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 Institutional Trends
In this section: 2 briefings3 types of IT infrastructure
As businesses increasingly rely on technology to drive operations, the need for robust, scalable, and efficient IT infrastructure has become critical. IT infrastructure forms the foundation of an organisation’s technology environment, supporting its operations, communication, and services. Understan…
WACREN upgrades infrastructure to support regional education
WACREN infrastructure gets facelift With support from the AfricaConnect3 project (co-funded by the European Commission), WACREN has upgraded its digital infrastructure to enhance connectivity and advanced services for national research and education networks (NRENs) and their communities across the …
Coverage
Market / Trends / Global Trends / Global Cloud Services Trends
In this section: 34 briefingsWhat are AI algorithms?
Algorithms are at the core of AI systems, providing the instructions and rules that the machine follows to perform tasks. They are responsible for training AI models on vast datasets and refining them to make accurate predictions or decisions. These algorithms can range from simple, like a decision …
What is hyper-converged infrastructure?
Hyper-converged infrastructure (HCI) is a software-driven solution that consolidates compute, storage, and networking into a cohesive, virtualised platform. Traditional data centres often rely on disparate hardware components, leading to complexity in management and scaling. In contrast, HCI leverag…
What is the future of IT infrastructure?
The IT infrastructure landscape is undergoing significant transformation as cloud technology, automation, and artificial intelligence (AI) reshape the way businesses manage their digital environments. As organisations embrace cloud computing, hybrid models that combine on-premise infrastructure with…
How is AI different from an algorithm?
AI and algorithms are closely related but distinct concepts in technology. Understanding their differences can help clarify how modern AI systems operate and how they utilise algorithms in intelligent decision-making processes. What is an algorithm? An algorithm is a finite, well-defined sequence of…
SpaceX launches private crew on billionaire-backed spacewalk mission
Four private astronauts launched aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule on Tuesday, initiating the Polaris Dawn mission.
Apple faces AI woes as Huawei tri-fold shines
The challenges faced by Apple with its iPhone 16 highlight the importance of timely innovation, particularly regarding AI capabilities.
Airbus CEO upbeat on new engine technology, but says jury still out
OUR TAKEAirbus CEO Guillaume Faury is feeling pretty optimistic about the open-rotor technology being developed by CFM International, but he’s not totally convinced it’ll be a commercial success. Meanwhile, Airbus is facing delays in engine deliveries from CFM’s LEAP engines, which is having an impa…
Hugging Face empowers DIY robotics with new guide
Hugging Face has released tutorials to help users build and train AI-powered robots using low-cost hardware.
The rise of encrypted email providers in a privacy-conscious world
Encrypted email services offer a reliable solution, utilising advanced technology to ensure that emails remain confidential and secure.
Suez Canal Container Terminal (SCCT): Gateway to global trade
Situated at the heart of a bustling maritime route, the Suez Canal Container Terminal (SCCT) aims to be the premier Mediterranean hub, offering unparalleled connectivity and state-of-the-art facilities to enhance global shipping efficiency.
Understanding narrow AI: Specialised intelligence in focus
What is narrow AI? Artificial intelligence systems designed to perform specific tasks or solve particular problems are known as narrow AI, sometimes called weak AI. Unlike general AI, which aims to replicate human-like thinking across a broad range of activities, narrow AI excels only within its spe…
4 advantages of narrow AI: Unlocking efficiency and precision
1. Precision and efficiency One of the foremost benefits of narrow AI is its exceptional precision and efficiency in executing designated tasks. Unlike general AI, which endeavours to operate across diverse domains, narrow AI systems are meticulously tailored for particular functions. This specialis…
The benefits of AI technology
AI can analyse data, automate processes, and personalise user experiences. AI promises benefits for individuals and organisations.
What are the different types of AI algorithms?
AI algorithms can be grouped into several categories, depending on the approach and the problem they are designed to solve. Each type plays a critical role in various AI applications, from simple decision-making to advanced machine learning. Supervised learning algorithms Supervised learning algorit…
Google faces antitrust trial over alleged dominance in web ad tech
OUR TAKEThe trial is crucial as it addresses whether Google has engaged in practices that stifle competition in the online advertising market. A ruling against Google could set a precedent for how tech giants operate, potentially leading to a more competitive environment for smaller companies and ne…
SplashLearn’s Sumit Bansal reveals AI testing will redefine EdTech QA
BTW’s exclusive: Sumit Bansal of SplashLearn shares that testing AI and machine learning systems will become essential for the future of EdTech platforms.
Apple unveils AI-powered watches and AirPods
The recent Apple event highlights the company’s commitment to integrating AI capabilities across its product line.
Google’s Privacy Sandbox faces competition concerns from smaller ad-tech firms
Smaller ad-tech firms are alarmed by Google’s Privacy Sandbox, fearing it may grant the tech giant unfair market control and disadvantage smaller players due to adaptation costs and technological disparities.
Hewlett Packard shares fall on $1.35B convertible stock offering for Juniper buyout
OUR TAKEHewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) has announced a $1.35 billion mandatory convertible preferred stock offering to fund its $14 billion acquisition of Juniper Networks. This move has caused a 6.4% drop in HPE’s share price, which shows that the company is focusing on strengthening its AI infra…
Interview with Iqbal Bahar Zahid: Optimax aims for top customer service
In the exclusive interview with Iqbal Bahar Zahid, CEO of Optimax Communication Limited, BTW discovered the scale of Optimax’s services worldwide, how Optimax provides high-quality service to our customers and what are Optimax’s new plans to cope with market changes. Q: What is the scale of Optimax’…
The importance of E2EE messages and their mechanisms
What is end-to-end encryption? End-to-end encryption is a security measure where messages are encrypted on the sender’s device and only decrypted on the recipient’s device. This ensures that during transmission, the message remains inaccessible to anyone other than the intended recipient. End-to-end…
Apple’s iPhone 16 to feature Arm’s A18 chip for enhanced AI
OUR TAKEBy leveraging Arm’s V9 architecture, Apple not only enhances performance but also reinforces its AI ambitions. As Apple continues to integrate sophisticated AI features into its devices—like advanced Siri and custom emoji generation—the need for advanced chip technology becomes increasin…
Broadcom shares plunge as AI hopes fade
The decline in Broadcom’s shares highlights the challenges faced by semiconductor firms amid high expectations from investors.
CI Capital announces strong first half 2024 results
CI Capital reported a 61% revenue increase to EGP 5 billion, with a tripled net profit of EGP 1.3 billion in 1H24.
DAL Group: Making Sudan a better place to live
History of DAL The DAL Group traces its origins to the engineering firm Sayer & Colley, established in 1951 by two British partners during Sudan’s Anglo-Egyptian rule. Sayer & Colley later secured Caterpillar’s franchise for the country. In 1966, ten years after Sudan gained independence, Caterpilla…
ETI SA navigates complexities to drive telecom innovation in Guinea
ETI SA is a telecommunications and IT solutions provider in Guinea that excels at delivering adaptable infrastructure in challenging environments. Established in 1984, the company has grown by focusing on innovation and strategic partnerships, becoming a key player in the region’s digital transforma…
The 10 most interesting women in Time’s AI 100 list
OUR TAKETen influential women in AI are recognised for their contributions across various domains. Amba Kak focuses on AI governance and social justice, Francesca Mani advocates against deepfake abuses, and Sasha Luccioni uses AI for climate action. Elizabeth Kelly ensures AI safety, while Daniela A…
Roblox launches paid games and physical merchandise options
Roblox announced the introduction of paid “experiences” on its platform, initially for desktop users, offering creators up to a 70% revenue share.
Meta introduces WhatsApp integration with third-party apps
Meta plans to integrate third-party chat services into WhatsApp and Messenger for EU users, improving communication options.
Google’s new ‘Ask Photos’ feature transforms photo searching with AI and natural language
OUR TAKEGoogle is introducing the “Ask Photos” feature in Google Photos, which uses AI to help users search their photo libraries with natural language queries and complete tasks like summarising vacations or selecting photos for albums. Alongside this, Google is enhancing the classic search functio…
Top tech news stories today: September 9, 2024
IT infrastructure 1. Dell, Palantir and Erie Indemnity to join S&P 500 Palantir Technologies (PLTR), Dell Technologies (DELL) and Erie Indemnity (ERIE) will join the S&P 500 index before the open on Monday, Sept. 23. All three stocks jumped late Friday, with Erie and possibly Palantir around new hig…
Understanding data mining and its importance in business
What is data mining? Data mining involves the use of advanced algorithms, statistical methods, and machine learning techniques to sift through complex datasets and identify meaningful trends. It consists of several key tasks: Classification: Assigning items in a dataset to predefined categories. Thi…
Broadcom forecasts lukewarm revenue despite AI chip surge
OUR TAKEBroadcom’s lower-than-expected revenue forecast and stock drop highlight the challenge of meeting sky-high investor expectations, especially when balancing different segments. The company’s robust AI chip demand contrasts sharply with the steep declines in broadband and non-AI networking rev…
Understanding supervised learning
Supervised learning is used for classification and regression tasks, enabling models to make predictions based on labeled training data.
Coverage
Governance / IETF
In this section: 1 briefingIETF takes major steps to enhance accessibility of RFC publications
RFCs are documents that are freely available for download, copying, publishing, displaying, and distribution. The goal of providing free access is to enable a wider audience to contribute to building a better internet. The IETF has announced a comprehensive review of the accessibility of its RFC pub…
Coverage
Market / Trends / Africa Trends / Africa Cloud Services Trends
In this section: 1 briefingCentral Bank of Congo invites bids for network equipment upgrade
The Central Bank of Congo (BCC) is seeking tenders for Cisco Catalyst 9400 series switches.
Coverage
Market / Trends / Global Trends / Global National Telecom Trends
In this section: 2 briefingsAI-powered search startup Glean doubles valuation in new funding
OUR TAKEAI-powered search startup Glean has raised $260 million in Series E funding, doubling its valuation to $4.6 billion. Led by Altimeter and DST Global, with new investors including Craft Ventures, Sapphire Ventures, and SoftBank Vision Fund 2, the company now totals over $600 million in fundin…
Sonatel opens a new ODC Club at Assane Seck University
Sonatel Opens ODC Club at Assane Seck University in Ziguinchor Sonatel recently inaugurated a new Orange Digital Centre Club (ODC Club) at the Université Assane Seck de Ziguinchor (UASZ), in the presence of local authorities. The ODC Club, born out of a successful partnership between Sonatel and UAS…
Coverage
Governance / CASE FILE
In this section: 1 briefingPortuguese government to keep ban on Chinese 5G equipment
OUR TAKEPortugal’s new centre-right government will continue the previous administration’s ban on Chinese equipment in 5G networks, maintaining one of Europe’s strictest policies despite potential costs. This decision aligns Portugal more closely with U.S. security concerns, which view Chinese techn…
Coverage
Market / Trends / North America Trends / North America Cloud Services Trends
In this section: 4 briefingsAmericans surge to 100 trillion megabytes of wireless data in 2023
OUR TAKEThe massive increase in wireless data consumption in the U.S. to 100 trillion megabytes in 2023 reflects a significant shift in technology use and demand. The 36% rise from 2022 highlights the accelerating adoption of 5G technology and its impact on data consumption. The rapid increase in da…
Northvolt’s $5.17B canadian battery plant faces delays amid strategic review
OUR TAKENorthvolt is proceeding with its plans to build a large electric vehicle battery plant in Canada, though at a slower pace due to a strategic review of its global projects. The company is considering adjustments to spending and timelines, with more details to be announced later. Despite this,…
Top tech news stories today: September 10, 2024
Fintech 1. Battery maker Northvolt moves ahead in Canada but at slower pace Electric vehicle battery maker Northvolt is moving ahead with plans to open a C$7 billion battery plant in Canada but at a slower pace in light of its announcement on Monday it would review spending plans and mull job cuts. …
Snapchat accused of being ‘breeding ground’ for child predators
New Mexico sued Snap on Thursday, accusing the Snapchat maker of facilitating child sexual exploitation on its platform.
Coverage
Market / Trends / Europe and Middle East Trends / Europe and Middle East Cloud Services Trends
In this section: 2 briefingsAWS to invest $10.5B in UK data centres amid AI-driven cloud demand
Amazon Web Services (AWS) will invest $10.5 billion in UK data centres over the next five years, supporting over 14,000 jobs.
Top tech news stories today: September 11, 2024
IT infrastructure 1. Amazon to invest $10 billion in UK data centres Internet giant Amazon’s cloud computing arm, Amazon Web Services, said on Wednesday that it plans to spend 8 billion pounds ($10.45 billion) in the United Kingdom over the next five years to build, operate and maintain data centres…
Coverage
Market / Trends / Asia-Pacific Trends / Asia-Pacific Cloud Services Trends
In this section: 1 briefingThe future of open-source and AI according to China’s leading open source exec
OUR TAKE The interview with Du Junping highlights the significance of open-source contributions in driving AI and data innovation. With decades of experience, Du stresses the role of collaborative technologies in shaping the future of AI. His leadership in both commercial and open-source communities…
Coverage
Market / Trends / Asia-Pacific Trends / Asia-Pacific Institutional Trends
In this section: 1 briefingInterview with Fa Zhang, partner at Poly Technologies: ‘AI investment favors top university graduates’
AI startups in China have the greatest innovation potential in software, as competing with established hardware giants is challenging.
Coverage
Market / Trends / Asia-Pacific Trends / Asia-Pacific Regional ISP Trends
In this section: 1 briefingMalaysia shelves web traffic re-routing plan after censorship concerns
OUR TAKEMalaysia’s communications minister, Fahmi Fadzil, has put the government’s plan to re-route web traffic through local DNS servers on hold after the public spoke up. This decision comes after concerns that the directive could lead to increased censorship and harm the country’s digital economy…