ready to go. Any delays during the checkout process could result in losing your spot.
Stay Informed: Monitor PlayStation and retailer websites for updates on restocks or additional preorder windows.

Final Thoughts

The PlayStation 5 Pro is set to take gaming to the next level with its enhanced performance, graphics, and new features. Canadian gamers should be ready to act fast when preorders open on September 26, 2024, to secure their console ahead of the holiday season. Whether you choose to preorder through PlayStation’s official website or your preferred retailer, following the steps outlined above will help ensure a smooth and successful preorder experience.

For more details on the PS5 Pro and to preorder, visit direct.playstation.com or stay tuned to updates from major Canadian retailers.

Tech

Introducing the PlayStation 5 Pro: The Next Evolution in Gaming

Published

2 days ago

September 10, 2024

Harry Miller

Since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) launched four years ago, PlayStation has continuously evolved to meet the demands of its players. Today, we are excited to announce the next step in this journey: the PlayStation 5 Pro. Designed for the most dedicated players and game creators, the PS5 Pro brings groundbreaking advancements in gaming hardware, raising the bar for what’s possible.

Key Features of the PS5 Pro

The PS5 Pro comes equipped with several key performance enhancements, addressing the requests of gamers for smoother, higher-quality graphics at a consistent 60 frames per second (FPS). The console’s standout features include:

Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5, combined with 28% faster memory. This allows for up to 45% faster rendering speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
Advanced Ray Tracing: Ray tracing capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with reflections and refractions of light being processed at double or triple the speed of the current PS5, creating more dynamic visuals.
AI-Driven Upscaling: Introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based upscaling technology that adds extraordinary detail to images, resulting in sharper image clarity.
Backward Compatibility & Game Boost: More than 8,500 PS4 games playable on PS5 Pro will benefit from PS5 Pro Game Boost, stabilizing or enhancing performance. PS4 games will also see improved resolution on select titles.
VRR & 8K Support: The PS5 Pro supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 8K gaming for the ultimate visual experience, while also launching with the latest wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, in supported regions.

Optimized Games & Patches

Game creators have quickly embraced the new technology that comes with the PS5 Pro. Many games will receive free updates to take full advantage of the console’s new features, labeled as PS5 Pro Enhanced. Some of the highly anticipated titles include:

Alan Wake 2
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Demon’s Souls
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Gran Turismo 7
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Horizon Forbidden West

These updates will allow players to experience their favorite games at a higher fidelity, taking full advantage of the console’s improved graphics and performance.

Design & Compatibility

Maintaining consistency within the PS5 family, the PS5 Pro retains the same height and width as the original PS5 model. Players will also have the option to add an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive or swap console covers when available.

Additionally, the PS5 Pro is fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense Edge, Pulse Elite, and Access controller. This ensures seamless integration into your current gaming setup.

Pricing & Availability

The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of:

$699.99 USD
$949.99 CAD
£699.99 GBP
€799.99 EUR
¥119,980 JPY

Each PS5 Pro comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. Pre-orders begin on September 26, 2024, and the console will be available at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation via direct.playstation.com.

The launch of the PS5 Pro marks a new chapter in PlayStation’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences. Whether players choose the standard PS5 or the PS5 Pro, PlayStation aims to provide the best possible gaming experience for everyone.

Preorder your PS5 Pro and step into the next generation of gaming this holiday season.

Tech

Google Unveils AI-Powered Pixel 9 Lineup Ahead of Apple’s iPhone 16 Release

Published

1 month ago

August 13, 2024

Harry Miller

Google has launched its next generation of Pixel phones, setting the stage for a head-to-head competition with Apple as both tech giants aim to integrate more advanced artificial intelligence (AI) features into their flagship devices. The unveiling took place near Google’s Mountain View headquarters, marking an early debut for the Pixel 9 lineup, which is designed to showcase the latest advancements in AI technology.

The Pixel 9 series, although a minor player in global smartphone sales, is a crucial platform for Google to demonstrate the cutting-edge capabilities of its Android operating system. With AI at the core of its strategy, Google is positioning the Pixel 9 phones as vessels for the transformative potential of AI, a trend that is expected to revolutionize the way people interact with technology.

Rick Osterloh, Google’s senior vice president overseeing the Pixel phones, emphasized the company’s commitment to AI, stating, “We are obsessed with the idea that AI can make life easier and more productive for people.” This echoes the narrative Apple is likely to push when it unveils its iPhone 16, which is also expected to feature advanced AI capabilities.

The Pixel 9 lineup will be the first to fully integrate Google’s Gemini AI technology, designed to enhance user experience through more natural, conversational interactions. The Gemini assistant, which features 10 different human-like voices, can perform a wide array of tasks, particularly if users allow access to their emails and documents.

In an on-stage demonstration, the Gemini assistant showcased its ability to generate creative ideas and even analyze images, although it did experience some hiccups when asked to identify a concert poster for singer Sabrina Carpenter.

To support these AI-driven features, Google has equipped the Pixel 9 with a special chip that enables many AI processes to be handled directly on the device. This not only improves performance but also enhances user privacy and security by reducing the need to send data to remote servers.

Google’s aggressive push into AI with the Pixel 9 comes as Apple prepares to unveil its iPhone 16, which is expected to feature its own AI advancements. However, Google’s decision to offer a one-year free subscription to its advanced Gemini Assistant, valued at $240, may pressure Apple to reconsider any plans to charge for its AI services.

The standard Pixel 9 will be priced at $800, a $100 increase from last year, while the Pixel 9 Pro will range between $1,000 and $1,100, depending on the model. Google also announced the next iteration of its foldable Pixel phone, priced at $1,800.

In addition to the new Pixel phones, Google also revealed updates to its Pixel Watch and wireless earbuds, directly challenging Apple’s dominance in the wearable tech market. These products, like the Pixel 9, are designed to integrate seamlessly with Google’s AI-driven ecosystem.

Google’s event took place against the backdrop of a significant legal challenge, with a judge recently ruling that its search engine constitutes an illegal monopoly. This ruling could lead to further court proceedings that may force Google to make significant changes to its business practices, potentially impacting its Android software or other key components of its $2 trillion empire.

Despite these legal hurdles, Google is pressing forward with its vision of an AI-powered future, using its latest devices to showcase what it believes will be the next big leap in technology. As the battle for AI supremacy heats up, consumers can expect both Google and Apple to push the boundaries of what their devices can do, making the choice between them more compelling than ever.