From significant developments in the semiconductor industry to discussions on the future of internet governance and innovative IoT platforms, explore the latest advancements shaping the tech world.
Blockchain
1. VanEck CEO predicts SEC rejection of spot ethereum ETF application in May
VanEck CEO Jan van Eck and CoinShares CEO Jean-Marie Mognetti are skeptical about SEC’s approval for a spot ethereum ETF in May. Despite ethereum’s stable market value, approval could influence its liquidity and set a precedent for future crypto ETFs. (Blockchain.News)
Internet governance
2. RIPE NCC enhances cooperation with CIS countries at ITU Forum
The RIPE NCC actively participated in the ITU Regional Development Forum for the CIS on March 26-27, 2024. It engaged in discussions and partnerships, including talks on capacity building and IPv6 deployment in Central Asia, and joint initiatives with operator unions in Armenia and Kazakhstan. (RIPE NCC)
IT infrastructure
3. Deutsche Telekom, Airbus slam plan allowing Big Tech access to EU cloud data
Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Airbus, and 15 EU firms oppose a proposal enabling Amazon, Google, and Microsoft to bid for sensitive EU cloud contracts. (Reuters)
4. Google investing $1 bln to boost connectivity to Japan via two subsea cables
Google announces a $1 billion investment in two new subsea cables, Proa and Taihei, to enhance digital connectivity between the U.S., Japan, and Pacific islands. (U.S.News)
5. Vietnam’s Viettel to develop semiconductor industry, prime minister says
Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh urges Viettel to enhance the semiconductor chip industry diversification. Vietnam, hosting global firms like Intel and Samsung, aims to establish its first fab by the decade’s end. (Reuters)
6. Telecom Infra launches neutral host project group
The Telecom Infra Project’s Neutral Host & Infra Sharing Project Group’s charter approval sets the stage for ambitious initiatives in 2024. Led by four co-chairs, the group aims to expand the neutral host business model, benefiting various stakeholders and promoting collaboration in infrastructure development. (Capacity)
Data centre
7. US electric utilities brace for surge in power demand from data centres
U.S. electric utilities anticipate a surge in demand due to data centres supporting generative AI and other technologies. Major power companies expect substantial electricity sales growth, prompting revisions in capital expenditure plans and demand forecasts. (U.S.News)
Social
8. Foxconn considers rotating CEOs in management reshuffle
Foxconn, an Apple supplier, mulls a rotating CEO system to revamp its management, aiming to groom future leaders. Uncommon globally, this structure fosters teamwork and prevents entrenched leadership, analysts note. (Reuters)
9. Apple retail store in Short Hills, New Jersey files to unionise
Employees at an Apple store in Short Hills, New Jersey, petition for unionisation, joining four other US stores. Represented by Communications Workers of America, they aim to secure better pay and working conditions. (Mac Daily News)
AI
10. Meta debuts new generation of AI chip
Meta Platforms reveals details about its next-generation in-house AI accelerator chip, “Artemis,” aimed at reducing reliance on Nvidia’s chips and cutting energy costs. (CNBC)
11. Intel reveals details of new AI chip to fight Nvidia dominance
Intel introduces a new AI chip, Gaudi 3, challenging Nvidia’s semiconductor dominance at its Vision event. Intel claims Gaudi 3 trains large language models 50% faster than Nvidia’s prior H100 processor and accelerates generative AI responses compared to H100 chips. (Reuters)
12. Qualcomm launches AI-ready IoT platform at Embedded World 2024
Qualcomm unveils AI-compatible IoT platforms at Embedded World in Nuremberg, including the RB3 Gen 2. Designed for various applications like robots and industrial devices, it supports AI, computer vision, and camera sensors, catering to diverse IoT needs. (IoT World Today)
IoT
13. Qt and Qualcomm collaborate to accelerate IoT development
Qt Group and Qualcomm collaborate to enhance GUI development and software quality assurance for industrial IoT devices. Integrating Qt’s tools with Qualcomm processors aims to accelerate time-to-market for IoT manufacturers. (IoT news)
14. Japan in talks to join military technology alliance
Aukus debates Japan’s potential inclusion in the trilateral security partnership between Australia, the U.K., and the U.S. The alliance focuses on emerging technologies like quantum, AI, and cyber capabilities. (IoT World Today)
15. Multi-purpose EV charging platform launched, Embedded World 2024
DFI debuts an Intel-powered EV charging system with AI capabilities at Embedded World. The system combines multiple functions in one device, including charging control, digital advertising, interactive kiosks, and payment transactions, highlighting its versatility and efficiency in infrastructure solutions. (IoT World Today)
16. Flying vehicle showcased at Sun ‘N Fun Expo, Florida
The 50th Annual Sun N’ Fun Aerospace Expo in Lakeland attracts enthusiasts from around the globe. With participants from 80 countries, the event is anticipated to inject around $150 million into the local economy. (WFLA)
