News and Updates:

• Amazon outage knocks out half the internet:
  A faulty DNS update in Amazon’s DynamoDB caused a massive AWS outage, crippling services like Zoom, Alexa, Slack, and major financial platforms. Over 8 million users were affected globally, delaying flights, halting trades, and disrupting daily life. Analysts estimate losses could reach billions, reigniting calls for multi-cloud resilience—and even breaking up Big Tech.
• Microsoft issues urgent Windows 11 fix:
  An October update broke Windows Recovery Environment tools, disabling USB keyboards and mice during recovery. Microsoft rushed out patch KB5070773 to restore functionality. Users are urged to install immediately to regain recovery access and avoid potential boot or repair issues.
• Meta shuts down Messenger desktop apps:
  Messenger for Windows and macOS will shut down Dec. 15. Users must switch to web access or lose functionality. Messages will remain on Facebook accounts if secure storage is enabled. Meta gave no reason for the change, though declining desktop usage likely drove the decision.
• GM phases out CarPlay and Android Auto across all models:
  CEO Mary Barra confirmed GM will remove phone projection from all future vehicles—gas and electric—by 2028. The company is transitioning to a new unified computing platform with Google Gemini AI and in-house apps, part of its push toward a fully integrated infotainment system.
• GM unveils AI assistant and eyes-off driving system:
  At its “GM Forward” event, the automaker announced a 2028 launch for its next-gen platform featuring Google Gemini AI, hands-free “eyes-off” driving, and energy systems with home battery leasing. GM calls it a “new era of mobility,” aiming to transform vehicles into intelligent assistants.
• Apple slashes iPhone Air production amid weak demand:
  Apple is “drastically” cutting iPhone Air output to near shutdown levels after poor sales and “virtually no demand,” per Nikkei. Customers favor the iPhone 17 Pro lineup for better cameras and battery life. The ultra-thin $999 iPhone Air failed to generate excitement despite its sleek 5.6mm design.