Top 10 in Tech – May 2025

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.

Source: BBC 

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.

Source: BBC

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

Source: Business Tabloid

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.

Source: The Guardian

5- Expanding AI Overviews and introducing AI Mode

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.

Source: Google Blog

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.

Source: Google Blog

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.

Source: Tech Crunch

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.

Source: PBS

9- What It Really Takes To Scale Agentic AI

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.

Source: Forbes

10- The Prompt: Google’s New AI Mode

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.

Source: Forbes