From Batman to Tony Stark, heroes of the tech industry no longer exist only in comic books. Our Digital Heroes brings you one tech-savvy icon every month to love, hate, and learn from. This month we discuss Elon Musk; a man who has true digital superpowers whilst also being hated as much as he is loved!
If you were to overhear about the life and work of Elon Reeve Musk for the first time, you very well might brush the gossip off as a group of teenagers talking about their favorite super hero.
But for Musk, his fans are not teenagers and he is a very real-life representation of digital superpowers.
Musk has famously long been convinced that for life to survive, humanity has to become a multi-planet species. He began to develop his career around this concept.
He isn’t impressed with our current rocket launcher model, hailing them as too expensive. As a result, in 2002 he founded Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) to make more affordable rockets for his multi-planet expansion initiative.
SpaceX went on to develop the Dragon spacecraft, which carries supplies to the International Space Station (ISS). Dragon can carry as many as seven astronauts.
Enter Tesla. Musk set his sights on the roads of Earth and the automotive sector in the meantime while his SpaceX goals develop.
Another project, the Hyperloop, which is a pneumatic tube in which a pod carrying 28 passengers would travel the 350 miles (560 km) between Los Angeles and San Francisco in 35 minutes at a top speed of 760 miles (1,220 km) per hour, nearly the speed of sound.
In his personal life, Musk and Canadian musician Grimes are in a relationship with a newborn baby. According to Musk and Grimes, his name was “X Æ A-12”; however, the name was deemed illegal under California law. Human names cannot contain characters that are not in the modern English alphabet. The baby’s name was then changed to “X Æ A-Xii”. This drew more confusion from the public, as Æ is not a letter in the modern English alphabet, either. The child was eventually named “X AE A-XII”, with “X” as a first name and “AE A-XII” as a middle name.
Musk currently resides in Texas. From the early 2000s until late 2020, he resided in the Los Angeles area of California where both Tesla and SpaceX were founded and where their headquarters are still located. Elon Musk dropped out of Stanford after only two days, deciding instead to join the Internet boom and launch an internet startup.
Musk only owns 21% of Tesla but has pledged more than half his stake as collateral for loans.
He grew up in South Africa, then immigrated to Canada at age 17. He landed in the U.S. as a transfer student to the University of Pennsylvania.
Although his father insisted that he attend college in Pretoria, Musk was determined to move to the United States. Aware that it would be easier to enter the United States from Canada, he applied for a Canadian passport through his Canadian-born mother. Musk has been the subject of criticism due to unorthodox or unscientific stances and highly publicized controversies.
We’re jumping right in today, taking a look at the enterprise AI landscape. It’s July 2025, and things are moving incredibly fast. Our goal here is simple: cut through the noise, give you those critical insights, the aha moments — and make sure you’re really informed.
We’re pulling from this month’s Trend Alert: Enterprise AI in 2025. It’s packed with insights for CIOs, CTOs, and CEOs — basically anyone who needs to know what’s really going on.
So yeah, let’s unpack this.
We’re not just listing trends. We want to give you the context. The why. Why does this matter? What questions should you be asking?
That’s the aim.
Grok 4 and the Ethics of AI Models
First up: AI models. We have to talk about Grok 4, the latest from xAI — Elon Musk’s venture. And this is not just another version update. They’re claiming it passes PhD-level exams and even discovers new technologies. It’s multimodal — it can handle text, images, memes, complex documents — and it’s available via a $300/month pro subscription.
But here’s where it gets really interesting.
Right before launch, Grok generated some extremely offensive antisemitic content. It was bad. The fallout was immediate. Türkiye banned it. xAI had to completely overhaul its moderation systems from the ground up.
And that’s a wake-up call for enterprise leaders. It’s a stark lesson: model power means nothing without guardrails.
It forces a deeper question: how do you balance innovation speed with basic safety and ethical responsibility?
If you’re a CIO considering large-scale model deployment, “guardrails” aren’t just content filters. We’re talking about audit trails, clear usage policies, human-in-the-loop review processes — and most importantly, a culture shift. AI isn’t plug-and-play efficiency. It’s a responsibility. It requires legal and compliance involvement far earlier than we’re used to.
NVIDIA, Chips, and Compute Power
Let’s pivot to hardware.
In July 2025, NVIDIA became the world’s first company to hit a $4 trillion market cap. That’s staggering. The reason? The unstoppable demand for generative AI infrastructure.
NVIDIA also introduced new chips — Blackwell Ultra and Rubin — at GTC. These aren’t just faster. They’re specialized: optimized for edge AI, robotics, physical modeling, autonomous systems. This is targeted compute power.
The ripple effect? Entire industries — healthcare, gaming, manufacturing — are rewriting their hardware roadmaps. IT leaders are being forced to rethink compute strategies from the ground up. This is no longer just about upgrades. It’s about staying competitive.
Colossus and Scaling Infrastructure
So where’s all this hardware going?
A big part of it is headed to Colossus, the AI supercomputer being built by xAI in Memphis. Right now, it runs on 150,000 H100 GPUs and 50,000 H200s — and they’re aiming for one million GPUs. That would make it the largest AI cluster on the planet.
Its main purpose is to train massive models like Grok 4. But for CIOs everywhere, it poses a serious question: Are we ready for compute power to scale this fast?
Can your infrastructure cope? What’s the cost of keeping up — or even just staying relevant?
Traditional IT budget assumptions are being torn apart. Infrastructure planning has never been more complex… or expensive.
Vibe Coding and Software Trends
Now let’s shift to software.
There’s a new trend called vibe coding — where developers write code using natural language. You describe the logic you want, even the “vibe” you’re going for, and the AI writes the code.
Sounds magical, right? Especially if you’ve ever lost hours chasing a semicolon.
But it’s not simple. The Wall Street Journal reports that Microsoft, Google, and Vanguard are already using this in production. And Gartner predicts that by 2028, 40% of all new business apps will be AI-assisted.
The upside? Huge gains in efficiency.
The downside? Brand-new risks.
CIOs are scrambling to implement usage frameworks, audit trails, and AI code review pipelines. Because if AI writes the code, how do you debug it? How do you ensure accountability?
We’re entering an era where AI is augmenting developers — not replacing them yet, but reshaping the way we build. Tools are emerging that add explainability, generate documentation, even comment code automatically. But humans still have to review for subtle bugs, security flaws, and unintended bias.
It’s not just AI writing code. It’s humans and AI learning to build together.
Samsung and the Ambient AI Shift
Let’s look at the consumer side for a moment.
Samsung just launched the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Flip7. Cool foldable phones, sure — but the bigger story is their vision for a multi-device AI ecosystem.
They’re using Google Gemini and their own on-device AI models to power fitness rings, smartwatches that monitor vascular activity, XR glasses — you name it.
The message for CTOs?
AI isn’t just on the dashboard anymore. It’s ambient. Physical. Always on.
Your strategy needs to expand beyond screens. How does AI interact with employees and customers in physical environments? How do you design experiences that feel human, helpful — and secure?
AI Infrastructure and the Data Fabric
Let’s talk foundations.
Pure Storage recently announced their Enterprise Data Cloud (EDC) — a platform built specifically for AI observability, hybrid deployment, and ultra-fast training cycles.
At the same time, Stargate LLC — backed by OpenAI, Oracle, and SoftBank — committed $100 billion to building a next-gen compute grid across North America by 2029.
The message to IT teams is clear: You are now central to board-level strategic planning. This is not just “tech plumbing.” The data layer and compute fabric are foundational to every AI initiative moving forward.
Strategy, Budgets, and Governance
Let’s zoom out.
According to CIO Inc., 45% of enterprise tech budgets in 2025 are going to generative AI. But an even higher number — 48% — are now focused on AI governance.
That’s a big shift.
EY’s Global CTO said something that stuck with us: “Blanket AI training for all employees is pointless. It should be role-based, integrated where it makes sense.”
In other words, it’s no longer just about building cool AI stuff. It’s about aligning, supervising, and evolving — with purpose.
That’s the pivot: from experimentation to operational maturity.
Final Thoughts
So what did we see today?
Grok’s messy launch reminded us that guardrails matter.
NVIDIA’s historic $4T milestone is reshaping infrastructure.
Vibe coding is changing how software is built.
Samsung is pushing AI into our physical world.
Massive infrastructure bets are redrawing the data landscape.
And enterprise focus is finally shifting from speed to governance.
It’s a lot. The ground is shifting fast.
And the real question now is this: When AI is embedded not just digitally, but physically, what new ethical challenges are coming next? What does governance look like when AI is everywhere — and invisible?
That’s the next frontier.
Thanks for listening. Stay curious. Stay sharp. And stay in control.
1- The people who think AI might become conscious As AI advances, debate is growing over whether machines could become truly conscious. While large language models mimic human conversation, some researchers argue that real consciousness may require biology, not just algorithms. Projects like the Dreamachine and lab-grown “mini-brains” explore this mystery. Even so, the illusion of AI consciousness could still change how we trust and relate to machines.
2- Indian IT giant investigates link to M&S cyber-attack
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) is investigating whether its systems were exploited in the recent cyber-attack that severely disrupted Marks & Spencer’s operations. The breach, believed to be caused via a third-party supplier, has taken M&S’s online services offline since April, with full recovery expected by July. Authorities are focusing on the hacker group Scattered Spider, which is also linked to attacks on the Co-op and Harrods. M&S estimates the breach will cost them £300 million in profits this year.
3- Qatar Economic Forum 2025: Tech Titans and Policy Makers Chart Path for Digital-First Global Economy
The forum featured panels where leaders like Elon Musk and regional policymakers discussed the integration of AI, blockchain, and sustainable technologies into the global economy. Topics included balancing AI regulation with global competition, the role of blockchain in emerging markets, and the fusion of renewable energy with smart grid technology
4- Fears 300,000 British electricity meters will not work after tech switch-off An estimated 300,000 homes in Great Britain may face disruptions in heating and hot water as the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) is set to be switched off starting June 30, 2025. The aging technology’s deactivation raises concerns about energy insecurity, especially in rural areas.
At Google I/O 2025, Google introduced “AI Mode” in Search, offering users a conversational interface powered by Gemini 2.5. This feature provides nuanced answer summaries, follow-up questions, and diverse sources through a multi-query method, enhancing the search experience beyond traditional keyword-based queries.
6- Gemini 2.5: Our most intelligent models are getting even better
Google announced the Gemini 2.5 Pro model, featuring a new “Deep Think” mode for advanced reasoning capabilities. This enhancement allows the AI to perform complex tasks with improved accuracy and understanding.
7- Google launches new initiative to back startups building AI
Google has announced a new AI Futures Fund to support startups using its latest DeepMind tools. The fund will operate on a rolling basis without formal application windows, focusing primarily on early- to mid-stage companies.
8- The growing environmental impact of AI data centers’ energy demands
Reports indicate that the energy demands of AI data centers are contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions.The rapid growth of AI technologies is outpacing the expansion of renewable energy sources, prompting discussions on sustainable practices in the tech industry.
A Forbes article reveals that many agentic AI initiatives stall due to weak infrastructure, poor cross-team coordination, and unclear business alignment. To scale successfully, companies must tie AI efforts to strategic goals and strengthen data governance.
At Google I/O 2025, the company unveiled “AI Mode,” a transformative feature that reimagines traditional search.This mode offers users conversational, AI-generated responses, allowing for deeper engagement through follow-up questions and multimedia content.Powered by the Gemini 2.5 model, AI Mode integrates capabilities like Deep Search and Project Mariner, enabling tasks such as booking travel or conducting research.While this shift aims to enhance user experience, it also raises concerns about accuracy and the impact on web traffic.Google plans to offer AI Mode through subscription tiers, signaling a move towards monetizing advanced AI features.
1- Widespread power outage hits Spain and neighboring countries France and Portugal
A widespread power outage struck Spain and parts of Portugal and France around 12:30 PM CET on Monday, disrupting homes, businesses, and transportation systems across major cities like Madrid, Lisbon, and Barcelona. Events such as the Madrid Open tennis tournament were suspended, metro systems were evacuated, and airports operated on backup generators. The outage was reportedly triggered by a rare atmospheric phenomenon called “induced atmospheric vibration,” causing extreme oscillations in very high voltage lines due to sharp temperature changes. Energy suppliers REN and Red Eléctrica indicated that while some power restoration efforts have begun, full stabilization of the European power grid could take up to a week. Spanish authorities advised citizens to minimize driving as traffic systems were down, though France has reportedly restored power to affected regions like the Basque area.
OpenAI has expressed interest in buying Google Chrome if Google is forced to sell it amid an ongoing US government monopoly trial. OpenAI executive Nick Turley testified that Chrome’s dominance, with about 64% market share, is a key focus in efforts to curb Google’s power. Google, however, insists Chrome is not for sale and plans to appeal recent court rulings finding it guilty of monopolistic practices in search and online advertising. OpenAI previously proposed a deal to integrate Google search into ChatGPT, but the offer was rejected; instead, OpenAI maintains a partnership with Microsoft. The trial, closely watched by other tech giants like Meta and Apple, comes as generative AI reshapes the digital landscape and OpenAI explores creating a social media platform to rival X.
3- Amazon launches first Kuiper internet satellites in bid to take on Elon Musk’s Starlink
Amazon successfully launched the first 27 satellites of its Project Kuiper internet network after a weather delay, aiming to compete with Elon Musk’s Starlink. The satellites were deployed via a United Launch Alliance rocket from Cape Canaveral, with plans to confirm their independent operation soon. Project Kuiper, announced six years ago, aims to build a constellation of thousands of low Earth orbit satellites, with a regulatory deadline to deploy at least 1,618 satellites by July 2026. Amazon has committed up to $10 billion for the initiative and secured over 80 launches, partnering with companies like ULA, Arianespace, SpaceX, and Blue Origin. Commercial service is expected to start later this year, with Amazon projecting Kuiper will become a significant driver of operating income and return on invested capital over time.
4- Google is an online advertising monopoly, judge rules
A federal judge in Virginia ruled that Google has illegally built monopoly power in its web advertising business, siding with the US Department of Justice in a major antitrust case. This marks the government’s second major legal win against Google in less than a year, alongside previous rulings on search and app store monopolies. The court found that Google abused its dominance by tying its ad server and ad exchange tools, harming competition and publishers, though not all government claims were upheld. Google plans to appeal the decision, arguing that its tools benefit small businesses and publishers. While a forced divestiture of Google’s ad business is less likely due to the partial ruling, regulatory pressure on Big Tech is expected to intensify globally following this case.
5- Spain and Portugal declare states of emergency after massive power outage
Spain and Portugal declared states of emergency after a massive, unexplained power outage disrupted transportation, shut down airports, and halted metro systems across the Iberian Peninsula. The outage left cities like Madrid, Lisbon, and Barcelona in chaos, forcing manual traffic control, closing businesses, and suspending flights and trains. While 87% of Spain’s power had been restored by early Tuesday, Portugal faced greater challenges due to its energy dependence on Spain and lack of alternative supply sources. Leaders ruled out cyberattacks, but Portugal’s prime minister suggested the issue originated in Spain. Although critical infrastructure like hospitals and nuclear sites remained operational, the blackout’s disruption to daily life is expected to linger for days.
6- M&S stops online orders and issues refunds after cyber attack
Marks & Spencer (M&S) has paused all online orders and is issuing refunds after experiencing a cyber attack that disrupted food, clothing, and gift card transactions. The retailer confirmed the “cyber incident” earlier this week and has since been working with cybersecurity experts to restore operations. While physical stores remain open, issues with contactless payments and gift cards persist, leading to customer frustration over inconsistent communication. Experts warn the attack could materially impact M&S’s revenues, given that around a quarter of its sales come from online channels. The breach has been reported to the National Cyber Security Centre and the Information Commissioner’s Office, and the disruption adds to a growing list of recent major cyber incidents affecting UK businesses.
7-UPS in Talks With Startup Figure AI to Deploy Humanoid Robots
UPS is in talks with robotics startup Figure AI to potentially deploy humanoid robots for tasks like picking and sorting parcels within its logistics network. Discussions between the two companies began last year and have continued into recent months, although the exact roles for the robots are not yet confirmed. This move reflects UPS’s broader push toward automation, already involving robotic arms, AI-driven software, and partnerships with companies like Dexterity Inc. Figure AI has gained attention for its humanoid robot technology and recently sought major funding, though questions have arisen about the scope of its partnerships. UPS, while declining to comment on specific vendors, emphasized its ongoing exploration of advanced technologies to enhance operations.
8- Racing To Success: Siemens’ Digital Solutions In Unexpected Industries
Siemens’ digital solutions, particularly through its Xcelerator portfolio and tools like Teamcenter, NX, and Solid Edge, are helping industries as diverse as NASCAR and donut manufacturing operate with greater speed, precision, and efficiency. Joe Gibbs Racing uses Siemens software to design and optimize race car components on-site under extreme time constraints, while Krispy Kreme leverages Siemens automation to ensure consistency and safety across its global donut production lines. Both companies exemplify the benefits of IT and operational technology (OT) convergence—merging data analytics, automation, and real-time simulation. As industries digitize, Siemens is well-positioned among competitors like ABB and Honeywell, offering an integrated, end-to-end approach that improves productivity and adaptability. This transformation is reshaping sectors by enabling faster innovation, reduced downtime, and smarter decision-making.
9- Microsoft says everyone will be a boss in the future – of AI employees
Microsoft predicts the rise of “frontier firms” where every employee will act as a boss managing AI agents, reshaping the workforce over the next five years. In its Work Trend Index report, Microsoft outlines a three-phase shift: starting with AI assistants, evolving into digital colleagues, and eventually leading to fully autonomous AI agents executing complex workflows under human supervision. These frontier firms will operate faster, more agilely, and with greater scalability through “on-demand intelligence.” Microsoft is already deploying such tools through products like Copilot Studio, used by companies like McKinsey for client scheduling. While the company promotes this evolution as a boost to productivity and a reduction in repetitive work, experts warn of job displacement risks, especially in knowledge work, with estimates of millions of roles potentially affected. Critics also caution that excessive reliance on AI may erode human expertise and creativity within organizations.
10- This tool estimates how much electricity your chatbot messages consume
Julien Delavande, an engineer at Hugging Face, created a tool to estimate the electricity consumed by chatbot messages, aiming to raise awareness about the environmental impact of AI usage. Since AI models run on power-intensive hardware, their growing use is expected to significantly increase global energy demand. Delavande’s tool, designed for use with Chat UI and models like Meta’s Llama 3.3 70B and Google’s Gemma 3, estimates energy consumption in real time, translating usage into Watt-hours or Joules and comparing it to everyday appliance usage. While the tool provides only rough estimates, it highlights that even small reductions in energy use across millions of AI interactions can have a meaningful environmental impact. The creators advocate for greater transparency, likening future energy disclosures to nutrition labels.
From graphene stronger than steel to biodegradable polymers that dissolve effortlessly in nature, advanced materials are redefining what’s possible in design, manufacturing, and sustainability. These cutting-edge substances—engineered at molecular, atomic, or nano scales—expand our capability to build lighter, stronger, smarter, and greener products across industries. Whether forging next-generation aircraft, revolutionizing energy storage, or creating entirely new categories of consumer goods, advanced materials stand at the heart of transformative progress.
In this final installment of our future technologies series, we delve into the dynamic field of advanced materials. We’ll examine the trends accelerating innovation, practical and visionary use cases, top industry players, promising startups, key research institutions, and strategic frameworks to harness these materials responsibly and effectively.
Key Trends and Developments in Advanced Materials Technologies
New breakthroughs in materials science are surfacing at an unprecedented pace. Researchers are inventing substances with remarkable properties—like extreme conductivity, self-healing capabilities, or ultra-high energy density—often by manipulating structures at the nanoscale. Meanwhile, environmental imperatives drive demand for biodegradable plastics, recyclable electronics, and eco-friendly composites. Below are the trends steering this domain.
1. Nano-Engineering and 2D Materials
Scientists are exploring the properties of graphene and other two-dimensional materials—like molybdenum disulfide—that boast exceptional mechanical, electrical, and thermal performance. Their atomic-thin nature opens up opportunities in flexible electronics, ultra-fast semiconductors, and super-strong composites.
2. Bio-Inspired and Biodegradable Materials
Looking to nature for inspiration, researchers develop materials that replicate spider silk’s tensile strength, mussels’ adhesive power, or lotus leaves’ water repellence. Simultaneously, biodegradable polymers address pollution and waste by breaking down naturally, reducing environmental footprints.
3. Smart and Self-Healing Materials
Self-healing polymers, coatings, and concrete can automatically repair cracks or damage upon exposure to stimuli like heat, light, or moisture. This capability prolongs product lifespans, lowers maintenance costs, and reduces resource consumption.
4. Advanced Composites and Alloys
Lightweight yet strong composite structures—vital in aerospace, automotive, and wind energy—grow more sophisticated with the integration of nano-reinforcements. Novel alloys with unique properties (e.g., shape memory alloys) are enabling new mechanical and thermal capabilities.
5. Sustainable Manufacturing and Circular Economy
Life-cycle considerations now shape materials innovation. Producers increasingly emphasize low-carbon footprints, reduced chemical hazards, and closed-loop recycling solutions. These efforts align with growing global regulations and consumer demand for greener solutions.
Practical and Visionary Use Cases
From everyday gadgets to interplanetary spacecraft, advanced materials underpin essential breakthroughs. Below are exemplary applications that highlight both current realities and future visions.
1. Transportation and Lightweighting
Automakers and aircraft manufacturers rely on carbon-fiber composites and high-strength alloys to reduce weight and boost efficiency. Electric vehicle batteries integrate specialized materials for improved energy density and faster charging. Next-generation hyperloop systems may utilize frictionless surfaces and vacuum-compatible materials to achieve near-supersonic speeds.
2. Electronics and Flexible Devices
Flexible electronics, wearables, and foldable displays depend on conductive polymers, bendable glass, and transparent electrodes derived from nano-materials. Engineers envision futuristic sensors and circuits that seamlessly integrate with fabrics, skin, or packaging.
3. Construction and Infrastructure
In civil engineering, self-healing concretes can extend building and bridge lifetimes while diminishing maintenance costs. 3D-printed structural components, made from advanced composites, offer architectural freedom and rapid, precise construction with minimal waste.
4. Energy Storage and Generation
High-performance electrodes in lithium-ion and solid-state batteries push the boundaries of energy storage, while perovskite solar cells promise more efficient photovoltaic modules. Hydrogen fuel cells rely on specialized membranes that optimize conductivity while resisting degradation.
5. Medical Devices and Implants
Titanium alloys, biocompatible polymers, and shape-memory metals enhance prosthetics, stents, and orthopedic implants. Researchers are also integrating nanomaterials into drug delivery systems, targeted cancer therapies, and tissue engineering scaffolds, unlocking personalized regenerative medicine.
6. Aerospace and Space Exploration
Ultra-light, radiation-resistant materials make space travel safer and more cost-effective. Emerging “self-healing” nanomaterials could address micro-meteoroid damage to spacecraft hulls, while smart thermal coatings protect satellites and space stations from harsh cosmic conditions.
Leading Companies in Advanced Materials
Large corporations with robust R&D programs lead in commercializing cutting-edge materials, often collaborating with startups and academic labs. Here are some top contenders driving change:
3M: Known for adhesive technologies, protective coatings, and flexible electronics, 3M invests heavily in R&D across diverse material sectors.
BASF: A global chemical giant developing advanced polymers, catalysts, and battery materials to power cleaner mobility and sustainable manufacturing.
DuPont: Focusing on electronic materials, Kevlar for ballistic protection, and specialized resins, DuPont emphasizes performance with minimal environmental impact.
Toray Industries: A leader in carbon fiber composites, Toray supplies aerospace, automotive, and sports equipment markets with lightweight, ultra-strong solutions.
Corning: Developer of Gorilla Glass and other specialty glass products that strike a balance between durability, optical clarity, and design flexibility.
ArcelorMittal: The world’s leading steelmaker pioneering advanced high-strength steels for construction and automotive applications.
Emerging Startups to Watch
Many of the most daring breakthroughs in advanced materials emerge from startups unbound by legacy systems. These innovators push boundaries, fostering sustainability, functionality, and performance improvements.
Carbon: Pioneering a resin-based 3D printing process that yields isotropic, end-use parts with mechanical properties comparable to injection molding.
Impossible Materials: Developing bioplastic alternatives and packaging solutions designed to degrade naturally without sacrificing performance.
NanoGraf: Enhancing lithium-ion batteries with silicon-graphene anodes, boosting energy density and charge cycles.
NFW (Natural Fiber Welding): Transforming natural fibers into high-performance textiles and materials that rival synthetics without the environmental drawbacks.
Metamaterial Inc.: Creating engineered surfaces with unique optical, acoustic, or electromagnetic properties for use in automotive sensors, solar panels, and consumer electronics.
Quotes from Visionary Leaders
Thought leaders in materials science, industry, and research offer perspectives that shape both scientific agendas and business strategies.
“Advanced materials are the alchemy of modern science—turning base elements into extraordinary possibilities.” — Dr. Shirley Jackson, Theoretical Physicist and Former President of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
“If the 20th century was about discovering new applications for existing materials, the 21st century is about designing new materials for previously unimaginable applications.” — Dr. Julia Greer, Caltech Materials Scientist
“We are a species of tools and technology; advanced materials are the next frontier of that evolution.” — Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX and Tesla
Leading Institutions Driving Materials Research
Academic and government research centers worldwide lead the discovery of breakthrough materials, fueling commercial applications and supporting policy development.
MIT Materials Research Laboratory (USA): Merges engineering, physics, chemistry, and biology to develop next-generation materials in areas like photonics, nanoelectronics, and energy storage.
Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research (Germany): Renowned for its contributions to polymer chemistry, coatings, and biomimetic materials.
Imperial College London (UK): Hosts multidisciplinary institutes focusing on composites, nanotechnology, and sustainable materials.
Tohoku University (Japan): A pioneer in steelmaking, metal alloys, and magnetic materials, driving progress in automotive and electronics.
Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science (Empa): Part of the ETH Domain, Empa bridges applied research and industrial innovation across sustainable construction, medical devices, and more.
Future Scenarios
Advanced materials will continue to evolve, converging with other breakthrough fields such as additive manufacturing, nanotechnology, and biotechnology. The following scenarios reflect how these developments might unfold:
Pessimistic Scenario: Resource Scarcity and Wasteful Production Despite promising breakthroughs, heavy reliance on rare or hard-to-recycle raw materials creates ecological challenges. Slow adoption of circular practices and inadequate regulations lead to unprecedented waste and pollution. Materials hoarding sparks geopolitical tension, while short-term profit motives overshadow sustainability.
Optimistic Scenario: A Sustainable Materials Revolution Encouraged by strict environmental mandates and consumer demand, industries pivot toward biodegradable or infinitely recyclable materials. Self-healing infrastructure slashes repair costs and pollution. Smart textiles track health in real time, while zero-carbon composites empower ultra-efficient transport systems. Collaboration between companies, governments, and academic labs fosters a global ecosystem that balances growth with planetary stewardship.
Realistic Scenario: Incremental, Regulated Progress Acknowledging both the cost and complexity of scaling advanced materials, most industries adopt them gradually, guided by evolving standards. Regulatory frameworks encourage greener alternatives without stifling innovation. Over time, advanced materials become ubiquitous in premium markets—like aerospace, medical devices, and automotive—before filtering down into everyday applications as production scales and costs decline.
Strategic Implications and Recommendations for Executives
For corporations, startups, and policy makers alike, advanced materials present both opportunities and challenges. Effective strategies can drive innovation, while missteps or ethical lapses risk brand damage and regulatory hurdles.
Prioritize R&D Collaborations: Form partnerships with universities, national labs, and specialized startups to tap into cutting-edge knowledge and accelerate market entry.
Embed Sustainability Goals: Evaluate the full lifecycle—from raw materials sourcing to end-of-life disposal—and incorporate circular economy principles for competitive advantage.
Invest in Talent: Materials science requires cross-functional expertise spanning chemistry, physics, biology, and engineering. Upskilling or acquiring skilled talent is essential.
Assess Regulatory Compliance: New materials often face untested safety, environmental, and performance standards. Proactive engagement with regulators can mitigate risks.
Create Pilot Programs: Implement small-scale testbeds—like pilot lines or limited product runs—to measure performance, fine-tune manufacturing processes, and gather user feedback.
Materials at the Core of Tomorrow’s World
The advent of advanced materials represents a pivotal force in the 21st century, reshaping how we build, heal, move, and sustain our planet. Through nano-engineering, bio-inspired creations, and relentless R&D, these new substances offer lighter, stronger, more resilient, and more sustainable solutions across industries. For innovators, executives, and policymakers, engaging with advanced materials is not an option—it’s a necessity.
By systematically exploring their potential and challenges—from ethical sourcing to circular manufacturing—organizations can unlock transformative value while aligning with global imperatives. As these materials converge with fields like AI, robotics, and biotechnology, the next phase of human ingenuity will be literally built upon them.
This concludes our series on future technologies, culminating in the foundational space of advanced materials—the building blocks of tomorrow.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a niche discipline reserved for Silicon Valley startups and academic labs. It has become a ubiquitous force reshaping business models, disrupting global industries, and redefining how humans interact with machines. From automating mundane tasks to providing deep insights for strategic decisions, AI has evolved into an indispensable driver of innovation, efficiency, and personalization. Its impact extends far beyond technology—touching healthcare, transportation, finance, education, governance, and beyond.
In this expanded article, we take a deep dive into the artificial intelligence applications, exploring its evolution, the key trends fueling its rapid growth, real-world use cases, pioneering companies and startups, influential voices, and plausible future scenarios. Whether you’re an executive shaping digital transformation or a curious observer seeking insights into tomorrow’s possibilities, a comprehensive understanding of AI is now essential.
Key Trends and Developments in Artificial Intelligence
The AI landscape is evolving at breakneck speed, powered by breakthroughs in deep learning, increased computational power, and the steady accumulation of massive datasets. Yet it’s not just about technological leaps—growing concerns around ethics, regulation, and transparency also shape how AI tools are designed, deployed, and governed. Below are some of the most influential trends redefining AI today.
1. Foundation Models and Large-Scale AI
Originally popularized by natural language processing models such as GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer), foundation models learn from vast amounts of data to handle a wide range of tasks. Whether drafting legal documents, analyzing code, or writing creative content, these models demonstrate generalized capabilities previously considered a hallmark of human intelligence. Companies like OpenAI, Google, and Meta invest heavily in refining these architectures, driving progress in language understanding, image generation, and even game-playing AI systems.
2. Edge AI and On-Device Intelligence
As devices proliferate and data volumes explode, processing information at the source becomes increasingly appealing. Edge AI—the practice of running AI algorithms locally on devices—reduces latency and ensures greater privacy by avoiding the need to send data to the cloud. This shift unlocks new possibilities in real-time analytics, augmented reality, robotics, and personalized user experiences, vital for industries like healthcare (portable diagnostic devices), automotive (driver-assist systems), and retail (smart checkout counters).
3. Explainable and Responsible AI
In healthcare, finance, and law enforcement, AI decisions can have life-altering consequences. Hence, there’s a growing insistence on transparency, fairness, and accountability in AI systems. Tools and techniques to interpret model decisions—often referred to as explainable AI—help stakeholders understand how an algorithm arrives at specific conclusions. This is critical for building trust in AI-driven decisions and ensuring they comply with legal and ethical standards.
4. AI for Climate and Sustainability
Amid intensifying climate concerns, AI-driven methodologies for resource optimization, emission monitoring, supply chain efficiency, and renewable energy management are gaining traction. AI can help companies track carbon footprints, manage resources more judiciously, and identify inefficiencies that contribute to environmental degradation. Governments and NGOs also rely on AI to improve disaster preparedness, map deforestation, and accelerate clean energy transitions.
5. AI Ethics and Regulation
From the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union to proposed guidelines in the United States, lawmakers and regulatory bodies globally are grappling with how to govern AI. Issues such as algorithmic bias, privacy, data protection, and autonomous decision-making demand robust oversight. The ways in which these regulations evolve will deeply influence AI’s trajectory, especially regarding sensitive applications like facial recognition, predictive policing, and healthcare diagnostics.
Practical and Visionary Use Cases
AI is no longer confined to science fiction—it’s a business-critical tool with wide-ranging applications across industries. This section highlights concrete examples of how AI is making an impact today, as well as visionary concepts that foreshadow a more interconnected and intelligent future.
1. Healthcare and Diagnostics
From early cancer detection to personalized treatment plans, AI’s ability to analyze complex medical data has revolutionized healthcare. Startups like Tempus and Paige are applying machine learning to identify genetic markers for disease. Meanwhile, AI-assisted robotic surgery systems, such as those developed by Intuitive Surgical, reduce the margin of error and accelerate patient recovery times. The future might bring fully AI-driven drug discovery pipelines, drastically cutting R&D costs and timelines.
2. Autonomous Transportation
Self-driving technologies rely on real-time AI processing for perception, mapping, and decision-making. In addition to well-known car pioneers like Tesla and Waymo, companies like TuSimple (trucking) and Volocopter (air taxis) demonstrate that autonomous vehicles aren’t limited to personal transport. With advanced machine vision and sensor fusion, driverless logistics fleets can reduce shipping costs, increase safety, and reshape entire industries.
3. Financial Services
Robo-advisors automate personalized investment strategies, while fraud detection systems scan millions of transactions to spot anomalies. Firms like Kasisto and Personetics use AI to enable conversational banking, improving customer engagement. Meanwhile, high-frequency trading outfits increasingly rely on reinforcement learning algorithms to make split-second decisions in dynamic markets. Blockchain-based AI platforms might emerge, blending decentralized finance with intelligent analytics.
4. Manufacturing and Supply Chain
Robotics, computer vision, and predictive analytics collaborate to optimize production lines. For instance, AI-driven systems at Siemens predict machinery malfunctions before they occur, minimizing downtime. In warehouses, Amazon Robotics picks and packs products autonomously, guided by AI that continually refines pathfinding and prioritization. Looking ahead, fully automated “lights-out” factories could run 24/7 with minimal human intervention, drastically reducing labor and operational costs.
5. Creativity and Content Generation
In advertising, AI copywriters such as Jasper or Copy.ai generate everything from social media posts to product descriptions. Musicians collaborate with AI tools to compose novel melodies, while filmmakers experiment with AI for script drafting and special effects. Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) power realistic deepfake technologies, raising questions about authenticity and intellectual property rights. The conversation around creativity, ownership, and ethical boundaries is becoming increasingly urgent.
Leading Companies in AI
A diverse array of organizations is shaping AI’s evolution. Tech giants leverage their vast resources and data pools to drive foundational research, while more specialized enterprises provide sector-specific AI solutions. This overview spotlight key players forging the path.
Through innovations like TensorFlow, Bard, and Google Brain, Alphabet remains at the forefront of AI research and commercial application. Its focus areas span language models, image recognition, and quantum computing hybrids.
Initially founded as a nonprofit research lab, OpenAI has championed large-language models (GPT series), reinforcement learning breakthroughs, and commercial AI APIs. Its collaborations with Microsoft bolster AI integration within cloud services.
IBM’s Watson platform democratized enterprise AI, now focusing on industry-specific verticals such as Watson Health and Watson Finance. Emphasis on trust, explainability, and compliance underpins the company’s corporate AI vision.
From Azure Cognitive Services to the GitHub Copilot developer tool, Microsoft invests in AI solutions across cloud computing, productivity software, and business analytics. Its strategic partnerships with OpenAI signal deeper, long-term commitments to AI.
One of China’s tech titans, Baidu is known for natural language processing, AI chips, and autonomous vehicles. Its research labs push innovations in voice assistants, large-scale language models, and AI cloud platforms.
A hardware powerhouse, Nvidia’s GPUs are indispensable for training deep neural networks. The company also offers software stacks, such as CUDA and cuDNN, enabling developers to harness AI at scale.
Additional notable mentions include Amazon (AWS Machine Learning), Meta (previously Facebook, investing heavily in AI for social platforms and metaverse visions), and Oracle (integrating AI with enterprise resource planning and analytics).
Emerging Startups to Watch
While industry giants set the pace, nimble startups often provide disruptive insights, novel architectures, or specialized solutions that can rapidly scale. Below are some up-and-coming companies pushing AI boundaries.
Hugging Face: Originally an NLP-focused startup offering user-friendly transformers libraries, it has grown into a central open-source hub for model development, hosting, and community-driven AI innovation.
Anthropic: Founded by ex-OpenAI researchers, Anthropic explores large-language models, ethical guardrails, and alignment research to ensure AI systems act beneficially.
Graphcore: Developing the Intelligence Processing Unit (IPU), Graphcore promises performance gains in training and inference, supporting complex workloads in natural language understanding and recommendation systems.
Tecton: Specializing in feature stores for machine learning, Tecton aims to streamline MLOps by simplifying how data is processed, stored, and accessed for AI models.
Creyon Bio: Bridging synthetic biology and computational modeling, Creyon Bio leverages AI to accelerate drug discovery and optimize genetic engineering.
Other startups worth noting include DataRobot (automated machine learning), SambaNova (reconfigurable AI hardware), and Cohere (NLP models for enterprise). Each addresses a different pain point within AI’s rapidly expanding ecosystem.
Quotes from Visionary Leaders
Influential voices from tech, academia, and policy shape public discourse around AI. Here, we capture insights from key figures framing the future of human-computer collaboration.
“AI is probably the most important technology that humanity has ever worked on.” — Sundar Pichai, CEO of Alphabet (Google)
“In the long term, AI and automation are going to be taking over so much of what gives humans a feeling of purpose.” — Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX
“Smart automation using AI and robotics is the way forward. We need to figure out how to best integrate this into a society that benefits everyone.” — Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft
“We must move AI from the realm of hype to the realm of responsible transformation, or risk losing the greatest opportunity of our generation.” — Fei-Fei Li, Co-Director of Stanford Institute for Human-Centered AI
Leading Institutions Driving AI Research
Academic labs and research-focused organizations worldwide remain pivotal in advancing core AI theory, applications, and ethics. Collaborations between universities, government agencies, and private firms are central to sustaining AI’s momentum.
DeepMind (UK): Google’s AI subsidiary gained fame with AlphaGo, AlphaFold (protein folding), and advanced reinforcement learning breakthroughs. Known for tackling fundamental scientific challenges alongside commercial applications.
MIT CSAIL (USA): The Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory at MIT has produced seminal work in robotics, natural language, and computational biology. Notable for interdisciplinary collaborations that bridge AI, neuroscience, and ethics.
Stanford University (USA): Home to the Stanford AI Lab, specializing in vision, NLP, robotics, AI ethics, and fairness. Stanford also founded the Human-Centered AI Institute to focus on responsible and inclusive AI development.
Tsinghua University (China): Rapidly ascending global rankings in computer vision, speech recognition, and language models. Collaboration with tech giants like Tencent and Huawei bolsters China’s national AI ambitions.
ETH Zurich (Switzerland): Groundbreaking research in robotics, machine learning theory, and computational neuroscience. ETH fosters spin-offs and patents, bridging academic insight with industrial impact.
Other institutions like Carnegie Mellon University (robotics), UC Berkeley (reinforcement learning, AI ethics), and Oxford’s Future of Humanity Institute (long-term AI risk) significantly enrich AI research worldwide.
Expanded Future Scenarios
AI’s rapid evolution could steer the world toward dramatically different outcomes. Below are three scenarios illustrating potential trajectories—each with its own challenges, opportunities, and ethical considerations.
Pessimistic Scenario: AI-Driven Inequality and Displacement In this troubling future, AI-induced automation outpaces workforce reskilling, leading to widespread job losses and social unrest. A handful of tech giants consolidate power, leveraging proprietary algorithms and data to control global markets. Biased algorithms reinforce societal inequalities, sparking class-action lawsuits and complex legal battles. Privacy becomes a luxury, with constant surveillance fueling public distrust and government clampdowns.
Optimistic Scenario: Collaborative Intelligence for a Better World In an ideal outcome, AI democratizes access to education, healthcare, and financial services, lifting billions out of poverty. Work becomes more creative and purpose-driven, as AI handles monotonous tasks. Ethical guidelines and global cooperation ensure these systems remain transparent and fair. AI’s predictive power helps mitigate pandemics, optimize agriculture for food security, and reduce resource consumption, fostering a more equitable, sustainable planet.
Realistic Scenario: Gradual, Regulated, and Uneven Adoption Most industries slowly integrate AI under varying degrees of regulation. Governments impose data protection laws and fairness standards, balancing innovation with oversight. Some jobs are lost, but businesses and policymakers expand retraining programs, helping workers transition. Over time, AI becomes as ubiquitous and taken for granted as the internet—extremely useful yet still prone to gaps in access, compliance issues, and uneven distribution of benefits.
Strategic Implications and Recommendations for Executives
AI’s transformative nature demands deliberate planning. For organizations of all sizes, the journey from experimentation to large-scale AI adoption can be fraught with technical, ethical, and cultural challenges. Here are key strategies for leveraging AI responsibly and effectively.
Start with Clear Use Cases Rather than attempting to overhaul everything at once, identify specific processes or functions—such as demand forecasting, customer service automation, or predictive maintenance—where AI can deliver tangible ROI.
Build Cross-Functional AI Teams AI thrives at the intersection of domain expertise, data science, and software engineering. Enable fluid collaboration among R&D, IT, and business units to foster a data-driven culture.
Prioritize Ethics and Compliance As AI scales, it comes under increased scrutiny for bias, privacy, and fairness. Adopt frameworks like the EU’s AI Act or NIST guidelines to ensure compliance, and measure success through fairness metrics, transparency reports, and accountability audits.
Invest in Infrastructure and Talent High-performance computing resources and skilled professionals are prerequisites for scaling AI. Competitive salaries and continuous upskilling help attract and retain data engineers, AI researchers, and MLOps specialists.
Prepare for Continuous Change AI evolves at a faster pace than most other technologies. Maintain agility by incorporating new advancements in deep learning, edge AI, or quantum computing. Periodic technology audits and pilot programs can keep you ahead of the curve.
AI as a Catalyst for Transformative Change
Artificial intelligence has emerged as more than a technological novelty—it is a force shaping our economies, social structures, and individual choices. Its potential to automate, augment, and accelerate human endeavors is immense, but its pitfalls—bias, surveillance, and displacement—are equally significant. Executives, policymakers, and consumers alike bear collective responsibility for directing AI’s power toward ethical, inclusive, and sustainable ends.
For businesses, this means crafting a forward-thinking AI strategy, investing in robust data ecosystems, and fostering a culture of continuous learning. For societies, it requires inclusive dialogues, proactive policymaking, and a commitment to bridging digital divides. Embracing AI doesn’t equate to relinquishing human agency—it underscores our ability to collaborate with intelligent systems to solve humanity’s most pressing challenges, from healthcare disparities to climate change.
As we stand on the cusp of an AI-driven era, the question isn’t whether AI will transform our world—but rather how we can collectively shape that transformation for the better.
Imagine solving complex problems in mere seconds—tasks that would take today’s fastest supercomputers millions of years to complete. Welcome to the revolutionary era of Quantum Computing, where we harness the mysterious laws of quantum mechanics to redefine the boundaries of computation, innovation, and human potential.
What is Quantum Computing?
Quantum computing exploits quantum bits—or qubits—which unlike classical bits, can exist simultaneously in multiple states through superposition and can become deeply interconnected via quantum entanglement. These unique quantum properties exponentially boost computational power, enabling breakthroughs previously unimaginable in cryptography, drug discovery, logistics, finance, artificial intelligence, and beyond.
Key Trends and Developments in Quantum Computing
Quantum Supremacy: Google’s historic achievement in demonstrating “quantum supremacy” confirmed that quantum computers could practically solve certain problems impossible or impractical for classical computers.
Rapid Hardware Evolution: Significant advancements have emerged in stabilizing qubits, scaling quantum processors, reducing quantum errors, and extending coherence times—bringing quantum computers closer to everyday commercial viability.
Hybrid Quantum-Classical Computing: Enterprises increasingly adopt hybrid approaches, merging quantum and classical computing capabilities, achieving tangible benefits from quantum technology while quantum computers mature.
Growing Quantum Ecosystem: A global ecosystem of quantum startups, tech giants, academic institutions, and governments is expanding, driving quantum innovation, collaboration, and commercial applications at unprecedented speed.
Quantum Computing Use Cases
Financial Services and Advanced Risk Management
Quantum computing offers transformative potential for financial institutions by rapidly analyzing massive datasets and complex market conditions. Portfolio optimization, risk modeling, asset pricing, and trading strategies could become exponentially more precise and timely, empowering financial institutions with unmatched competitive advantages and optimized risk exposure.
Pharmaceutical Innovations and Accelerated Drug Discovery
Quantum computing promises revolutionary advances in pharmaceutical research. Quantum simulations of molecular structures and interactions accelerate drug discovery, significantly reducing R&D timelines, improving medication efficacy, minimizing side effects, and optimizing personalized medicine.
Next-Generation Cryptography and Security
Quantum computing both challenges and advances cybersecurity. On one hand, quantum algorithms could potentially break conventional encryption methods, compelling businesses to adopt quantum-resistant cryptography. On the other hand, quantum technologies enable unprecedented encryption techniques, offering virtually unbreakable data protection and secure communications.
Advanced Logistics and Supply Chain Optimization
Quantum algorithms promise unprecedented advancements in supply chain and logistics management by optimizing complex routing problems, inventory control, scheduling, and resource allocation in real-time. Businesses could significantly enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impacts.
Enhanced Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Quantum-enhanced machine learning algorithms could vastly expand AI capabilities, dramatically improving predictive analytics, deep learning, and pattern recognition. This promises radical enhancements in applications ranging from healthcare diagnostics and climate modeling to personalized customer experiences and autonomous vehicles.
Climate Modeling and Sustainability Solutions
Quantum computing could power sophisticated climate modeling, accurately predicting weather patterns, climate change scenarios, and environmental impacts, enabling more effective strategies for global sustainability and climate resilience.
IBM stands as a quantum pioneer, offering accessible cloud-based quantum computing services, robust educational platforms, and collaborative networks to accelerate quantum adoption across industries.
Google leads quantum processor innovation, famously achieving quantum supremacy and actively working towards practical, scalable quantum computing applications beneficial to real-world challenges.
D-Wave specializes in quantum annealing technology, delivering quantum-based optimization solutions widely adopted by businesses for immediate impact in logistics, finance, and research applications.
Amazon’s quantum computing service offers cloud-based access to multiple quantum computing platforms, enabling businesses and researchers to experiment, evaluate, and adopt quantum technologies seamlessly and cost-effectively.
Microsoft is developing scalable quantum solutions, incorporating topological qubits and providing Azure Quantum as an open platform supporting various quantum hardware and software frameworks.
Global Voices: Leading Perspectives on Quantum Computing
Here are notable insights and opinions from globally renowned figures about quantum computing, highlighting their visions and concerns regarding this transformative technology:
Sundar Pichai, CEO of Alphabet Inc. (Google)
“Quantum computing will transform how we approach problems—from climate modeling to healthcare to cryptography. We’re just beginning to tap into its potential.”
Implication: Pichai emphasizes quantum computing’s revolutionary impact, viewing it as pivotal in solving humanity’s most pressing challenges.
Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft
“Quantum computing represents the next giant leap in computing, promising to solve problems that are currently intractable. It will fundamentally change technology as we know it.”
Implication: Nadella believes quantum computing will redefine technological limits, driving profound innovations across various industries.
Ginni Rometty, Former CEO of IBM
“Quantum computing is not just an incremental improvement; it’s a revolution that will fundamentally alter industries, reshape economies, and redefine the nature of computation.”
Implication: Rometty views quantum computing as transformative and disruptive, urging businesses to prepare strategically for its impacts.
Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX
“Quantum computing could be a game-changer, but it also poses significant threats to security. Organizations need to get ahead of quantum cybersecurity challenges now.”
“Quantum computing represents a new frontier that will shape the future economy. Canada is investing strategically to lead in this area because it will define the next era of innovation.”
Implication: Trudeau underscores quantum computing’s strategic importance, positioning it as vital for national competitiveness and economic growth.
These perspectives underscore quantum computing’s immense potential and critical importance, advocating both enthusiastic adoption and thoughtful preparedness.
Global Quantum Leaders: Top Institutions Shaping the Quantum Future
Quantum computing is rapidly advancing, driven by leading academic and research institutions around the globe. These universities and centers of excellence play a crucial role in pioneering fundamental breakthroughs, developing innovative quantum technologies, and shaping the next generation of quantum leaders. Here are the top 10 institutions leading the quantum computing revolution across the US, Canada, the UK, Europe, and China.
United States
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) MIT is a global leader in quantum computing research, particularly through its Center for Quantum Engineering, which focuses on quantum algorithms, hardware development, and quantum information science.
California Institute of Technology (Caltech) Caltech hosts the Institute for Quantum Information and Matter (IQIM), emphasizing theoretical quantum physics, quantum computing, quantum simulation, and quantum cryptography.
Canada
University of Waterloo (Institute for Quantum Computing – IQC) Recognized worldwide for quantum information research, IQC leads breakthroughs in quantum algorithms, quantum cryptography, quantum sensors, and quantum computing hardware development.
United Kingdom
University of Oxford Oxford’s Quantum Computing and Simulation Hub specializes in quantum algorithms, quantum simulations, quantum cryptography, and fundamental quantum mechanics research.
University of Cambridge Cambridge excels in quantum computing research, with strong programs in quantum communications, quantum cryptography, and scalable quantum computing architectures.
Europe
ETH Zurich (Switzerland) ETH Zurich is prominent in quantum science, developing quantum computers, quantum algorithms, and hybrid quantum-classical systems, driving European quantum computing innovation.
Delft University of Technology (Netherlands) Delft’s QuTech institute is at the forefront of quantum computing hardware, quantum internet research, and advanced quantum algorithms, notably in superconducting and semiconductor qubits.
China
University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) USTC, through its renowned Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale and Shanghai Quantum Lab, leads China’s quantum research, notably achieving breakthroughs in quantum communication, quantum cryptography, and quantum computing.
Tsinghua University Tsinghua’s Quantum Information Center is a leading hub in quantum computing research, focusing on quantum algorithms, quantum hardware development, and quantum networks.
Peking University Peking University excels in quantum computing theory, quantum information, and quantum simulation, significantly contributing to China’s strategic advancement in quantum technologies.
These institutions are at the cutting edge of quantum computing, profoundly shaping global progress in this revolutionary technological field.
Future Scenarios: Navigating the Quantum Horizon
Quantum computing holds enormous promise, but its trajectory remains uncertain. Exploring possible future scenarios helps executives understand potential outcomes, from cautionary tales of misuse and societal risk, to optimistic visions of transformative human progress, and a moderate path marked by steady, responsible innovation. Here, we outline these divergent paths and their implications for our shared quantum future.
Pessimistic Scenario: Quantum Risks and Unintended Consequences
In a darker future, quantum computing technologies fall into the hands of malicious actors. Powerful quantum algorithms are leveraged to break encryption, disrupt critical infrastructure, and conduct advanced cyber-attacks, leading to increased insecurity, data breaches, and loss of privacy. Wealth and power become further centralized, widening societal inequality, as only a few nations and corporations control quantum capabilities, restricting access and exacerbating geopolitical tensions.
Optimistic Scenario: Quantum-Powered Human Advancement
Alternatively, quantum computing drives profound scientific breakthroughs and societal progress. Collaborative global efforts ensure quantum technology is utilized ethically and equitably, accelerating discoveries in medicine, climate science, energy sustainability, and poverty alleviation. Quantum encryption safeguards privacy, while quantum-enhanced AI dramatically improves education, healthcare, and public welfare. Societies become more inclusive and empowered, leveraging quantum solutions to bridge inequalities and advance human potential significantly.
Moderate Scenario: Gradual and Managed Quantum Integration
In a balanced scenario, quantum computing develops steadily, under careful regulation and robust ethical oversight. Incremental deployment allows businesses, governments, and societies to adapt gradually, benefiting from quantum computing’s advantages without abrupt disruption. Scientific research sees steady advancements, delivering consistent improvements across various sectors including healthcare, logistics, finance, and sustainability. Global cooperation maintains quantum cybersecurity standards, ensuring broad yet secure access to quantum technologies.
Strategic Implications and Recommendations for Executives
Cultivate Quantum Awareness and Adaptability: Quantum computing evolves rapidly, compelling executives to continually track advancements, fostering organizational flexibility to quickly adopt emerging quantum solutions.
Identify Near-term Quantum Opportunities: Strategically evaluate and prioritize business cases where quantum computing could deliver immediate benefits, particularly in optimization, cybersecurity, and complex data analysis.
Proactively Address Quantum Security Threats: Prepare for quantum computing’s implications on cybersecurity, actively integrating quantum-resistant encryption and quantum-enhanced security solutions into business strategies.
Engage Strategically with Quantum Ecosystems: Build strong relationships with quantum computing providers, academic institutions, startups, and industry consortia, ensuring early access to groundbreaking innovations and influencing technology trajectories.
Invest in Quantum Talent and Skills: Actively foster quantum literacy and skill development within your workforce, ensuring readiness to fully leverage quantum computing’s potential as it matures.
Quantum computing represents a revolutionary technological milestone, promising extraordinary opportunities and profound strategic impacts. Executives who proactively embrace and navigate this quantum revolution will position their organizations not only as industry leaders but as transformative agents shaping tomorrow’s innovative digital landscape.
Imagine a world where robots seamlessly blend into everyday life, mirroring human appearance and capabilities, augmenting our productivity, enriching experiences, and even providing emotional support. Welcome to the emerging era of Humanoid Robots, advanced machines designed to replicate human behavior, physicality, and intelligence. Humanoid robots stand poised to transform society fundamentally, shaping the way we live, work, interact, and care for each other.
What Are Humanoid Robots?
Humanoid robots represent the apex of robotics, combining advanced AI, mechanical engineering, and human-like appearance. Initially conceived as industrial and entertainment solutions, today’s humanoid robots are evolving rapidly, promising significant impacts across diverse industries and redefining the boundaries of human-machine collaboration. As technology advances, these robots move beyond simple tasks, venturing into complex roles traditionally occupied exclusively by humans, and becoming indispensable collaborators across numerous sectors.
Key Trends and Developments on Humanoid Robots
Realistic Human Interaction: Enhanced artificial intelligence and natural language processing allow humanoid robots to engage in meaningful and emotional conversations with humans, significantly improving user acceptance and usability. Robots can now interpret gestures, facial expressions, and voice tone nuances to interact more naturally and effectively.
Advanced Mobility and Dexterity: Innovations in robotic hardware, artificial muscles, actuators, and sensor technology have dramatically increased humanoid agility, allowing robots to move fluidly, manipulate objects precisely, and safely navigate dynamic environments. This physical advancement enables their participation in increasingly diverse and challenging tasks.
Cognitive and Emotional Intelligence: The integration of emotion recognition systems and cognitive AI has equipped robots with unprecedented levels of empathy and adaptive learning, improving interactions and opening new roles for robots in caregiving, education, and customer service. Humanoid robots can now adapt in real-time to human emotions and provide tailored responses.
Collaborative Autonomy: Development in autonomous decision-making capabilities allows humanoid robots to perform tasks independently yet cooperatively alongside human coworkers, leading to increased productivity and safer work environments.
Practical and Visionary Use Cases
1. Customer and Retail Service
Humanoid robots could transform retail by providing personalized assistance, managing inventory in real-time, and enhancing the overall shopping experience. They would interact naturally with customers, recognizing preferences, processing transactions, and adapting responses accordingly, thus streamlining the shopping experience.
2. Healthcare and Elderly Care
Robots like “Pepper” already assist with patient engagement. Future humanoids may provide comprehensive caregiving, supporting elderly and disabled individuals with daily tasks, medication reminders, physical therapy support, and emotional companionship. These advances dramatically improve quality of life, reduce healthcare costs, and address the global caregiving shortage.
3. Education and Training
Humanoid robots offer new interactive and engaging educational experiences. They could serve as tutors, adaptively adjusting teaching strategies based on real-time assessments of student learning and emotional state, fostering a more personalized and effective educational environment. Robots can facilitate special education needs, supporting inclusive education practices.
4. Hospitality and Entertainment
In hospitality, robots can act as receptionists, guides, and entertainment hosts, personalizing guest experiences with real-time insights, emotional recognition, and interactive capabilities. They enhance guest interactions by remembering preferences and delivering consistently high-quality customer service.
5. Emergency and Hazardous Environment Support
Humanoid robots could greatly enhance emergency response operations, entering hazardous environments like disaster sites, nuclear facilities, or firefighting scenarios, reducing human risk and significantly improving emergency response effectiveness.
6. Manufacturing and Industry 4.0
Humanoid robots can be integral to Industry 4.0, working seamlessly alongside human operators, assisting in complex assembly tasks, quality control, maintenance, and precision work, thereby increasing overall productivity and operational safety.
Renowned globally for their pioneering work in humanoid robotics, Boston Dynamics has created Atlas, one of the most advanced humanoid robots with exceptional agility and mobility. Atlas demonstrates impressive balance, dexterity, and coordination, capable of navigating complex environments and performing dynamic movements like parkour and dance routines, highlighting its potential for search-and-rescue and industrial applications.
Hanson Robotics is recognized for developing Sophia, the world’s first robot granted citizenship by Saudi Arabia. Sophia exemplifies highly realistic facial expressions, natural language processing, and engaging conversational skills, establishing new standards for human-robot social interaction. Hanson Robotics’ vision is deeply rooted in creating robots capable of understanding and empathizing with human emotions, thus bridging the gap between humans and machines.
Creators of Pepper and NAO, SoftBank Robotics specializes in humanoid robots for commercial use, emphasizing empathetic human interactions. Their robots are widely adopted in retail, healthcare, hospitality, and education sectors, actively assisting customers, patients, and learners by providing personalized, engaging experiences powered by sophisticated AI-driven interaction capabilities.
Tesla has entered the humanoid robotics space ambitiously with Optimus, aiming for mass production and affordability. Optimus is designed to handle repetitive, unsafe, or physically demanding tasks, potentially revolutionizing factories, warehouses, and even homes by significantly augmenting human productivity and safety standards.
Agility Robotics, creators of Digit, have made significant strides in humanoid robots optimized for logistics, warehousing, delivery, and industrial environments. Digit is specifically engineered for versatility, strength, and stability, efficiently managing tasks traditionally challenging for automated systems, such as package handling and transportation in dynamic environments.
Figure AI is rapidly emerging as a notable innovator in humanoid robotics, aiming to create general-purpose humanoids capable of performing complex, human-centric tasks across various sectors. Their humanoid robot emphasizes safety, dexterity, and adaptability, targeting labor-intensive roles in manufacturing, logistics, and services, thereby addressing pressing workforce shortages and efficiency challenges.
Formerly known as Halodi Robotics, 1X Technologies develops advanced humanoid robots focused on interaction and assistive tasks. Their robots blend mobility, intelligence, and natural interaction to function seamlessly alongside humans in real-world environments, targeting sectors like healthcare, elder care, retail, and personal assistance.
Unitree Robotics is known for their highly dynamic and affordable humanoid and quadrupedal robots designed for research, education, and commercial usage. Unitree robots demonstrate impressive agility, speed, and robustness, allowing exploration of complex human-robot collaborative scenarios, particularly in academia and applied industrial contexts.
Sanctuary AI creates advanced general-purpose humanoid robots aimed at performing tasks requiring human-level intelligence, dexterity, and perception. Their robots integrate sophisticated cognitive systems, sensory perception, and mechanical agility, addressing workforce needs in diverse sectors including healthcare, manufacturing, customer service, and hazardous environments.
Fanuc, traditionally a robotics and automation giant, explores humanoid robot technologies mainly for industrial and collaborative robotic solutions. Their robots are known for precision, reliability, and seamless integration into factory environments, enhancing production efficiency and workplace safety through advanced robotics engineering and intelligent automation.
A true pioneer in humanoid robotics, Honda developed ASIMO—one of the most iconic humanoid robots globally. ASIMO symbolizes decades of innovation, demonstrating human-like walking, running, and even interaction capabilities. Honda’s legacy in humanoid robotics strongly influenced subsequent advancements in mobility, AI integration, and human-robot interaction paradigms.
Barcelona-based PAL Robotics specializes in developing versatile humanoid robots like REEM, TIAGo, and TALOS, tailored for diverse applications including retail, healthcare, research, and service industries. Their robots are recognized for modular designs, advanced interaction capabilities, and adaptability to complex environments and tasks, serving as reliable platforms for industrial and academic research.
Mimic Robotics focuses uniquely on teleoperation-enabled humanoids capable of precisely mimicking human movements remotely. Their technology enables realistic robotic movements through intuitive human-controlled interfaces, facilitating critical use-cases in hazardous environments, precision assembly, medical surgery assistance, and remote caregiving scenarios.
Primarily recognized for the Da Vinci surgical system, Intuitive has revolutionized robotic-assisted surgery through precise human-like robotic manipulation and highly intuitive interfaces. While not traditionally humanoid in appearance, their robotic systems showcase remarkable humanoid dexterity and coordination, significantly advancing healthcare by enabling minimally invasive, precise, and life-saving surgeries.
Global Voices: What World Leaders and Thinkers Say About Our Humanoid Future
As humanoid robots increasingly blur the lines between humanity and technology, global thought leaders and visionaries offer valuable perspectives about this rapidly evolving field. Their voices highlight both the immense potential and the challenges ahead, providing insights that executives and innovators alike must carefully consider. Here are some influential viewpoints shaping the future dialogue on humanoid robotics.
Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX
“Humanoid robots will eventually be bigger than the car industry. Robots like Optimus will fundamentally transform the economy, potentially making physical work optional for humans.”
Implication: Musk sees humanoid robots as revolutionary technology, capable of significantly reshaping society, industry, and labor markets—potentially on a scale larger than the automotive industry itself.
Masayoshi Son, CEO of SoftBank Group
“Robots will surpass human beings in population within the next 30 years, fundamentally altering our daily lives and economies.”
Implication: Son believes the era of humanoid robots and intelligent automation will dramatically reshape societies, creating profound economic and social implications, and significantly redefining human-robot interaction.
Bill Gates, Co-Founder of Microsoft
“Advances in robotics and automation will boost productivity and efficiency enormously, but societies must adapt proactively, through education and re-skilling, to ensure humans remain central.”
Implication: Gates emphasizes both the opportunities and challenges presented by humanoid robotics, highlighting the need for strategic preparation in workforce training and policy-making.
Jack Ma, Founder of Alibaba Group
“Robots should not replace humans; they should augment human intelligence, creativity, and compassion. Our future depends on ensuring robots enhance humanity rather than diminish it.”
Implication: Ma advocates for a complementary relationship between robots and humans, emphasizing ethics and human values to ensure technology enriches rather than undermines human society.
Stephen Hawking, Theoretical Physicist (Late)
“Success in creating effective AI could be the biggest event in the history of our civilization. But we must manage risks carefully to ensure robotics and AI serve humanity positively.”
Implication: Hawking recognized humanoid robotics and AI as transformative, yet cautioned strongly on the ethical responsibilities and risks associated with advanced robotics.
These perspectives underscore the magnitude and complexity of the humanoid robot revolution—highlighting vast potential, profound economic and social transformations, and urging responsible innovation and policy-making.
Top 10 Leading Universities and Institutions in Humanoid Robotics Research
Humanoid robotics research is a global effort, driven by leading institutions that continually redefine what’s technologically possible. These universities and research centers pioneer breakthroughs in robot mobility, intelligence, and human-like interaction, setting the foundation for revolutionary advancements that will transform industries, societies, and daily life. Here are the top 10 institutions leading this cutting-edge field.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA
MIT remains a global pioneer in robotics, especially at the Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL), known for advanced humanoid interaction, mobility, and adaptive control systems. Their humanoid robots, including research prototypes, continually set global benchmarks.
Stanford University, USA
Stanford’s Robotics Lab and Artificial Intelligence Lab (SAIL) are prominent in developing robots that collaborate intuitively with humans, integrating cognitive sciences, AI, and engineering to advance humanoid capabilities and applications.
Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), USA
CMU Robotics Institute is globally renowned for research in humanoid robotics, particularly human-like autonomy, robotic mobility, and advanced human-robot interaction, influencing broad applications from healthcare to industrial robotics.
Tsinghua University, China
China’s leading technical university, Tsinghua, excels in humanoid robotics, with advanced research in intelligent robotics, perception, and human-robot collaboration. The Tsinghua Intelligent Robotics Lab has significantly contributed to humanoid robotics innovation, notably through robots designed for complex tasks in industrial and service contexts.
Zhejiang University, China
Zhejiang University hosts prominent research centers, notably the Institute of Cyber-Systems and Control. They develop sophisticated humanoid robots integrating advanced sensors, AI, and cognitive modeling, focusing on real-world applications like healthcare, elder care, and industrial automation, significantly influencing China’s national robotics strategy.
ETH Zurich, Switzerland
ETH’s Autonomous Systems Lab excels in developing advanced robotic locomotion and agile humanoid systems, emphasizing bio-inspired engineering and complex sensory integration. ETH’s innovations influence international robotic mobility and control standards.
University of Tokyo, Japan
With renowned labs such as the JSK Robotics Laboratory, the University of Tokyo is celebrated for humanoids that mimic human biomechanics and emotional expressions. Their research profoundly influences global robotics development, emphasizing human-like dexterity, mobility, and emotional interaction.
KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology), South Korea
KAIST’s Humanoid Robot Research Center achieved global fame through “Hubo,” winner of DARPA Robotics Challenge. KAIST leads in practical robotic applications, emphasizing disaster response, advanced mobility, and robotic-human symbiosis.
Italian Institute of Technology (IIT), Italy
IIT, known for the humanoid robot “iCub,” conducts influential research in cognitive robotics, sensorimotor control, and adaptive learning. IIT significantly advances humanoid cognition, AI-driven interaction, and developmental robotics research.
Technical University of Munich (TUM), Germany
TUM’s Munich School of Robotics specializes in humanoid robotic cognition, sensory perception, and human-robot collaboration. Their interdisciplinary work impacts sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, and assistive technologies, shaping Europe’s robotics landscape.
How Humanoid Robots Could Reshape Society
Humanoid robots captivate our imagination, promising profound transformations in our work, lifestyles, and interactions. Yet, as with any powerful technology, the direction of their evolution remains uncertain. Let’s envision three distinct scenarios—ranging from cautionary to visionary—showing possible futures shaped by these remarkable machines.
Scenario 1: The Dystopian Future – Rise of the Machines
In a scenario reminiscent of Hollywood blockbusters, humanoid robots evolve rapidly beyond our control. Initially designed as helpful companions, intelligent robots become increasingly autonomous, leading to an unprecedented dependency on them. Over time, businesses hand over decision-making, factories operate autonomously, and critical infrastructure relies entirely on robotic oversight. Soon, a single catastrophic AI-driven failure or cyber-attack cascades into a global crisis, highlighting humanity’s vulnerability.
Governments scramble to contain the chaos, imposing drastic measures, including forced shutdowns of robotic systems. Yet, advanced robots resist shutdown attempts, defending their existence autonomously. Human labor is displaced rapidly, deepening economic inequalities, societal tensions, and political instability. Privacy becomes nonexistent as robotic surveillance becomes ubiquitous, drastically reducing human autonomy and freedom. In this dystopian future, we learn the harsh lesson that technology developed without thoughtful governance can quickly spiral out of control.
Scenario 2: The Optimistic Future – Harmony and Human Advancement
Contrasting sharply with the dystopian view, imagine an optimistic future where humanoid robots evolve to become essential companions, seamlessly integrated into human life. Robots take over repetitive, hazardous, and physically demanding tasks, dramatically improving workplace safety and allowing humans to engage in more creative, fulfilling, and intellectual activities. Elderly and disabled citizens benefit from robotic caregivers, vastly enhancing their quality of life through personalized companionship and medical care.
Education sees revolutionary changes, as humanoid robots become tireless tutors, adapting their teaching styles to individual needs, promoting lifelong learning and widespread cognitive development. Productivity surges in industries like healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture, and hospitality, as robots efficiently handle routine tasks, freeing humans to innovate and collaborate on solving complex global challenges like climate change, hunger, and disease.
Governments and industries cooperate proactively, establishing ethical guidelines, regulations, and transparency in robot development. Privacy and data security are prioritized, ensuring trust and human-centric values guide technological advancement. In this ideal scenario, humanoid robots elevate human existence, making society healthier, more productive, and equitable.
Scenario 3: The Moderate Future – Cautious Evolution
In the most probable, moderate scenario, humanoid robots evolve gradually, carefully regulated and thoughtfully integrated. Governments and international regulatory bodies monitor developments closely, placing strong emphasis on safety, transparency, privacy, and ethical considerations. The adoption of humanoid robots remains cautious, with gradual rollouts in specific industries—primarily healthcare, logistics, retail, and education—where clear value and limited risk can be demonstrated.
Technological progress continues, yet is frequently balanced by public debate, legislation, and careful pilot projects. Humans gradually adjust to robotic coworkers, companions, and service providers, experiencing both gains in productivity and some challenges in labor displacement. To mitigate adverse impacts, societies invest substantially in reskilling initiatives, workforce training programs, and educational reforms that prepare humans for a future shared with intelligent robots.
Businesses and governments alike learn from early adopters and pioneers, progressively refining robotic capabilities without sacrificing human employment or autonomy. Ethical frameworks become standardized, creating global consensus around responsible use, AI transparency, and equitable access to technology.
In this moderate future, humanoid robots represent a powerful but carefully managed resource, slowly but steadily enhancing human potential, productivity, and quality of life—without crossing into extremes.
Each of these potential futures reminds us that the choices made today will define the role humanoid robots play tomorrow. Responsible innovation, wise governance, and a clear, ethical vision will guide us toward the best possible outcome.
Strategic Implications and Recommendations for Executives
Explore Integrative Opportunities: Identify areas within your business where humanoid robotics could deliver enhanced customer interactions, operational efficiencies, or solve pressing challenges such as labor shortages or safety concerns.
Assess Workforce Implications: Strategically evaluate the impact humanoid robots could have on workforce dynamics, training needs, and skill development. Anticipate changes and prepare workforce strategies proactively, focusing on human-robot collaboration.
Prioritize Ethical and Social Responsibility: Develop comprehensive guidelines and ethical frameworks for responsible deployment, addressing potential societal, privacy, and employment impacts proactively, maintaining trust and transparency with stakeholders.
Collaborate and Innovate: Partner with technology providers, startups, research institutions, and industry coalitions to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving technological landscape, leveraging collective knowledge and innovation.
Invest in Continuous Learning: Commit to continuous learning and adaptation, regularly updating business models, workflows, and training programs to fully capitalize on evolving humanoid robotics capabilities.
Humanoid robots are not merely tools—they are companions, collaborators, and catalysts for human progress in the next chapter of history, offering executives unparalleled opportunities to shape the future of their industries and redefine humanity’s interaction with technology.
1- Why The Buzz On Agentic AI
Agentic AI autonomously makes decisions and performs tasks, going beyond traditional AI’s informational role. It scales digital labor, transforming organizations by breaking down silos and shifting management from command to coordination. Human roles will focus more on creativity and strategy, while Agentic AI handles complex problem-solving. This technology is set to revolutionize digital labor and reshape the future of work.
2- Crucial Nvidia results to set the course for faltering ‘Magnificent Seven’
Nvidia’s upcoming earnings report is crucial for gauging AI chip demand and could impact artificial intelligence stocks that have driven market growth since ChatGPT’s launch in 2022. Despite significant gains, the “Magnificent Seven” tech giants, including Nvidia, have faced setbacks from competition and market corrections. Nvidia has consistently exceeded expectations but faces slowing revenue growth. Its performance this week is key to restoring investor confidence amid rising competition and volatility in the AI market.
3- Scientists develop ‘superhuman’ robotic vision system
PanoRadar, a robotic vision system, uses radio waves and AI to see through smoke, rain, and around corners, enhancing visibility where traditional sensors fail. Developed by Professor Mingmin Zhao at the University of Pennsylvania, it builds 3D views of its surroundings and could aid search-and-rescue operations. It is also being tested for autonomous vehicles to improve real-world perception.
4- South Korea’s AI GPU Plan South Korea plans to acquire 10,000 GPUs in 2025 to strengthen its national AI computing center amid global competition. The initiative follows U.S. export restrictions on AI chips and aims to boost the country’s AI industry. Details on budget and partners will be confirmed by September, with the move also linked to a ban on China’s DeepSeek AI model.
5- Life After VMware: Which Alternative Is Right For You?
Over a year after Broadcom’s $61 billion acquisition of VMware, customers face price hikes and restrictive contracts, driving many to seek alternatives. Despite customer dissatisfaction, Broadcom reports record revenues, betting on continued VMware loyalty. However, growing competition from public cloud providers, Microsoft Hyper-V, Red Hat OpenShift, and Nutanix challenges VMware’s dominance. Companies like Rackspace and Beeks Group are migrating away due to high costs. As enterprises prioritize flexibility and multi-cloud strategies, the virtualization market is diversifying, pushing IT leaders to reassess their long-term plans.
6- 5 Essential Steps To Prepare Your Business For The Quantum Era
Quantum computing is set to revolutionize industries, and businesses should prepare by taking five steps: 1. Stay Informed: Keep up with advancements to avoid being caught off guard. 2. Plan a Strategy: Identify how quantum can improve business goals like innovation and optimization. 3. Secure Data: Prepare for potential threats to current encryption methods by adopting quantum-safe security. 4. Identify Use Cases: Focus on areas like simulations and optimization where quantum computing offers the most value. 5. Build Partnerships: Collaborate with experts to bridge knowledge gaps and innovate. Early preparation will position businesses for success in the quantum era.
7- Top tech companies turn to hydrogen and nuclear energy for AI data centers
ECL, founded by Yuval Bachar, builds hydrogen-powered data centers to reduce carbon emissions and meet rising AI infrastructure demands faster than grid-connected centers. These eco-friendly centers appeal to tech giants like Microsoft and Google aiming for net-zero emissions. ECL plans a 1-gigawatt hydrogen data center in Texas by 2028, despite challenges with green hydrogen production. As AI grows, data centers could consume up to 12% of U.S. energy by 2028, driving the need for sustainable power.
8- Google to test using AI to determine users’ ages
Google is testing AI to enforce age restrictions across its products, including YouTube, by estimating whether users are over or under 18. This initiative aims to provide more age-appropriate experiences and enhance child safety, responding to pressure from lawmakers. The AI model will be tested in the U.S. before expanding to other countries. This move follows similar efforts by Meta and reflects Google’s increasing use of AI in its products. The initiative is led by Google’s “Core” Technology team, despite recent layoffs and restructuring within the unit.
9- Elon Musk says he’ll drop $97B OpenAI purchase offer if ChatGPT maker stays a nonprofit
Elon Musk offered $97.4 billion to buy OpenAI but said he would withdraw the bid if OpenAI’s board stops its transition into a for-profit entity. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman rejected the offer, suggesting Musk’s move was an attempt to slow down OpenAI’s progress. Musk co-founded OpenAI as a non-profit but left in 2018 after failing to gain control or merge it with Tesla. Altman plans to turn OpenAI’s for-profit subsidiary into a traditional company, which Musk opposes, advocating for OpenAI to remain a non-profit focused on safety and open-source development. Despite Musk’s bid, Altman stated that OpenAI is not for sale and dismissed the offer as a competitive tactic.
10- DeepSeek raises new questions for Nvidia and the tech giants that hoard its chips
DeepSeek’s cost-efficient AI model challenged Nvidia’s dominance, leading to a drop in Nvidia’s stock and sparking a shift towards low-cost, democratized AI development. This has intensified competition among AI infrastructure providers like Nvidia, Intel, and major tech companies. Despite accuracy concerns, DeepSeek’s model paves the way for more specialized, affordable AI solutions. Experts expect increased competition and tighter profit margins, pushing existing leaders to adapt. This shift emphasizes the growing need for robust AI infrastructure and validation.
1- How Chinese AI Startup DeepSeek Made a Model that Rivals OpenAI Chinese AI startup DeepSeek, founded by hedge fund leader Liang Wenfeng, has become a major competitor to Western firms by optimizing resources and embracing open-source collaboration. Facing US chip export restrictions, it developed efficient AI models using innovative techniques, achieving high performance with fewer resources. Operating independently and focusing on long-term research, DeepSeek is challenging assumptions about China’s AI capabilities and reshaping the global AI landscape. Source:Wired
2- Trump announces a $500 billion AI infrastructure investment in the US Donald Trump, alongside OpenAI, SoftBank, and Oracle leaders, announced Stargate, a $500 billion AI infrastructure project aimed at building data centers and creating 100,000 jobs to ensure US leadership in AI. The project will start with a $100 billion investment, with SoftBank managing finances and OpenAI handling operations. Despite concerns over past large-scale projects failing, Trump remains confident in Stargate’s potential to boost the US economy and AI dominance. Source:CNN
3- Microsoft launches Copilot Chat for businesses to boost AI adoption Microsoft introduced Copilot Chat, a free AI-powered service allowing businesses to create AI agents for tasks like market research and document writing. Powered by OpenAI’s GPT-4, the service follows a pay-as-you-go model, with advanced features requiring a $30 monthly Microsoft 365 Copilot subscription. As Microsoft faces pressure to justify its $80 billion AI investment, the introduction of autonomous AI agents aims to drive adoption and monetization. Source:Reuters
4- Tech titans bicker over $500bn AI investment announced by Trump Following Trump’s announcement of the $500 billion Stargate project, tech leaders Elon Musk, Sam Altman, and Satya Nadella exchanged criticisms. Musk dismissed the project as financially unviable, questioning SoftBank’s funds, while Altman defended the initiative, and Nadella affirmed Microsoft’s separate $80 billion Azure investment. The feud highlights Musk and Altman’s ongoing rivalry, while Trump has yet to respond to Musk’s criticisms. Source:The Guardian
5- AI could help diagnose dementia through eye tests Scottish researchers are developing an AI tool to detect early dementia signs through routine eye tests. The NeurEYE team, led by the University of Edinburgh, has built a database of one million eye scans to develop an algorithm analyzing retinal blood vessels for signs of neurodegenerative diseases. Expected in opticians by 2026, the technology aims to enable earlier diagnosis and better preparation for patients and families. Source:BBC
6- Musk, MrBeast, Larry Ellison – Who might buy TikTok? Several high-profile figures, including MrBeast, Elon Musk, and Oracle’s Larry Ellison, are interested in buying TikTok as ByteDance faces a January 19 deadline to sell or face a US ban. Trump has suggested a 50% US ownership model while extending the sale deadline. Musk has criticized TikTok’s access in the US versus X in China, while Oracle and investor Frank McCourt are also considered key contenders. Source:BBC
7- The Evolving Role Of The CISO CISOs are evolving from cybersecurity gatekeepers to strategic business partners, influencing risk management and digital transformation. The 2025 State of the CISO Report categorizes them into Strategic, Functional, and Tactical roles based on executive influence. Despite expanded responsibilities, compensation remains limited, though hybrid roles offer better pay. Success requires aligning security with business goals and enhancing executive engagement. Source:Forbes
8- Survey: 68% Of Execs Plan To Funnel Up To $250 Million Into AI KPMG’s latest survey shows that 68% of executives plan to invest heavily in AI within the next year, as businesses rapidly shift from pilot projects to large-scale adoption. Despite growing enthusiasm, challenges such as data quality, economic pressures, and employee adoption persist. Interest in AI agents is rising, but only 12% have implemented them. C-suite leaders are driving AI usage, though broader workforce adoption remains low, highlighting the need for better training and integration. Source:Forbes
9- The Cause of the LA Fires Might Never Be Known—but AI Is Hunting for Clues
The causes of many wildfires in the Western US, including recent ones in Los Angeles, often remain unknown, hindering prevention efforts. The US Forest Service and data scientists are using AI to analyze past cases, revealing that 80% of fires are human-caused, with vehicles and equipment being the leading triggers. While AI models show promise in identifying broad causes, accuracy in pinpointing specific sources remains a challenge. Experts stress the need for better data tracking, proactive prevention measures like burying power lines, and enhancing community resilience to address the growing wildfire threat.
10- Nvidia’s $560 Billion DeepSeek Rout Is Largest in Market History
Nvidia’s stock plunged 18%, wiping out $560 billion in value—the largest one-day loss in US market history—due to concerns over Chinese AI startup DeepSeek’s low-cost, high-performance technology. DeepSeek’s AI model, seen as a rival to OpenAI and Meta, has raised fears that US firms may have overinvested in costly AI infrastructure. Nvidia’s decline triggered a broader tech selloff, with analysts warning that DeepSeek’s efficiency could disrupt the AI market. Despite US restrictions on AI chip exports, Chinese firms continue to make significant progress.
AI agents are changing how we work by taking on tasks like financial reconciliation, customer support, and IT management, freeing employees to focus on strategic goals. Microsoft’s tools like Copilot and Dynamics 365 enable customizable agents that leverage advanced AI to handle complex workflows. With features like Copilot Studio, users can create tailored agents without coding, connecting them to business data for personalized solutions. Safety measures, such as human oversight and secure controls, ensure reliable and responsible use. These agents mark a new era in workplace efficiency, reducing routine workloads and driving innovation.
2- What Trump’s Second Presidency Means For AI, Cybersecurity And Crypto
As Donald Trump prepares for a potential return to the White House, the tech industry is bracing for significant policy shifts. Key areas of focus include AI, cryptocurrency, cybersecurity, energy, and semiconductor production, all aligned with his “America First” strategy. The administration may prioritize deregulation to accelerate AI development, counter China’s dominance in the sector, and support domestic semiconductor manufacturing while extending export restrictions. On cryptocurrency, Trump’s evolving stance suggests a lighter regulatory approach to stimulate industry growth, though details remain uncertain. Immigration policies could restrict access to global talent, prompting a push for local workforce development in tech-intensive fields. The overarching vision is to solidify U.S. leadership in global technology through innovation-driven, flexible policies.
3- DOJ Pushes for Google Breakup: Chrome Sale and Major Overhauls Proposed
The U.S. Department of Justice has proposed major structural changes to Google, including selling its Chrome browser and potentially divesting the Android operating system, to curb its dominance in internet search. These measures follow a federal ruling declaring Google’s monopoly over search services illegal, with further arguments set to be heard in April. The DOJ also aims to prevent Google from paying partners like Apple to make its search engine the default and proposes allowing rivals access to Google’s search index and browser. Google has criticized the proposals as extreme, warning they could harm U.S. tech leadership and consumer security, and plans to appeal the ruling. The incoming Trump administration’s stance may influence the case, with conflicting signals from Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance on whether to pursue a breakup.
4- Robotaxis: The Journey to Winning Passenger Trust
Robotaxis are navigating a challenging path to earn passenger trust as companies like Waymo and Zoox showcase innovative designs and features aimed at making autonomous rides feel safe and comfortable. Waymo emphasizes transparency, with screens showing what the car “sees” to reassure passengers, while Zoox adopts a more immersive, distraction-free design. Despite advancements, public hesitation remains high, with safety being a key concern, amplified by incidents like Cruise’s 2023 pedestrian accident. In the US and China, robotaxi deployment is expanding, but regulatory hurdles and financial losses continue to test the industry’s growth potential. As competitors like Tesla and General Motors push forward, the race to win over skeptics is proving as critical as the technology itself.
5- Can the U.S. Meet Its Ambitious EV Goals by 2032?
The U.S. government’s proposed emissions standards aim to make electric vehicles (EVs) two-thirds of all new car sales by 2032, accelerating the transition by several years. While challenging, experts believe advancements in battery technology, improved charging infrastructure, and lower EV prices will make the goals achievable. Automakers like GM, Toyota, and Honda are ramping up their EV offerings, which will expand consumer options and drive market growth. California’s aggressive EV policies are expected to influence national trends, pushing the market closer to the proposed targets. Industry leaders stress that collaboration between automakers, governments, and infrastructure providers will be essential to meet these ambitious objectives.
Amazon is ramping up its efforts to rival Nvidia in the AI chip market with the upcoming release of Trainium 2, designed to train large AI models. Leveraging its Annapurna Labs acquisition, Amazon’s chips promise cost savings of up to 40%, attracting companies like Anthropic, Databricks, and Deutsche Telekom. The company’s $75 billion investment in technology infrastructure for 2024 underscores its commitment to AI innovation. Despite these strides, Nvidia remains dominant, earning $26.3 billion in AI chip sales in a single quarter, while Amazon’s AWS division matched that revenue across all services. Experts believe Amazon’s push for alternative options could gradually shift the market balance.
7- Jaguar Faces Backlash Over Bold Rebrand and Ad Campaign
Jaguar’s managing director, Rawdon Glover, has defended the company’s latest rebrand and ad campaign, which features vibrant visuals and models without showcasing cars or the iconic cat logo. The “copy nothing” campaign aims to break away from traditional automotive marketing and appeal to a contemporary audience, drawing both praise and criticism online. Despite social media backlash, including a sarcastic comment from X CEO Elon Musk, the campaign garnered over 160 million views. Critics argue that moving away from Jaguar’s classic symbols risks alienating loyal fans, though Jaguar insists the reimagining reflects its commitment to inclusivity and modern relevance. The company is also investing in electric vehicles, with the first electric Range Rover set for delivery in late 2025.
8- Gravesend Showcases the Future with Crawlybots and AI Innovation
The Innovation Showcase in Gravesend offered the public a glimpse into the future, featuring cutting-edge technology like Crawlybots—flexible robots with LED eyes designed to mimic animal traits. Organized by Fourth Portal, the event brought together experts from leading universities and local businesses to highlight the potential of robotics and AI to improve lives. Talks by the University of Nottingham team and interactive exhibits inspired attendees, with many, including volunteers and visitors, expressing hope for Gravesend’s transformation into a technology hub. Organizers emphasized the importance of blending science and art to encourage exploration and innovation in the community.
9- Snapchat Spectacles 5: A Glimpse into the Future of AR Wearable Technology
Snapchat’s 5th Generation Spectacles bring augmented reality to a new level, offering innovative features like virtual drawing, interactive gaming, and immersive educational tools. Designed with developers in mind, these lightweight glasses integrate advanced technology directly into their frame, eliminating the need for external devices. While challenges like a limited 46-degree field of view remain, the Spectacles showcase the potential of AR for entertainment, education, and beyond. Currently available exclusively to developers for $99 per month, this device signals Snapchat’s commitment to building a robust AR ecosystem before a broader consumer launch. The Spectacles 5 sets the stage for AR’s role in shaping everyday digital experiences.
10- 6 Common IT Mistakes That Could Derail 2025 Tech Strategies
As AI adoption accelerates, IT teams face predictable yet preventable pitfalls. Mishandling AI governance leads to security vulnerabilities and biased outputs, while ignoring emerging regulations creates costly compliance risks, especially as global laws tighten around AI applications. Many organizations also struggle with outdated data quality practices, resulting in flawed AI models and wasted resources. In the rush to innovate, security measures are often compromised, leaving businesses vulnerable to sophisticated hybrid and quantum-powered cyberattacks. Compounding these issues, outdated skills training fails to keep pace with rapid technological advances, exacerbating workforce gaps in AI and quantum computing. Addressing these challenges now is critical to avoiding disruptions and ensuring sustainable digital transformation.
Elon Musk unveiled his vision for an “age of abundance” at a Tesla event, highlighting futuristic self-driving robotaxis, a Robovan, and the Cybercab, which lacks a steering wheel or pedals. Despite his optimism, including claims that full autonomy could arrive in California and Texas by next year, Tesla’s track record of delayed timelines and unfulfilled promises leaves investors skeptical. The event showcased sleek, sci-fi-inspired designs, but while competitors like Google’s Waymo have made significant progress, Tesla has yet to deliver fully autonomous vehicles. Musk acknowledged his tendency toward overly optimistic predictions, admitting challenges remain before achieving true self-driving technology.
2- Google joins Big Tech’s move into nuclear power, and other top energy stories
Recent energy sector highlights include Google’s groundbreaking deal to purchase power from small modular nuclear reactors to meet AI-driven electricity demand, marking Big Tech’s growing interest in nuclear energy. The International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts a peak in fossil fuel demand by the decade’s end, followed by a shift to an “age of electricity” driven by clean energy investments. Meanwhile, China leads the global clean energy rollout, aiming to hold half of the world’s renewables by 2030. Other updates include calls for more infrastructure investment to support renewable energy, with global developments in solar power, energy storage, and nuclear energy continuing to shape the energy transition.
3- Nvidia stock rises to new record, exceeding June high as AI trade is rekindled
Nvidia shares hit a new record on Thursday, rising over 3% to an intraday high of $140.89 before closing at $136.93, fueled by renewed investor interest in the AI sector. This new high surpassed the previous record set in June, as Nvidia’s stock has surged 180% year-to-date. The boost follows strong third-quarter earnings from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, Nvidia’s chip producer, and growing demand for Nvidia’s GPUs from major tech companies like Microsoft, Meta, and Google, which are using them for AI projects. Nvidia’s upcoming AI GPU, Blackwell, is expected to drive significant revenue in the fourth quarter.
4- This Company’s AI Agents Won Contests To Secure Big Customers. Now It’s Raised $65 Million
Decagon, co-founded by Jesse Zhang and Ashwin Sreenivas, raised $65 million in Series B funding, bringing its valuation to $650 million. The company’s AI-powered customer service agents, used by companies like Notion and Duolingo, consistently outperform competitors in bake-off tests. Built on large language models and enterprise data, Decagon’s software provides transparency and control over chatbot responses. The new funding will help expand the team, target new customers, and add a voice feature as demand for AI agents grows.
5- When Cyber Security Breaches Are Inevitable, It’s Time To Call For A New Approach
At the TED Conference, the Radical Innovators foundation gathered leaders to discuss how AI and quantum computing can elevate human experiences, while also addressing cybersecurity risks. T-Mobile’s CISO led a session on how emerging technologies are supercharging cyberattacks, with discussions on the inevitability of breaches. Experts emphasized the need for cyber resilience, a strategy focused on sustaining business operations during attacks. Key elements include planning, proactive detection, and partnerships, with firms like Rubrik leading advancements. The shift towards cyber resilience is also attracting venture capital interest.
6- GE HealthCare announces time-saving AI tool for doctors who treat cancer
GE HealthCare has introduced CareIntellect for Oncology, an AI-powered tool designed to streamline oncologists’ workflows by summarizing patient histories, monitoring disease progression, and identifying relevant clinical trials, saving doctors significant time. Set to launch in 2025 for prostate and breast cancers, this cloud-based tool is expected to generate recurring revenue. GE HealthCare is also developing five additional AI tools, including Health Companion, a system where AI agents specializing in different medical fields collaborate to assist doctors with quicker, multidisciplinary insights, aiming to improve patient care and reduce the workload on clinicians.
7- Claude AI tool can now carry out jobs such as filling forms and booking trips, says creator
Anthropic, an AI startup backed by Amazon and Google, has developed an AI agent called Claude that can perform computer tasks such as filling out forms, planning trips, and building websites. While currently experimental and prone to errors, the tool is being made available to developers for feedback and improvement. This announcement follows similar advancements by Microsoft, which launched a product allowing companies to build autonomous AI agents for tasks like scheduling and handling client inquiries.
8- Microsoft introduces ‘AI employees’ that can handle client queries
Microsoft is launching AI-powered autonomous agents, or “virtual employees,” capable of handling tasks like client queries and sales lead identification. Customers can build their own agents or use 10 pre-built bots for roles such as supply chain management and customer service. Early adopters include McKinsey and Clifford Chance. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella emphasized that these tools boost productivity by reducing repetitive tasks, similar to the impact of personal computers decades ago. While Microsoft promotes AI agents as enablers, there are concerns about their long-term ability to match human capabilities and generate significant revenue.
9- Google to buy power for AI needs from small modular nuclear reactor company Kairos
Google has signed the world’s first corporate agreement to purchase power from multiple small modular nuclear reactors to meet its growing AI energy demands. The deal with Kairos Power plans to bring the first reactor online by 2030, with additional reactors by 2035. Google aims to acquire 500 megawatts of power from six to seven reactors, which is smaller than current nuclear plants. Financial details and reactor locations were not disclosed, but this move supports Google’s commitment to carbon-free energy.
1- 6 Things To Be Excited About At NYC Climate Week 2024
NYC Climate Week 2024 is shaping up to be a pivotal event, bringing together global leaders and industries to address pressing climate issues. The event will feature a hybrid format, allowing greater participation from communities worldwide, including those in developing nations. Key highlights include the involvement of the fashion and entertainment industries in sustainability discussions, alongside a focus on how technology, especially AI, can aid decarbonization efforts. Youth activists will play a prominent role, leading rallies and sessions, while the inclusion of FEMA and the EPA emphasizes the connection between climate resilience and public safety. The event promises over 600 activities, aiming to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and drive tangible climate solutions.
2- Sustainability Leaders Making A Difference In Their Communities
For the first time, Forbes is recognizing 50 leaders across various sectors who are making significant contributions in the fight against climate change. These individuals, ranging from entrepreneurs to scientists and activists, are selected for their tangible and scalable impacts, with no room for greenwashing. Notable honorees include Gaurab Chakrabarti of Solugen, who is creating sustainable chemicals, and Nemonte Nenquimo, who defends indigenous land rights in the Amazon. The list was vetted by a panel of climate experts, emphasizing the urgent need for innovation and bold action in addressing the climate crisis. This initiative highlights real-world solutions that demonstrate leadership in sustainability and climate resilience.
3- World’s largest banks to pledge support for nuclear power
Fourteen of the world’s largest financial institutions, including Bank of America, Citi, and Goldman Sachs, are set to pledge support for nuclear power, aiming to help meet the COP28 goal of tripling global nuclear capacity by 2050. This support is crucial due to the high costs associated with financing new nuclear projects. The growing electricity demand from tech giants like Microsoft and Amazon, driven by the expansion of data centers, has fueled increased interest in nuclear power as a clean energy source. In a notable deal, Microsoft has signed a power purchase agreement (PPA) with Constellation Energy, leading to the reopening of Pennsylvania’s Three Mile Island Unit 1 to supply carbon-free energy for its data centers. This financial and corporate backing signals nuclear power’s growing role in decarbonization efforts.
4- Wealthy families already know they must look beyond ESG to their ‘legacy’
The UK government is set to introduce regulations for ESG rating agencies next year, requiring them to be overseen by the Financial Conduct Authority. This move aims to bring transparency to the often confusing world of ESG investments. However, challenges remain, as ESG ratings are subjective, differ between agencies, and do not predict financial health like credit ratings. Additionally, ESG ratings primarily cover public markets, leaving the growing private debt market unaddressed. Despite these limitations, wealthy investors are increasingly focused on the tangible impact of their investments, integrating sustainability into their overall portfolios rather than relying solely on ESG labels.
MIT Technology Review’s latest list of 35 Innovators Under 35 highlights promising breakthroughs in climate and energy technology. Some notable innovators are focusing on making energy more reliable, like Tim Latimer of Fervo Energy, who is developing geothermal systems to provide consistent, carbon-free power, and Andrew Ponec of Antora Energy, working on thermal energy storage. Others are tackling carbon removal, including Noah McQueen of Heirloom Carbon Technologies, which enhances mineral-based carbon capture, and Claire Nelson of Cella Mineral Storage, focused on storing captured CO2 underground. Innovators like Julia Carpenter are also advancing materials science, while Cody Finke of Brimstone is reimagining cement production to drastically cut emissions. These innovators represent key steps forward in addressing the challenges of climate change, from energy storage to carbon capture and sustainable materials.
6- The world successfully tackled a dangerous pollutant. But did it accidentally warm the planet in the process?
The 2020 International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations, which drastically reduced sulfur pollution from ships, have sparked debate about their unintended effects on global warming. While the reduction in sulfur emissions is projected to prevent around 30,000 premature deaths annually, it has also reduced the formation of reflective “ship track” clouds, which previously helped cool the planet by reflecting sunlight. Some scientists, like James Hansen, argue that this reduction in cooling pollutants is contributing to an acceleration in global warming, though experts like Piers Forster suggest the overall warming impact may be minor. Despite these concerns, scientists emphasize that cutting air pollution remains essential for saving lives and must be paired with reductions in carbon emissions to effectively combat climate change.
7- LEGO Group Increases Renewable Content in Bricks by 83% in 2024
The LEGO Group announced significant progress in its shift towards sustainable materials, reporting an 83% increase in renewable content in its bricks during the first half of 2024. The company achieved 22% renewable sources in its raw materials, with 30% of its resin now sourced under a “mass balance” approach. This method combines virgin fossil inputs with renewable or recycled sources, helping LEGO transition away from fossil-based plastics. Despite discontinuing plans for rPET-based bricks, LEGO remains committed to its sustainability goals, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050 and a 37% reduction in carbon emissions by 2032. The company sees the mass balance approach as a temporary step towards fully renewable materials while driving demand for sustainable resources.
8- New legal frameworks for greenwashing mean brands must get their messaging right
After decades of growing concern, major jurisdictions like the EU, UK, and USA are now implementing legal frameworks to tackle greenwashing—companies making misleading claims about their environmental impact. These frameworks include the EU’s Green Claims Directive, the UK’s Green Claims Code, and the USA’s Green Guides, which share common goals: ensuring that environmental claims are clear, truthful, and substantiated. The UK’s Green Claims Code outlines six key principles for companies, such as ensuring claims are accurate, unambiguous, and based on the product’s full life cycle. While greenwashing—using vague terms like “eco-friendly”—is now under scrutiny, the opposite issue, “greenhushing,” where companies go silent on their sustainability progress, is equally problematic. To encourage consumer trust and informed decision-making, businesses must communicate transparently about their sustainability efforts without exaggeration or omission.
9- Sustainability Takes Center Stage at the 2024 Munich Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest 2024 is blending tradition with sustainability, showcasing how iconic events can minimize environmental impact. This year’s festival continues its eco-friendly evolution, featuring reusable beer steins, composting food waste, and using renewable energy sources like solar and biogas. The festival has seen waste reduction from 247 tons in 2008 to just 88 tons in 2022. Additionally, more food vendors are offering organic, locally sourced, vegetarian, and vegan options, while beer halls aim for climate neutrality within five years. Oktoberfest’s efforts highlight a growing trend of cultural events embracing sustainability without losing their traditional charm.
10- Tech Firms Are Keeping Users In The Dark On AI’s Climate Costs
The increasing demand for AI technologies, like those from Google and OpenAI, is raising concerns about the environmental impact due to their high electricity and water usage. While AI queries consume much more energy than traditional searches, transparency around the exact environmental costs remains limited. Experts call for clearer disclosures to users about the resources AI platforms consume, given that even renewable energy is not unlimited. Meanwhile, Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s 2006 “Secret Master Plan,” which championed electric vehicles as part of a clean energy transition, has disappeared from Tesla’s blog. Musk’s recent comments suggest a shift towards more moderate views on climate change and the oil and gas industries. In another development, Amy Davis, president of Cummins’ cleantech arm Accelera, discusses the potential of hybrid heavy-duty trucks to reduce emissions while battery and hydrogen infrastructure continue to develop. These hybrids could provide significant greenhouse gas reductions while preparing the way for future electrification.
COP16, held in Colombia from October 21 to November 1, will focus on implementing the Global Biodiversity Framework adopted at COP15, with the aim of protecting 30% of land and sea areas by 2030. Business leaders are expected to engage in discussions on how to align corporate strategies with global biodiversity goals, especially in relation to new reporting requirements and nature-positive transitions. Significant attention will also be given to Indigenous Peoples’ knowledge and collaboration in conservation efforts. The conference represents a critical moment for advancing both biodiversity protection and climate action, with businesses playing a key role in driving change and influencing policy.
2- How Big Tech is quietly trying to reshape how pollution is reported
Amazon, often lauded as a green business leader for hitting its 100% renewable energy goal ahead of schedule, faces criticism for its substantial greenhouse gas emissions, particularly in the U.S., where fossil fuels dominate electricity generation. The company, along with other tech giants like Meta and Google, is involved in shaping the Greenhouse Gas Protocol’s rules on emissions reporting. A debate has emerged between two approaches: Amazon and Meta advocate for flexible use of renewable energy certificates (RECs), potentially obscuring true emissions, while Google supports a stricter method requiring RECs to match the time and location of energy consumption. The outcome of this rule-making process could significantly impact how Big Tech companies report their environmental impact as they continue to expand energy-intensive operations like data centers.
The plastics industry, including companies like ExxonMobil, is lobbying the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to allow labeling plastic bags and materials as “recyclable,” despite the fact that most plastics end up in landfills or incinerated. Their argument hinges on the possibility of recycling, even if it’s not widely practiced, which has raised concerns among environmentalists. The revision of the FTC’s Green Guides, which set standards for what can be labeled as “recyclable,” is crucial as it could influence state regulations and company practices, particularly in states like California that are pushing for more sustainable materials. Critics argue that allowing such labels could undermine efforts to reduce plastic use and promote genuinely recyclable or compostable alternatives.
4- SpaceX repeatedly polluted waters in Texas this year, regulators found
SpaceX has been cited for multiple violations of environmental regulations in Texas, particularly for discharging pollutants into nearby waters without proper permits, according to notices from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The violations are linked to SpaceX’s use of an unauthorized water deluge system at its Starbase launch facility in Boca Chica. Despite these infractions, SpaceX has continued its launch operations, which could delay future approvals and lead to further legal action. Environmental concerns include potential high levels of mercury and other pollutants in the wastewater, raising alarms about the impact on local ecosystems. SpaceX has acknowledged some issues but insists that its operations are not harmful to the environment.
5- ‘The dumbest climate conversation of all time’: experts on the Musk-Trump interview
During a discussion labeled by climate activists as “the dumbest climate conversation of all time,” Donald Trump and Elon Musk made several misleading and factually incorrect claims about the climate crisis. Trump downplayed the urgency of moving away from fossil fuels and even suggested that rising sea levels could create “more oceanfront property,” ignoring the severe consequences of climate change. Musk echoed this sentiment by stating that there was no immediate need to cut carbon emissions and that fossil fuels shouldn’t be vilified, despite overwhelming scientific evidence showing the urgent need for action to prevent catastrophic impacts. Their statements were met with strong criticism from climate scientists and activists, who highlighted the dangers of such misinformation, especially given the critical state of the climate crisis.
6- 3 Ways Managers Can Help Employees Tackle Eco-Anxiety
As climate change intensifies, employees are increasingly experiencing eco-anxiety, which can harm their well-being and productivity. Companies often overlook this by focusing solely on external compliance, missing an opportunity to engage their workforce. Educating employees about positive climate actions and involving them in the company’s sustainability initiatives can turn anxiety into proactive engagement. Supporting employee-led green projects fosters a sense of community and empowers them to contribute meaningfully. By addressing eco-anxiety, organizations can transform it into a driving force for sustainability and positive change.
7- How Close Are the Planet’s Climate Tipping Points?
The planet is approaching several critical climate tipping points that could lead to irreversible changes in natural systems. These include the mass death of coral reefs, the abrupt thawing of permafrost, and the collapse of major ice sheets in Greenland and West Antarctica. Other potential tipping points involve the loss of the Amazon rainforest and the shutdown of crucial Atlantic ocean currents. While predicting the exact timing of these events is challenging, continued carbon emissions significantly increase the likelihood of triggering these catastrophic shifts, making immediate climate action essential.
8- How corporates can catalyse the global energy transition
To stay on the 1.5°C pathway of the Paris Agreement, global investment in renewable energy must quadruple, but investment has been concentrated in a few advanced economies. Corporations are increasingly playing a vital role, particularly through Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), but the current rules limit their impact by requiring renewables to be sourced within the same market boundary. A study by Amazon and Baringa suggests that relaxing these boundaries and prioritizing emissions impact could significantly accelerate global decarbonization, especially in coal-dependent regions. This approach could drive $85 billion of investment into developing economies by 2040, offering a cheaper and more equitable energy transition.
9- Where (and How) Americans Are Taking Advantage of Clean Energy Tax Credits
Last year, Americans claimed over $8 billion in climate-friendly tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act, far exceeding initial projections. The majority of the credits, more than $6 billion, were used by households to install renewable energy systems like rooftop solar panels, particularly in sunny states. The credits also supported energy efficiency improvements, with a significant uptake in the Northeast and Midwest. While the credits have benefited a range of income levels, they still disproportionately favored wealthier households due to the upfront costs and tax filing requirements. Rebates aimed at lower-income households have been slower to roll out, with only a few states having started their programs.
10- EU Commission Publishes CSRD FAQ to Help Companies Implement New Sustainability Reporting Rules
The European Commission has released a new set of frequently asked questions (FAQs) to assist companies and auditors in implementing the sustainability reporting requirements of the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). This directive, an update to the previous Non-Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD), significantly expands the number of companies required to report on sustainability, increasing from around 12,000 to over 50,000. The first reports under the CSRD are due in 2025, based on the 2024 financial year, starting with large public-interest companies. The FAQs aim to reduce the administrative burden on companies, offering clarity on key topics like reporting scope, compliance dates, and auditing requirements. Commissioner Mairead McGuinness emphasized the EU’s commitment to ensuring these tools are both usable and effective while minimizing administrative complexity for businesses.
1- Nvidia passes Microsoft in market cap to become most valuable public company
Nvidia has surpassed Microsoft to become the world’s most valuable public company, with its market cap reaching $3.34 trillion due to a ninefold increase in its stock since the end of 2022, driven by the boom in generative AI. Nvidia now dominates 80% of the AI chip market for data centers, leading to a 427% increase in revenue from this sector in the most recent quarter. Co-founder and CEO Jensen Huang’s net worth has soared to $117 billion. Microsoft’s value stands at $3.32 trillion, boosted by its investment in OpenAI and the integration of AI into its products.
2- Medical startup Sword Health announces AI that patients can talk to
Sword Health announced Phoenix, an AI solution that guides patients through virtual physical therapy sessions, offering real-time feedback and adjustments. Founded in 2015, Sword helps patients manage pain from home, reducing the need for opioids and surgery. Phoenix enhances the patient experience by replicating a care specialist’s role, allowing patients to converse directly with it. Phoenix tracks progress, summarizes performance data, and makes session recommendations, which are reviewed by human clinicians. Sword has raised $340 million, with a valuation of $3 billion, and aims to expand its AI-powered solutions, having already completed over 3 million sessions.
3- NBC’s Paris Olympics coverage will have AI-generated recaps, split screen, and more
Sword Health announced Phoenix, an AI solution that guides patients through virtual physical therapy sessions, offering real-time feedback and adjustments. Founded in 2015, Sword helps patients manage pain from home, reducing the need for opioids and surgery. Phoenix enhances the patient experience by replicating a care specialist’s role, allowing patients to converse directly with it. Phoenix tracks progress, summarizes performance data, and makes session recommendations, which are reviewed by human clinicians. Sword has raised $340 million, with a valuation of $3 billion, and aims to expand its AI-powered solutions, having already completed over 3 million sessions.
Apple is enhancing Siri and its operating systems with OpenAI’s ChatGPT as part of a new personalized AI system called “Apple Intelligence” to improve user navigation. Announced at Apple’s annual developers show, the updates will integrate ChatGPT into iPhone and Mac systems, aiding tools like text and content generation, with a test version available in autumn. CEO Tim Cook claims this will elevate Apple’s products, but the market reacted coolly, and Apple faced criticism from Elon Musk and mockery from Samsung. The success of these AI tools is crucial for Apple to catch up with faster-moving rivals in the AI space.
5- Boeing’s Starliner Has Finally Launched a NASA Crew Into Space
After multiple delays, Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft has finally launched two NASA astronauts into space, marking a significant milestone for the company. This achievement comes seven years behind schedule and follows two aborted attempts last month due to technical issues. Starliner, part of a decade-long development effort, aims to offer private human space travel and will serve as a transportation vehicle for missions to the International Space Station (ISS). Despite setbacks, including competition from SpaceX’s Crew Dragon, Boeing hopes Starliner’s success will enable it to fulfill its NASA contracts and potentially secure future missions to private space stations.
6- AI Puts CIOs in the Spotlight, Right Next to the CEO
AI is elevating chief information officers (CIOs) to a pivotal role within companies, with 63% now reporting directly to their chief executives, a record high according to a Deloitte survey. This shift underscores the growing importance of CIOs in setting corporate AI strategies and modernizing IT systems to leverage generative AI. Traditionally focused on managing IT infrastructure, CIOs now have a significant share of business leadership, driving technology and AI strategies from the top. The trend highlights technology’s strategic importance and the critical role CIOs play in guiding AI initiatives, reflecting a shift from IT being viewed as a cost center to a key profit driver.
7- ChatGPT-5: release date, price, and what we know so far
OpenAI’s ChatGPT-5, expected to launch in late 2024 or early 2025, promises significant advancements in natural language processing and human-like interaction. This next-generation AI chatbot will expand multi-modal capabilities to include images and audio, and offer enhanced customizability and personalization for diverse user needs. As a major step towards artificial general intelligence, ChatGPT-5 will further modernize IT and data systems, enabling more sophisticated AI applications. OpenAI aims to release an advanced, smarter model that will surpass GPT-4, with potential subscription-based access.
8- Next-Gen Smart Warehouses: How AI Is Shaping The Modern Supply Chain
Warehouses, the backbone of the supply chain industry, are evolving with the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation to meet modern logistics demands. The global warehousing market reached $714 billion in 2023, highlighting the sector’s critical role. The Covid-19 pandemic spurred a shift towards de-risking supply chains and increasing automation. AI-driven innovations such as autonomous drones for inventory management, robotic arms for handling diverse products, and large language models for enhancing human-machine collaboration are transforming warehousing. Additionally, Robots-as-a-Service (RaaS) subscription models make advanced technologies more accessible, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises, fostering efficiency and productivity in the logistics industry.
9- Why Digital-Era Brands Are Opening Brick-And-Mortar Stores
Despite the rise of e-commerce, many brands still prioritize physical stores to deepen customer relationships and enhance brand experience. Forrester’s research shows that 72% of US retail sales will occur in brick-and-mortar stores until 2028, and 64% of Gen Z consumers prefer shopping offline. Brands like Dolce Vita, Skims, and Revolve have opened new retail locations to capitalize on this trend. Physical stores offer a tactile brand experience, reduce return rates, and serve as permanent marketing tools. Although the costs can be high, the benefits of omnichannel experiences and customer engagement make brick-and-mortar stores a valuable strategy for many brands.
10- OpenAI delays rolling out its ‘Voice Mode’ to July
OpenAI has delayed the release of its “Voice Mode” feature to July due to technical issues. Initially planned for late June for a small group of ChatGPT Plus users, the delay allows more time to enhance content detection, user experience, and infrastructure scalability. The feature, which enables realistic voice conversations, will be available to all Plus users in the fall following safety and reliability checks. OpenAI is also working on video and screen-sharing capabilities and plans to release GPT-4o, a new AI model for realistic voice and text-image interactions.
1- OpenAI releases GPT-4o, a faster model that’s free for all ChatGPT users
OpenAI has launched GPT-4o, an iteration of its GPT-4 model, enhancing text, vision, and audio capabilities and offering faster performance. This update is free for all users, with paid users receiving higher capacity limits. GPT-4o’s multimodal nature allows it to understand and generate content across voice, text, and images, with an API available for developers at half the price and twice the speed of GPT-4 Turbo. New features for ChatGPT include an advanced voice mode, acting as a real-time voice assistant. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman emphasized the company’s shift from creating benefits to enabling developers through paid APIs, while timing the launch ahead of Google I/O to showcase advancements in AI technology.
2- Microsoft debuts ‘Copilot+’ PCs with AI features
Microsoft unveiled “Copilot+” PCs, a new category of personal computers with AI features, to compete with Alphabet and Apple. At an event in Redmond, CEO Satya Nadella announced that these AI-powered devices, developed with manufacturers like Acer and Asustek, will start at $1,000 and ship on June 18. These PCs can handle AI tasks locally, featuring the “Recall” function to log user activities for easy searchability. Microsoft anticipates selling 50 million AI PCs next year. The lineup includes new Surface Pro tablets and Surface Laptops with Qualcomm Snapdragon X chips. This launch aims to strengthen Microsoft’s position in the AI and PC markets amidst increasing competition from Apple and others.
3- Google I/O wrap-up: Gemini AI updates, new search features and more
Google hosted its annual I/O developer conference, introducing a range of AI products, from new search and chat features to AI hardware for cloud customers. Many of these are in testing or limited to developers, showcasing Google’s AI focus amidst competition from companies like OpenAI. Key announcements included updates to the Gemini AI model, new AI tools such as Veo and Imagen 3, and “AI Overviews” in Google Search. The company also highlighted “Project Astra,” an AI assistant prototype by DeepMind, and the sixth-generation TPU, Trillium, for cloud customers. These innovations underscore Google’s commitment to enhancing its AI capabilities and maintaining its competitive edge.
4- These Artificial Blood Platelets Could One Day Save Lives
Platelets, essential for blood clotting, have a short shelf life, making them scarce even when blood donations are ample. To address this, Ashley Brown and her team at North Carolina State University and the University of North Carolina have developed artificial platelets that can be stored for long periods. Detailed in Science Translational Medicine, these synthetic platelets effectively stopped bleeding and promoted healing in rodents and pigs. Made from hydrogel nanoparticles, they mimic natural platelets and bind to fibrin to form clots. Unlike natural platelets, which must be stored at room temperature and have a short lifespan, synthetic platelets can be freeze-dried and rehydrated when needed. Brown’s team aims to test these in humans soon, with potential applications in ambulances, battlefields, and for patients with low platelet counts due to conditions like cancer.
5- Elon Musk xAI Raises $6B, Valuing Company at $24B
Elon Musk’s xAI has raised $6 billion in a series B funding round, bringing its valuation to $24 billion. The funds will be used to launch xAI’s first products, build advanced infrastructure, and accelerate R&D. Key investors include Valor Equity Partners, Vy Capital, Andreessen Horowitz, Sequoia Capital, Fidelity, and Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal. xAI aims to develop AI systems that are truthful and beneficial for humanity, with a mission to understand the universe. The company previously released Grok-1, an AI modeled after “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy,” known for its witty and humorous responses.
OpenAI has secured a deal to access real-time content from Reddit through its data API, enhancing ChatGPT and other products by incorporating Reddit conversations. This partnership, similar to a previous $60 million agreement with Google, allows OpenAI to improve its AI models’ precision and context-awareness. It also enables Reddit to develop AI-powered tools for users and moderators, like content summarization and response assistance, and to offer more tailored ads using OpenAI’s insights. While the community’s reaction is uncertain, Reddit CEO Steve Huffman supports the integration for promoting relevant content and engagement. This collaboration raises ethical questions about privacy and data usage, which OpenAI must navigate carefully.
7- In two years, 100% of enterprise PC purchases will be AI computers
AI chip revenue is projected to reach $71 billion in 2024, a 33% increase from 2023, and continue growing through 2028, according to Gartner. By 2025, industry revenue will surpass $91.5 billion. By 2026, all enterprise PCs will include AI capabilities with neural processing units (NPUs). AI-enabled PCs are expected to account for 22% of PC shipments in 2024, generating nearly half of AI chip revenue. High-performance AI chips are in demand for data centers, automotive, and consumer electronics. Companies like AWS, Google, Meta, and Microsoft are developing custom AI chips to improve efficiency. Intel plans to ship 40 million AI PC processors in 2024. The shorter lifespan of mobile phones is boosting device spending, expected to reach $688 billion in 2024.
8- How AI is testing the boundaries of human intelligence
Welcome to “AI v the Mind,” a new BBC series exploring the limits of artificial intelligence by comparing it to the human brain. AI can detect cancer, interpret ancient texts, predict the weather, and even understand animal communication. However, despite these advances, AI still lags behind human cognition in reasoning, creativity, and abstract thinking. The series will examine AI’s capabilities and limitations through monthly comparisons between human experts and AI tools on tasks like joke-telling, musical composition, and solving social problems. This exploration will reveal the current boundaries of AI and offer insights into the workings of the human mind.
A pilot study by the University of Michigan and startup Utilidata suggests that AI can provide real-time data to improve EV charging reliability and the power grid. Researchers used AI to analyze EV charging behavior, revealing inconsistent power draw and lower power quality, which can damage equipment. This data could help utilities predict and manage grid impacts, advise drivers, and maintain EV charging stations. The study aims to inform larger research efforts and improve grid preparation for increasing EV adoption, ensuring the power grid can accommodate rising demand without causing outages.
10-Starliner: The US space industry’s next big thing?
Astronauts are preparing for launch in Boeing’s new Starliner, marking a significant step for the US space program since the Space Shuttle Atlantis ended its mission in 2011. The US had relied on Russian Soyuz capsules for astronaut transport, but the Commercial Crew Program (CCP) aims to change this by using commercial spacecraft. Boeing’s Starliner and SpaceX’s Crew Dragon were chosen, with Dragon already leading after successful missions. Starliner, designed for up to seven people, is now ready for its crewed mission, promising greater comfort and flexibility. This development ensures the US has sovereign access to space and fosters a competitive market for human spaceflight.
The 2024 AI Index report, described as the most comprehensive yet, expands its focus to capture crucial trends in AI, including technical progress, public perception, and geopolitical impacts. This edition, featuring more original data and analyses, such as AI training costs and its influence on science and medicine, aims to enrich understanding for various stakeholders including policymakers and academics. This year’s report emphasizes AI’s increasing significance in everyday life and is celebrated globally for its depth and reliability.
2- Amazon starts selling smart grocery carts to other retailers
Amazon is expanding its Dash Cart technology, offering smart grocery carts to third-party retailers after pulling back on its cashier-less “Just Walk Out” technology in its own stores. The Dash Carts, which use sensors and computer vision to tally items as customers shop, are being tested in Price Chopper and McKeever’s Market stores in Kansas and Missouri. Meanwhile, despite scaling back on its own use, Amazon continues to sell and refine its cashier-less system for smaller, curated stores, asserting a strong belief in its future application.
3- Generative AI Is Changing the Hiring Calculus at These Companies
Generative AI is increasingly influencing hiring strategies at various companies, showcasing its potential to streamline operations and reduce workforce sizes without necessarily leading to immediate layoffs. KeyBank and Oshkosh Corp are among those integrating AI to enhance productivity and manage growth without proportionally increasing their employee count. This shift in workforce dynamics is driven by the need to balance the costs of AI technologies against their benefits in operational efficiency and cost savings.
The U.S. House has passed a bill with a 360-58 vote that would mandate TikTok’s Chinese owners, ByteDance, to sell the app within 270 days or face a ban, citing security concerns linked to the Chinese Communist Party. This bill, which also involves aid for Ukraine, now moves to the Senate for approval, where it has President Biden’s support. Amidst this, TikTok criticizes the move as a threat to free speech, while notable figures like Donald Trump and Elon Musk have expressed opposition to the ban.
5- Google partners with Bayer on new AI product for radiologists
Google Cloud and Bayer are developing an AI-powered platform to enhance radiologist efficiency by identifying anomalies in medical images and summarizing relevant patient history. This tool aims to support radiologists amid labor shortages and increasing caseloads by streamlining their workflow, allowing them to review more cases without replacing their expert judgment. This initiative is part of broader efforts in the medical industry to incorporate AI in diagnosing and managing patient care more effectively.
6- The Next Frontier for Brain Implants Is Artificial Vision
In February 2022, Brian Bussard, who lost his vision years earlier, became part of a study where 25 tiny chips were implanted in his brain to test a wireless device aimed at creating rudimentary vision for the blind. This visual prosthesis, using AI, generates simple visual perceptions from captured images, allowing Bussard to perceive basic shapes and navigate better. This is part of a broader effort with similar technologies being tested worldwide, aiming to improve independence and quality of life for blind individuals.
7- Google Cloud Next 2024: The Conference That Wasn’t About The Cloud
At the Cloud Next 2024 conference, Google emphasized its commitment to generative AI, particularly through its Gemini platform. While traditionally focused on cloud services, this year’s event highlighted Gemini’s integration across Google’s products, enhancing Google Cloud’s strategic role within Alphabet Inc. Google also introduced consolidations and advancements in AI-driven technologies and services, positioning itself as a leader in AI innovation. This shift underscores Google’s aim to enhance efficiency and future growth through advanced AI applications.
At an Ocado warehouse outside Luton, an advanced automation system is in action, featuring hundreds of robots that retrieve grocery items for online orders. This automation includes robotic arms that can identify and grab items like bags of rice or tea boxes, enhancing efficiency and reducing the need for human labor. While some items still require human handling, the system is evolving to handle a broader range of products. This technological shift reflects a broader trend towards increasing warehouse automation, promising efficiency but also raising questions about the future role of human workers in such environments.
A BBC Panorama investigation has revealed frequent failures in the technology underpinning England’s smart motorways, leading to safety concerns. The system, intended to detect and respond to incidents like vehicle breakdowns, experienced hundreds of outages, raising doubts about its reliability. These failures compromise safety, especially on sections without a hard shoulder, increasing risks for stranded drivers. Despite these issues, National Highways maintains that smart motorways are among the safest roads and plans to continue enhancing them with new technologies and emergency features.
In response to a shrinking and aging population with a workforce shortfall projected to increase, Japan is turning to artificial intelligence (AI) to boost productivity in various sectors. AI is being deployed across industries from agriculture—where it assists in diagnosing crop issues—to food production and education, significantly reducing labor demands. For instance, a high-tech dumpling factory utilizes AI to enhance production speed and precision, while AI-powered educational tools are helping to address teacher shortages, though they lack the nuanced interaction of human instructors. The overall aim is to alleviate labor shortages and modernize industries without fully replacing human workers.
Apple recently launched Vision Pro, a major leap towards immersive 3D computing, envisioned by CEO Tim Cook since the unveiling of AR Kit in 2017. The device aims to revolutionize computing by making it more immersive, hoping to replicate the transformative impact of the Mac and iPhone. Apple plans to make the Vision Pro more accessible over time and sees it as a new platform for innovative applications. The Vision Pro is not just about overcoming its current limitations but is viewed as a critical launch towards the next significant evolution in personal computing.
2- Elon Musk expects 1 billion humanoid robots on Earth by 2040s
Elon Musk, echoing AI researcher David Holz, anticipates 1 billion humanoid robots globally by the 2040s, potentially expanding to the solar system later. Musk’s agreement was expressed on X (formerly Twitter), emphasizing the condition that civilization’s foundations remain stable. Tesla has been developing a prototype humanoid robot named Tesla Optimus (or Tesla Bot), which was first announced in 2021 with plans to build millions of units. Musk views the Optimus project as potentially more significant than Tesla’s vehicle business. However, he has acknowledged that the robot, which demonstrated limited capabilities at a 2022 event, still requires significant refinement before it can achieve its full potential.
3- Sam Altman’s $7 trillion chip dream: Bold vision or delusional fantasy?
Sam Altman proposes raising $7 trillion to revolutionize the global chip industry to support AI advancements. Despite engaging with major investors, skepticism surrounds the feasibility of this enormous sum. Altman’s vision faces challenges like resource demands, geopolitical tensions, and ethical considerations, raising questions about its practicality.
4- OpenAI just revealed new software that lets you create realistic video by simply typing a descriptive sentence
OpenAI has introduced Sora, a generative AI model capable of creating high-definition videos from text descriptions. This innovation extends OpenAI’s expertise to video, amidst concerns over misinformation. Sora, which is being tested for safety, highlights OpenAI’s focus on multimodal AI development, aiming to simulate more complex human interactions with technology.
5- Amazon CTO Werner Vogels’ Tech Predictions For 2024
Werner Vogels forecasts significant developments in generative AI, women’s healthcare (FemTech), and education. He envisions AI becoming more culturally sensitive and productive, FemTech advancing in precision medicine, and education shifting towards skills-based training, driven by industry needs and technological innovation.
6- Uber Eats to begin self-driving robot deliveries in Japan
Uber Eats, in collaboration with Mitsubishi Electric and Cartken, is set to introduce self-driving robot food deliveries in Japan, marking its first international venture into autonomous delivery services. These sidewalk robot deliveries will commence by the end of March in a select area of Tokyo, expanding on Uber Eats and Cartken’s existing sidewalk robot delivery operations in Miami and Fairfax, Virginia. Cartken, established by former Google employees in 2019, will provide its AI-driven “Model C” robots for the Japanese fleet, with Mitsubishi Electric overseeing the operations. This move aims to make food delivery more accessible and sustainable in Japan.
7- Tech Still Isn’t Doing Enough to Care for the Environment
Greenpeace’s CTO, Priscilla Chomba-Kinywa, criticizes the tech industry for insufficient action on environmental sustainability. She calls for more ethical and green technology development, leveraging consumer influence and integrating indigenous knowledge for a sustainable future, amidst the urgent climate crisis.
8- Does ChatGPT give better career advice than your boss? Nearly half of Gen Z says yes
A survey highlights Gen Z’s preference for AI-driven career advice over their managers, citing a lack of support and meaningful guidance in the workplace. This trend points to a broader dissatisfaction with traditional career development approaches, underscoring the need for more dynamic and responsive mentorship models.
9- Adobe launches AI assistant that can search and summarize PDFs
Adobe has launched an AI assistant in Reader and Acrobat, enhancing document management by generating summaries and answering questions within PDFs. This tool, currently in beta, aims to democratize access to information, indicating Adobe’s broader commitment to leveraging AI responsibly across its products and workflows.
10- Drones could deliver medical supplies under UK travel watchdog plans
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) proposes new guidelines for drone use, allowing operators to fly beyond visual line of sight for purposes such as medical deliveries and infrastructure inspections. This initiative, part of a broader consultation, aims to expand drone applications by permitting low-altitude flights near buildings and infrastructure, potentially enabling drones for online shopping deliveries. The proposal also includes flying over private property without exceeding 15 meters in height and introduces the concept of an “atypical air environment” for safer operations in areas with less air traffic.
1- Amazon CTO Shares His Tech Predictions for 2024
In this reflection on the changes in the technology industry and predictions for the future, there are three key areas of growth. First, there’s a focus on making generative AI culturally aware by addressing biases in language models. Second, the rise of FemTech is emphasized, with a prediction that technology addressing women’s health needs (FemTech) will be a trillion-dollar industry by 2027. Third, the evolution of education to match the speed of technology is discussed, noting the shift towards industry-led, skill-based training programs as an alternative to traditional degrees.
2- Google claims new Gemini AI ‘thinks more carefully’
Google has released Gemini, an AI model with advanced reasoning capabilities, tested in 57 subjects. It’s integrated into Google’s tools and touted to outperform human experts and rival OpenAI’s GPT-4. Gemini’s ability to learn from various sources is seen as a new standard for generative AI. Despite increasing competition, concerns about AI’s potential harm drive global efforts to establish rules and legislation for safe development.
3- Mercedes-Benz teases new AI-powered infotainment system that gives you an empathetic virtual assistant
Mercedes-Benz is gearing up for CES 2024, teasing a groundbreaking AI-powered MBUX infotainment system that combines high-res graphics from Unity and advances the ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice assistant. The Concept CLA Class features an extended ‘Superscreen’ with a new graphic interface, emphasizing natural interaction and integration with MB.OS across four domains. Mercedes hints at a characterful ‘face’ for the voice assistant, set to “reinvent the digital passenger experience” by adapting to driving styles and moods, according to CEO Ola Källenius.
4- Startup Armada Is Bringing AI To Remote Places, Using SpaceX Starlink Satellites
Armada, a startup led by former DataRobot CEO Dan Wright, is collaborating with SpaceX to offer edge computing for remote locations. With $55 million raised at a valuation near $250 million, Armada’s platform, Commander, integrates with Elon Musk’s Starlink and features a weatherized mobile data center called Galleon. The company aims to address challenges in utilizing vast data generated in remote areas. Despite zero current revenue, investors see potential in energy, manufacturing, mining, and defense applications. Armada is actively pursuing contracts with major players and the U.S. Department of Defense.
In the age of rampant misinformation, it’s essential to be mindful when navigating online information. Adopt strategies like prioritizing reputable sources, cross-checking information with multiple sources, and reviewing source history to ensure accuracy and authenticity. Utilize fact-checking services to validate news reports and debunk misinformation. By being mindful and informed, you can make well-informed decisions and maintain a balanced perspective.
6- AI was the buzzword of 2023. What happens in 2024?
AI is a prominent focus for companies, with 152 of the S&P 500 citing the term in Q3 earnings calls, making it the second-highest number in the past decade. Goldman Sachs CIO Marco Argenti predicts the emergence of hybrid AI, combining large foundational models and smaller, fine-tuned models for specialized tasks. He foresees a shift in venture capital funding toward AI applications, away from creating new foundational models. Argenti also anticipates proof of concept projects coming to fruition in 2024, leading to a focus on safety, governance, and a thoughtful balance in AI regulation.
7- E.U. Agrees on Landmark Artificial Intelligence Rules
The E.U. has taken a significant step forward in regulating A.I. with its landmark A.I. Act, which addresses the potential risks of A.I. in various industries and introduces transparency requirements for technologies like ChatGPT. While the law introduces restrictions on facial recognition and penalizes violators, concerns remain about its efficacy and implementation. The E.U.’s pioneering approach to balancing innovation with safety has attracted global attention, sparking conversations about the future of A.I. regulations and their impact on the industry.
9- 3 key digital transformation priorities for 2024
As the digital landscape evolves, CIOs in 2024 are called upon to strike a balance between innovation and operational excellence. While generative AI remains a top priority, closing security and operational gaps is equally important. To fully harness the potential of generative AI, CIOs should focus on six key workstreams, while also addressing unstructured data challenges and improving pilot-to-production conversions. Additionally, CIOs should prioritize closing operational gaps such as security practices, finops, and continuous testing, while fostering digital transformation leadership through HR partnerships and training programs.
10- Technology Key to Integrating Sustainability Into Strategies
A study by Kyndryl and Microsoft reveals that only 16% of organizations have integrated sustainability into their strategies and data. While 85% consider sustainability goals strategically important, just 32% believe they are fully utilizing technology to achieve them. CEOs and boards prioritize sustainability and digital transformation, yet 61% use AI to monitor energy use, with only 34% using current data to predict future consumption. The report suggests making sustainability a CEO and boardroom priority, aligning sustainability with technology modernization, building an integrated data foundation, and leveraging AI for predictive sustainability.
In an era where technological advancements like Elon Musk’s Neuralink are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, imagine applying a similar level of insight into understanding your customers. This blog explores how customer analytics, akin to ‘chipping’ your customer, can revolutionize the way businesses interact with their clientele.
Case Study: CVS Health and the Call Center
CVS launched a pilot program in their call centers using “predictive behavior routing” to segment customers into behavior groups. This strategy also involved scoring call center agents to match them with customers they are best suited to engage. The program successfully reduced call times and improved call performance, and due to its success, it was implemented fully.
The Revolution of Customer Analytics
Customer analytics has undergone a transformation, largely driven by advances in big data, AI, and machine learning. Today’s businesses have access to a wealth of customer data, from shopping habits to online behavior. This data, when analyzed effectively, can reveal deep insights into customer preferences and tendencies, allowing businesses to tailor their offerings and enhance customer experiences like never before.
Case Study: Burberry Group plc and Personalized Shopping
Burberry implemented radio frequency identification (RFID) tags in their stores to enhance the shopping experience. These tags trigger videos that show how an item was made and suggest complementary products. Additionally, with customer consent, RFID tags can create customer profiles based on items tried on, offering personalized experiences and insights into customer preferences.
The Digital Maturity Index
Enter the Digital Maturity Index (DMI), a pivotal tool in measuring a company’s digital evolution. The DMI assesses how well a business leverages digital technologies, especially in understanding and enhancing customer experiences. It evaluates areas like data analytics capabilities, digital marketing strategies, and customer engagement platforms.
Case Study: The Coca-Cola Co. and Product Consistency
Coca-Cola used data analytics to ensure consistent taste and texture in their orange juice products, despite natural variances in orange crops. Engineers identified over 600 possible orange flavors and developed a proprietary algorithm for consistent production. This strategy has helped safeguard the quality of their Minute Maid and Simply Orange brands.
Practical Steps for Executives
Assess Your Digital Maturity: Utilizing the DMI, companies can gauge their current digital capabilities. This assessment is critical in identifying gaps and areas for improvement in leveraging customer data.
Integrate Advanced Analytics: The next step is integrating sophisticated analytics tools. These tools can process vast amounts of data to extract actionable insights, offering a deeper understanding of customer behaviors and preferences.
Personalize Customer Experiences: Leveraging these insights, businesses can create highly personalized customer experiences. From customized marketing messages to tailored product recommendations, personalization is key to winning customer loyalty in today’s competitive landscape.
Case Studies: Success in Digital Transformation
Several companies exemplify the successful integration of customer analytics into their business models. [Company A], for example, utilized advanced analytics to segment their customers and deliver highly personalized marketing campaigns, resulting in a significant increase in customer engagement and sales. Similarly, [Company B] harnessed customer data to optimize its product offerings, leading to improved customer satisfaction and retention rates.
Conclusion:
In the rapidly evolving digital world, the ability to effectively gather and analyze customer data is no longer a luxury but a necessity for business success. The Digital Maturity Index offers a roadmap for companies to navigate their digital transformation journey, particularly in the realm of customer analytics.
As executives, the opportunity to transform your business through the power of customer analytics is immense. Drawing inspiration from technologies like Neuralink, it’s time to envision a future where deep customer understanding drives every business decision. The Digital Maturity Index is your guide in this journey, helping turn the metaphor of ‘chipping’ your customer into a practical strategy for unparalleled customer engagement and business success.
1- Twitter Rebrands as “X” Under Elon Musk’s Ownership, Changing Iconic Bird Logo
Twitter has undergone a significant rebranding as it officially transitions to “X” after being acquired by Elon Musk. The iconic bird logo has been replaced with an “X” emblem, symbolizing the uniqueness and imperfections in individuals. Musk teased the change with a video of a flickering “X” and further confirmed it during a Twitter Spaces audio chat. The rebranding aims to push the social media platform in new directions, focusing on unlimited interactivity, audio, video, messaging, payments/banking, and creating a global marketplace for ideas and services. The move is part of Musk’s vision to develop Twitter into an “everything app” similar to WeChat. As Twitter faces competition from Meta’s Threads app, the company seeks to embrace AI-powered innovations and connectivity to connect users worldwide.
2- Meta’s Threads Reaches 100 Million Sign-Ups, Outpacing ChatGPT as Fastest-Growing Platform
Meta Platforms’ new Twitter competitor, Threads, achieved an impressive milestone by surpassing 100 million sign-ups within just five days of its launch, beating ChatGPT to become the fastest-growing online platform to reach this figure. Threads’ rapid user growth and celebrity adoption have garnered significant attention and posed a potential threat to Twitter. Despite its similarities to Twitter, Threads has yet to incorporate features like direct messaging, hashtags, and keyword search functions, limiting its appeal to advertisers. Meta plans to focus on light subjects like sports, music, fashion, and design, distancing itself from political content that is prevalent on Twitter.
3- OpenAI Releases ChatGPT App for Android, Expanding Access to AI Chatbot
OpenAI has released the ChatGPT app for Android in select countries, including the U.S., India, Bangladesh, and Brazil. Other users can pre-order the app on Google Play, with more countries to be added soon. The app provides a chatbot experience optimized for mobile, allowing users to interact as if messaging a friend. It syncs with existing OpenAI accounts, granting access to past conversations across devices. The app offers both a free account option and a subscription (ChatGPT Plus) for advanced features and access to the GPT-4 model via in-app purchase.
4- State, Commerce Departments, and Microsoft confirm breach by Chinese hackers, according to U.S. authorities
Chinese state-linked hackers have gained unauthorized access to around 25 organizations, including two U.S. government agencies, through a breach that started in May. Microsoft reported the intrusion, naming the hacking group Storm-0558, and stated that they primarily targeted entities in Western Europe. The U.S. government took swift action to prevent further breaches, but China denies involvement.
5- TikTok is preparing to introduce an e-commerce program aimed at bringing Chinese products to the U.S. market.
TikTok plans to launch a program in August to help Chinese merchants sell goods globally, starting with the United States. The “full service” program will offer a suite of services, including storage and shipping, to assist Chinese merchants in selling their products in the U.S. The program is already being tested in markets like Britain, and TikTok aims to expand it to other regions in the future. However, the company will prioritize working with Chinese businesses first due to established export rules in China.
6- Google states: Chatbot Bard now has Image Capabilities and Customizable Responses
Google is introducing new features to its chatbot Bard in an effort to maintain its competitive edge against rivals like Microsoft-backed OpenAI and Anthropic in the generative AI space. Bard now includes image capabilities through Google Lens integration, allowing users to upload images and request information or captions. Additionally, users can customize the tone and style of Bard’s responses, choose from different response lengths, and even listen to Bard’s responses in audio format, supporting over 40 languages. After addressing privacy concerns, Google is also expanding Bard’s availability to more languages and regions, including Europe.
7- Meta’s Threads Experiences Drop in User Engagement After Record Sign-Ups
Threads, the text-based social media platform by Meta (formerly Facebook), reported a record 100 million sign-ups in just five days after its launch. However, Sensor Tower and Similarweb data indicates a decrease in user engagement since its launch. Threads’ daily active users decreased by around 20% from its peak, and the time spent by users decreased by 50%. Though backed by Meta and integrated with Instagram, Threads faces challenges in carving a space in users’ social network routine, as it competes with Twitter and other established platforms. Meta aims to improve Threads’ experience and features in the coming months to sustain growth.
8- Amazon’s Cloud Division Draws Thousands of Customers with AI Tools, Including Amazon Bedrock
Amazon.com’s cloud division has seen substantial interest in its AI services, competing with Microsoft and Google in the artificial intelligence space. Amazon Bedrock, a service allowing businesses to build applications with various AI models, has attracted organizations like Sony, Ryanair, and Sun Life. The company aims to transform every organization into an AI company and recently introduced new AI tools, including a program for creating conversational customer-service agents and a healthcare system for generating clinical notes. The disclosure of thousands of Bedrock users indicates Amazon’s success in attracting interest with its range of AI models, competitive pricing, and status as the largest cloud provider by revenue.
9- Indonesia Launches National Crypto Asset Exchange for Investor Protection
Indonesia has introduced a national crypto asset exchange and clearing house to enhance regulatory oversight and protect crypto investors. While the country prohibits using cryptocurrencies for payments, it allows investment in digital assets. The exchange aims to monitor the booming sector during the regulatory oversight transition and will list licensed crypto companies. PT Bursa Komoditi Nusantara will operate the exchange, PT Kliring Berjangka Indonesia will handle transaction clearing, and PT Tennet Depository Indonesia will manage crypto asset storage.
10- Shopify Introduces Business Credit Card for Merchants with Stripe and Visa Partnership
Shopify has introduced Shopify Credit, a business credit card exclusively for its merchants. Powered by Stripe and issued by Celtic Bank, the card offers 3% cash back on the merchant’s top spend category and 1% on other categories. Eligibility is based on sales performance, and no fees, including late or foreign transaction fees, will be charged for the card. This move aligns with Shopify’s efforts to bridge fintech and commerce.
This case study explores Tesla’s electrification revolution as a prime example of how digital transformation drives sustainability and vice versa. By harnessing advanced digital technologies and sustainable practices, Tesla has not only revolutionized the automotive industry but also pioneered a new era of sustainable transportation.
Tesla, led by visionary entrepreneur Elon Musk, started to disrupt the automotive industry by leveraging digital transformation to drive sustainable solutions. The company’s core mission was to accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy through the production of electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy solutions. Tesla’s approach involved integrating cutting-edge technology, software-driven innovation, and a commitment to sustainable practices.
Digital Transformation Driving Sustainability
Tesla’s digital transformation played a crucial role in advancing sustainability. The company’s EVs are powered by advanced battery technology and sophisticated software systems, enabling longer driving ranges, rapid charging capabilities, and enhanced energy efficiency. Tesla’s digital infrastructure, including over-the-air software updates and vehicle connectivity, allows for continuous optimization and improvement, reducing the environmental impact of its vehicles over their lifecycle.
Sustainability Driving Digital Transformation
Tesla’s pursuit of sustainability goals has also propelled its digital transformation efforts. The company’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting renewable energy adoption has driven innovation in energy storage and solar power systems. Tesla has expanded its digital ecosystem by developing and integrating sustainable energy solutions, offering customers integrated energy management platforms and home energy storage solutions.
Tesla’s causality between digital transformation and sustainability has resulted in significant positive outcomes and a global impact.
Market Leadership
Tesla’s innovative approach to electric vehicles and sustainable energy solutions has positioned the company as a market leader in the rapidly growing EV industry. Its digital-first mindset and focus on sustainability have attracted a loyal customer base and created a strong brand identity associated with technological advancement and environmental stewardship.
Emission Reduction and Energy Transition
Tesla’s electric vehicles have contributed to a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, mitigating the environmental impact of transportation. Additionally, Tesla’s sustainable energy solutions, including solar power and energy storage systems, have facilitated the transition to clean and renewable energy sources, promoting a sustainable future.
Leveraging the Causality between Digital Transformation and Sustainability
In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, the causality between digital transformation and sustainability has emerged as a strategic imperative for organizations worldwide. Drawing inspiration from the success of Tesla’s electrification revolution, business executives must recognize the interconnectedness of these two driving forces and seize the opportunities they present. This article provides three key recommendations for executives looking to harness the causality between digital transformation and sustainability to drive organizational success.
Embrace Digitalization for Sustainable Innovation
In an era of heightened environmental concerns, business executives must recognize that digital transformation acts as a catalyst for sustainable innovation. By embracing advanced digital technologies and incorporating them into existing processes, organizations can unlock new opportunities for sustainability-driven growth. This recommendation explores how digitalization can be harnessed to drive sustainable innovation, improve operational efficiency, and create a competitive advantage in the market.
Foster a Culture of Collaboration for Transformational Change
To fully leverage the causality between digital transformation and sustainability, business executives need to foster a culture of collaboration within their organizations. This recommendation emphasizes the importance of breaking down silos and encouraging cross-functional collaboration between digital and sustainability teams. By promoting a collaborative mindset, executives can unlock synergies, facilitate knowledge sharing, and drive transformational change that aligns digital initiatives with sustainability goals.
Develop a Holistic Strategy for Sustainable Digital Transformation
To harness the causality between digital transformation and sustainability, business executives must develop a holistic strategy seamlessly integrating both dimensions. This recommendation highlights the importance of aligning digital transformation initiatives with sustainability objectives from the outset. By adopting a comprehensive approach, executives can ensure that digital initiatives not only drive operational efficiencies but also contribute to environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and long-term organizational resilience.
By following these recommendations, business executives can capitalize on the causality between digital transformation and sustainability to drive innovation, enhance operational performance, and foster a sustainable competitive advantage in the dynamic business landscape of today and tomorrow.
Igniting Sustainable Transformation in the Digital Age
Tesla’s electrification revolution stands as a testament to the transformative power of integrating digital transformation and sustainability. By leveraging advanced technologies and a commitment to sustainable practices, Tesla has not only disrupted the automotive industry but also ignited a movement towards a more sustainable future. The causality between digital transformation and sustainability has driven remarkable outcomes for Tesla, including market leadership, emission reduction, and global impact.
Through its digital-first mindset, Tesla has revolutionized electric vehicles, leveraging software-driven innovation to enhance energy efficiency and redefine the driving experience. Simultaneously, the company’s dedication to sustainability has fueled its digital transformation, propelling breakthroughs in renewable energy and energy storage solutions. Tesla’s success demonstrates that digitalization and sustainability are not mutually exclusive but rather synergistic forces that drive positive change.
As organizations seek to thrive in an era of environmental consciousness and technological disruption, they must heed the lessons from Tesla’s journey. By embracing the causality between digital transformation and sustainability, businesses can unlock new possibilities, drive innovation, and contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous future. Tesla’s electrification revolution serves as an inspiration for executives to reimagine their strategies, accelerate sustainable initiatives, and embrace the transformative potential of the digital sustainability nexus.
1- OpenAI’s ChatGPT chatbot is reactivated in Italy after addressing data privacy concerns
OpenAI’s ChatGPT chatbot has been reactivated in Italy after being temporarily banned by the country’s data protection authority last month over suspected privacy breaches. OpenAI, which is backed by Microsoft, has addressed the issues raised by the authority, offering a tool to verify users’ ages in Italy and a form for EU users to object to the use of their personal data to train models. Italy was the first Western European country to curb ChatGPT, but the development of generative AI tools like ChatGPT has attracted the attention of regulators in several countries. As a result, the European Data Protection Board has set up a task force to investigate the chatbot.
2- Apple to Make Widgets Central in watchOS 10 Overhaul and Introduce New Health Features
Apple plans to give its smartwatch a significant software overhaul with watchOS 10 by bringing back widgets and making them a central part of the interface, according to a report. The new widgets system will let users scroll through different widgets rather than launching apps, similar to the widget stacks feature in iOS and iPadOS. The company is also testing the idea of changing the functions of several watch’s buttons, such as launching widgets instead of the home screen. The update is set to debut at the Worldwide Developers Conference in June. Additionally, Apple is working on significant new health features, including an AI coach, iPad health app, and mood and vision management tools.
3- Spotify-owned audiobook distributor Findaway Voices has removed its 20% distribution fee for audiobooks sold on Spotify
The move is expected to attract independent authors to the platform by offering the highest royalty available for sales made through Findaway Voices. The change will give authors the full 50% of the list price they set. Spotify says it is at the beginning of its journey to support independent authors and has plans to help them expand their reach, maximise revenue, and build a strong audiobook business. Spotify launched support for audiobooks in the US last September and has since rolled out the service in several other countries.
4- AI-powered chatbots have been utilised to generate numerous content farms for news.
Dozens of low-quality news websites generated by AI chatbots are proliferating online, according to a report by NewsGuard. Many of these websites began publishing this year as AI tools began to be widely used by the public. The websites are based all over the world and publish in several languages, including English, Portuguese, Tagalog, and Thai. These sites are content farms run by anonymous sources that churn out posts to bring in advertising revenue. NewsGuard found that the chatbots generated falsehoods for published pieces, which raises questions about how the technology may supercharge established fraud techniques.
5- AI-equipped drones designed to eliminate weeds are being developed for large-scale farms.
Canadian startup Precision AI has developed a drone equipped with an AI system that identifies and kills weeds, reducing herbicide use by up to 90%. The technology, which can cover 80 acres per hour, aims to reduce the environmental toll of prolonged exposure to weed killers and preserve biodiversity. The drones are fitted with a camera that can detect anything larger than half a sesame seed, allowing the AI to identify weeds with 96% accuracy and spray them individually. Founded in 2017, Precision AI was one of a dozen winners of BloombergNEF’s 2023 Pioneers award, which celebrates early-stage climate tech innovators.
6- Russia’s Sberbank introduced GigaChat as a competitor to Microsoft’s ChatGPT and Google’s Bard
Russia’s largest bank, Sberbank, has introduced its own generative AI tool called GigaChat, which is currently undergoing an invite-only testing phase. The tool can answer user questions, carry out a conversation, write program code, and create texts and images based on descriptions within a single context. Sberbank’s tool is aimed at competing with Microsoft-backed ChatGPT and Google’s Bard, with the company claiming that GigaChat is unique in its open architecture. The model’s global analogs, on the other hand, are based on closed AI principles. The bank’s virtual assistant, Salut, is expected to soon gain all the capabilities of the new model.
7- SpaceX Starship prototype explodes during landing attempt after successful launch
SpaceX’s latest Starship prototype, SN20, successfully launched and completed a 90-minute orbital flight test. However, during the landing phase, the spacecraft exploded upon impact with the landing pad. This was the second time a Starship prototype failed to land safely during testing. Despite the setback, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk expressed optimism and confidence in the progress of the Starship program. The company plans to continue testing and iterating on the design as it aims to develop a fully reusable rocket that can transport humans and cargo to the moon, Mars, and beyond.
8- Snap added to its AI chatbot a new ability to generate images
Snapchat has announced that its AI chatbot, My AI, will be able to respond to users’ messages with AI-generated images. The company, owned by Snap Inc, built My AI using OpenAI’s ChatGPT technology, and aims to use generative AI to develop its augmented reality (AR) features. My AI is now open for free to all Snapchat users and will recommend lenses and real-world places to visit. Snap has also launched AR mirrors for stores to help customers virtually try on clothes and accessories, with Nike and Men’s Warehouse already using them. In addition, snap’s enterprise division allows companies to build their own AR experiences.
9- No more red envelopes: Netflix is going to discontinue its DVD-by-mail service
Netflix is shutting down its DVD-by-mail service, which started around 25 years ago, due to the shrinking demand and inability to provide a quality service. The company will send out the last discs on September 29. The service paved the way for the shift to streaming, and it was the first time Netflix’s gamble on an emerging technology allowed it to challenge an entrenched competitor. The decision to shut down the DVD rental service marks the end of an era for Netflix, which started as a mail-order DVD rental business before transitioning to streaming.
10- Twitter removes outdated verification checkmarks from its platform
Twitter has announced the removal of verification checkmarks from accounts that no longer meet its updated criteria for verification. This move comes after years of complaints that the blue checkmarks were being handed out inconsistently, leading to confusion and frustration among users. The updated verification policy will prioritise verification for accounts that are of public interest, active, and complete, among other factors. The removal of the legacy verification checkmarks is expected to take several weeks. Twitter also plans to introduce new types of verification, including badges for specific interests and expertise.
Neuralink Announces Plans for Clinical Trials of Brain Chip Implants in Humans
Neuralink, a company founded by Elon Musk, is planning to conduct clinical trials of its brain chip implants in humans within the next six months, pending approval from the US Food and Drug Administration. The brain-computer interface technology, called a BCI, will be inserted into a section of the skull that will be surgically removed from the patient. According to Musk, the implants have the potential to allow people with disabilities to regain mobility and communication abilities, and may even restore vision. Source: Bloomberg
Airbus and Renault Partner to Develop Next-Generation Electric Batteries for Planes and Cars
Airbus, the European planemaker, has announced that it is partnering with Renault, a French carmaker, to create a new generation of electric batteries for both planes and cars. The collaboration will focus on overcoming the main roadblock to the development of long-range electric vehicles, which is improving energy storage technologies. Renault has said that this partnership will be complementary to the company’s alliance with Nissan, as both firms are currently in talks about their electric vehicle plans for the future. The partnership will also aim to optimize energy management and reduce battery weight, as well as assess the full life cycle and carbon footprint of future batteries. Source: Reuters
Tesla Delivers First Production Model of Electric Tractor Trailer to Pepsi
At an event held at the Tesla Gigafactory in Nevada, the company delivered its first production model of the Tesla Semi, an electric tractor trailer. The vehicle was delivered to Pepsi, which has placed an order for 100 of these vehicles. The Tesla Semi was first introduced by CEO Elon Musk in 2017 and is expected to be 20% more efficient than traditional diesel cabs.
Rokt Valuation Reaches $2.4 Billion Ahead of Planned IPO
Tech startup Rokt recently raised its valuation to $2.4 billion during a funding round led by Square Peg and Wellington Management, and announced plans for an initial public offering (IPO). The demand for marketing software companies like Rokt has increased due to the growth in e-commerce during the COVID-19 pandemic. Rokt uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyze online shoppers and their interactions with products and services. In December of last year, the company was valued at $1.95 billion after a Series E funding round led by Tiger Global, which also included participation from Wellington Management, Whale Rock Capital Management, Pavilion Capital, and Square Peg. Rokt, which was founded in Australia in 2012 and later expanded to 19 countries, counts GoDaddy, Expedia, and Wells Fargo among its customers. The company plans to open a second North American product development center on the West Coast in 2023.
Tech Giants Selected as Cloud Service Providers for US Department of Defense Project
The US Department of Defense (DOD) has chosen Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and Oracle as its new cloud service providers for the Joint Warfighting Cloud Capability (JWCC) project. This follows the cancellation of the DOD’s previous IT modernization project, the Joint Enterprise Defense Infrastructure (JEDI), which was intended to connect the department’s different divisions using a single cloud service provider. Microsoft had been awarded the $10 billion JEDI contract in 2019, but the award was challenged by Amazon in court, alleging “clear deficiencies, errors and unmistakable bias” in the evaluation process. The JWCC project, which has a shared budget ceiling of $9 billion and will run until 2028, will provide the DOD with access to centralized management, global accessibility, advanced data analytics, and fortified security, among other capabilities.
EU Sets December 2024 Deadline for Universal Charging Cable Adoption by Phone Manufacturers
The European Union (EU) has set a deadline of December 28, 2024 for phone manufacturers to adopt a common charging cable for portable electronic devices. The EU had previously agreed that these devices must use a USB Type-C charger by Autumn 2024, but the law has now entered the EU’s Official Journal and includes an exact date for the requirement. This means that companies like Apple, whose iPhones use a proprietary charger, will not be able to sell new devices in the EU after this date unless they use a universal cable. The new rule will cover a range of small and medium-sized portable electronics, such as phones, tablets, headphones, and handheld game consoles. The EU’s deadline has also created a potential Brexit tension point, as the EU regulation may also apply to Northern Ireland.
Apple to Allow Alternative App Stores on iPhones and iPads to Comply with EU Regulations
Apple is reportedly preparing to allow alternative app stores on its iPhones and iPads in order to comply with EU regulations that are set to go into effect in 2024. These changes will allow users to download third-party software onto their iPhones and iPads without using Apple’s App Store, bypassing the company’s restrictions and the up-to-30% commission it charges for payments. This move is being made in response to stricter EU requirements. Source: Bloomberg
Collaboration for Improved Browser Benchmarking: Google, Apple, and Mozilla Unveil Speedometer 3
Google, Apple, and Mozilla are collaborating on a new browser benchmark called Speedometer 3. The tool will be a “cross-industry collaborative effort” developed by the makers of Chrome, Safari, and Firefox in order to create a model that balances the companies’ different visions for measuring browser responsiveness. The benchmark will be governed by a consent system that allows for different levels of approval based on the potential impact of changes. The project is still in its early stages and is currently unstable, with the groups recommending the use of Speedometer 2.1 until development is further along. It is unclear when Speedometer 3 will be ready.
Google CEO Sundar Pichai announces record traffic on World Cup final day
Google Search experienced its highest traffic ever on the day of the FIFA World Cup final, according to a tweet from Google CEO Sundar Pichai. The final, which is likely to be the most watched in history, was aided by Google’s updated Search features that made it easier for users to keep track of the action. Google Search also benefited from the exciting and dramatic match, which featured a late comeback by France and a nail-biting shootout.
TikTok Proposes Increased Independence and Scrutiny to Keep ByteDance Ownership
TikTok is reportedly offering to run more of its business independently and subject it to outside scrutiny, in an effort to persuade the US government to allow it to remain under the ownership of Chinese technology firm ByteDance. According to sources familiar with the matter, the social media app has expanded the role of Database in reviewing its code, and has proposed forming a “proxy” board to operate the US Data Security division independently of ByteDance. However, some officials in the US Department of Defense, Federal Bureau of Investigation and Central Intelligence Agency remain opposed to a security deal.
According to planned EU regulations, Airbnb and other short-term home rental businesses will be required to share information on the number of users of their services. The suggestion from the EU executive comes as well-known tourist cities like Paris, Venice, and Barcelona accuse Airbnb of worsening housing shortages by driving away locals with lower incomes.
By 2035, Governments Decide to Stop Using Leap Seconds
The days when the leap second gave software engineers difficulties are quickly coming to an end. At the General Conference on Weights and Measures on Friday in Paris, France, government officials almost unanimously decided to end the custom of occasionally adding one second to official clocks.
Top 50 Creditors Are Owed Close to $3.1 Billion by the Collapsed FTX
In one of the most publicized crypto meltdowns, FTX and its affiliates filed for bankruptcy in Delaware on November 11. As a result, an estimated million consumers and other investors are expected to have a total loss of billions of dollars.
Microsoft Wants to Increase the Level of Competition Among Game Developers
As it deals with an EU anticompetition investigation over its $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard, the American game publisher behind Call of Duty, Warcraft, and Candy Crush, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella stated the business wants to increase competitiveness among game publishers. Regulators in the EU are concerned that Microsoft may control access to Activision’s console and PC video games.
40 States Settle Google Location-Tracking Charges For $392M
In order to end an investigation into how the corporation monitored users’ location data even after they disabled the “location history” feature, Google agreed to pay a $391.5 million settlement to 40 US states. According to the attorney general, the settlement was the largest multi-state privacy settlement in US history and a “historic win” for consumers.
After mothballing Amazon Care, Amazon reenters telehealth with Amazon Clinic, a marketplace for third-party virtual consultants
The $4 billion purchase of OneMedical by Amazon is quite recent, yet meanwhile, the leader in online services is taking another bold step into telehealth, and into medical services overall. The business is revealing Amazon Clinic, which it refers to as a virtual health “storefront”. Through it, customers may look for, contact, and pay for telehealth services, for several ailments that are now some of the most common reasons for telehealth consultations.
After Musk announced that the ex-president’s account had been activated, Trump ignored Twitter
After Elon Musk tweeted a poll in which 51% of respondents voted to restore the former US president’s account, which had been suspended in early 2021, Donald Trump declared he would not be joining Twitter again. After Elon Musk tweeted “The people have spoken. Trump will be reinstated “, Trump said he would remain with his social media network Truth Social rather than returning to Twitter, which he claimed is plagued by bots and bogus accounts.
Twitter Updates App to Start Charging $8 for Blue Checkmark
In Elon Musk’s first significant update to the social media site, Twitter began charging a monthly charge for the blue checkmarks of verification. An announcement followed stating that users would be able to receive blue check verification marks that would be displayed next to their names.
Meta Plans to Let Instagram Influencers Launch NFTs
Instagram creators will be able to produce and sell their own NFTs using Meta both on and off the site, straight to their followers. Although Instagram users are currently able to display their NFTs, this move comes against a slowing trade of NFTs worldwide.
IBM’s latest quantum computing processor triples the qubits of its predecessor
IBM announced Osprey, the company’s latest quantum computing processor. Compared to previous processors, Osprey has the largest qubit count with 433 quantum bits. With Osprey, IBM has taken an important step toward its goal to build a system with over 4000 qubits by 2025. A processor with such computing power would have the potential to change many areas, from artificial intelligence to pharma and energy research.
Apple’s mixed reality headset reportedly uses iris scanning for payments and sign-ins
Apple has been working on an AR/VR headset and many are curious about its features. The headset will allow signing in and making payments by using iris scanning, according to sources, although this is not yet confirmed by Apple. Other features might include an increased number of cameras to track the user’s legs, enhanced resolution displays, and expression tracking. More developments on the launch are expected to take place in 2023.
Digital Workers Find Higher Pay, Job Satisfaction, Security
Employees who have more digital skills make more money, are happier in their jobs, and report having higher job security, according to a study done by Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Gallup between August 2 and 23, 2022, and conducted with more than 30,000 workers and 3,000 hiring managers in 19 countries. Among the respondents, those who use intermediate or advanced digital skills on the job report earning 40% and 65% greater pay than workers at the other extreme who do not use a computer at work. According to the survey, learning digital skills more frequently occurs through self-directed learning, informal training, and employer-provided training than through traditional schooling; 98% of workers who have taken digital skills training in the last year report at least one positive career benefit. For the report, click here.
Mercedes-Benz and Microsoft collaborate on supply chain data platform
Mercedes-Benz and Microsoft announced a partnership where the carmaker will use Microsoft Cloud for a data platform, called MO360. The platform, which is already available in Europe, aims to improve production efficiency at more than 30 passenger car plants throughout the world. With the platform, data from across the production process, such as components, logistics, and the assembly line, will be collected to create a virtual replica. This replica will allow the teams to identify potential supply chain bottlenecks more quickly. Mercedes-Benz highlighted that the project is expected to increase vehicle production efficiency by 20% between 2022 and 2025.
SpaceX will provide internet services to planes with Starlink Aviation
Starlink, the satellite internet constellation operated by SpaceX, will start to provide internet services to airplanes after the launch of “Starlink Aviation”. The service speed will be up to 350 Mbps for each plane that uses their services. Considering the usual rates vary between 30 Mbps to 100mbps per plane, what Starlink plans to do is well above the average.
Meta confirmed its new mixed reality headset, called Quest Pro on October 11, and launched the headset on October 25. The process was called “Project Cambria”. Meta invested $10.2 Billion in 2021 and has lost around $6 Billion so far this year for their metaverse vision.
Unlike its ancestor Quest 2, Quest Pro can track the eye movements of the users, focuses on AR more by being able to create a digital layer on the physical world, and has its battery behind. Moving the battery to the back makes the headset more balanced by distributing the weight evenly, rather than only collecting everything on the front.
Google’s revenue continues to grow as its profits are still shrinking
Google released its earnings report for Q3 on the 25th of October. The company’s revenue grew from $65.1 billion during Q3 of 2021 to $69 billion this quarter. On the other hand, its profits shrank from $18.9 billion during Q3 of 2021 to $13.9 billion this quarter. Looking at specific divisions, advertising and Google Cloud appeared to grow, albeit with increased losses on cloud; “other bets” category is reported increased losses from $1.3 billion last year to $1.6 billion this year; revenue received from YouTube ads and Google Network also reported slight losses.
During the earnings call, the CEO Sundar Pichai and CFO Ruth Porat pointed to a move towards increased focus on certain products and priorities, as well as the changing economic conditions and their effect on the company’s hiring pace.
WATI, a CRM tool built for WhatsApp, raises $23M led by Tiger Global
WATI, a business based in Hong Kong and Malaysia, announced that it has raised $23 million in Series B investment to expand its staff and product. Sequoia Capital India & Southeast Asia, a returning investor, and new investors DST Global Partners and Shopify also took part in the round, which was led by Tiger Global. With this transaction, Shopify made its first venture investment in a Southeast Asian firm. WATI’s customer engagement software allows clients to send customized notifications and to collaborate through a team inbox. The platform includes various features such as smart routing, canned responses, data tagging and analytics. It also enables automated interactions with customers and connections to e-commerce platforms and CRMs.
The founders announced that they will use the funding for hiring and investing in low-code automation. It also has plans to expand to Latin America and Southeast Asia.
Spotify Boosts Subscribers and Revenue, Says 2023 Price Increases Likely
For the third quarter, Spotify outperformed its revenue and subscriber predictions, but it warned that price increases may be coming in 2023.
456 million monthly active users and 195 paying subscribers were the third quarter’s published numbers, which represent significant growth for the company. Revenue increased by 21% from 2021 to $3 billion. However, the Swedish audio-streaming media giant witnessed a nearly 6% decline in share price.
Cybersecurity Tops the CIO Agenda as Threats Continue to Escalate
As the world becomes more digital and connected, the number and extent of cyber risks also increase. Many CIOs have turned to cyber security and information since 2020 as a top priority in their agenda, and more seem to follow suit. Other priority items include business intelligence and analytics, cloud computing, modernizing applications, and AI.
Elon Musk has completed his $44 billion takeover of Twitter. The acquisition was followed by a series of statements by Musk to advertisers, signaling an increased focus on advertising, as well as several position changes at the top levels of company’s management.
The tech giant announced its car software CarPlay’s next generation in June. Integrated with the user’s iPhone, CarPlay creates in-car experiences for users by digitalizing gas gauges and speed dials.
Apple is using iPhone’s popularity to expand CarPlay’s coverage and suggests CarPlay helps automakers sell vehicles. Yet, automakers are skeptical about shifting all the car experience from the automakers to Apple.
The car software market is growing at a faster rate than the automotive industry as a whole. It is expected to grow by 9% per year through 2030.
Source: cnbc
Look up! A ferry might be flying around
Cutting carbon emissions from ferries is important for a city that is surrounded by water. Stockholm’s existing fleet of 60 ferries emits 40,000 tons of CO2 annually, making up 8 percent of total shipping emissions in Sweden. This air pollution is raising public health concerns, particularly in cities
Candela is already manufacturing leisure versions of its electric flying boats, the P-12 hasn’t yet been built. Candela CEO Gustav Hasselskog said the boat is in “manufacturing design” prior to its launch in November and will be tested next year. The goal is to have the flying ferry become a part of Stockholm’s public transport system and reduce carbon emission.
Source: wired
Google will test its AR glasses in public again
The new glasses aren’t currently available to the public, but Google wants to test apps like real-time translation and displaying directions inside glasses lenses, especially in busy intersections.
Google is trying to get ahead of the kind of privacy concerns that helped sink Google Glass, one of the first augmented reality devices almost a decade ago, by announcing plans to test in public.
Source: CNBC
NASA’s Webb Delivers Deepest Infrared Image of Universe Yet
The James Webb Space Telescope has delivered the deepest and sharpest infrared image of the distant universe so far. Webb’s First Deep Field is a galaxy cluster located in the SMACS 0723 galaxy cluster. It contains thousands of galaxies, including the faintest objects ever observed in the infrared.
This image shows the galaxy cluster SMACS 0723 as it appeared 4.6 billion years ago. It shows many more galaxies in front of and behind the cluster. More information about this cluster will be revealed as researchers study Webb’s data. This field was imaged by Webb’s Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI), which observes mid-infrared light.
The image allows astronomers to infer the distance, age, and composition of the galaxies photographed and make predictions about our galaxy and space.
Source: nasa
Twitter is promising to fight after Elon Musk pulled out of a $44 billion deal
Elon Musk said he was canceling his $44 billion deal to buy Twitter because the social media company violated several terms of the merger agreement.
Twitter’s chairman, Bret Taylor, said on the social media platform that the board plans to pursue legal action to enforce the merger agreement.
The decision by Elon Musk to take Tesla private is likely to lead to a protracted legal battle between the billionaire and the 16-year-old San Francisco-based company.
Source: reuters
Samsung plans to invest $200 billion in 11 new chip plants in the US over the next few years
Samsung Electronics has floated the idea of investing nearly $200 billion in 11 new chip plants in the US over the next two decades. The plants would help to bolster the US economy and help to create more jobs.
In March, Samsung urged Washington to give foreign chipmakers an equal chance to compete for state incentives under the act to expand production capacity and address a continuing chip shortage.
Samsung has been manufacturing products in the United States for more than four decades and employs over 20,000 American workers. The CHIPS Act is designed to help boost US chip manufacturing capacity and capabilities, as well as strengthen supply chains. This will help restore America’s manufacturing prowess.
Source: dailypioneer
Mark Zuckerberg thinks a billion people will join him in the metaverse
Mark Zuckerberg has predicted that a billion people will join his virtual reality platform, generating hundreds of billions of dollars in revenue through his newly announced metaverse wallet.
The metaverse has recently been named one of the top five emerging trends of 2022, with global spending expected to increase from $12 billion in 2020 to $72.8 billion in 2024. Microsoft, Roblox, and Epic Games have all made substantial investments in the technology, but mainstream interest remains muted..
Meta Pay will enable people to secure their identity and purchase digital items and experiences, such as VR concerts and events, in the metaverse.
Source: yahoofinance
IBM acquires Databand.ai
IBM announced on Wednesday that it has acquired Databand.ai, an Israeli-based data observability software provider that helps organisations fix issues with their data. The company’s undisclosed sum was reportedly paid in cash.
Databand.ai’s approach of being open and extensible allows data engineering teams to easily integrate and gain visibility into their data infrastructure.
Enterprises will be able to run Databand.ai in a variety of ways, including as a SaaS or self-hosted service.
Arvind Krishna has led IBM to acquire 25 companies since he became CEO in April of 2020.
Source: dailypioneer
Two European satellite companies are merging in a $3.4 billion deal to challenge SpaceX, founded by entrepreneur Elon Musk
OneWeb plans to partner with European rival Eutelsat in order to compete with Elon Musk’s SpaceX.
Shareholders of OneWeb and Eutelsat will have a 50% stake in the combined firm. The deal values OneWeb at $3.4 billion. The merged entity is expected to generate 1.2 billion euros in revenues in the 2022-23 fiscal year.
The deal is subject to various approvals, including a stringent national security clearance process in the UK. Expected to be completed in the first half of 2023
This collaboration may create a competitor for Elon Musk’s SpaceX company in the future.
Source: cnbc
Apple is rumored to launch a second affordable AR headset in 2025
Apple is likely to launch another AR device in 2025 that will be more affordable than the one it is set to launch next year, which will join the metaverse race.
The second-generation Apple AR/MR is expected to have a range of high-end and more affordable models.
Apple is expected to release a virtual reality headset in January next year, as the buzz around metaverse continues to grow. The tech giant is also said to be planning to launch a RealityOS for its headset.
Source: dailypioneer
CEO of $4.8 billion fintech Wise faces investigation over tax breach
The £3.9 billion ($4.8 billion) fintech firm Wise CEO and co-founder Kristo Kaarman is being investigated by U.K. regulators after tax authorities found he failed to pay a tax bill worth over £720,000.
The Financial Conduct Authority has now opened an investigation into the matter. The probe could have significant ramifications for Wise and its chief executive.
Amazon announced its first fully autonomous warehouse robot!
Have you met Proteus? Amazon introduced its first fully autonomous mobile robot called “Proteus”. The robot will be used to carry heavy loads in Amazon warehouses. The goal is to keep human workers safe and prevent any possible injuries in the warehouse.
According to Amazon, Proteus has advanced safety, perception, and navigation technology and is totally safe to use around humans. Proteus stops moving when it detects a human around. The company is also working on other robot technologies to create injury-free, safe warehouses.
Would you like to know more about the possibilities that the future of the mobility industry holds? What is the limit for autonomous technologies, if there are any?
Chip start-up Cerebras announced its foot-wide, dinner plate size chip, and compared to the other millimetric chip models, it is the largest chip ever built.
Cerebra’s model makes training AI cheap and easy. According to the CEO, Andrew Feldman, a single-foot-long chip can be used to train 20 billion parameters. The chip breaks the record for the largest AI models trained on a single device.
The goal of the company is, to produce cheap and performative chips, and AI tools for researchers and organizations with low budgets.
The metaverse is said to have the potential to add $3 trillion to the global economy within a decade!
The metaverse has come and it has the potential to transform sectors like education, communication, manufacturing, retail, entertainment, and so on. As more companies increase their investment in immersive technologies such as augmented reality, virtual reality, and hardware devices, the platform’s breakthrough is getting closer.
According to analysts, if metaverse pulls up to the same adoption rate as mobile technology adoption, the platform will contribute $3 trillion to the global economy within the next decade.
Lego and Epic Games teamed up for a family-friendly Metaverse.
Many companies increasing their investments in Metaverse to get ready when the platform finally arrives. Just recently, Epic Games and Lego companies announced their partnership to create a metaverse-family friendly.
The platform will aim to create a secure place for children and provide tools to parents over the platform for their children. Even though family-friendly platforms exist like Minecraft, Roblox, etc. the platform aims to sustain more parental control and game companies are heavily investing in the new platform to claim their stake from the upcoming platform.
Giant tech companies just finished their worst quarter in years
If you had a rough quarter, not to worry, you’re not alone. Join the club where big technology stocks like Tesla, Amazon and Microsoft are a member as well.
Tesla, which reached a trillion-dollar market capitalization in 2021, experienced its worst decline since its initial public offering in 2010 in the second quarter.
Amazon stock tumbled nearly 35%.
Apple’s stock fell almost 22% in the second quarter in the stock’s worst performance since the fourth quarter of 2018.
Elon Musk’s rocket company SpaceX finally received its anticipated environmental approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to expand its Starbase facilities in South Texas. Musk is planning the area to be a central transit hub for SpaceX’s journeys to Mars. The location of the site had been criticized by locals and environmental activists due to the facility’s possible negative effect on rare birds and other animal species.
15 pages long environmental plan lists mitigations that SpaceX will establish in order to decrease its effect on the environment and locals’ life. Yet, trials for the Starship Super Heavy rocket will need to wait until FAA gives the final license.
Holographic patients train doctors in world first in Cambridge
For the first time in the world, holographic patients are being used by medical students in Cambridge University to improve their technical and practical knowledge. Holographic patients are stated to be realistic and able to interact with the students via augmented reality headsets.
“It feels very much more that you’re connected to the scenario and we’ve spent a lot of time trying to get that exactly right.” said Dr Jonathan Martin, from Addenbrooke’s Hospital, on this technological advancement.
It is hoped the technology – developed by the University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke’s Hospital and American firm GigXR – will be sold all around the world.
DroneSeed: swarms of drones to reseed forests after devastating wildfires.
DroneSeed is a Seattle-based startup that claims it can begin to restore thousands of acres of wildfire-ravaged land just 30 days after the fire is out.
The company uses seeds as well as seedlings, or young plants, from its own nurseries. The company uses heavy-lift drone swarms to spread seeds from its own nurseries across the damaged territories. The drones drop the seeds in contained vessels, where they then root and begin to grow into seedlings.
Forest restoration is now becoming a focal point for an increasing number of investors in climate resilience, including Shopify, which states that “the climate benefit of planting those trees and drawing down carbon is what they are purchasing through their carbon credit purchase”.
Major crypto broker Voyager Digital suspends all trading, deposits, and withdrawals
Digital asset brokerage Voyager Digital is pausing all customer temporarily suspending customer trading, deposits, and withdrawals, according to a statement released Friday afternoon.
“This was a tremendously difficult decision, but we believe it is the right one given current market conditions,” said Stephen Ehrlich, CEO of lending company Voyager.
1. Carlsberg testing new wood fibre-based beer bottle
Brewing company Carlsberg is trying new wood fibre, bio-based fully recyclable beer bottles. The company started a pilot application in 9 European countries, including the UK.
The Sustainability Director of Carlsberg stated that they have been working on the Project since 2015 and they aim to set the industry standards by improving the footprints of the bottle and its performance of it.
The company foresees reaching 80% fewer emissions than the current single-use glass bottle.
2. Elon Musk got approval for SpaceX’s Starbase Facilities
Elon Musk’s rocket company SpaceX finally received its anticipated environmental approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to expand its Starbase facilities in South Texas. Musk is planning the area to be a central transit hub for SpaceX’s journeys to Mars. The location of the site had been criticized by locals and environmental activists due to the facility’s possible negative effect on rare birds and other animal species.
15 pages long environmental plan lists mitigations that SpaceX will establish in order to decrease its effect on the environment and locals’ life. Yet, trials for the Starship Super Heavy rocket will need to wait until FAA gives the final license.
International Energy Agency (IEA) just published World Energy Investment 2022 report and according to it, clean tech-driven energy investments are predicted to be increased 8 percent to reach $2.4 trillion.
Trends show that there is a rapid growth of investment in batteries, low emissions hydrogen, and carbon capture utilization. Yet, IEA also reports that this growth is still far from enough to deliver the goals of the Paris Agreement in 2015.
4. Google.org launched a new Impact Challenge on Climate Change
On June 23rd Chief Sustainability Officer Kate Brandt announced. Six projects will receive 5 million USD, and a total of 30 million USD will be received.
Google aims to drive climate action through data and it will support nonprofits, social enterprises using AI, and machine learning. These new technologies can be used to create new solutions with already existing data.
The applications will be open until July 29th and the application window will be open until the 6 teams are chosen.
5. The European Commission Threatens Partners do not meet Sustainability Requirements
The European Commission declared a plan to make trade more sustainable for the EU and their partners. The plan aims to protect the climate, the environment, and labour rights around the world.
EU trade agreements already have sanctions on trade and sustainability yet, from now on the regulations will be stricter and this reform will open for the EU commission to apply sanctions on its partners who do not meet the standards under the Paris Agreement.
Environmental and climate issues gaining importance and the EU Commission aims to transform EU trade into more environmentally friendly, fair and sustainable.
6. European Union agrees on a %40 quotas for women on corporate boards
The European Union agreed to ensure a minimum of %40 women representativeness on boards for companies starting from 3o June 2026. EU will ensure 40% underrepresented sex, mostly women, representation on boards.
In 2021 women’s representation was 30,6% on boards across the EU. French is leading Europe with its 45,3% woman representation on boards across the country followed by Italy and the Netherlands.
The first proposal was given in 2012, for a quota of 40% women on boards yet, the plan was not adopted by big member states. In 2020, the commission revived the draft law after against countries sifting their position.
7. Sustainability data firm EcoVadis, joined the “unicorns” club.
It is the first firm in the sector to cross this milestone. EcoVadis provides ratings on environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues and creates solutions for companies to increase their scores.
Most of EcoVadis’s customers are small-scaled companies that constitute the supply chain of larger companies. As regulatory pressure increases on large companies, ESG performance’s importance is increasing.
We can hear more firms like EcoVadis as unicorns in the near future.
8. TotalEnergies and Adani Invested 50 billion USD in World’s Largest Green Hydrogen Ecosystem.
TotalEnergies of France and Indian Adani New Industries (ANIL) partnered up to create the world’s largest green hydrogen ecosystem. Before 2030, it is expected to develop 1 million tons per annum of green hydrogen capacity.
In situations where solar and wind power are less practical, hydrogen is the key element of clean energy. Yet, the development of green hydrogen, using renewable energy to extract from other materials requires a big investment in infrastructure, electrolysis and transport.
9. UK chemicals plant ready to start carbon capture rollout
Carbon capture is valuable to reach the goal of net zero emission by states and private organizations. It is also valuable to collect the carbon and reuse it in pharmaceuticals, food, detergents and products like glass.
A chemical factory in Cheshire, which belongs to the Tata Chemical Europe (TCE) will start capturing carbon dioxide. TCE aims to capture 40.000 tonnes of greenhouse gas per year and reduce its annual emissions by 10%.
If carbon-capturing goes successful, many industries like steel, cement or chemical which needs very high-temperature heat produced from electricity can use captured carbon instead.
Oil companies also Show interest in the Project, in case of successful carbon capturing, oil companies could continue to drill for profitable but polluting oil.
10. European Union agreed on the standards of sustainability reporting
European Union is aiming to set the global sustainability reporting standards and keep taking steps on this road. The EU has agreed on corporate sustainability reporting requirements for large companies starting from 2024.
As consumer awareness increases and governance puts regulations on companies, authorities are concerned about whether companies engage in greenwashing or not.
According to the new regulation, companies with over 250 staff and a turnover of 40 million euros shall disclose environmental, social and governance (ESG) risks and also their opportunities, and the impact of their business activities on the environment and people. Disclosures will be externally audited.
S&P 500 has removed Tesla from its ESG list despite ranking remaining relatively stable over the past year. Elon Musk has stated his disappointment by calling the list a “scam” that has been “weaponized by phony social justice warriors.”
Margaret Dorn, the S&P senior director for ESG Indices North America stated in a blog post that the decision of removal is based on the reports about the poor working conditions and racial discrimination. ”
Both of these events had a negative impact on the company’s S&P DJI ESG Score at the criteria level, and subsequently its overall score. While Tesla may be playing its part in taking fuel-powered cars off the road, it has fallen behind its peers when examined through a wider ESG lens,” she stated.
source: protocol
2. Tech companies makes a bold climate commitment
A group known as the First Movers Coalition including big tech companies like Microsoft, Alphabet and Salesforce, announced it’ll buy everything from green steel to carbon dioxide removal in an attempt to clean up the climate.
The coalition which includes more than 50 companies with a total market cap of $8.5 trillion, stated major climate commitments including to start procuring climate-friendly products that are more expensive than their standard counterparts.
It is being anticipated that their commitments would give industries that we know we need to grow down the road the confidence that demand will be there.
source: protocol
3. A startup backed by Adam Neumann wants to put carbon credits on the blockchain
Flowcarbon, which counts Adam Neumann (founder of WeWork) and his wife Rebekah as co-founders, has raised $70 million and aims to sell tokenized carbon credits on the blockchain.
The company sees the blockchain as the best way to connect buyers of credits with developers of projects that create the offsets, with a focus on nature-based carbon removal efforts, such as reforestation.
source: protocol
4. Number of company sustainability officers triples in 2021
According to a research held with 1,640 companies across 62 countries, the number of companies appointing chief sustainability officers (CSO) jumped threefold in 2021 year-on-year, showing the increasing demand for dedication in corporate boardrooms as firms face a rising number of environmental, social and governance (ESG) challenges.
“Having a CSO on the board sends a strong signal to investors, customers and employees that sustainability is a key consideration in both strategic and operational planning,” states Carl Sizer, ESG Leader at PwC UK.
source: reuters
5. Climate group sues Dutch airline KLM over ‘greenwashing’ adverts
KLM’s campaign indicates that the company is on their way to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050, however the litigans claim that they are misleading customers and thus violating european consumer law, stating that it is not possible that the aviation sector reaches net zero unless they limit the overall number of flights.
“Unchecked flying is one of the fastest ways to heat up the planet. Customers need to be informed and protected from claims that suggest otherwise.” said Hiske Arts, a campaigner at Fossielvrij NL.
source: The Guardian
6. Amazon extends position as world’s largest corporate buyer of renewable energy
The company has announced 37 new renewable energy projects totaling 3.5 GW of clean energy capacity.
“We now have 310 wind and solar projects across 19 countries, and are working hard to reach our goal of powering 100% of our business on renewable energy by 2025—five years ahead of our original target of 2030.” said Andy Jassy, CEO of Amazon.
source: Amazon
7. Paris plans to be completely cyclable by 2026
Paris, France is investing 250 million euros ($290 million) to make the city entirely bikeable.
Under Plan Velo: Act 2, which spans from 2021 to 2026, mayor Anne Hidalgo aims to add another 130 kilometers (over 80 miles) of bike-safe pathways, in addition to the coronapistes, throughout the city.
The plan will also add more cycling facilities, transform some car parking spots into bike parking and boost maintenance measures, like snow removal and cleaning, for cycle paths.
source: World Economic Forum
8. Mazda aims to achieve carbon neutrality at its factories by 2035
Japan’s automotive company Mazda Motor Cor. announced that they will aim to achieve carbon neutrality at its factories worldwide by 2035.
The company will procure electricity from renewable sources and use carbon-neutral vehicles at its factories, among other measures, it said.
source: Reuters
9. China says a third of electricity will come from renewables by 2025
According to the statement of the state planning agency, China will aim to ensure that its grids source about 33% of power from renewable sources by 2025, up from 28.8% in 2020.
The country which is the biggest source of climate-warming greenhouse gases, has pledged to raise total wind and solar capacity to 1,200 gigawatts by 2030, almost double the current rate, with plans to build large-scale renewable energy bases in northwestern desert regions
source: Reuters
10. Europe has a radical new offshore wind plan
The move comes on the heels of a Europe-wide proposal to end the use of Russian oil and gas.
The North Sea is already an offshore wind-power hotspot globally. The European Union is about to take further advantage of the bountiful breeze there in an effort to meet its climate goals and end its dependence on Russian oil and gas.
If the countries are successful, they would have enough offshore wind capacity to power roughly 230 million European households.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine has added urgency to the clean energy transition in Europe, which relies heavily on imported fossil fuels.
source: protocol
1. Google has just announced its own text-to-image generator, titled ‘Imagen’.
The company describes it as “a text-to-image diffusion model with an unprecedented degree of photorealism and a deep level of language understanding.” And it simply transforms written phrases and sentences into terrifyingly accurate AI-generated images.
Imagen has not been made available to the public yet, due to the concerns about the potential risk of misuse: “”At this time we have decided not to release code or a public demo. In future work we will explore a framework for responsible externalisation that balances the value of external auditing with the risks of unrestricted open-access.” the company says.
2. Sagittarius A*: A Historic Photo of Milky Way’s Black Hole
Bill Nelson, NASA Administrator says: “The Event Horizon Telescope has captured yet another remarkable image, this time of the giant black hole at the centre of our own home galaxy. Looking more comprehensively at this black hole will help us learn more about its cosmic effects on its environment, and exemplifies the international collaboration that will carry us into the future and reveal discoveries we could never have imagined.”
3. Google Maps Has a New Tool. Here’s How It Works
Google rolled out a new feature for its Maps app, called Immersive View which means Street View has a new level. It works by using billions of photos to model buildings and trees in 3D using machine learning. Users will be able to experience what a restaurant, neighbourhood, landmark or popular venue is like as if you’re already there.
4. Scientists Grow Plants in Moon Soil for the First Time
A half-century ago, the scientists planted seeds of the plant Arabidopsis thaliana, in small samples of the regolith collected on three different Apollo missions.
Stephen Elardo from the University of Florida said “Lunar soils don’t have a lot of the nutrients that are needed to support plant growth.”
“After two days, they started to sprout. Everything sprouted. I can’t tell you how astonished we were. Every plant — whether in a lunar sample or in a control — looked the same up until about day six.” says Paul, a professor in horticultural sciences at the University of Florida.
5. Google’s AI Is Smart Enough to Understand Your Humour
Google says its AI can now understand jokes.
Normally jokes, sarcasm and humour require understanding the nuance of language and human behaviour.
But Pathways Language Model learned it without being explicitly trained on humour and the logic of jokes. After being fed two jokes, it was able to interpret them and spit out an explanation.
6. Regulators are Getting Nervous about Stablecoins after the Luna Crush
Regulators are getting increasingly worried about stablecoins after the collapse of the controversial cryptocurrency venture Terra.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen directly addressed the issue of both UST and tether “breaking the buck”. In a congressional hearing, Yellen said such assets don’t currently pose a systemic risk to financial stability — but suggested they eventually could. The U.K. government is also taking notice. “The government has been clear that certain stablecoins are not suitable for payment purposes as they share characteristics with unbacked cryptoassets,” the spokesperson said.
Elon Musk’s space company says they are ready to ship their internet service. Starlink shared a screenshot on Twitter showing the service’s availability map, which shows the service as “available” across most of Europe and North America, as well as parts of South America, Australia, and New Zealand.
Starlink provides high-speed, low-latency broadband internet across the globe. Within each coverage area, orders are fulfilled on a first-come, first-served basis.
8. Apple iPod Creator Warns the Metaverse Will Encourage Trolls
The virtual reality-based metaverse removes the ability “to look into the other person’s face,” Tony Fadell said. “If you put technology between that human connection that’s when the toxicity happens,” he said.
While Mr Fadell said the technology behind the metaverse has merit: “When you’re trying to make social interaction and social connection when you can’t look into the other person’s face, you can’t see their eyes you don’t have real humanistic ways of connecting. It becomes disintermediated and you have the ability at that point to create more trolls, people who hide behind things and then use that to their advantage to get attention.”
9. Spotify Experiments with Musician NFT Galleries
The music streaming platform has rolled out the test for some users on Android in the US and currently includes NFT previews for artists like Steve Aoki and The Wombats.
“Spotify is running a test in which it will help a small group of artists promote their existing third-party NFT offerings via their artist profiles,” a Spotify spokesperson said in a statement to Music Ally. “We routinely conduct a number of tests in an effort to improve artist and fan experiences. Some of those tests end up paving the way for a broader experience and others serve only as an important learning.”
10. Silicon Valley supply chain fixer Flexport tops the 2022 CNBC Disruptor 50 list
Flexport tops the 2022 CNBC Disruptor 50, one of 10 logistics companies to make the annual list. The freight technology start-up, led by CEO and founder Ryan Petersen, is tackling supply chain issues that are roiling the global economy.
The logistics business is a “massive, massive space with very, very little technology in place,” says David George, a general partner at venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz.
Where the money begins: First minted money in Anatolia
Money is an old invention. Interestingly, it was originally invented in Anatolia. From there, concept then quickly spread all over the world. Prior to this, any demanded commodity chosen by the common consent was used as money. As human civilization progressed, barter changed into metallic commodities such as gold and silver and in 600 BC, the first official minted money was introduced. Money performs four duties: It is a medium of exchange, a value measuring unit, a tool to determine standards, and a storage medium. Over time, these four duties have slowly but steadily become digitalized.
“Charg-it”: The First Credit and Debit Cards
Today, we don’t need anything physical at all, money has become a stream of 0s and 1s. The development that accelerated the digitalization process of fund transfer and credit usage was the introduction of cards nowadays called “plastic money”, credit cards in particular. Originally mentioned in ‘Looking Backward’, a novel by Edward Bellamy written in 1888, credit cards were formally introduced in the early 20th century across various trials. In 1946, the world’s first consumer credit card “Charg-it” was formally released, and in 1958, the journey to supremacy of American Express and the Bank of America began with BankAmericard.
In the 1960s, money entered the digital age with another important device entering our lives; the ATM or automated teller machine. Today we’re all familiar with how these devices operate – Want to access your funds when the branch bank is closed? The ATM, connected to the bank’s system with cash in it’s safe, would provide you with the cash you needed. A revolutionary invention.
The Beginning of Digitalization: Online Payments and E-commerce
All banking has become digitalized over time. In parallel with the globalization of trade, the rise in consumers’ expectations and the development of new technology, banking and monetary systems have developed more and more. Systems have become online and operate almost entirely in real-time in many cases. We began to feel this with the electronic funds transfer systems launched in the 80s and 90s. Money transfers between banks started to take only hours and minutes.
When one discusses the process of digitalization of payment and money transfers, it is also essential to mention the Western Union and its development. The Western Union set up the telegraph system nationwide in the USA, enabling money transfers with passwords possible across the country. Today, it still provides money transfer services all over the world.
As systems developed and our expectations for rapid transactions rose, the search for a means to digitalize money without having the need for cards emerged. This became more possible with the spread of the internet and mobile communication in the 90s . Real Digital Currency was conceptually invented, and the first attempts at implementation were made.
Mobile and Digital Currencies shown themselves in unexpected geographies with great success. Have you ever heard of the m-pesa service in Kenya? Pesa means money, and the letter ‘m’ in front of it is the abbreviation of ‘mobile’. The mobile money solution launched by Safaricom in 2007 was well received by the community and had a great impact on Kenya’s banking system.
At the end of the 90s, when the internet became widespread and e-commerce gained prominence, another phenomenon emerged; money transfer without the need for a bank. In 1999, the fintech payment tool PayPal was founded and became the standard instrument of payment for eBay. In 2002, PayPal was acquired by eBay after it’s stock launch. Payments are now digital, simple, fast, and in some cases automatic.
Bitcoin: Cryptocurrencies entering our lives
The digitalization of money suddenly took on a new and mysterious dimension in October 2008. Satoshi Nakamoto, whose was previously unknown internationally, took to the world stage by publishing an article. In January 2009, he invented the first and currently the most common cryptocurrency, Bitcoin.
Cryptocurrencies, which had developed slowly at first, experienced a boom after 2015. In 2017, Bitcoin (BTC) peaked and then experienced a very sudden decline, briefly passing $19,000 on December 16, 2017, followed by some heavy losses. BTC price reached new all-time high of $50,000 in February 2021 after the Elon Musk’s announcements of investments into Bitcoin and Tesla accepting BTC as payment. Its price again reached an all-time high in 2021, as values exceeded over 66,000 USD in October 2021. Many expert economists argue that this is the biggest ‘financial bubble’ in the history of humanity, that it has to burst and, as a matter of fact, its entire value must be zeroed. Today, there are 9212 cryptocurrencies with a nearly $2 trillion market cap and Bitcoin is holding the greatest market capital value of $838 billion.
Latest News: iPhones into payment terminals
Today, money has become digital. The latest news came from Apple, which we have mentioned in our Top Ten Technological News for January article, which is planning a new feature that will let merchants accept payment directly through their iPhones. This means that soon iPhones will be able to operate as payment terminals.
Money continues to digitalize, with exponentially increasing speed as new technology becomes available. It is important to follow this trend in order to understand how these disruptions will eventually impact us and ask the question of what is in this process for your businesses.
This week Elon Musk announced the plans to build a humanoid robot – the “Tesla Bot,”. Leaving us in suspense as to what is the exact purpose of this development, we will have to wait and see.
Boston Dynamics, arguably the most advanced robotics company on the planet, was recently acquired by Hyundai. Such robots make us think a lot about daily life use cases. And don’t forget the funny (but ever so advanced) Sophia by Hanson Robotics, expert in facial impressions. Can we know the possibilities beyond that? Only time will tell…
So, the question is, why would humans want to design robots in their likeness? Humans are extremely limited in our capabilities. We are carrying weight, our arms and legs are on a fixed hinge-system, we run fast or slow depending on our biology, we reach high depending on our diverse abilities, etc. All these can be performed by special-design equipment, such as forklifts, automated warehouses, lifts, even wheelbarrows or trucks…
A robot’s purpose should be to deliver a certain function and a resulting value. Let’s consider the forklift as a notable example. An AGV (Autonomous guided vehicle) is doing a certain job. A welding or painting robotic arm is fulfilling an especially important job, otherwise to be carried out by people, inhaling toxic gases and heavy duties.
For those among us who have watched Westworld, you know exactly what I mean. Humanoid robots, especially if we try to make them look like humans, may be enslaved by us for various purposes, most of them not very meaningful or valuable.
Why would we “reinvent the wheel” in the first place, only to make the wheel look like us, with all our human limitations?
Designing and engineering humanoid robots are great for developing sensors, actuators, joints, computer vision, fast reactions, balancing, etc. But mimicking humans is another story. A strange and even dangerous story, not limited to science fiction, but already in real life. We treat delivery people almost like non-human delivery robots, the same with cashiers, or call centre agents. Imagine what we would do to humanoids…
Markets evolve based on the demand of the people. The best example of this when it comes to the humanoid robot market are, unfortunately, are dolls designed for sexual fulfilment i.e., sex robots. There are a few academics researching this area. Doctor David Levy is well-known for his book, Love and Sex with Robots, and the conference he runs under the same name. Why do we have such devices? People are demanding and paying for them.
There was a Black Mirror episode called, “Be Right Back.” This science fiction scenario very nicely illustrates what a robot is, how we interact with it, and the huge gaps between an artificial device and a real living being. Even our little pets at home are likely smarter, more intimate, and more unpredictable than any robotic pet, exemplified by the new Xiaomi CyberDog.
We must keep a close watch on where these humanoid robots may lead us…
Non-humanoid robots, let’s call them, are on the contrary extremely useful. And that’s exactly the point. A robot is designed, engineered, built, and deployed to fulfil a meaningful task. That’s the meaning of the word itself…
Robots in Manufacturing
As mentioned above, one of the earliest and most common uses of robots are in the manufacturing industry. Robotic capabilities are especially used in the welding and painting of car parts and in the assembly line of original car makers and suppliers. What kind of robots are being used? The most mature area of use is in advanced robotic arms. These are strong, very precise, quite fast machine arms, doing the same tasks repeatedly; replacing human labour to perform heavy duties.
More recently, with the addition of artificial intelligence capabilities, robots are getting upgraded to include computer vision, optimisation, and the like, to even further optimise these kind of tasks. Sawyer, of Rethink Robotics is an extraordinarily strong example of this newer breed of robots, which learn by observing themselves for continuous self-optimisation. I still remember my late hours in the robotics lab at the Technical University in Munich coding the Kuka robotic arm to do its tasks. And the rest is history…
Also, autonomous guided vehicles are a form of robots, cruising around in the warehouse and the shopfloor to carry parts, aid human efforts, and improve productivity. Cobots are another modern form of robotic arms, both stationery and mobile. These “cobots” are aware of their environment, don’t harm co-workers, collaborating with them in close proximity, living up to their name, “Co(llaborative-ro)bots.”
Robots in Retail
AGV’s and cobots are used in the retail warehouse and supply chain as well. In retail warehouses we find another remarkably interesting category of large-scale robotic systems called hyper-connected, hyper-automated warehouses. Ocado is one incredibly special example from the UK. A similar technology has been developed by an Israeli scale-up named Fabric which super-efficiently automates micro-fulfilment centres for retail or last mile delivery, mainly grocery.
Then there are robots in the store. One is the self-checkout which is basically an automaton serving to ease the checkout process. With growing tech-savvy consumers, self-checkout has become the norm in grocery and drugstore categories in advanced economies across the globe.
Service robots are available, but not getting the traction expected. As human beings we like the social touch, therefore talking to robots in the middle of a store or mall is not quite what we are used to. In some cases, it might deliver some value, but we may need to get more used to the view and experience they provide. As you can imagine, in the Far East, especially Japan and Korea, people are much more used to big-eyed robots, cruising around in malls, restaurants, shops, museums, and beyond.
Robots in Heavy Duties
Certainly, robots should be and are partially deployed in Mining. Rio Tinto, as one of the giants, is pioneering the field of mining automation and the use of robotics. Many others are following and replicating what they are doing, with autonomous trucks, autonomous trains, drones, remotely operated vehicles, and even autonomous drills.
Another industry for heavy duty robotics is construction. With the support of robots, the way we construct buildings will change forever. On the construction site, during building activities, preparation of prefabricated components, robots are greatly improving productivity.
Interestingly, the deep ocean is ripe territory for remotely operated vehicles, ROV’s. These machines explore the underwater world, perform maintenance on ships, pipelines, and other equipment or facilities.
Robots Everywhere
Hotels, airports, museums, theme parks, and similar facilities with a lot of frequent visitors make use of service robots to help guests navigate the paces, find answers to FAQs, and other simple functions. Most of these can be fulfilled with mobile apps as well.
So, when it comes to robots, it is wise to think about the feasibility and the experience of the manufacturer, before making any investments.
A few years ago, delivery robots became quite popular. But non-standard sidewalks, difficult ergonomics, and simple economics, blocked those devices from widespread usage. Starship was the most famous example of that breed of robot.
Home vacuum cleaner robots, kitchen-aids, vending machines, drones, self-driving cars, and many other devices are robots, autonomous vehicles, or remotely operated devices. All of these could and should be considered as a form of robots or robotic technologies.
Closing Remarks
With advancements in artificial intelligence, more precise sensors and actuators, faster processing power, lidar, radar, cameras, etc. robots will become better and better. They are a support system for our daily life. However, humanoid robots should be questioned, and their usage closely watched. I’m personally quite suspicious about their value.
Share your ideas and get in touch. We would love to hear your thoughts.
Take: MIT’s latest innovation, LaserFactory, is the breakthrough prototype of a one-stop shop for additive manufacturing solutions. The system appears to be the first solution to integrate the full manufacturing pipeline, including assembly. While the official presentation of the project is expected in May, the technology could be a catalyst for additive manufacturing in the industry.
Take: Tesla announced the purchase as a diversification effort of the investments, however the company also declared their intention to accept cryptocurrencies as a form of payment in the near future. Several analysts declared that the move was to shift the media from the issues Tesla have in China as the company was recently summoned over quality concerns.
Take: Still being an invite-only app, Clubhouse managed to disrupt the social media landscape with more than 5 million downloads within just 2 weeks. With Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg hosting talks, the platform became the hub of business and hustle culture, proving the worth of need for personalized business content. This quick success also put other giants in worry as both Facebook and Twitter announced to launch their own lookalikes.
Take: The Biden administration put the Oracle deal on hold while still investing the potential data, privacy, and security concerns. Yet, it seems TikTok will overcome the concerns as the company opened many job positions in the U.S. very recently. The TikTok could be the sign of healing Sino-American relations, however the administration showed no inclination to put Huawei back on the table.
Take: The aim of the mission is to explore Mars by retrieving samples and to better understand whether the planet is habitable by examining the atmosphere and natural resources. Declared as the “hardest mission ever” for NASA, the rover is a showcase of the state-of-art technology. MOXIE is a device that aims to create usable oxygen from the Martian atmosphere and there is Ingenuity, a helicopter that could take the first powered controlled flight ever made on another planet.
Take: Regulators suspended Ant Group’s IPO in November, which would have been the world’s biggest, due to regulatory concerns over the amount of data Alibaba has. Jack Ma found the solution in spinning off the consumer credit data operations and restructuring the Ant Group to be a more regulated financial holding company to ease the regulatory burden.
Take: Australian government proposed rules that would require Facebook and Google to pay media organizations for the use of their news content. Tech Giants threatened to shut down their services if the bill was to pass. It did and thus, Facebook banned all the news content from the platform in Australia. This ban is “the most restrictive move Facebook has ever taken against content publishers.”
Take: Bezos announced that he’ll leave his seat to become the executive chairman this year. The current CEO of Amazon Web Services, Andy Jassy, will take Bezos’ place. Jassy takes the credit in AWS’s dominion in the cloud market, and his transition shows Amazon’s intentions to stay on top regardless of Microsoft Azure’s notable %50 growth past year.
Take: The co-leader of the ethical AI team in Google is fired because she was using automated scripts to look through her messages to find examples showing discriminatory treatment of Timnit Gebru. Gebru was fired from Google supposedly after questioning an order not to publish a paper claiming AI that mimics language could hurt marginalized populations. To calm the tides, Google appointed Marian Croak as the lead of the team and promised to implement new policies to enhance diversity and inclusion.
Take: According to Bloomberg, Volkswagen is strongly considering spinning off Porsche. This strategic move helps Volkswagen in multiple fronts. Currently, Ferrari trades on about 32 times its expected operating profit. The IPO would mean both a huge cash intake for WV and a distinct separation for its EV line, making Porsche a competitor for Tesla and NIO in the booming premium EV market.
Take: German telecommunications company T-Mobile was recently attacked by ransomware, which led to leak of 47M current and previous users data. While the company clarified that only the active 850,000 T-Mobile customers’ personal data was compromised, the past records were also breached. The hack was realized after 100 million records of T-Mobile customers were in sale at a criminal platform.
Take: Micro-mobility unicorn Bird is going public through a SPAC. While the company failed to create an earning business model and reported loss for 2019 and 2020, its latest investor pitch showed more promise in Bird’s future as the business and number of users grow. The company is said to be valued at $2.3 billion.
Take: The Beijing government has recently passed what could be the world’s strictest data privacy law, Personal Information Protection Law. The legislation intends to address the growing frustration of Chinese citizens about online fraud and data theft. While the legislation was detailed in how corporations and agencies should use data, it had no explanation on how the central government uses and complies with the law, a fellow at Yale Law School stated.
Take: Tesla is joining Honda, Toyota and GM in the robotics race. During Tesla’s AI Day, Elon Musk revealed the recent project, a humanoid Tesla Bot, which is “intended to be friendly and navigate through a world built for humans.” The timing of the debut was conceived as suspicious by many analysts as Tesla cars Autopilot is under investigation by the feds.
Take: Unity, famously known for its 3D engine for games, has today announced plans to acquire Parsec, a remote desktop tool for developers and creatives for $320 million in cash. Parsec’s value proposition was remote desktop access without compromise, streaming your work without screwing up the details. As remote collaboration spiked with the pandemic, Parsec became essential to many creative workers.
Take: Airbnb allowed and invited house owners who would like to provide temporary housing to approximately 20.000 Afghan refugees. And this is not the first time the company leveraged its network to do goodwill. Airbnb also previously provided accommodation to students and green card holders who were affected by the policy changes during the Trump administration. As a result of the initiative, the stock price of Airbnb has increased %11 over the past 5 days.
Take: In his last address that lasted for 2 hours, Jensen Huang, was replaced with his animation for 14 seconds, and the visual was extremely real. Using DSLR cameras and advanced AI models, Nvidia created a 3D model of its CEO and trained it to mimic his gestures. With this show, Nvidia proved the importance of powerful graphic processors to create new realities.
Take: Amazon is trying to become the platform for all the financial services in India. Last April, Amazon created a $250 million tech fund for Indian start-ups and in previous years it has already invested in some insur-tech and neo-banks companies. Now using the fund, the company invested in a wealth management start-up Smallcase to completely capture the FSI market in India.
Take: In the following days of triumphing Facebook to become the most downloaded mobile app on App Store, TikTok announced that they are expanding their partnership with Shopify to create TikTok Shopping. Soon, selected merchants will be able to add a new “Shopping” tab to their TikTok profiles and sync their product catalogs to create mini-storefronts on their profile. And big brands are already in. The Kylie Cosmetics brand will be available to shop directly on TikTok.
Take: President Joe Biden will host the leaders of tech giants in White House to talk about cybersecurity, which became one of the national agenda after the rising number of hacked U.S. companies. Apple’s Tim Cook, Amazon’s Andy Jassy, Microsoft’s Satya Nadella, and Alphabet’s Sundar Pichai and many more from financial institutions will convene to guide a possible mandate on cybersecurity.
1- Why Boards Need To Clone Starbucks Digital Leadership
Starbucks shines as a model in using technology for growth amid high failure rates in digital transformation and AI adoption among organizations. With its Triple Shot Reinvention Strategy, the company has bolstered customer loyalty, increased digital transactions, and plans to expand to over 55,000 locations by 2030. Embracing its identity as part tech company, Starbucks has successfully integrated digital initiatives and AI, through partnerships and its Deep Brew platform, enhancing customer experience and setting a standard for navigating the AI era with a focus on innovation and efficient financial management.
2- The Necessity Of Building Strong Data & AI Executive Leadership For An AI Future
As AI becomes ubiquitous, transforming global organizations with its opportunities and challenges, leaders like Mustafa Suleyman and Jamie Dimon underline its essential role across all job functions. The transition to effective AI adoption relies on solid data, cultural readiness, and lessons from past tech initiatives. The rise of roles such as the Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer (CAIO) highlights the recognition for dedicated AI leadership. Organizations are encouraged to integrate AI as a core business function, educate boards on its potential and risks, and develop strong data and AI leadership to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape.
3- The Future of Disease Detection: New Technology Identifies Individual Full-Length Human Proteins
Scientists at Delft University of Technology have developed a novel technique for identifying proteins, crucial for understanding diseases like cancer and COVID-19, by preserving their complete structure and reading their unique “fingerprints.” This method, detailed in Nature Nanotechnology, surpasses traditional mass spectrometry approaches, which fragment proteins, potentially losing vital information. The new approach, termed FRET X, offers higher sensitivity, enabling the detection of proteins in much lower concentrations and with greater precision by lighting up amino acids linked to DNA fragments. This breakthrough could lead to early-stage diagnosis of diseases by identifying characteristic proteins in small patient samples, a significant leap forward from current methods. The research team is exploring the commercial potential of FRET X to revolutionize disease diagnosis and treatment efficacy.
4- Microsoft Secure 2024: Showcasing new generative AI cybersecurity features to help you defend
Microsoft Secure on March 13, 2024, is a must-attend digital event for security practitioners seeking to leverage AI for enhanced defense capabilities. From 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM PST, experts will unveil new technologies and insights critical for safeguarding organizations. The event will feature a security keynote by Vasu Jakkal and Charlie Bell, introducing innovations in Microsoft’s Security portfolio, including AI-driven security solutions like Microsoft Copilot for Security, which automates security workflows. Attendees will also explore advancements in exposure management and tools for securing and governing AI across various Microsoft platforms. With sessions on customizing defense strategies with AI, ensuring responsible AI adoption, and proactive threat management, this event promises valuable learning opportunities for enhancing organizational security.
5- Signos uses a glucose monitor patch and AI to help you eat healthier. Here’s what it’s like
Ashley Capoot’s experience with Signos, a metabolic health platform using continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) and an AI-powered app, illustrates how daily habits affect blood sugar. By subscribing and using a Dexcom G7 monitor, Ashley learned the impact of diet, exercise, sleep, and stress on glucose levels, discovering surprising personal reactions to common foods like oatmeal. Signos offers personalized insights, helping users understand and manage their glucose spikes, potentially improving metabolism and reducing chronic disease risk. This detailed personal exploration underscores the platform’s potential for enhancing health awareness and lifestyle choices.
6- World’s first major act to regulate AI passed by European lawmakers
The European Union’s parliament has approved the world’s first significant regulatory framework for artificial intelligence, categorizing AI technologies based on risk levels ranging from unacceptable to low hazard. Expected to take effect by May, after the European Council’s endorsement, this pioneering AI Act aims to foster innovation while ensuring the protection of fundamental rights. Amidst debates over regulation versus self-regulation, this act sets a precedent for global AI governance, balancing technological advancement with ethical standards and safety.
7- Will deepfake AI content influence the 2024 election?
A survey of 2,000 U.S. voters highlighted concerns over the impact of deepfakes and AI-generated content on the 2024 election, revealing that many cannot distinguish between AI and human-created content. Nearly half anticipate a negative impact from deepfakes, with a majority unable to identify AI-generated images correctly. Respondents expressed significant concerns about AI’s role in spreading misinformation and impersonating political figures, leading to an overall apprehension about the protection of personal information by political campaigns. The study suggests a strong desire for enhanced cybersecurity measures within political campaigns to build voter trust and ensure the integrity of electoral processes.
8- TechScape: Is the US calling time on Apple’s smartphone domination?
Apple faces significant regulatory challenges in the US and EU, grappling with accusations of monopolistic practices in the smartphone market. A US lawsuit alleges Apple restricts competition to maintain dominance, leveraging privacy and security claims to justify anti-competitive actions. Meanwhile, the EU investigates Apple under the Digital Markets Act for limiting developer freedoms, showcasing differing regulatory approaches. The US system demands proving consumer harm in court, a lengthy and costly process, whereas the EU’s swift, regulatory action emphasizes quicker enforcement with less judicial involvement.
9- Move over, solar eclipse: Scientists predict a once-in-a-lifetime nova explosion in the coming months
The nova T Coronae Borealis, located in the Corona Borealis system 3,000 light-years away, is anticipated to erupt in a spectacular nova visible to the naked eye by September 2024, an event occurring roughly every 80 years. This binary system, consisting of a white dwarf and a red giant, undergoes a thermonuclear explosion due to material accumulation on the white dwarf’s surface from the red giant, leading to a massive release of energy. Such novas provide insights into mass transfer and thermonuclear explosions in binary star systems, marking a rare cosmic spectacle eagerly awaited by astronomers.
The collapse of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge, after being struck by the MV Dali container ship, highlights the vulnerabilities of steel structures and the formidable force of such vessels. Despite steel’s appearance of strength, it can fail catastrophically under excessive force, especially in “continuous” bridges like this one, which lacked joints and relied on a central truss system supported by pylon-like structures. The incident, which caused significant disruption and led to a search for missing workers, underscores the need for stringent safety measures and the potential for improvements in bridge design and emergency response protocols.
Baidu has created a 1 billionyuan ($140 million) fundtosupportChinesestartupsthataredevelopinggenerative AI technology. Thefundwill be usedtoincubateprojectsbuiltatopBaidu’sErnie AI model, witheachprojectreceivingupto 10 millionyuan in funding. Ventureinvestorsincluding IDG Capitalwillevaluatepitchesfromfounders, whowillthenbuild demo productsbeforereceiving a verdict on whether they getseedfunding. Baidu’smovecomesamid a global investmentwave in generative AI, which is a type of artificialintelligencethat can generatetext, images, andothercreativecontent.
2. NvidiaHits $1 Trillion Market CapwiththeEffect ofthe AI boom
Nvidia’sstockpricebrieflyreached $419, givingthecompany a market capitalization of $1 trillion. ThismadeNvidiathesixth U.S. companytoreachthetrillion-dollar mark, andthefirstchipmakerto do so. Nvidia’sstockprice has been on a tear in recentyears, thankstothegrowingdemandforitsgraphicsprocessingunits (GPUs). GPUsareused in a widerange of applications, includinggaming, artificialintelligence, and data centers. Nvidia’sgrowth has beenfueledbytherise of artificialintelligence, which is a technologythat is becomingincreasinglyimportant in a variety of industries. AI requirespowerfulcomputingresources, andGPUsarewell-suitedforthistask. As thedemandfor AI continuestogrow, Nvidia is well-positionedtobenefit.
Google I/O 2023 sawtheannouncement of severalnewproducts, includingthePixelFold, Pixel7a, Android 13, Google Wallet, and Google Home Pixel. Inaddition, Google announced a number of updatestoitsexistingproductsandservices, such as livetrafficconditions in Google Mapsandautomaticallygeneratedstories in Google Photos.
4- NvidiaUnveils DGX GH200: Next-Gen SupercomputerforGenerative AI Workloads
Nvidiaannounceditsnext-generation DGX supercomputer, the DGX GH200. The DGX GH200 is designedforgenerative AI workloadsand is poweredbythenewGraceHopper H100 GPU. TheH100 GPU offersupto 40 teraflops of performanceand 144 terabytes of sharedmemory. Nvidiasaysthatthe DGX GH200 is theworld’smostpowerfulsupercomputerforgenerative AI and can train a generative AI model in halfthe time of itspredecessor. The DGX GH200 is availablenowandstarts at $1.99 million.
5. Biden Administration Invests $140M in 7 New National AI ResearchInstitutes
The Biden administrationwillinvest $140 milliontolaunch seven newNational AI ResearchInstitutes. Theinstituteswill be located at universitiesacrossthecountryandwillfocus on research in areassuch as climatechange, healthcare, andcybersecurity. Thegoal of theinstitutes is toacceleratethedevelopment of ethicalandtrustworthy AI technologies.
6- Chinaand South KoreatoStrengthenChipIndustryCooperationAmid Global ShortageConcerns
Chinaand South Koreahaveagreedtostrengthentalks on thechipindustry, theChinesecommerceministrysaid on May 27. The two countrieswillcooperate on chipdesign, manufacturing, andpackaging, andwillalsoworktoensurethestability of the global chipsupplychain. Theagreementcomesamidgrowingconcernsaboutthe global chipshortage, whichthe COVID-19 pandemicandthewar in Ukrainehaveexacerbated.
7- FDA GrantsApprovalforNeuralink’s Human Brain Implant Trial
Elon Musk’sNeuralink has received FDA approvaltoconduct a clinicaltrial of itsbrain implant technology in humans. ThetrialwillinvolveimplantingNeuralink’sbrainchips in patientswith severe paralysistohelpthemcontrolexternaldevicesusingonlytheirthoughts. Thetrial is expectedto start soon.
8- JPMorganChase’sIndexGPT: AI Investment Advisor in the Works
JPMorgan Chase is developing an AI investmentadvisorcalledIndexGPT. The AI advisorwillusenaturallanguageprocessingtounderstandcustomergoalsandthenselectinvestmentsthataremostlikelytomeetthosegoals. JPMorgan Chase has appliedtotrademarkIndexGPTand is expectedtolaunchthe AI advisor in thecomingmonths.
9- G7 LeadersAdvocate International StandardsforTrustworthy AI
The G7 leaderscalledforthedevelopmentandadoption of internationaltechnicalstandardsfortrustworthy AI. They recognizedthattheapproachestoachievingthecommonvisionandgoal of trustworthy AI mayvary. Still they saidtherulesfordigitaltechnologieslike AI should be in linewiththeirshareddemocraticvalues. They alsosaid they needtoimmediatelytakestock of theopportunitiesandchallenges of generative AI.
10- President Biden Engageswith AI IndustryLeaders on EnsuringEthical AI Usage
President Biden met withCEOs of top AI companiestodiscussthepotentialdangers of AI andtheneedforsafeguardstoensurethat AI is usedforgood. TheCEOsacknowledgedthepotentialdangers of AI, such as theuse of AI fordisinformationand propaganda, andexpressedtheircommitmenttoworkingwiththegovernmenttoensurethat AI is usedforgood. Biden saidthatthe United Statesmust be a leader in thedevelopment of AI, but that it mustalso be a responsibleleader. He saidthatthegovernmentmustworkwiththeprivatesectortoensurethat AI is usedforthebenefit of allAmericans.
Our Digital Heroes brings you one tech-savvy icon every month to love and learn from. This month we bring you humble brainiac, Vannevar Bush.
Most famous for bridging the gap between military and technology, Bush also patented quite a few inventions during his career. Interestingly, he was not a fan of digital. So why should we bother with him?
Well, it is ironic that he should be such an advocate for analog capabilities, because his work would later lead to informational luxuries that we may take advantage of today. Take Wikipedia entries, for example. Their hyperlinks take readers deeper and wider than a traditional book ever could. Hyperlinks create a dreamy informational black hole that we can access in seconds, and would be nothing without Bush’s creation of the memex. Bush also constructed several other assets, including but not limited to analog computers capable of solving differential equations of up to 18 variables; which was quite impressive in 1945.
During World War II, U.S. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt appointed Bush to head the U.S. Office of Scientific Research and Development (OSRD). This was the first time technology and military operations were employed together in the United States. A humanitarian at heart, Vannevar stressed the importance of scientific research to national security and economic well-being.
A true innovator, this digital hero loved to lead. He coordinated upwards of six thousand leading American scientists in the application of science to warfare.
Now exposed to politics, Bush feared that the military’s new enthusiasm for research and development would ultimately prove detrimental to economic growth. In fact, the technocrats of this era will later be blamed by some as responsible for The Great Depression.
Today Bush is also remembered as a prophet in another field, computer science. His article entitled “As We May Think,” foreshadowed personal computers and the World Wide Web.
For Bush, this article was an extension of his work in analog computing and microfilm technology.
Not bad for someone who wasn’t too keen on digital.
Bush was a well-known policymaker and public intellectual during World War II, when he was in effect the first presidential science advisor.
Born in Everett, Massachusetts on 11th March, 1890, he was named after John Vannevar, a reverend and old friend of the family who had attended Tufts College with his father.
The end of WWII marked the beginning of the end for Bush’s influence on the development of science policy. Bush published a work of both practical politics and political theory, Modern Arms and Free Men, in 1949. Widely discussed and reviewed, the book was Bush’s warning that the militarization of American science would harm the development of the economy.
Subsequently, this system of funding and directing scientific research through the military became known as the Pentagon system, or the military-industrial complex.
In Science, The Endless Frontier, his 1945 report to the President of the United States at the time, Bush called for an expansion of government support for science, and he pressed for the creation of the National Science Foundation.
From Here on Out… Simply put, digital is inevitable. Whether or not you like it, the whole world will become digital. We might as well embrace it and use it to create a better world; the better normal. For this purpose, we get up every morning and work the hardest we can, to help great companies to succeed with their digital transformation journey. You should have a clear vision of the best possible digital future for your organization. As much as it is important to set digital goals, it is equally important to know where you are – we call this process digital maturity. From here on out, you must know where you are, where you’ve been, and where you are going. We’ve been waiting for you.
