ITmedia NEWS

au launched a "Second Number" service for 550 yen per month, allowing users to obtain an additional phone number for different use cases.

• •A service allowing users to obtain an additional phone number separate from their main line is offered for 550 yen per month.
• •Users can switch numbers based on use cases such as work, hobbies, or various registrations.
• •A system has been introduced to manage multiple phone numbers on a single smartphone.

TSMC announced a 250 million yen donation for Kumamoto earthquake relief, while its Kumamoto No. 1 factory resumed normal production after a temporary halt.

• •Taiwan's TSMC donated 250 million yen to support victims of the Reiwa 8 Kumamoto earthquake.
• •The Kumamoto No. 1 factory, which had temporarily suspended operations due to the earthquake, has resumed normal production.
• •This is an example of a major semiconductor manufacturer simultaneously handling disaster response and contributing to the local community.

A photography article explains that the 'compression effect' is not solely a telephoto lens characteristic but also depends on shooting distance and other conditions.

• •The article clarifies the misconception that the compression effect is unique to telephoto lenses.
• •It attempts to provide a scientific explanation for a photography technique that sparked debate on social media.
• •It discusses how the distance to the subject, not just focal length, influences the visual effect.

The EU begins enforcing AI Act transparency rules, requiring labels for AI-generated content and disclosure of AI interactions, with fines up to 15 million euros for violations.

• •The European Commission has officially started applying transparency rules under Article 50 of the EU AI Act.
• •Businesses are obligated to label generated content with machine-readable marks and disclose interactions with AI.
• •Violating companies may face strict fines of up to 15 million euros or 3% of their global turnover.

UC San Diego research validates that pedestrians perceive others' conversations as 'invisible walls' and detour, based on observations of 4,911 people.

• •It was confirmed that pedestrians perceive social interactions as spatial barriers and avoid them.
• •The findings are based on a large-scale empirical study observing 4,911 pedestrians.
• •The research deepens psychological and sociological insights into interpersonal distance and spatial perception.

A suspect was arrested for creating and posting obscene images of real women in gym clothes using generative AI, highlighting the serious harm of AI misuse.

• •Police arrested a company employee on suspicion of defamation and violating laws against child prostitution and pornography.
• •A high school senior was also referred to prosecutors for allegedly commissioning the image manipulation.
• •The case establishes that creating and spreading obscene images using generative AI is subject to criminal penalties.

An electric wire manufacturer in Higashi-Osaka developed a 'visible extension cord' for 30 million yen, which was certified as an Osaka-made brand.

• •The product was developed with a focus on design and the concept of being 'visible,' unlike traditional extension cords.
• •It received 'Osaka-made brand' certification, which supports SME creativity, highlighting the technology and passion behind it.
• •Innovations in the manufacturing process from 30 million yen in machinery aim to provide consumers with new comfort and convenience.

Kioxia announced it will appeal a US patent infringement verdict ordering it to pay approximately 36.6 billion yen in damages.

• •A US federal jury ordered Kioxia and its US subsidiary to pay approximately $229 million in damages.
• •The company stated it will pursue all legal means, including an appeal, to contest the verdict.
• •This case highlights how international IP litigation in the semiconductor industry significantly impacts corporate finances and strategy.