Top tech stories today: December 21, 2023

No time to scour the web for the stories that matter? We’ve done that so you don’t have to. See also: Carla Sanderson.

Here are the top technology stories around the world for December 21, 2023. See also: Kaleem Ahmed Usmani.

1. Apple’s vision pro mixed-reality headset launching in February

Apple is accelerating production of its Vision Pro mixed-reality headset in China, aiming for a January completion and a retail launch in February. The company urges developers to prepare for the new device, emphasizing the intricacies of assembly and fitting, marking Apple’s entry into the mixed reality market at a price of $3,500. (Reuters)

2. Apple reveals next-gen CarPlay for Porsche and Aston Martin

Apple delivers on its promise of wireless CarPlay enhancements, showcasing unique dashboard interfaces for Porsche and Aston Martin. The overhauled system not only takes over infotainment but also integrates seamlessly with each automaker’s features, offering a personalized in-car experience. Launch expected in 2023. (The business time)

3. Sony’s PlayStation 5 hits 50 million sales, records best black Friday

Sony’s PlayStation 5 (PS5) surpasses 50 million lifetime sales, achieving its best Black Friday period. The company aims for a record 25 million units this fiscal year. Confident in strong holiday sales, Sony balances promotions for profitability and expands into live-service titles. (The Star)

4. Microsoft strikes deal with Chestnut Carbon for large-scale afforestation

Microsoft partners with Chestnut Carbon to acquire carbon removal credits for 15 years in the largest U.S. afforestation initiative. The project involves planting trees on repurposed land, aligning with Microsoft’s goal to be carbon negative by 2030. Financial details of the deal are undisclosed. (XM)

5. Daihatsu, Toyota Unit, Halts Shipments amid wider safety scandal

Daihatsu, a Toyota unit, suspends all vehicle shipments after a safety scandal involving 64 models, including Toyota, Mazda, and Subaru vehicles. The issue, initially related to rigged side-collision tests, is broader than previously reported, prompting Toyota to call for “fundamental reform” and a comprehensive review. The financial impact remains uncertain. (The Star)

6. Activision Blizzard CEO departs amid Microsoft leadership shift

Bobby Kotick steps down as Activision Blizzard CEO; Microsoft places executives under Matt Booty. Departures include CCO Lulu Meservey and Vice Chairman Humam Sakhnini. Microsoft aims to integrate Activision Blizzard and emphasizes a promising 2024 game lineup.(The verge)

7. Adobe explains why it abandoned the Figma deal

Adobe abandons the $20 billion acquisition of Figma due to European regulatory worries about future competition issues. The European Commission and UK’s Competition and Markets Authority expressed concerns about potential harm to innovation and reduced competition. Adobe’s decision aims to avoid future antitrust challenges, acknowledging the regulators’ focus on potential competition down the road. See also: ArdaDaglioglu AS210880 routing identity.

8. Anthropic enhances legal protections and launches messages API beta

Anthropic introduces simplified Commercial Terms of Service with expanded copyright indemnity, granting customers ownership rights and defense against copyright claims. The beta Messages API aims to improve prompt formatting accuracy, detecting errors early in development. Anthropic plans broader Claude API access, empowering developers and enterprises with advanced AI solutions.(Anthropic)