Today’s edition showcases developments across various sectors, including blockchain, fintech, IT infrastructure, AI, and IoT. From the Philippines’ regulatory moves against Binance to Coca-Cola’s billion-dollar deal with Microsoft.
Blockchain
1. Philippines orders removal of Binance from Google and Apple app stores
The Philippines’ SEC ordered Google and Apple to remove Binance’s apps from their stores due to alleged violations of securities laws. Binance faces accusations of offering unregistered securities and operating as an unregistered broker. (CNBC)
Fintech
2. Walmart-backed fintech One introduces buy now, pay later
Walmart’s fintech startup One enters the buy now, pay later market. Walmart’s broader strategy aims to diversify revenue streams beyond retail. (CNBC)
IT infrastructure
3. China acquired recently banned Nvidia chips in Super Micro, Dell servers, tenders show
Chinese universities and research institutes acquired high-end Nvidia AI chips via resellers despite U.S. bans. Nvidia and server makers claimed compliance with export laws. (Reuters)
4. Google invests $640 mln in new data centre in Netherlands
Google’s $640.62 million investment in a Groningen data centre, aims to create 125 jobs. Since 2014, Google has invested over $4.1 billion in Dutch data centres and related infrastructure. (Reuters)
5. IBM nearing deal for cloud software provider HashiCorp, source says
IBM is reportedly close to acquiring cloud software provider HashiCorp, driving the latter’s stock up by 24% to a market value of $6.1 billion. IBM pursues acquisitions to bolster its cloud offerings. (Reuters)
Tech trends
6. Apple announces event on May 7 amid reports of new iPad model launches
Apple confirmed a May 7 event for the unveiling of revamped iPad Pro and iPad Air models. Suppliers accelerated production in anticipation. This marks the lineup’s first significant update since 2018. (Yahoo!Finance)
AI
7. Microsoft launches lightweight AI model
Microsoft launches Phi-3-mini, a lightweight AI model, aiming to broaden its clientele with cost-effective solutions. It’s the first of three small language models (SLM). Sébastien Bubeck, Microsoft’s VP of GenAI research, emphasises its 10x cost advantage. (Reuters)
8. Coca-Cola signs $1.1 bln deal to use Microsoft cloud, AI services
Microsoft announced Coca-Cola’s $1.1 billion, five-year deal to leverage its cloud computing and AI services. The agreement includes joint experimentation with Azure OpenAI, integrating technology from Microsoft-backed OpenAI. (Reuters)
9. Adobe to bring full AI image generation to Photoshop this year
Adobe announces plans to integrate a full artificial intelligence image generation tool into Photoshop later this year. Amidst competition from startups like OpenAI, Midjourney, and Stability AI, Adobe’s Firefly AI system aims to enhance creative capabilities while avoiding copyright issues. (Reuters)
IoT
10. HPE Aruba Wi-Fi 7 launch lays ‘the foundation’ to power advanced AI, IoT services
HPE Aruba Networking unveils its inaugural Wi-Fi 7-capable access points, focusing on more than just the new standard. The 730 Series APs offer integrated network security, location-based services, and robust connectivity. (CRN)
