Cellcom changes network name to encourage election participation
Israeli telecom provider Cellcom has updated its network name displayed on customer devices as part of a civic engagement initiative to encourage voter turnout. The technological update serves as a prominent reminder on mobile phones about the importance of exercising voting rights.
FBI investigates alleged Saudi espionage plot involving former OpenAI engineer
The FBI is examining potential economic espionage charges against a former OpenAI engineer accused of placing a listening device, with suspicions he intended to transfer company secrets to Saudi Arabia. The investigation reflects heightened concerns about foreign intelligence operations targeting leading technology firms and sensitive AI research. Charges under espionage statutes are reportedly under consideration.
Israeli buses introduce real-time assault reporting system
Egged and Electra Afikim bus companies have deployed a new system displaying real-time passenger assault statistics on vehicle screens to raise awareness and deter violent behaviour. The initiative aims to prompt passengers to reconsider committing assaults by visualising the frequency of incidents.
AI tool checks suspicious messages ahead of Israeli elections
Tech company Mozo has launched a free service allowing citizens to submit WhatsApp messages and screenshots for artificial intelligence analysis to detect potentially misleading content. The tool will operate at no cost until 24 hours after the Knesset elections. The initiative represents an effort to combat disinformation and election interference during the voting period.
General Motors plans autonomous driving launch in 2028 with Israeli tech
General Motors announced plans to introduce autonomous driving capabilities in 2028, leveraging Israeli technology development. The initiative marks significant progress in self-driving vehicle commercialisation supported by local innovation.
Israel Hayom launches live election updates for 2026 polls
Ynet has introduced real-time ‘Live Activities’ notifications for the 2026 elections, delivering voting figures, polling samples and election results directly to users’ mobile lock screens throughout polling day and the subsequent counting period. The feature aims to provide voters with continuous updates on voter turnout and result counts as they develop overnight and into the following day.
Hebrew University appoints AI researcher as data science professor
Prof. Claudia V. Goldman, who made aliyah at age 16, has been appointed as an associate professor in the Data Science Department at Hebrew University’s Business School in Jerusalem since July 2024. Goldman is now teaching the next generation of Israeli students about artificial intelligence and data science. The appointment reflects Israel’s growing emphasis on technology education and research.
Cloud platform Railway hit by major security breach
Popular cloud development platform Railway has disclosed a cyberattack in which hackers gained access to encrypted environment variables and customer credentials. The company issued an urgent alert warning users of potential theft of AI credits and cryptocurrency wallet details, urging immediate password changes and access key rotation.
Apple launches first foldable iPhone at $1,999
Apple has officially released its first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, priced at $1,999, entering a market pioneered by Samsung seven years ago. The device features Touch ID authentication, stylus support, and eliminates Face ID, though users are warned against touching the display coating. The release marks Apple’s entry into the competitive foldable phone segment.
Google quietly updates privacy policy to use Gmail data for AI
Google has silently updated its privacy policy to permit use of personal data from Gmail, photos and Drive for its AI services, breaking years of previous commitments. The change means user information can now be used for targeted advertising through the company’s artificial intelligence systems, marking a significant shift in data handling practices.