It was a busy week in technology news, from a national spotlight on battling cybersecurity threats to a peek at the consumer side of Windows 10. Just in case you missed a day at Tech Times, here's a look at the leading headlines from the week.
1. Microsoft Reveals More Details of Windows 10
A Microsoft event this week provided greater insight on its latest operating system in development, Windows 10, which is due to arrive later this year. The new OS will feature a desktop version of Microsoft's virtual assistant Cortana.
Microsoft is also developing a new Internet browser called "Spartan" to replace Internet Explorer as Windows' default Internet browser. Spartan will boast a number of new features, such as the ability to streamline web pages into an ebook format.
2. Obama Talks Cybersecurity in State of the Union Address
President Barack Obama put cybersecurity in the national spotlight during his State of the Union address, making it clear the federal government intends to treat the issue as seriously as national terrorism.
"No foreign nation, no hacker, should be able to shut down our networks, steal our trade secrets, or invade the privacy of American families, especially our kids," said Obama during his address. "So we're making sure our government integrates intelligence to combat cyberthreats, just as we have done to combat terrorism."
But not everyone is convinced the feds will make headway and many aren't confident that a government push for greater transparency regarding cyberthreat incidents will make a big difference.
3. FreedomPop Reveals Cheap Unlimited Talk, Text and Data Plan
FreedomPop is offering a new phone plan boasting unlimited talk, text and data for a mere $5 per month.
The service plan runs using Wi-Fi hotspots in major cities.
4. WhatsApp Launches Desktop App for Google Chrome
WhatsApp users can now access accounts on desktops if they are using Google Chrome.
The web app allows users to send and receive messages, as well as other features available through the mobile smartphone app.
5. Facebook Attempts to Remove Online Hoaxes
Facebook is aiming to remove online hoaxes from its social media platform, relying on users to report hoaxes.
The company will take into account how many times a story is flagged as well as the number of times a user who has posted the story has deleted it. Turns out, Facebook says, people are two times more likely to delete false posts after they initially post them.