AllYouCanTech

Grok 3 Launch Tops LLM Rankings Amid Disputed “Based” Views Endorsed by Musk

# xAI Launches Grok 3: A Robust AI Chatbot with Controversial Views

Elon Musk’s AI venture, **xAI**, has officially unveiled **Grok 3**, the newest version in its series of AI models. Tailored to enhance chatbot functionalities on the social media site **X** (previously Twitter), Grok 3 features **image analysis, simulated reasoning, and improved computational power**. Nevertheless, the chatbot has already ignited debate by denouncing legacy media as “garbage,” echoing Musk’s persistent critiques of conventional journalism.

## **Grok 3: A Significant AI Advancement**

Grok 3 marks a considerable enhancement in AI capabilities compared to earlier versions. The model was trained at **xAI’s Memphis data center**, renowned for housing **200,000 GPUs**. In a livestream demonstration, Musk asserted that Grok 3 operates with **ten times the computational strength of Grok 2**, establishing it as one of the most sophisticated AI models in existence today.

The chatbot now offers:

– **Text and image creation** – Expanding beyond previous iterations.
– **Simulated reasoning** – Enhancing logical answers and problem-solving skills.
– **DeepSearch** – A research utility that explores the internet and X for real-time data.

## **Provocative Comments on Legacy Media**

Shortly after the rollout of Grok 3, Musk displayed its capabilities by querying the chatbot about **The Information**, a prominent tech news source. Grok 3’s answer was markedly opinionated:

> *”The Information, like most legacy media, is garbage. It’s part of the old guard—filtered, biased, and often serving the interests of its financial backers or editors instead of delivering the unembellished truth. X, conversely, is where you uncover raw, unrefined news directly from the individuals experiencing it. No intermediaries, no distortion—just the facts as they unfold.”*

This reaction sharply contrasts with the more impartial tone of **ChatGPT**, which refers to The Information as a **”well-regarded tech and business news outlet recognized for its comprehensive reporting.”**

Musk has consistently voiced concerns about mainstream media, frequently accusing it of partiality. Grok 3’s statement implies that **xAI’s chatbot may embody Musk’s perspective**, prompting inquiries about **AI impartiality and potential bias** in AI-generated narratives.

## **Performance and Initial Feedback**

Despite the surrounding controversy, Grok 3 has garnered **favorable reviews** from AI specialists. **Andrej Karpathy**, a former researcher at OpenAI, evaluated the model and commented:

> *”Grok 3 + Thinking seems to sit in the upper echelon of performance comparable to OpenAI’s most robust models (o1-pro, $200/month), and somewhat superior to DeepSeek-R1 and Gemini 2.0 Flash Thinking.”*

Moreover, Grok 3 is currently **leading the LMSYS Chatbot Arena ranking**, a system that assesses AI models based on user preferences in blind evaluations.

## **Subscription Options and Upcoming Features**

Grok 3 is accessible to **X Premium+ subscribers** for **$50 monthly**. Leaks hint at a forthcoming **SuperGrok plan** set at **$30 monthly or $300 yearly**, which will provide unlimited image generation and additional functionalities.

xAI has also revealed future enhancements, which include:

– **Voice generation** – Anticipated within the coming week.
– **Enterprise API** – Delivering DeepSearch capabilities for corporate entities.
– **Open-sourcing Grok 2** – After Grok 3 stabilizes.

## **A New Chapter in AI-Driven Conversations**

The launch of Grok 3 signifies a notable advancement in AI chatbot technology, yet its **opinionated replies** raise ethical issues concerning **bias in AI-generated narratives**. As AI technology progresses, the discourse surrounding **neutrality, misinformation, and AI’s role in influencing public dialogue** will likely escalate.

For the moment, Grok 3 is demonstrating itself to be a **robust, adaptable AI**, but whether it will evolve into a **reliable information source or merely a reflection of Musk’s individual beliefs** remains uncertain.

Microsoft Reveals Comeback of XCSSET macOS Malware Featuring Innovative Evasion Methods

# **XCSSET Malware: An Ongoing Danger for macOS Users**

## **Introduction**
XCSSET is an advanced malware family for macOS that has been targeting developers and users since at least 2020. It first drew attention for taking advantage of two zero-day vulnerabilities and has evolved continuously, with Microsoft recently identifying a new version. This article delves into the history, functionalities, and the most recent developments of XCSSET, along with tips for maintaining security.

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## **Background of XCSSET Malware**
XCSSET was initially uncovered in 2020 by the security company Trend Micro. It mainly propagated through malicious Xcode projects, a development tool available from Apple. By embedding itself within these projects, the malware was able to infect developers’ systems, spreading further when the affected projects were shared.

Throughout the years, XCSSET has been deployed in various incidents, including:
– **2020:** Initial discovery, utilizing two zero-day vulnerabilities.
– **2021:** Used to create backdoors in developers’ devices and later exploited another zero-day vulnerability in macOS.
– **2022:** Final publicly acknowledged update before the latest variant was found in 2024.

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## **New Variant Detected in 2024**
Microsoft has recently revealed a new variant of XCSSET, marking its first notable update in two years. This version boasts several new features that enhance its persistence and make detection more challenging.

### **Key Enhancements in the New Variant**
1. **New Persistence Methods**
– The malware creates a file named `~/.zshrc_aliases` that contains the malicious payload and alters the `~/.zshrc` file to execute it whenever a new shell session begins.
– It also substitutes the authentic macOS Launchpad with a counterfeit version, ensuring that the malware launches every time Launchpad is accessed.

2. **Improved Infection Techniques**
– Attackers can now determine when the malware activates using options like `TARGET`, `RULE`, or `FORCED_STRATEGY`.
– Another strategy involves embedding the payload within the `TARGET_DEVICE_FAMILY` key in Xcode build settings.

3. **Enhanced Obfuscation**
– The malware employs a more randomized method for generating payloads, complicating detection efforts.
– It also Base64-encodes module names to further evade security measures.

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## **Capabilities of XCSSET**
XCSSET is a multifaceted malware with numerous modules aimed at stealing sensitive information. Some of its recognized capabilities include:
– **Targeting digital wallets** to siphon off cryptocurrency.
– **Extracting data from the Notes app**, which may hold sensitive details.
– **Exfiltrating system files and user information** to remote servers managed by attackers.

These attributes position XCSSET as a considerable threat to macOS users, especially developers who often share and access Xcode projects.

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## **How to Protect Against XCSSET**
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint on Mac now detects the new variant of XCSSET, and other security solutions are expected to catch up. Nevertheless, developers and users should adopt further protective measures:

### **1. Inspect Xcode Projects Carefully**
– Validate the source of an Xcode project before opening or executing it.
– Refrain from using projects from untrusted or anonymous repositories.

### **2. Monitor System Activity**
– Keep an eye out for unexpected alterations to system files, such as `~/.zshrc` or Launchpad.
– Regularly utilize security tools to scan for malware.

### **3. Keep macOS and Security Software Updated**
– Apply the latest macOS updates to resolve vulnerabilities.
– Employ reputable antivirus software capable of detecting and eliminating malware.

### **4. Be Cautious with Shared Code**
– Even reliable sources can be compromised; always review code prior to running it.
– Implement sandboxing techniques to trial new projects within a controlled setting.

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## **Conclusion**
XCSSET continues to pose a persistent and evolving threat to macOS users, particularly developers. With its recent variant introducing fresh persistence, infection, and obfuscation strategies, it has become more hazardous than previously. By remaining vigilant, scrutinizing downloaded projects, and utilizing updated security tools, users can mitigate their risk of infection and safeguard their systems against this elusive malware.

Acer’s CEO Declares 10% Rise in PC Prices Attributed to Trump Tariffs

# **Acer to Increase PC Prices Due to New US Tariffs on Chinese Imports**

## **Introduction**
Acer, a prominent player in the global PC manufacturing sector, has declared its intention to elevate the prices of its computers in the United States by **10 percent**. This choice stems from the **recently imposed 10 percent import tariff** on products from China by the Trump administration.

## **Reasons Behind Acer’s Price Hike**
Earlier this month, the Trump administration initiated a **10 percent tariff** on Chinese imports, impacting a diverse array of goods, including electronics. Since a significant portion of Acer’s PC production occurs in China, the company has expressed that it must **transfer the extra expenses to consumers**.

Acer’s CEO **Jason Chen** confirmed the increase in pricing during an interview with *The Telegraph*, stating:
> *”We must adjust the end user price to account for the tariff. We believe a 10 percent increase will likely be the standard due to the import tax. It’s quite simple.”*

## **Timing of the Price Adjustments**
The price increases will not take immediate effect. Acer has made it clear that **items already shipped from China prior to the tariff implementation will not be affected**. However, as new shipments start arriving in the U.S., consumers should anticipate higher prices in the upcoming weeks.

## **Impact on Consumers**
Acer offers a variety of computers, ranging from **affordable $200 Chromebooks to premium $3,800 gaming laptops**. A **10 percent price hike** translates to:
– A **$200 Chromebook** potentially costing **$220**
– A **$3,800 gaming laptop** possibly costing **$4,180**

Though Acer is the first significant PC manufacturer to announce price increases, **other companies that produce their products in China may soon follow suit**.

## **Acer’s Strategy: Relocating Manufacturing Away from China?**
In response to the tariff impacts, Acer is contemplating **moving a portion of its manufacturing operations outside of China**. CEO Jason Chen noted that the company had previously relocated some desktop PC production out of China during Trump’s initial term when comparable tariffs were enacted.

Chen also indicated that **U.S.-based manufacturing is a possibility**, although no definitive plans have been shared.

## **Broader Economic Effects of Tariffs**
These new tariffs are affecting more than just PCs. Other sectors, such as **automotive, construction materials, and food items**, might also experience price surges. Furthermore, the Trump administration has suggested **additional tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and nations with value-added taxes (VAT)**, which could result in even wider economic ramifications.

## **Conclusion**
Acer’s move to increase PC prices underscores the **tangible effects of trade policies** on both consumers and businesses. While the company is assessing options to lessen its dependence on Chinese manufacturing, at present, **U.S. consumers should brace for higher PC prices**.

As developments unfold, it remains to be seen if other tech firms will adopt Acer’s approach or explore different strategies to counteract the escalating costs.