5 things that happened in tech this week

It’s 2015 and the thought on everyone’s minds (at least those dominating the tech world) is what the year will bring us. 2014 saw the release of the long anticipated iPhone 6, security breaches from celebrities to Sony and what is now known as the infamous “Instapurge.” From wearable tech to cars that drive themselves, we’re ready for 2015.

Here’s five things that happened in tech this week:

Apple Watch event names apps

Apple presented the Apple Watch at its press event in Cupertino earlier this week – and the Internet has been abuzz ever since. The company released all the details about its first wearable device, including when it will launch, how much it will cost, the user experience, and a variety of apps and notifications that have been developed for the Watch’s small screen. Mobile developers have been busy creating and adapting a range of applications in preparation for the release of Apple’s smartwatch. The apps range from social apps like Instagram and Twitter, shopping apps like Amazon and eBay, to travel apps like Uber and Passbook – and much, much more.

• For a list of apps and their functions read more on Tech Crunch

Google launches new Chromebook Pixel

Google has released their newest version of the Chromebook Pixel. Originally launched in 2013, the Chromebooks prioritize design and performance over value. Geared towards Internet browsing, here’s what we know about the Chromebook Pixel 2:

• 12 hour battery life (on medium brightness)
• intel Core i5 processor
• refined pixel
• a new USB Type-C connector – which can connect to USB devices, external displays and power simultaneously
• 8GB of RAM and 32GB of storage

Featuring a sleek all-metal design similar to its predecessor, the Chromebook Pixel 2 is listed at $999 – or about $600 more than the next expensive Chromebook. However, the reviews are pouring in and the verdict stands that albeit being ahead of its time, the latest version of the Chromebook Pixel is worth it.

• Read more on Wired

Uber promises one million jobs created for women

Uber has promised to create 1 million jobs for women by 2020. The ride share company made the pledge in a released statement earlier this week, in support of the UN Women organization:

UN Women and Uber are launching a partnership to work together around the world toward a shared vision of equality and women’s empowerment. We intend to invest in long-term programs in local communities where we live and work, as Uber commits to creating 1,000,000 jobs for women globally on the Uber platform by 2020.

The company states that the flexibility of the careers they offer appeals to women trying to balance family and work life as there are no minimum hours or set schedule. However, the goal is ambitious and the company still has a long way to go – by the end of 2014, only 14% of the drivers in the U.S. were female. Nevertheless, it is likely Uber will use its position in the global market to achieve these numbers.

• Read more on Reuters

Twitter updates privacy policy to address revenge porn

Twitter is cracking down on revenge porn, abuse and threats by updating the rules in their privacy policy. The new rules prohibit users from posting sexually explicit content without the subject’s consent and from making direct threats against, “individuals or groups based on race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, or disability.” The social media company has had trouble in the past monitoring abusive behaviour. CEO Dick Costelo even admitted the company didn’t know how to handle the range of reported abuse and threats coming through its system. However, this is a productive step in the right direction for the company that will now have round the clock monitoring to tackle these issues head on.

• Read more on Mashable

Google CFO announces retirement on platform

Patrick Pichette has announced his retirement plans to spend more time with his family and travel the world. The announcement was made through Google’s platform, Google Plus. In a heartfelt letter, Pichette describes the events leading up to his decision and says the revelation came whilst sitting atop of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. The CFO cites his wife, Tamar, in aiding his decision to leave the company. “I remember telling Tamar…it’s not time yet. There is still so much to do at Google, with my career, so many people counting on me,” wrote Pichette. “But then she asked the killer question: so when is it going to be time? Our time? My time? The questions just hung there in the cold morning African air.” Pichette’s departure won’t be immediate and he has announced he will stay until a new CFO is found and ready to step into his shoes.

• Read more on The Guardian