Are you tired of scouring the internet for the latest tech news? Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with a compact and engaging summary of the need-to-know global tech scoops. Get ready for a quick dive into the exciting world of technology today!
1. Google to invest $1 billion in UK data centre
Google announces a $1 billion investment in a new data centre in Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire, UK, supporting AI innovation and providing crucial compute capacity. The facility aims for 24/7 carbon-free energy by 2030, emphasizing sustainability. This marks Google’s ongoing commitment to the UK, following previous investments and initiatives. (Google Blog)
2. OpenAI, Arizona State University partner to expand AI in academia
OpenAI collaborates with Arizona State University (ASU) to bring ChatGPT Enterprise to academia, offering secure and private access. ASU President Michael Crow expresses optimism about AI’s role in education. The partnership aims to expand ChatGPT’s impact in higher education, following OpenAI’s previous collaborations in the media sector. (USNews)
3. U.S. ETF launches set early record in 2024, helped by spot bitcoin funds
The U.S. sees a record start to 2024 with 35 ETF launches in the first two weeks, boosted by 11 spot bitcoin ETFs. Analysts anticipate a surpassing of the 2023 annual record of 520 launches. Spot bitcoin funds attracted $1.9 billion in assets within three days. (Reuters)
4. Spot bitcoin ETFs draw nearly $2 billion in first three days of trading
New U.S. bitcoin ETFs attract $1.9 billion in the first three days of trading, led by BlackRock and Fidelity. Despite falling short of aggressive estimates, lower fees and brand recognition drive investor interest. Analysts question the ETFs’ staying power amid bitcoin’s volatility. (Reuters)
5. Cummins, Daimler Truck, PACCAR pick Mississippi for battery cell production
Cummins, Daimler Truck, and PACCAR select Marshall County, Mississippi, as the location for a 21-gigawatt hour advanced battery cell manufacturing facility for electric vehicles. The joint venture aims to commence production in 2027, generating over 2,000 jobs. (Reuters)
6. Meta ramps up AI efforts by building chip arsenal, consolidating teams
Meta intensifies AI efforts by bolstering its chip arsenal and consolidating teams, aiming to support generative AI applications. The company, formerly Facebook, is investing in AI technology, including internally designed chips, as it pivots towards the AR/VR-driven metaverse vision. (Reuters)
7. Illicit crypto addresses received at least $24.2 billion in 2023 – report
Crypto research firm Chainalysis reveals that at least $24.2 billion worth of cryptocurrency was sent to illicit addresses in 2023, including those linked to terrorism, scams, and sanctioned entities. The figure is likely an underestimate and is expected to rise as more illicit addresses are identified. (USNews)
8. EU sends information request to 17 tech firms including Amazon, Apple, Meta
The European Commission issues information requests under the Digital Services Act to 17 tech giants, including Amazon, Apple, and Meta. The companies are asked to provide details on measures to grant researchers access to relevant data for elections and combating illegal online content and goods by February 9. (The Economic Times)
9. Exclusive: Reddit seeks to launch IPO in March
Reddit is planning to launch its initial public offering (IPO) in March, seeking to sell about 10% of its shares. The San Francisco-based social media platform, valued at about $10 billion, aims to complete the IPO by the end of March. (The Star)
10. US semiconductor index jumps as TSMC signals strong AI chip demand
The U.S. semiconductor index rises over 2% as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) signals strong demand for high-end chips used in AI. TSMC forecasts more than 20% growth in 2024 revenue, driving optimism in the semiconductor market. (Reuters)
