Briefing Desk
Latest Briefings
Concise reporting on the developments shaping internet governance and infrastructure. Browse each area for recent news, context and watchpoints.
US targets China AI investments with new national security rules
What happened The United States is moving closer to imposing strict limits on investments in China’s artificial intelligence (AI) and technology sectors. On Friday, the U.S. Treasury Department issued draft regulations that outline new restrictions and requirements for investments in AI, semiconduct…
Top tech stories today: October 22, 2024
RIR comparative policy Q3 overview A detailed overview of the Q3 2024 policies across all five RIRs, highlighting key changes in IP address allocations and registry management practices. NRO Macquarie expands data centre business Macquarie is investing in data centre growth, expanding its operations…
The APRICOT 2025 Program Committee to be held in Malaysia
What happened One of the largest international internet conferences in the Asia-Pacific region, APRICOT (Asia Pacific Regional Internet Conference on Operational Technologies) 2025 Program Committee is seeking contributions for presentations and tutorials. The conference schedule includes three part…
Google shifts Gemini app team to Deep Mind
Google CEO Sundar Pichai announced that the Gemini app team will move to DeepMind as part of the company’s latest AI reorganization. The goal is to simplify AI development and improve feedback by putting the generative AI team at the heart of DeepMind. What happened Sissie Hsiao who is the leader of…
Meta’s new AI model, reducing human involvement in AI development.
What happened Meta recently announced the launch of a series of new artificial intelligence models, including one called the “Self-Learning Evaluator.” This could reduce human involvement in the AI development process. The release detailed how this tool uses the same “chain of thought” technique as …
Penguin Random House blocks AI training on its books
What happened Penguin Random House, a prominent player among the “Big Five” English-language publishers, has taken a decisive step to protect its intellectual property by prohibiting artificial intelligence (AI) companies from using its extensive portfolio of books for training purposes. This landma…
10 new features available with MacOS Sequoia
What happened MacOS Sequoia is the latest version of Apple’s operating system for Mac computers, introduced with new features aimed at enhancing user experience. It focuses on improved performance, streamlined multitasking, and enhanced security. Key updates include a refined interface, integration …
Google wins temporary pause on Play Store changes amid Epic Games lawsuit
What happened A California federal judge has granted Google a temporary halt on a previous ruling that ordered the company to overhaul its Android Play Store by November 1. The decision, made by U.S. District Judge James Donato, comes in response to an antitrust lawsuit filed by Epic Games, known fo…
NRO invites public feedback on crucial updates to ICP-2
What happened The Number Resource Organization (NRO) has announced an open call for feedback from the global Internet community regarding a key update to the Internet Coordination Policy-2 (ICP-2). This policy, which governs the process for recognizing new Regional Internet Registries (RIRs), was in…
Top tech stories today: October 21, 2024
Penguin Random House blocks AI training on books Penguin Random House has blocked the use of its copyrighted books for training AI models, joining a growing trend of publishers protecting their content. PCMag Startup raises $400M for photonic AI chips A startup has raised $400 million to develop pho…
The Remote Work Technology: the balance of work design
The rise of global digital jobs The rise of global digital jobs marks a transformative shift in the workforce landscape, driven by technological advancements and evolving work culture. As internet accessibility expands across the globe, professionals in diverse regions connect with employers far bey…
Schneider Electric Expands Portfolio With $850 Million Purchase Of Motivair
What happen Schneider Electric has announced its acquisition of a controlling stake in Motivair Corp for about $850 million. This all-cash deal will give Schneider a 75% ownership in the U.S.-based company. They plan to acquire the remaining shares by 2028. This strategic move addresses the rising d…
Renault’s low-cost gearbox technology thrive in the hybrid market
What happen Renault‘s CEO, Luca de Meo, has focused on low-cost gearbox technology to boost the company’s position in Europe’s hybrid market. This strategy provides breathing space as competitors face challenges in the transition to electric vehicles. Demand for expensive electric vehicles in Europe…
Microsoft VP of GenAI research annouce depature to join OpenAI
What happened Sebastien Bubeck, Microsoft’s vice president of GenAI research, announced his departure from the company. He is set to join OpenAI, the maker of ChatGPT. The specific role he will take at OpenAI remains unclear. A Microsoft spokesperson stated that Bubeck’s decision aims to further his…
FBI charges man with SEC Hack and bitcoin manipulation scheme
What happen Eric Council Jr., a 25-year-old from Alabama, was arrested for hacking the SEC’s X account. He is suspected of a “SIM-swapping” scheme to manipulate bitcoin prices. Council posted false information claiming the SEC approved bitcoin ETFs. This caused bitcoin prices to surge. The SEC quick…
Apple introduces new iPad Mini, packed with AI innovations
New Ipad Mini On Tuesday, Apple launched its latest generation of the iPad mini, featuring advanced AI capabilities, including enhanced writing tools and an improved Siri assistant. This move is part of Apple’s strategy to integrate artificial intelligence into its devices. The new iPad mini is powe…
Pony AI file for IPO in the U.S.
What happened China-based autonomous driving company Pony AI, backed by Toyota, filed for an initial public offering (IPO) in the U.S., reflecting growing investor interest and easing regulatory pressures in the market. Recent weeks have seen increased activity in the IPO sector, driven by the U.S. …
ASML unexpectedly sale forecast drops chip stock
What happen ASML Holding N.V., a Dutch multinational firm specializes in the design and manufacture of photolithography devices used to make computer chips. ASML is the world’s largest manufacturer of chipmaking equipment, with customers that include TSMC, Intel, and Samsung, as well as memory chip …
Starlink satellites tested in Italy to Boost Internet Penetration
What happen Italy is preparing to test the use of satellites produced by Elon Musk’s Starlink domestically. The implementation of the starlink internet will test a space-based service for areas without terrestrial infrastructure, said the Prime Minister’s Office Alessio Butti in an interview with Il…
TikTok cuts hundreds of jobs as ByteDance shifts focus to AI content moderation
What happen TikTok announced global layoffs that affect hundreds of employees, including a significant number in Malaysia. Reports indicated that over 700 jobs were lost in Malaysia, but TikTok later stated that fewer than 500 were impacted. Most affected employees worked in the content moderation t…
Ripple tackles industry titans with its new stablecoin
What happen Ripple has introduced its own cryptocurrency, RLUSD. Stablecoins are digital tokens with a constant value. Traditional currencies such as the US dollar and the Euro backs up stablecoins. US dollar deposits, government bonds, and cash equivalents are backing Each RLUSD. Ripple announced t…
Bain & Co. and OpenAI collaborate to deliver AI tools to clients
Bain & Co. is expanding its partnership with OpenAI to provide clients with access to advanced AI tools, including ChatGPT. This move aims to strengthen Bain’s capabilities in AI consulting, particularly in the retail and healthcare sectors, while establishing an OpenAI Center of Excellence. The par…
Netflix surpasses Q3 expectations with 5.1M new subscribers
Netflix added 5.1 million streaming subscribers in Q3 2024, exceeding Wall Street estimates by over 1 million, primarily due to its ad-supported tier. The company expects continued growth around the holidays, particularly with the upcoming release of the second season of Squid Game.
Space export rules relaxed: What it means for U.S. companies
The Biden administration has relaxed export restrictions for U.S. space-related technologies, allowing companies such as SpaceX and Lockheed Martin to export less sensitive components to over 40 allied countries. These updates aim to reduce the regulatory burden on U.S. companies, enabling them to e…
Sam Altman’s World Network pushes iris scans for digital IDs
What happened In a bold step towards broadening its digital presence, Worldcoin—spearheaded by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman—has rebranded itself as World Network. The ambitious cryptocurrency project has also escalated its efforts to scan individuals’ irises using its distinct “orb” devices. Central to the…
Top tech stories today: October 18, 2024
Worldcoin ramps up iris-scanning crypto project Sam Altman’s Worldcoin is intensifying efforts to grow its iris-scanning cryptocurrency project, focusing on privacy and financial inclusion amidst increasing regulatory scrutiny. XM FBI arrests man for bitcoin manipulation and SEC hack The FBI has arr…
XPANCEO unveils AR smart contact lens at GITEX Global 2024
What happened At GITEX Global 2024, XPANCEO unveiled its latest innovation in augmented reality (AR) wearables: smart contact lens prototypes designed to redefine user interaction with digital content. Based in Dubai, XPANCEO is at the forefront of XR technology, seeking to create devices that pave …
Meta restructures workforce amid efficiency drive
Meta Platforms Inc. is undertaking a new round of layoffs across its subsidiaries, including WhatsApp, Instagram, and Reality Labs. This decision aligns with CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s declaration of 2023 as the ‘year of efficiency,’ reflecting the company’s ongoing effort to streamline operations. While…
Amazon bets on nuclear power to fuel future data center growth
What happened Amazon is stepping up its efforts to secure new sources of clean energy to meet the increasing power requirements of its data centers by signing three major agreements to explore the use of small modular reactors (SMRs). In a bold move, the tech giant is now working with X-Energy to fu…
APNIC launches new registry API to streamline network operations
What happened APNIC has officially launched its new registry API, responding to requests from its members for a more efficient way to manage network resources. This API allows users to automate tasks that previously required manual intervention, such as retrieving delegation data, managing whois rec…
Apple’s new feature: Brands stamp on calls and emails
What happened Apple will allow businesses to modify how they appear in emails and phone calls on the iPhone now. On Wednesday, Apple highlighted how businesses using its Business Connect tool may add their brand name and logo in ways that will appear in iPhone apps for email, phone calls, and paymen…
Top tech stories today: October 17, 2024
APNIC releases new registry API for users APNIC has launched a new registry API, providing users with a streamlined and automated way to access and manage registry data for better operational efficiency. Elon Musk backs India’s satellite spectrum strategy Elon Musk defended India’s satelli…
Top tech stories today: October 16, 2024
Ripple challenges giants with new stablecoin Ripple is launching a stablecoin to compete with other major cryptocurrency players, marking a significant expansion in its financial services. This could reshape the digital payments landscape. MSN Blackstone to invest $8.2 billion in Spanish data centre…
Intel and AMD form partnership to confront Arm’s dominance
In a strategic move to enhance their positions in the semiconductor market, Intel and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) have announced the creation of a collaborative advisory group. This initiative aims to ensure seamless software compatibility across their chip architectures. This response comes as Arm…
Google partners with Italy for submarine cable network expansion in Sicily
Google is in discussions with Italy to establish base stations in Sicily, aimed at bolstering a Mediterranean submarine cable network. Undersecretary Alessio Butti revealed the ongoing negotiations during a Group of Seven meeting, confirming that the tech giant is showing strong interest in the proj…
Can Adobe’s new AI video tools outmatch OpenAI and Meta?
Adobe has launched its highly anticipated AI video tool, Firefly Video Model, designed to generate videos from simple text prompts. This move pits Adobe against major players like OpenAI, Meta, and ByteDance, all of whom are introducing AI-driven tools to revolutionize content creation in film and t…
Google commits to nuclear power for AI energy needs
Google has taken a groundbreaking step towards meeting the rising energy demands of artificial intelligence by signing a corporate deal to source power from small modular reactors (SMRs). The tech giant announced that it has entered into an agreement with Kairos Power, marking the first such corpora…
Tesla’s robotaxi hype falls short: Investors demand details
Tesla’s long-awaited robotaxi unveiling event in Hollywood last week had all the hallmarks of a classic Elon Musk spectacle, complete with futuristic vehicles, humanoid robots, and big promises. Musk introduced the world to the “Cybercab,” a fully autonomous taxi priced under $30,000 and set to begi…
Capacity Europe 2024 kicks off in London for global connectivity leaders
Today, Capacity Europe 2024 officially opens its doors at the Intercontinental O2 in London, gathering leaders from the global connectivity and digital infrastructure sectors. Over 3,500 professionals from more than 90 countries are set to participate in the three-day event, which runs from October …
Tesla’s two-seat robotaxi puzzles experts
What happened Tesla reveals the Robotaxi at a event near LA on Oct 10th. The Robotaxi is design with low-slung, two-seater, sporty coupe features. Musk said these will go to production expecting 2026 with $30,000 per car. Tesla’s plans this year is to build a smaller, cheaper vehicle to slow down th…
Tariffs spark fierce China-Europe rivalry at 2024 Paris car show
Apple AirPods 4 Review: Noise-Canceling Is Game-Changer Apple’s latest AirPods offer significantly improved noise-canceling, making them a strong upgrade over previous models for audiophiles and travelers alike. Enhanced battery life and sound quality are other key features. CNET Slack Transforms In…
SpaceX makes history by successfully catching returning starship booster with giant ‘chopsticks’
SpaceX successfully completed a significant milestone in its Starship program, catching a returning Super Heavy booster using an innovative “chopsticks” mechanism attached to the launch tower. This historic achievement took place on Sunday at SpaceX’s Starbase in southeast Texas, during the fifth te…
Meta’s vision for the future: AR glasses and Quest VR headsets aim to revolutionize immersive technology
Meta is continuing its push into hardware development with a significant focus on augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). In a recent interview, Andrew Bosworth, Meta’s Chief Technology Officer, shared insights into the company’s latest advancements in AR glasses and the Quest VR headset li…
Top tech stories today: October 14, 2024
Meta discusses future hardware, AR glasses, and Quest in exclusive interview Meta’s Andrew Bosworth shares insights on Meta’s upcoming hardware innovations, including AR glasses and the future of Quest devices. SpaceX aims for a historic Starship booster catch SpaceX will attempt a groundb…
Black Myth: Wukong leads the trend of semiconductor chip industry
The release of “Black Myth: Wukong” highlights an intersection between advanced gaming technology and the semiconductor industry.
SpaceX Crew-8 astronauts set to depart ISS on October 13
NASA and SpaceX are preparing for the departure of the Crew-8 astronauts from the International Space Station (ISS) on October 13, marking the conclusion of a successful six-month mission. The four astronauts, who have been aboard the ISS since their launch in March, will return to Earth aboard Spac…
Tesla’s robotaxi push: Elon Musk claims driverless cars will be safer with full autonomy
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has once again championed the potential of fully autonomous vehicles, particularly the company’s long-promised robotaxi service. Speaking at a recent event, Musk reiterated Tesla’s commitment to achieving full autonomy for its vehicles, claiming that robotaxis will be safer than …
Silicon Intelligence offers to ‘resurrect’ deceased loved ones with AI
OUR TAKEThe ability to converse with deceased loved ones, hear their voices, see their faces, and engage in meaningful interactions long after they have passed away was once the realm of science fiction. Today, Silicon Intelligence, a Chinese company at the forefront of AI innovation, is making this…
Google DeepMind co-founder shares Nobel Chemistry Prize
David Baker, Demis Hassabis, and John Jumper have been awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for their groundbreaking work on protein structures. Proteins, essential to all living organisms, play a crucial role in various biological processes. Better understanding of these structures has led to signi…
US judge orders Google to open app store to rivals
A U.S. federal judge has ordered Google to allow rival companies to offer their Android apps on its Google Play store, marking a significant ruling in the ongoing legal battle against the tech giant. The ruling stems from a lawsuit brought by Epic Games, the developer of the popular video game Fortn…