Top tech news today: Bitcoin still hits record highs with Trump boost, Visa teams with Affirm on a new payment card, Starlink expands internet in Chad.
1. Bitcoin rally nears $90,000 on Trump boost
Bitcoin’s record-breaking rally is approaching $90,000, driven by renewed interest attributed to former President Donald Trump’s support for cryptocurrencies. Economic Times
2. Kaiko acquires Vinter, eyes European crypto market
Cryptocurrency data provider Kaiko acquires Vinter, setting its sights on strengthening its European crypto Exchange Traded Product (ETP) offerings. Reuters
3. Brazil promotes IPv6 segment routing with VPN
Brazil’s IX.br initiative is advancing IPv6 segment routing with VPN support to enhance network performance and reduce congestion. LACNIC Blog
Also read: Network infrastructure in Palestine: Political challenges and resource constraints
4. Vietnam expands chip industry as firms cut China ties
Vietnam is broadening its chip packaging industry, offering an alternative for companies looking to reduce their dependency on Chinese supply chains. TBS News
Also read: Malaysia becomes a semiconductor hub
5. Musk’s Starlink aims for India’s satellite clearance
Elon Musk’s Starlink is working toward gaining security clearance from India, which could pave the way for its satellite broadband services in the region. Jagran
6. Apple urged by EU to end geo-blocking on App Store
The EU has asked Apple to stop geo-blocking on the App Store, aiming to ensure equal access across EU countries for various digital services. Free Malaysia Today
Also read: China-based EV makers hit with European Union tariffs
7. Visa, Affirm introduce innovative US payment card
Visa partners with Affirm to launch a payment card that will provide flexible, interest-free installment payments for U.S. customers. Finimize
8. Meta to offer less personalized ads in EU
Meta will reduce the level of personalization in ads across the EU in a concession to privacy regulators, reflecting a shift in data use practices. TipRanks
9. Netflix ad tier reaches 70 million users worldwide
Netflix reports that its ad-supported tier has reached 70 million global users, reflecting strong adoption among cost-conscious subscribers. Variety
10. Starlink secures permission in Chad for internet access
Chad has approved Elon Musk’s Starlink to provide internet services, aiming to expand connectivity across underserved regions in the country. Reuters
11. French newspapers sue X over content usage
French newspapers have initiated legal action against Elon Musk’s platform X, alleging unauthorized use of their content. Al Jazeera
12. Infineon forecasts weak demand for 2025
German chipmaker Infineon projects lower-than-expected demand for 2025, citing uncertainties in the semiconductor market. Economic Times
13. VinFast secures $3.4 billion in fresh funding
Loss-making EV manufacturer VinFast has received an additional $3.4 billion in funding from its founder and parent company to support its growth. Veterinaire Lucciana
14. Juniper Networks invests in AI startup Recogni
Juniper Networks backs AI startup Recogni with a $102 million investment, signaling support for emerging technologies in artificial intelligence. Street Insider
15. Amazon offers free computing power to AI researchers
Amazon is providing AI researchers with free computing resources, aiming to support the community and present an alternative to Nvidia’s dominance. Reuters
16. Adobe adds AI tools to stock photo business
Adobe introduces new AI-driven features in its stock photography platform, aiming to streamline content creation for users. Channel News Asia
17. Shopify’s AI tools boost holiday forecast
Shopify is expecting strong holiday sales, bolstered by new AI tools that have been drawing in customers and improving user experience. Business Times
18. Baidu launches AI text-to-image and no-code app tools
Baidu expands its AI lineup with a text-to-image generator and a no-code app builder, marking a major step in accessible AI tools for users. Economic Times
