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: 1 briefing2024 models of iPad and MacBook Air are ready to be launched
Apple updated internal support documents amidst rumours of new iPad and Mac releases, guiding staff on handling inquiries.
Coverage
Market / Trends / Global Trends / Global Cloud Services Trends
In this section: 38 briefingsAmazon’s rebooted Road House accused of copyright infringement
The writer of the 1989 action film “Road House” is suing MGM Studios and its owner Amazon Studios for alleged copyright infringement in the upcoming remake of “Road House,” and asking court to block the release of the film, which is scheduled to premiere on the opening night of SXSW on March 8 and w…
Co-op to step in cloud journey with TCS
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has taken a significant step in its longstanding partnership with The Co-operative Group Limited (Co-op), one of the world’s largest consumer co-operatives with interests across food, funerals, insurance and legal services. This move reflects TCS’s commitment to suppo…
Biden’s deputy press secretary Olivia Dalton to leave for Apple
Olivia Dalton, a prominent figure in the White House as the principal deputy press secretary, has announced her departure to take up a senior communications role at Apple (AAPL.O), sources revealed on Monday. This move comes as a significant transition for Dalton, who has been a key aide to Presiden…
Google’s Gemini expected to land on Android phones next year
Google’s Gemini AI model targets OpenAI’s GPT, set for Android integration, offering Nano services with comparable performance.
Meta will launch Quest Pro 2 headset in the first half of 2025
Meta teams up with LG for Quest Pro VR, signalling a shift from Apple, potentially integrating LG’s webOS for streaming.
Prowler’s $6M investment shows confidence in cloud security
Leading cloud security innovator Prowler has closed a $6 million initial round of investment, indicating industry confidence.
With health at its core, and AI to come, is Samsung’s Galaxy Ring 2024’s most exciting new launch?
The Ring will monitor heart rate and sleep among various health trackings, and provide users with “vitality scores”.
Broadcom sells EUC division to KKR in $4 billion deal
KKR acquires Broadcom’s EUC division for $4 billion, part of CEO Hock Tan’s portfolio streamlining post-VMware acquisition.
Former Twitter, Tesla engineers launch Particle, an AI news reader
Former Tesla and Twitter engineers introduces an AI-driven news platform, offering users a personalised news consumption experience.
This new AI-powered insurance platform merges NFTs and DeFi
Day by Day aims to disrupt the insurance market by combining NFTs with DeFi, creating a decentralised global insurance platform.
Top tech news stories today: February 27, 2024
Today, leading tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon unveil major breakthroughs. Stay ahead of the curve.
Nintendo Switch 2 release date will delay, do please respect!
Rumors surrounding the highly anticipated release of the Nintendo Switch 2 have been swirling for quite some time, causing both excitement and frustration among gaming enthusiasts. Initial speculations pointed towards a potential launch in September 2024, only to be debunked later, leaving fans eage…
Google’s WearOS smartwatch achieves updates for its functions
Google has unveiled new updates for its Wear OS smartwatches, including a feature that will enhance the Google Maps experience for users. The announcement was made during the MWC 2024 event, where other notable watches like the OnePlus Watch 2 and Xiaomi Watch 2 were also unveiled. Experience upgrad…
Samsung’s Galaxy Ring leads a healthier life
Samsung‘s recent unveiling of the Galaxy Ring at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona has sparked excitement and curiosity among tech enthusiasts. Positioned as a smart ring catering to individuals seeking a more minimalist approach to wearable technology, the Galaxy Ring aims to provide users wit…
OpenAI will make you create imaginative 60-second videos
The leading artificial intelligence company, OpenAI, has unveiled its latest AI model called Sora, which promises to revolutionize the creation of realistic and imaginative videos from simple text prompts. In a blog post on Wednesday, OpenAI explained that Sora has the ability to generate videos up …
Nvidia’s free-tier GeForce will put ads during waiting period
Nvidia, the leading technology company in cloud gaming services, is making a significant change to its GeForce Now platform. Starting on February 28th, free-tier users will be greeted with ads while waiting to start their gaming sessions. This move marks a shift from the previous ad-free experience …
Microsoft and OpenAI’s rival Mistral collaborate for mutual benefit
Microsoft has announced a new partnership with French startup Mistral AI, which will make the latter’s artificial intelligence models available through Microsoft’s Azure cloud computing platform. The multi-year deal also sees Microsoft taking a minority stake in Mistral, although the details of this…
Google dedicates to relaunch Gemini AI image tool after its fault
Google is set to relaunch its AI tool that creates images of people in the next few weeks, following a brief pause after inaccuracies were identified in some historical depictions. The tool was introduced earlier this month as part of Google’s Gemini AI models but was taken offline after users flagg…
Graal Cloud Native: streamlined Cloud-Native Java development
In the rapidly evolving landscape of cloud-native development tools, Oracle has made a significant stride with the introduction of Graal Cloud Native 4.2.1, a specially curated and Oracle-supported version of the popular Micronaut framework. This platform offers developers a comprehensive JVM enviro…
Tech giants with OpenAI to support humanoid robot startup
Tech giants such as Amazon，Nvidia, and Microsoft are investing in Figure AI, a startup focused on developing human-like robots. The company is in the process of raising approximately $675 million in funding, with a pre-money valuation of around $2 billion. High-profile Investors’ Involvement The inv…
A smartphone with a whopping 28,000mAh battery
In a bold move that pushes the boundaries of smartphone battery capacity, Avenir Telecom has announced the release of the Energizer Hard Case P28K. This device, which boasts an astonishing 28,000mAh battery, is set to redefine the concept of long-lasting power in the mobile industry. Exceptional Bat…
Top tech news stories today: February 26, 2024
From Samsung’s Galaxy Ring to NASA’s innovations with their moon landings, here are today’s top technology stories around the world.
Google suspends Gemini AI model’s image generation function
Google pauses its Gemini AI model’s character image generation due to inaccuracies, facing criticism for overcorrection in racial bias.
Reddit strikes $60 million deal with Google to train AI models
Reddit plans IPO, with first profit in two years; strikes $60M deal with Google, enhancing AI and valuation prospects.
Apple Vision Pro: Does it live up to the hype?
Apple’s Vision Pro headset, unveiled on February 2, 2024, has been anticipated as a paradigm shift in virtual reality.
Google launches Gemini AI model for Google Ad creation
Google integrates Gemini AI into Ads, unveiling a chatbot to enhance ad creation, optimise campaigns, and suggest terms based on trends.
Reddit reveals $90.8M losses, 21% revenue growth in 2023, as it prepares for IPO
Reddit files IPO, plans NYSE listing (ticker: RDDT); CEO Sam Altman holds 8.7% shares; revenue grows, but net loss persists.
Nvidia adds record $277 billion in stock market value
NVIDIA’s stock soared by 16%, adding $277 billion in market value, driven by robust financials and strategic expansions.
Boosting Innovation and Security: Vonage’s Collaboration with AWS
Vonage has joined forces with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to millions of AWS developers via AWS Marketplace.This strategic collaboration is set to combine Vonage’s platform, which leverages communications APIs and network APIs connecting to communications service provider (CSP) networks, with Ericsson…
Nvidia’s Meteoric Rise: Staggering Revenue Surge
Tech behemoth Nvidia shows the company’s meteoric rise in the world of technology by stunning the industry with a staggering 265% surge in revenues to $22 billion in the last quarter, compared to the previous year. The annual turnover also more than doubled, reaching $60.9 billion. Nvidia’s growth a…
Rise of Managed AI Services in Cloud Environments
Cloud security platform provider Wiz has revealed that over 70% of cloud environments are now utilizing managed AI services. Either directly use OpenAI or through Azure SDKs, indicates a rapid integration of generative AI tools into cloud business models. Azure Emerges as Leading Cloud Platform for …
Sony PS VR2 headset will support PC games this year
Sony’s PlayStation Blog discusses PS VR2’s past and future, including game expansions and PC gaming support tests for wider accessibility.
More robust and stable, rSIM launches world’s first resilient SIM
The rSIM uses advanced patented technology that could autonomously monitor network connectivity and seamlessly switch providers in the event of disruptions.It develops a way to minimize the potential for disconnection between the SIM and the device during outages. Dual-Profile Resilience: Enhanc…
IBM expands services to Cisco for better SD-WAN performance
IBM has unveiled a new array of professional services tailored specifically for Cisco networks, aiming to provide enhanced support and implementation options for Cisco SDN and SD-WAN users. This move signifies IBM’s dedication to help build more efficient and interconnected networks while optimizing…
Google unveils Gemma, a lightweight open AI model
Google launches Gemma, an AI model aiding responsible development, offering 2B and 7B variants, surpassing benchmarks with secure training.
Top tech stories today: February 22, 2024
Circle has terminated its USDC support on the Trblockchain. Google introduces new AI models. A new SIM card can talk to multiple networks.
IBM’s NS1 Connect GSLB: Revolutionizing Load Balancing
IBM has unveiled its latest service, the IBM NS1 Connect Global Server Load Balancing (GSLB), which leverages DNS technology to enhance the load balancing capabilities for enterprise customers dealing with highly distributed applications and multicloud workloads. This innovative offering combines IB…
A new 3D printing technology is introduced
A new 3D printing technology is introduced, inspired by butterfly wings, to produce colourful gradients using a single ink type.
Coverage
Market / Trends / North America Trends / North America Cloud Services Trends
In this section: 5 briefingsApple is in final contact with US Justice Department
Apple aims to dissuade US Justice Department from an antitrust lawsuit, amid ongoing scrutiny over alleged anti-competitive practices.
AWS to invest $5 billion in cloud computing in Mexico
AWS Mexico plans to invest $5 billion+ in data centres due to rising cloud service demand, aligning with nearshoring trends.
The US military utilises AI technology in airstrikes in the Middle East
US defence officials confirm AI assistance in Middle East airstrikes, improving target identification, with human oversight for accuracy.
Trump’s shift on bitcoin sparks speculation of political trategy
At a recent televised townhall, Trump surprised many by praising bitcoin when asked about his views on the cryptocurrency. While he acknowledged the growing acceptance and use of bitcoin, he emphasized his preference for the U.S. dollar. This unexpected shift in Trump’s perspective on digital assets…
Texas Blockchain Council wins favorable ruling against energy regulators
In a case against multiple U.S. energy regulators, the Texas Blockchain Council (TBC) and Bitcoin mining company Riot Platforms secures wins.
Coverage
Market / Trends / Europe and Middle East Trends / Europe and Middle East Cloud Services Trends
In this section: 2 briefingsFrance’s Mistral launches Le Chat to challenge ChatGPT
Mistral’s Le Chat, a new chatbot rivalling ChatGPT, offers both free and paid versions, with pricing based on token usage.
Saudi Arabia aims to build a global AI centre
Saudi Arabia’s PIF plans to establish the country as a global AI hub, leveraging energy resources and financial strength.
Coverage
Market / Trends / Asia-Pacific Trends / Asia-Pacific Cloud Services Trends
In this section: 2 briefingsAtome and Mastercard team up to grow Philippines gaming market
Atome, with Mastercard, introduces the MGX, enabling Filipino Atome cardholders to exchange reward points for gaming credits.
Honor’s global launch of AI-enhanced Magic 6 Pro smartphone
China-based technology company Oracle has announced the release of Graal Cloud Native 4.2.1, a Java virtual machine (JVM) environment designed to offer a streamlined cloud-native solution for building modular microservices and serverless applications. The platform is built on the popular Micronaut f…
Coverage
Governance / NOGS / Asia-Pacific NOGs / APRICOT
In this section: 1 briefingAPRICOT 2024: Uniting the internet’s best engineering and operation minds
The Asia Pacific Regional Internet Conference on Operational Technologies (APRICOT) is a premier international gathering that draws together the world’s top Internet engineers, operators, researchers, service providers, users, and policy communities from over 50 countries. This event provides a plat…
Coverage
Market / Trends / North America Trends / North America Institutional Trends
In this section: 1 briefingBiden’s Friday man Olivia Dalton will go to Apple
Olivia Dalton is about to leave the White House to go to Apple for senior communication positions. Previously, Olivia Dalton, Biden’s right hand, helped him deal with many domestic and foreign policy issues. Entered the current administration in 2021 and also served as the spokesperson of the U.S. M…