Top tech news today: UBS explores blockchain payments, Amazon expands Italy data centers, and Qualcomm benefits from rising chip sales.
1. UBS launches blockchain payment pilot
Swiss bank UBS is piloting a blockchain-based system to streamline payment processes and reduce operational costs in finance. Finextra
2. Türkiye hosts Internet Measurement Day
Türkiye’s Internet Measurement Day aims to boost transparency in digital infrastructure, engaging local stakeholders in discussions on network quality and internet access. RIPE
3. Amazon to invest $1.3B in Italy data centers
Amazon announces a $1.3 billion investment in Italy, expanding its data center footprint to support the country’s growing digital infrastructure. Economic Times
4. Qualcomm sales surge with Chinese demand
Qualcomm’s chip sales rise due to strong demand from Chinese smartphone makers, driving quarterly revenue growth. Medial
5. BT announces significant job cuts
UK telecom giant BT announces job cuts as part of a strategy to streamline operations and cut costs. Capacity Media
6. OpenAI acquires pricey domain name
OpenAI spends millions on a premium domain name as it enhances brand visibility and market position. Capacity Media
7. Warner Bros. CEO urges merger regulation
Warner Bros. Discovery’s CEO David Zaslav calls for tighter regulations on mergers, citing market consolidation concerns. Deadline
8. TSMC maintains US investment plan
Taiwan’s TSMC reaffirms commitment to U.S. expansion despite potential political changes, underscoring global manufacturing focus. Investing
9. AT&T buys spectrum licenses from U.S. Cellular
AT&T acquires spectrum licenses worth $1 billion from U.S. Cellular, aiming to expand its network reach. Slashdot
10. Qualcomm benefits from smartphone recovery
Qualcomm sees growth as Chinese smartphone market rebounds, driven by demand for advanced chipsets. Business Standard
11. Serve Robotics acquires Vebu automation
Serve Robotics purchases Vebu, known for avocado-picking automation, expanding its robotic capabilities. Restaurant Dive
12. Audi unveils new e-concept in China
Audi announces a rebrand and launches its latest e-concept, strengthening its presence in the Chinese EV market. The Verge
13. India raids Amazon, Flipkart sellers’ offices
Indian authorities raid vendors associated with Amazon and Flipkart, investigating potential violations. Economic Times
14. Japan JV secures Archer air taxi orders
JAL-Sumitomo JV wins rights for up to 100 Archer air taxis, marking progress in air mobility. i3 Investor
15. Australia considers social media age restrictions
Australia proposes a social media ban for users under 16 to enhance online safety. CBS News
16. Rivian and LG partner on new EV battery
Rivian teams up with LG Energy for a new EV battery, set for release in upcoming models. The Verge
17. AOL’s ‘You’ve got mail’ voice dies
Elwood Edwards, the iconic AOL voice behind “You’ve got mail,” passes away. NY Daily News
18. Google Cloud and Lumen team up on AI
Google Cloud collaborates with Lumen to enhance network operations using AI-driven solutions. Capacity Media