Briefing Desk
Latest Briefings
Concise reporting on the developments shaping internet governance and infrastructure. Browse each area for recent news, context and watchpoints.
Coverage
Market / Trends / Global Trends / Global Cloud Services Trends
In this section: 27 briefingsWhat is space weather? How does it affect the earth?
In the vast expanse beyond our planet’s atmosphere lies a dynamic and often unpredictable phenomenon known as space weather.
What are the key features of big data analytics?
What is big data Big data refers to extremely large and complex sets of data that are difficult to process and analyze using traditional data-processing software. Watch this video below to understand types of big data. Big data analytics Big data analytics is a field that leverages advanced tools an…
AI leaders explore new ways to boost intelligence
_____________ What happened OpenAI and other leading AI companies are exploring new methods to overcome the limitations of current models. Traditional AI approaches, like large language models, are struggling with adaptability and efficiency, prompting a shift in focus. OpenAI’s chief scientist, Ily…
How does AI programming differ from traditional programming?
Artificial intelligence technology has been developing and applying to many fields of life. How does it differ from traditional programming? In this blog I’m going to discuss what each programming is and their different focus and specific field either of the programming is suitable for. First watch …
Bitcoin hits new highs, eyes $100,000 mark
_____________ What happened Bitcoin is nearing a record high of $90,000, rising 12% to $89,100 after surpassing $80,000 earlier in the week. Many investors expect the cryptocurrency to reach $100,000 by the end of 2024. Analysts like Mike Colonnese of H.C. Wainwright credit the rally to strong marke…
AI brings St. Peter’s Basilica to the virtual world
_______________ What happened The Vatican, in partnership with Microsoft, has launched a digital replica of St. Peter’s Basilica, enhanced by AI to enrich the visitor experience. With two AI exhibitions, the project was made possible by Iconem, a company that digitizes heritage sites. The 3D model w…
FTX sues Binance and its former CEO Zhao for $1.76B
What happened FTX filed lawsuit aganist Binance and former CEO Changpeng Zhao claiming a “fraudulent” share purchase aim to recover at least 1.76 billion. The case was submitted to a Delaware court on November 11, 2024, and is part of ongoing efforts by FTX to recoup funds following its bankruptcy i…
What is the best mixed reality headset?
Mixed Reality (MR) headsets combine virtual and augmented reality elements to enhance both productivity and entertainment. They’re ideal for immersive experiences that overlay digital entities on the real world, often used in fields like gaming, design, healthcare, and remote work. In recent years, M…
Setting up your gateway IP address for better network connectivity
A gateway IP address is the address used by devices on a network to communicate with other networks, often the internet. It acts as an intermediary, directing data packets between the local network and external networks, such as the internet. The gateway is typically a router or another network devi…
New buyback plan fails to calm Pinterest investors
______________ What happened Pinterest’s fourth-quarter revenue forecast fell short of investor expectations, causing its stock to drop by 11%. Despite strong ad growth from major companies like Google, Meta, and Snap, Pinterest’s outlook for the holiday season failed to impress, with a forecast of …
LG Energy Solution signs battery supply agreement with Rivian
What happened LG Energy Solution has signed a five-year agreement with Rivian to supply batteries for electric vehicles. This deal will cover Rivian’s electric pickup trucks and SUVs, aiming to support Rivian’s expansion and production goals. The agreement is significant for both companies as it enh…
Intel brings back free coffee to lift employee spirits
What happened Intel is endeavouring to reinstate free coffee for employees in an effort to boost morale during layoffs and cost-cutting measures. Intel, facing significant financial challenges, reinstated free coffee after initially cutting it as part of a $10 billion cost-saving strategy. Previousl…
Japanese chipmaker Kioxia files for IPO with December target
What happened Japanese chipmaker Kioxia has reportedly filed for an Initial Public Offering (IPO), with plans to launch it in December. As one of the world’s largest producers of NAND flash memory, the company aims to raise funds to capitalize on the growing demand for memory chips used in data cent…
KKR becomes the largest shareholder in Fuji Soft
What happened KKR announced on Thursday (November 7) that it has become the largest shareholder of Fuji Soft after completing the first stage of its two-part tender offer. Through FK Co, an entity under its managed investment fund, KKR acquired a 35% stake in Fuji Soft. The American firm purchased 2…
What is mixed reality? Understanding its key features
As technology advances, the lines between our physical world and digital environments continue to blur. Mixed reality (MR) is an innovative technology that combines real and virtual worlds, allowing for unique, interactive experiences that extend beyond what either virtual reality (VR) or augmented …
Amazon considers doubling down on AI investment in Anthropic
—————————— What happened Amazon is reportedly in talks for a second multi-billion-dollar investment in AI startup Anthropic, aiming to expand its artificial intelligence capabilities. This follows an initial funding round earlier in 2023 when Amazon and Anthropic strengthened their partnership. Anth…
ASML reports successful resolution of global IT outage
What happened ASML Holding NV, a global leader in semiconductor equipment manufacturing, confirmed that all systems were fully restored that afternoon following a global IT system outage. This outage affected ASML’s clean rooms, offices, customer support, and supplier communications. Management temp…
Data centres face cooling challenge as AI demand surges
What happened Data centres worldwide are straining under the heat produced by a surge in AI workloads. As artificial intelligence applications grow in size and complexity, they demand powerful servers to process immense amounts of data, and this workload generates significant heat. Traditional cooli…
Google Cloud and Lumen collaborate on next-gen network tech
_______________ What happened Lumen Technologies has partnered with Google Cloud to boost network operations with AI, following collaborations with AWS, Microsoft, and Meta. Lumen will use Google Cloud’s AI tools, like the Vertex AI platform and Gemini models, to improve efficiency and customer serv…
The man who said ‘You’ve got mail’ on AOL dies
_________________ What happened Elwood Edwards, the voice behind AOL‘s “You’ve Got Mail,” passed away at 74 from a long-term illness, just one day before his 75th birthday. In 1989, Edwards recorded four phrases for AOL’s predecessor, Quantum Computer Services, including “You’ve got mail” and “Goodb…
Data lakes 101: What is a data lake and how does it work?
For businesses today, data isn’t just information—it’s an essential source for possibly all their operations. But with vast amounts of data pouring in from various sources, organizing and storing it becomes a challenge. What is a data lake? Think of it as an all-encompassing reservoir, a place where…
Warner Bros. Discovery CEO: Trump win may boost media mergers
What happened David Zaslav, Warner Bros. Discovery CEO, remarked on the potential impact of a Donald Trump re-election on the media industry, hinting at a possible boost for mergers and acquisitions. During Warner Bros. Discovery’s third-quarter earnings call, Zaslav shared his view that a new Trump…
Network challenges in Palestine: A talk with Anwar Abu Afifa
-Breakdown of the podcast- Challenges in Palestinian network development The development of network infrastructure in Palestine faces significant obstacles, mainly due to political challenges and resource constraints. Anwar Abu Afifa, a Senior Core Network Engineer, highlighted the difficulty in ens…
iRobot cuts 16% of workforce in latest layoffs
_______________ What happened In a significant restructuring, iRobot, maker of the popular Roomba vacuum, has announced another round of layoffs, cutting 105 jobs—around 16% of its workforce—according to an SEC filing. This follows an earlier reduction of about 350 jobs after a planned $1.7 billion …
Supermicro faces Nasdaq delist over financial concerns
what happened Super Micro‘s stock fell 18.14% on Wednesday, reaching its lowest level since June of last year, after the troubled server manufacturer released unimpressive unaudited financials and could not specify how it intended to maintain its Nasdaq listing. The stock went down 81% from its peak…
Arm’s forecast disappoints, casting doubt on AI growth
What happened Chip designer Arm Holdings issued a disappointing revenue forecast on Wednesday (Nov. 6) for the coming year, suggesting that the still-recovering smartphone market could overshadow growth in artificial intelligence. The company expects revenue for the current fiscal year, which ends i…
Roblox introduces measures to protect kids in social hangouts
What happened Roblox has announced new safety measures by banning users under 13 from entering social hangout spaces on its platform. This decision is part of an effort to create a safer online environment for younger users and reduce their exposure to inappropriate content or interactions. Roblox a…
Coverage
Market / Trends / Europe and Middle East Trends / Europe and Middle East Cloud Services Trends
In this section: 3 briefingsAlexander Timokhin: IPv4 market stability and future strategies
Check out BTW Media’s first interview with Alexander in Poland：Interview with Alexander Timokhin, InterLIR COO: IP market trends and blockchain IP management “With IPv4 prices stabilising and lease rates rising, there’s never been a better time to invest in IPv4 addresses,” said Alexander Timokhin. …
Lisbon Web Summit 2024 debates Trump’s potential impact on tech
What happened This week, the Lisbon Web Summit 2024 opened its doors as Europe’s largest tech event, drawing industry leaders and policymakers to discuss critical global issues. With Donald Trump’s potential return to the White House as a major topic, executives from Apple, Meta, and Microsoft, alon…
Top tech news today: November 8, 2024
Top tech news today: UBS explores blockchain payments, Amazon expands Italy data centers, and Qualcomm benefits from rising chip sales. 1. UBS launches blockchain payment pilot Swiss bank UBS is piloting a blockchain-based system to streamline payment processes and reduce operational costs in financ…
Coverage
Market / Trends / Europe and Middle East Trends / Europe and Middle East Institutional Trends
In this section: 1 briefingEU invests $142M in Dutch photonic chip factory
What happened The Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs announced on Monday that the EU will invest €133 million (about $142 million) in a pilot photonic semiconductor production facility in the Netherlands. This investment forms part of a €380 million European semiconductor development plan, which aim…
Coverage
Market / Trends / Asia-Pacific Trends / Asia-Pacific Cloud Services Trends
In this section: 8 briefingsChina semiconductor index rises as TSMC cuts off chip shipments
What happened China’s semiconductor industry is experiencing a notable surge, with the China semiconductor index nearing a three-year high following Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co.’s (TSMC) announcement that it would suspend shipments of advanced chips to specific Chinese customers. The order…
Top tech news today: November 12, 2024
Top tech news today: Bitcoin’s record surge linked to Trump, FTX’s $1.8 billion lawsuit against Binance, South Korea’s chip law to counter U.S. restrictions, alongside new developments in AI, photonic chips, and tech regulations mark today’s top headlines. 1. Bitcoin reaches record high with Trump b…
Top tech news today: November 11, 2024
Top tech news today: Crypto investments in U.S. Congress, Zuckerberg faces lawsuits over child harm, and Kioxia’s December IPO are among the latest headlines, alongside U.S.-China chip tensions 1. Crypto industry bets on congressional races The U.S. crypto sector is heavily invested in key congressi…
US lawmaker requests sale details of China’s semiconductor equipment imports
What happened China hardliners in Congress are calling on five global semiconductor manufacturing firms to provide details of their sales to China. Companies on list including U.S. firms KLA, LAM, Applied Materials, as well as Japan-based Tokyo Electron and Dutch ASML. Washington lawmakers requests …
Audi’s new electric concept car in China debuts without four-ring logo
What happened Audi and its Chinese partner, SAIC Motor Corporation, jointly announced the launch of a new brand in China—AUDI, which will forgo the iconic four-ring emblem. Instead, it will adopt the fully capitalised letters “AUDI” as its brand identifier. AUDI unveiled its first concept car, the A…
Australia plans to ban children under 16 from using social media
What happened Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Thursday (Nov. 7) that Australia will pass new laws to ban children under 16 from using social media. And vowed to crack down on tech giants that fail to protect vulnerable users. Albanese stated that uncontrolled social media algorith…
DE-CIX and GCX forge partnership to boost subsea connectivity
What happened DE-CIX and Global Cloud Xchange (GCX) have formed a partnership to enhance international connectivity. This collaboration allows DE-CIX India to leverage GCX’s subsea cable infrastructure, which spans regions such as the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and the U.S. The alliance is intended …
Qualcomm shares rise as its forecast beats estimates
What happened Chip designer Qualcomm forecasted on Wednesday that sales and profit for the current quarter would top Wall Street’s expectations, sending its shares up 8.5 percent in after-hours trading. This boost is due to the company benefiting from a surge in flagship smartphone launches in China…
Coverage
Market / Trends / North America Trends / North America Cloud Services Trends
In this section: 5 briefingsEuropean search engines Ecosia and Qwant partner to counter US Big Tech
What happened Two Google rival search engines, Ecosia and Qwant, launched a collaboration on Tuesday to create a European search index and lessen their reliance on US Big Tech companies. The European Search Perspective, or EUSP, is a joint venture between the two internet search companies that has a…
Why Trump’s win is driving Tesla shares to new highs
What happened Tesla’s stock is riding a powerful wave of investor interest, surging to its highest level since April 2022 following Donald Trump’s win in the recent U.S. presidential election. Investors are not only snapping up Tesla shares but are heavily focused on bullish options, with trading vo…
U.S. imposes new export restrictions on TSMC’s AI chips
—————————— What happened The U.S. has ordered TSMC to halt shipments of advanced chips used in AI to Chinese customers. The Department of Commerce imposed export restrictions on chips with 7 nm or more advanced designs, which power AI accelerators and GPUs. This follows TSMC’s report that one of its…
How Rivian’s new batteries will cut EV costs
__________________ What happened Rivian announced its R2 SUV will use batteries made in Arizona by LG Energy Solution, shifting from South Korean production to meet IRA requirements. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) encourages US battery production for tax credits, a move supported by Elon Musk, wh…
Top tech news today: November 7, 2024
Top tech news today: Bitcoin reaches new record as Trump wins the US election, SpaceX plans sixth Starship launch, and Tesla faces Musk tweet trial decision. 1. Bitcoin hits record high amid Trump speculation Bitcoin reaches a new peak as traders speculate on a possible Trump election win. Rising se…
Coverage
Market / Trends / Asia-Pacific Trends / Asia-Pacific Institutional Trends
In this section: 3 briefingsVietnam is warning Shein and Temu: Register or be blocked
What happened Vietnam recently issued an ultimatum to Chinese e-commerce platforms Shein and Temu. The Vietnamese government has given them until the end of November to register with the Ministry of Industry and Trade. Vietnam’s deputy trade minister Nguyen Hoang Long said at a government meeting ov…
Pro-Russian hacker groups are launching cyberattacks on S Korea
What happened Seoul’s presidential office announced on Friday (November 8) that pro-Russian hacktivist groups launched cyberattacks on South Korea following North Korea’s deployment of troops to support Russia’s war in Ukraine. After detecting some government and private websites experiencing denial…
Australia proposes social media ban for children under 16
What happened Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on November 7 that the government is planning to introduce legislation prohibiting social media use for children under 16. This policy is setting a global precedent. Albanese said at a press conference, “Social media is harming our c…
Coverage
Market / Trends / Global Trends / Global National Telecom Trends
In this section: 1 briefingBT announces job cut as part of cost-cutting strategy
What happened BT (British Telecommunications) announced plans for significant job cuts as part of a broader cost-cutting strategy. The company aims to reduce its workforce by up to 55,000 employees by the end of the decade. This reduction will impact various roles, including those in customer servic…
Coverage
Market / Trends / North America Trends / North America Institutional Trends
In this section: 1 briefingCanada disbands TikTok for security reasons, user access unaffected
What happened The Canadian government ordered the closure of TikTok‘s operations in Canada on November 6, citing national security risks. Nevertheless, Canadians can still access the short video application and continue creating content on it. Innovation Minister François-Philippe Champagne stated t…
Coverage
Market / Trends / Global Trends / Global Institutional Trends
In this section: 1 briefingSitejabber accused of manipulating product ratings for profit
______________ What happened The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has taken action against Sitejabber, an online review platform, for allegedly violating rules against fake reviews. The FTC claims Sitejabber boosted product ratings by including point-of-sale survey responses as reviews, even before cu…