THE NEWS WRAP: Uber plans to expand European operations

Uber chief executive Travis Kalanick has revealed plans to expand the company’s operations in Europe.

Re/Code reports the controversial ride-sharing service wants to create 50,000 jobs and reduce traffic congestion in European cities, should governments promote “progressive regulation”.

Speaking at the DLD Conference in Munich, Kalanick said out-dated regulation across the globe was preventing safe, affordable rides.

“We want to make 2015 the year where we establish a new partnership with cities,” he said.

The news follows increasing scrutiny of Uber’s operations and several governments cracking down on the ride-sharing service. Earlier this month a Melbourne UberX driver was arrested following allegations he sexually assaulted a teenage passenger.

Lexus roles out smart billboards

Car maker Lexus will announce the roll-out of ‘smart’ billboards in key locations across Australia today.

Fairfax reports the billboards are able to identify what kind of car someone is driving, before tailoring a message just for them while taking into other factors such as the weather.

The billboards are currently located at Sydney and Perth domestic airports, as well as at popular intersections and streets in Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide.

Apple likely to roll-out stylus for new iPad model

Apple could be set to unveil a new stylus to compliment the launch of its new iPad model later this year.

The stylus will be used to enhance the user experience of the long-rumoured 12.9-inch iPad Pro, according to AppleInsider.

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who has a track record of predicting new Apple products and features, suggests the stylus will be an optional add-on rather than a built-in feature of the new iPad model.

Overnight

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is up 1.1%, rising 190.86 points to 17,511.57. The Australian dollar is currently trading at US82 cents.

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