EU officials criticise Microsoft Teams alternative Element Pro
The European Commission rolled out Element Pro as a sovereign backup to Microsoft Teams this summer, but officials describe the tool as “absolute shit” and question its added value. The platform is hosted on Commission infrastructure to reduce reliance on U.S. technology amid the EU’s digital sovereignty push. Element CEO acknowledges teething issues during the trial phase. (POLITICO)
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Christian Triantafillou Schade— Digital pioneer, tech reporter, corporate revolutionary. Christian Triantafillou Schade covers Europe's push for digital sovereignty from the public record. He consults on process improvement and tooling.
China plans to impose significant restrictions on artificial intelligence technology exports, a move that could limit Europe's access to advanced AI systems. The restrictions raise concerns about strategic autonomy and digital sovereignty for EU policymakers. (BRUSSELS TIMES)
China to heavily restrict AI export - The Brussels TimesChina to heavily
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French supermarkets hit by cyberattack disrupting refrigeration systems
FranceNetherlandsBelgiumGermanyGreeceNews
A cyberattack last week targeted refrigeration systems in French supermarkets, including Intermarché and Carrefour, forcing retailers to discard spoiled food. The incident prompted EU-level coordination and highlighted vulnerabilities in operational technology across Europe's food supply chain. France's Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu personally managed the response.
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Netherlands halts Microsoft 365 rollout over digital sovereignty
NetherlandsNews
The Dutch Tax and Customs Administration cancelled its Microsoft 365 cloud deployment due to digital sovereignty, security and encryption concerns. An on-premises email and calendar system will use Microsoft software, with open-source storage and collaboration tools planned for 2027–28. (ZDNET)
Dutch tax authorities cancel Microsoft 365 cloud
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EU-funded team tests universal satellite connector standard
News
An EU-funded SPACE USB project team has developed and tested a universal, USB-like connector standard to enable easier repair, upgrade and servicing of satellites in orbit. The prototype, tested against three existing European interfaces, aims to reduce Europe’s dependence on non-EU satellite components and support in-
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NHS trusts in England reject Palantir patient data platform
United KingdomHealthcareNews
Freedom of Information responses show multiple NHS trusts in England have declined to use Palantir’s £330m federated data platform, citing superior or equal alternatives. Some trusts reported improved scheduling, while others called the system duplicative or retrograde. The rejection highlights concerns over foreign tech dependency in critical healthcare infrastructure.
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US GAO warns agencies lack quantum defences for digital identity
United StatesNews
A Government Accountability Office audit finds none of 24 major US federal agencies has fully prepared for quantum threats to digital identity systems ahead of an October 22 planning deadline. The report highlights widespread failures in identifying vulnerable cryptographic systems, assessing funding needs and testing post-quantum cryptography. Biometric Update
