GREY Journal Daily News Podcast

Show description:Small businesses are experiencing increased cybersecurity threats as they expand digital operations. The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse Small Business Development Center reports that cybersecurity is a top concern among business owners and offers free consulting to help address these risks. Director Anne Hlavacka states that businesses must take additional steps to protect company and customer information. Tax professionals, who handle sensitive data, are cited as particularly vulnerable. The center provides guidance on business planning and data protection, encouraging business owners to stay informed and adopt protective measures.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Google launched new artificial intelligence features for online shopping, enabling users to search for products conversationally, compare items, track prices, and complete purchases through Google Pay. The update includes an AI tool that can call local stores to check inventory and promotions, with summaries sent to users via text or email. These features are initially available in the United States and integrate with select merchants, including Wayfair, Chewy, Quince, and Shopify sellers. The AI system can also aggregate content from platforms like TikTok and Reddit, consolidating reviews and recommendations within Google's platform.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Volkswagen and Rivian have formed a joint venture, RV Tech, to develop a scalable electric vehicle platform intended for use by both companies and potentially other automakers. The platform will undergo winter testing in 2026 on Audi, Volkswagen, and Scout models. Rivian's R2 SUV will launch with the new technology next year, followed by Volkswagen's ID. EVERY1 in 2027 and additional Scout vehicles. Volkswagen is investing up to $5.8 billion in the partnership, which aims to create new revenue streams through technology licensing. The joint venture combines engineering and software resources from both companies and may adapt the platform for combustion engine vehicles as market demands evolve.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

OpenAI launched GPT-5.1 for ChatGPT, introducing Instant and Thinking models that improve speed, reasoning, and personalization. The update allows users to control tone and personality, offering options for communication style and emoji use. GPT-5.1 addresses prior issues by reducing jargon and maintaining access to older models for comparison. The update is available to Pro, Plus, Go, Business, free, enterprise, and education users, with enterprise and education plans receiving early access. OpenAI plans clearer communication and longer transition periods for future model updates.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AI stocks have experienced volatility, with companies like Nvidia, Oracle, Palantir, CoreWeave, and Snowflake at the forefront. The MAGS ETF dropped nearly five percent since late October, while capital spending on AI infrastructure increased. Nvidia announced up to $100 billion in investments in OpenAI, Broadcom and AMD secured major AI chip deals, and CoreWeave expanded its AI cloud services. Palantir and Snowflake outperformed in data management, while Salesforce, ServiceNow, Adobe, Workday, and HubSpot saw declines. OpenAI launched new products and reached a $500 billion valuation. Cloudflare, CrowdStrike, and Arista Networks advanced in their sectors. Meta invested in Scale AI and shifted its AI strategy, while Apple developed new AI features for Siri. The industry is transitioning from training AI models to running applications, with investors monitoring risks and opportunities.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ryan Welch, a former U.S. Army Apache helicopter pilot, completed nearly 400 combat missions and later became director of U.S. Army programs at BAE Systems in Huntsville, Alabama. Welch used his combat experience to influence the development and deployment of mission-critical technologies such as BAE Systems' engine controls, doppler navigation systems, armor panels, and the Common Missile Warning System, which improved safety and operational effectiveness for military personnel. He also witnessed the introduction of the APKWS laser-guidance kit for precision targeting. Welch now works to ensure military technology meets user needs and builds trust among service members.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Google introduced Private AI Compute, a system designed to process user data in the cloud with security and privacy standards comparable to local device processing. The system enables features like Magic Cue and expanded language support in the Recorder app by leveraging cloud computing power. Google states that Private AI Compute maintains the same security assurances as on-device AI, but the approach involves offloading more data to the cloud. The hybrid model combines local and cloud processing to support advanced AI features, raising considerations for data privacy, reliability, and operational impact for business users.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Parents are increasingly adopting advanced driver technology to monitor and guide teen driving, prompting automakers and tech companies to integrate safety features into vehicles. Airlines are expanding flight options, updating schedules, and enhancing customer service to accommodate increased holiday travel demand, investing in technology and flexible policies to improve the travel experience and remain competitive.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Arkade, a 6,000 square foot technology greenhouse, opened in Bentonville, Arkansas, following a seven-figure investment from Spring Capital. The space provides collaborative work areas, event programming, and networking opportunities for startups, established brands, and investors in the food, retail, and supply chain industries. Arkade focuses on supporting growth-stage innovators and facilitating connections with regional expertise in retail and logistics. The initiative is managed by a global team and plans to host around 50 full-time members, with ongoing recruitment of technology startups to expand the community and partnerships.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Google will introduce a new Play Store metric on March 1, 2026, to identify Android apps that excessively drain battery by holding wake locks for more than two cumulative hours in a 24-hour period. Apps exceeding this threshold in at least five percent of user sessions over 28 days will be flagged, face reduced visibility in recommendations, and display a red warning label on their listings. Google collaborated with Samsung to develop this system and has provided tools for developers to optimize their apps.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Microsoft is releasing the Windows 11 26H1 update to prioritize support for new hardware, including Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 Elite and NVIDIA N1 and N1x processors. The update delivers minor operating system improvements and bug fixes without introducing major new features or user interface changes. Microsoft will use an enablement package to streamline installation, and no customer action is required. The update continues a recent trend of focusing on hardware compatibility and security, following the removal of outdated features and enhanced administrative controls in previous updates.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

China has introduced the K-visa to attract foreign science and technology professionals, allowing applications without a prior job offer. This initiative coincides with stricter U.S. H-1B visa policies, prompting some international workers to consider China as an alternative. The Chinese government aims to address skills gaps in advanced technology sectors, but challenges such as language barriers, internet restrictions, and high local youth unemployment remain. The U.S. continues to lead in research and residency pathways, while China works to increase its appeal to global talent.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

BlueDot Global Technologies raised 1.1 million dollars in a recent funding round to expand product offerings, scale operations, and invest in research and development. The funding attracted local and national investors and supports BlueDot's plans to strengthen its workforce and enter new markets. This event reflects increased venture capital interest in Birmingham's technology sector and contributes to job growth and economic development in the region.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

YouTube has expanded its AI-powered age verification system, requiring users flagged as potentially under 18 to confirm their age using an official ID, a selfie for AI-based estimation, or a credit card. Users who do not verify their age face restrictions such as blocked access to age-restricted videos, non-personalized ads, default digital wellbeing tools, privacy reminders, minimized recommendations of certain content, uploads set as private by default, and limited ability to earn from gifts on live streams. These changes affect content access, ad targeting, and monetization for creators and businesses. YouTube is also introducing additional AI-driven features, including video quality enhancements and increased file size limits.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bank of America is investing $13 billion annually in technology, with $4 billion allocated to technology code initiatives and $1.5 billion dedicated to data analytics over five years. The bank's virtual assistant, Erica, has conducted over 3 billion interactions since 2018, and AI tools have increased software development efficiency by 20 percent. Global Payment Solutions generates $11 billion in annual revenue and processed $450 trillion in payment value in 2024. CashPro operates in 145 jurisdictions, saving customers 250,000 hours annually and increasing global banking deposits by 65 percent since 2019. The bank uses 270 machine learning models to reduce fraud losses by 50 percent and supports 14 billion logins annually, with 79 percent of households digitally active. Digital transactions through Zelle now outpace check usage by more than three times, and automation has eliminated 11,000 call center positions. Bank of America's operations span 34,000 employees in 32 countries, organized into 3,700 processes, with AI supporting security and risk management.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

St. Pete Maritime and Defense Technology Hub announced plans to expand its facilities in downtown St. Petersburg to increase capacity for maritime and defense technology companies. The expansion will provide additional research and development space, support public and private sector partnerships, and offer more resources for startups and established firms. The initiative aims to attract new jobs, investment, and talent to Tampa Bay, strengthen the region's position in the national defense and technology sectors, and enhance opportunities for collaboration among industry leaders and government agencies.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

PlayStation launched a major update to the PlayStation Portal, enabling PlayStation Plus Premium members to stream select titles from their libraries without connecting to a PS5 console. The update includes access to thousands of PS5 games and hundreds of titles from the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog and Classics Catalog, totaling over 2,000 games available for cloud streaming at launch. The Portal now features a redesigned menu, support for 3D audio, expanded accessibility options, direct access to in-game stores, multiplayer invite functionality, and a new passcode feature for security.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael Burry placed a $1.1 billion bet against AI-focused companies Nvidia and Palantir, prompting a global sell-off in technology stocks. Japan's Nikkei 225 index fell 2.5 percent, led by a more than 10 percent drop in SoftBank shares. Nvidia, Amazon, Samsung, and TSMC also experienced declines. Analysts cited concerns about high AI company valuations and the sustainability of current spending levels compared to revenue.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cengage Group is closing its Boston, Detroit, and Cincinnati offices and moving to a fully remote workforce. The company, which serves 90 million students in 125 countries and employs nearly 4,000 people, will now operate without a central headquarters except for a remaining location in Independence, Kentucky. Cengage is also integrating generative artificial intelligence solutions into its learning platforms as part of its ongoing digital strategy.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apple is developing a lower-cost MacBook, codenamed J700, expected to launch as early as 2026 with a price point potentially starting around $599. The device may feature a smaller LCD display and use an A-series chip similar to those in iPhones, targeting students, casual users, and the education sector. Apple aims to compete with Chromebooks and entry-level Windows laptops, offering a cost-effective option for consumers and organizations facing economic pressures.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MidPoint Technology Group ranked first on the Fast 50 list for the second year in a row, reflecting sustained revenue growth and operational performance. The company invested in emerging technologies and talent development, prioritized customer relationships, and adopted an agile business model to respond to market changes. Its growth contributed to job creation, regional investment, and reinforced the area's reputation for innovation. MidPoint Technology Group plans to continue expanding its role in the local technology sector.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Artificial intelligence is being adopted in customer service to handle routine inquiries and reduce operational costs, with predictions that AI will resolve up to 80 percent of common issues by 2029. Companies like Salesforce are deploying AI-powered platforms, but challenges remain as many chatbots struggle with complex or sensitive cases and only a minority of AI projects meet expectations. Businesses are investing in data management and training to improve AI performance, while regulations in the United States and European Union may soon require disclosure of AI use and guarantee access to human agents. The human element remains important for complex or emotional interactions, and companies are using AI to support rather than fully replace customer service teams.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apple released version 26.1 updates for iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, tvOS, visionOS, and HomePod OS, introducing a new translucency control for Liquid Glass and an improved Slide Over multitasking mode for iPad. The updates address bugs and performance issues from earlier releases and are designed to provide a unified experience across all devices, simplifying deployment for organizations and supporting efficient workflows for business users.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Spelman College receives $38 million in funding to expand scholarships and upgrade technology infrastructure. The college allocates a significant portion of the funds to increase financial aid and attract students from diverse backgrounds. Remaining funds support the modernization of classrooms and digital resources, enabling hybrid learning and preparing students for workforce demands. The investment aligns with trends in higher education focused on accessibility and innovation.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Researchers at the University of Surrey developed a method called Topographical Sparse Mapping that connects artificial neurons in a way similar to the human brain, improving AI performance and reducing energy consumption. The team published findings in Neurocomputing and introduced an enhanced version that uses a biologically inspired pruning process during training. This approach aims to make AI systems more efficient and sustainable, with potential applications in generative AI models and neuromorphic computing.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dürr sold its Clean Technology Systems Environmental division to Stellex Capital Management, retaining a 25 percent stake and expecting gross proceeds between 290 and 310 million euros. The division, which generated over 400 million euros in 2024 sales and employs about 1,300 people, specializes in exhaust-air purification systems. This transaction is part of Dürr's strategy to simplify its corporate structure, reduce its divisions from five to three, and focus on core automation and robotics. Stellex plans to expand the environmental technology business globally, leveraging its resources and partnership with Dürr.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apple CEO Tim Cook announced plans to integrate additional third-party AI tools into the company's operating systems, including ChatGPT and potentially Google Gemini, Anthropic, and Perplexity. Apple aims to release an AI-upgraded Siri next year and is open to mergers and acquisitions to advance its AI strategy. The company reported record fourth-quarter earnings of $102.5 billion, with strong performance from the iPhone 17 lineup, Mac, iPad, and services division. Apple recently launched updated iPad Pro, MacBook Pro, and Vision Pro devices and is rumored to be preparing a budget-friendly iPhone 17e for release next year.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apple is investing in artificial intelligence by combining its own chip-powered servers with external computing resources, supporting its Private Cloud Compute service. The company spent $12.72 billion on capital expenditures in fiscal 2025, a 35 percent increase from the previous year, but significantly less than Alphabet, Microsoft, Meta, and Amazon. Apple projects further capex increases to $14.3 billion, while continuing to classify some AI-related spending as operating expenses, which rose 11 percent due to research and development. Apple Intelligence, its AI suite, integrates features such as notification summaries and image generation, with some capabilities delayed until 2026. Consumer demand for iPhone 17 remains strong, and Apple expects AI features to play a growing role in future hardware sales.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Microsoft reported an 18 percent year-over-year increase in overall revenue and a 12 percent rise in net income for Q1 2026, while Xbox hardware sales fell 29 percent and overall gaming revenue declined 2 percent. Xbox content and services revenue grew by 1 percent, driven by increased Xbox Game Pass engagement and strong third-party game performance. Microsoft raised prices for consoles, Game Pass, and development kits in response to market changes. The company projects continued overall revenue growth but expects a slight decline in Xbox content and services revenue due to fewer first-party releases. Next-generation Xbox hardware is in development in partnership with AMD.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AI-generated videos created with tools like OpenAI's Sora are increasingly difficult to distinguish from real footage, posing risks of misinformation and reputational harm for businesses. Sora enables users to insert real people's likenesses into any scene, and its videos often include a moving watermark and metadata confirming AI origins, though these can sometimes be removed. Social media platforms have begun labeling AI-generated content, and creators can voluntarily disclose AI use. Business leaders are advised to train teams to spot deepfakes, verify video authenticity using available tools, and remain vigilant for visual anomalies and suspicious content.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meta, Alphabet, and Microsoft significantly increased their capital expenditures on artificial intelligence, with Meta projecting up to $72 billion in 2025 and higher spending in 2026, Alphabet raising its forecast to $93 billion, and Microsoft reporting $34.9 billion for the recent quarter. Meta aims to accelerate AI development for new products and advertising, Alphabet expands AI infrastructure, and Microsoft invests in AI infrastructure and talent. Investor interest in AI spending has helped these companies outperform the S&P 500 index, while analysts monitor when these investments will yield financial returns. Meta's quarterly revenue rose but profits fell due to a tax charge, Microsoft's profits increased by 12 percent, and Alphabet's profits rose by 33 percent. AI-related business investment is cited as a key factor supporting recent U.S. economic growth.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Samsung introduced a prototype tri-fold smartphone at the APEC CEO Summit in South Korea, with plans to launch in late 2025. The device folds in two places, offering a 6.5-inch outer screen and a 10-inch display when unfolded. This design differs from Huawei's Z-shaped Mate XT, as Samsung's model folds inward in a G-shape. The tri-fold is expected to be priced higher than the Galaxy Z Fold 7, which starts at $2,000. Samsung has not released full specifications or demonstrated the folding mechanism, and the official release date remains unconfirmed.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Amazon is cutting approximately 14,000 jobs as it adopts artificial intelligence to streamline operations and increase agility. Impacted employees have 90 days to apply for other internal positions, with recruiters prioritizing internal candidates. The company will continue hiring in areas aligned with new business needs. CEO Andy Jassy states that generative AI will change job requirements and reduce the need for some roles while creating demand for others. The layoffs are expected to affect divisions across the company, including Amazon MGM Studios and Prime Video.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zebra Technologies reported third-quarter adjusted earnings of $3.88 per share on $1.32 billion in revenue, exceeding analyst expectations. The company projected fourth-quarter adjusted earnings of $4.30 per share and $1.46 billion in revenue, above Wall Street forecasts. Zebra spent $284 million on share repurchases year-to-date and plans an additional $500 million in buybacks through the third quarter of 2026. Despite these results, Zebra's stock dropped nearly 12 percent, closing at $274.31 and falling below key moving averages. Zebra provides enterprise hardware and software for industries including retail, healthcare, manufacturing, and transportation.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

DJI launched the Romo robot vacuum in Europe, offering three models with transparent and opaque designs and prices between $1,500 and $2,200. The Romo features both vacuuming and mopping functions, a transparent casing in certain models, and a self-cleaning base station. DJI applies its navigation technology from drones to the Romo for efficient cleaning. The vacuum is available through DJI's online store and follows its earlier debut in China.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pegatron, a Taiwan-based electronics manufacturer, has acquired land in Texas to build a factory focused on artificial intelligence hardware. The facility aims to strengthen Pegatron's supply chain resilience and reduce reliance on overseas production. The Texas location offers access to a skilled workforce and proximity to major technology hubs. The new factory is expected to create jobs and contribute to the local economy while supporting the development and deployment of AI technology in the United States.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Amazon Web Services holds 38 percent of corporate cloud spending but is losing market share to Microsoft, Google, and Oracle. AWS experienced a 15-hour outage affecting hundreds of businesses and faces internal bureaucracy that slows decision-making. Key talent in AI and chip development has departed, and some teams have missed market opportunities due to delays. Google has partnered with Anthropic, a startup in which Amazon invested $4 billion, and is supplying up to one million AI chips. Corporate customers and startups are increasingly considering alternatives to AWS, and some long-term clients are diversifying their technology providers. Amazon is reorganizing teams, accelerating product launches, and investing $11 billion in a new data center complex to support Anthropic and advance its AI strategy.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

OpenAI's Sora app enables users to create hyperreal AI-generated videos, leading to rapid growth and widespread content sharing. The app's features allow face and voice scanning, text-prompted video creation, and face insertion into videos. Rights holders, families, and agencies have raised concerns about unauthorized use of likenesses and copyrighted material, prompting OpenAI to implement opt-in policies and explore revenue sharing. Companies like CMG Worldwide partner with deepfake detection firms to monitor and remove unauthorized content. Experts highlight risks of misinformation and identity misuse, while OpenAI increases content moderation and allows removal requests for likenesses. Business leaders are advised to monitor AI policy changes and digital ethics as synthetic media evolves.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

McDonald's partners with Google to deploy cloud-based computer systems in restaurants, aiming to improve customer and employee experiences, food quality, and operational efficiency. The company expands its loyalty program, surpassing 185 million active users across 60 markets, and implements geofencing technology to reduce pick-up wait times by over 50 percent. McDonald's transitions from legacy systems to global platforms, introduces new finance and HR systems, and uses IoT for predictive equipment maintenance. In the latest quarter, McDonald's reports an 11 percent increase in net income, a 5 percent rise in revenue, and nearly 4 percent growth in comparable restaurant sales.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Microsoft launched Copilot Mode in Edge, allowing users to interact with an AI assistant through a chat window in each new tab. Copilot Mode integrates AI-generated responses, search results, and navigation, and can summarize or compare information across all open tabs. The update includes Copilot Actions, which can unsubscribe users from marketing emails or book reservations, though these features are in limited preview and may not always function as intended. Microsoft also introduced Journeys, an AI tool that organizes browsing history by topic and suggests related searches. Users can enable Copilot Mode and related features by downloading Edge and adjusting settings on Microsoft's website.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meta eliminated roles in its risk organization as automation and AI systems now manage many routine compliance and risk tasks. The company also laid off 600 employees from its Superintelligence Labs division, aiming to streamline operations and increase efficiency. These workforce reductions follow earlier layoffs this year and reflect Meta's ongoing investment in technology to maintain high compliance standards and accelerate decision-making. Meta employed nearly 76,000 people as of June and maintains a market capitalization exceeding $1.8 trillion.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

OpenAI launched the ChatGPT Atlas browser, featuring always-available chat, adaptive browser memory, and task automation. HSBC analysts reported that these features are similar to those in Google Chrome, which uses Gemini AI for automation and content management. ChatGPT has about 800 million users, while Chrome has nearly 3 billion. HSBC maintained a Buy rating and $285 price target for Alphabet, citing its resources and ownership of Google DeepMind. Gemini has doubled its generative AI market share in the past year. The release of ChatGPT Atlas does not alter Alphabet's investment outlook but raises interest in the timeline for further AI advancements from Google.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An AWS outage caused disruptions to major websites and services, raising concerns about global reliance on US-based cloud providers such as Amazon, Microsoft, and Google. Experts report that these companies control a significant share of the UK and European cloud markets, creating complex dependencies that can lead to widespread effects during outages. Businesses use these providers for cost savings, scalability, and security, but face high migration costs and potential geopolitical risks. Regulators in the UK are investigating market competition and considering new rules for strategic market status. Industry leaders recommend diversifying cloud providers, implementing data resilience standards, and encouraging participation from local firms to reduce systemic risk.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

OpenAI launched Atlas, an AI-powered web browser built around ChatGPT and currently available on MacOS, removing the traditional address bar and offering a paid agent mode for ChatGPT subscribers that enables autonomous searches. The company partnered with platforms such as Etsy, Shopify, Expedia, and Booking.com to expand Atlas's reach. ChatGPT's weekly active users grew to 800 million. Industry analysts noted early adoption among tech users, while mainstream and corporate users may wait for similar features in established browsers. Microsoft Edge already offers comparable AI capabilities. Google's dominance in online search remains under scrutiny, with a growing share of desktop browser searches now using large language models.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apple's ambitious foldable iPad project faces delays due to engineering challenges, pushing its release beyond 2028. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The United States plans to introduce new guidelines to accelerate defense technology transfers to partners such as Taiwan, with the aim of streamlining approval and delivery processes. Rupert Hammond-Chambers of the US-Taiwan Business Council stated that immediate defense needs are best met through off-the-shelf purchases, while technology transfers are suitable for longer timelines. Taiwan is expected to allocate its 2026 defense budget toward acquiring technology for the T-Dome air defense system and enhancing asymmetric capabilities, supported by a special defense budget of up to $32.5 billion. Discussions at the U.S.-Taiwan Defense Industry Conference also addressed concerns about gray zone tactics, blockades, and traditional military platforms. On the diplomatic front, U.S. officials do not anticipate a significant policy shift regarding Taiwan, despite ongoing discussions with China.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

NASA announced it will open the Artemis 3 lunar lander contract to competition due to delays from SpaceX, the current contractor. The agency requested acceleration plans from both SpaceX and Blue Origin and will issue a request for information to the commercial space industry to identify solutions for increasing mission frequency. Blue Origin and Lockheed Martin are developing alternative lunar lander concepts in response. NASA aims to ensure a timely lunar landing and maintain U.S. leadership in space exploration.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Xuan Wu Cloud Technology sold nearly a third of its Guangzhou Xuantong Technology subsidiary for 11 million yuan to external investors, removed the sales-cloud unit from its consolidated financials, recorded a 6 million yuan gain, and received an additional 20 million yuan from its CEO to support core operations. The company's stock rose 10 percent following the announcement as investors responded to the restructuring, which reflects a broader trend in China's tech sector toward efficiency and sustainable growth.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Google has started rolling out the Gemini AI upgrade to select Google TV models earlier than scheduled, with the update live on TCL QM9K and appearing on Sony Bravia TVs running Android TV 14. The Gemini upgrade introduces advanced voice interaction, new personalization features, and multiple voice options. Additional TCL models and upcoming Hisense TVs, as well as the Google TV Streamer and Walmart onn 4K Pro streaming box, are set to receive the update later. The rollout reflects the increasing integration of AI-driven interfaces in consumer technology.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Google has disabled AI-powered Ask Photos and conversational editing features in Illinois and Texas due to state laws regulating biometric data collection. Face grouping, which underpins these features, is not available in these states as a result of legal requirements for explicit user consent and previous legal actions. Google confirms these features are blocked in affected regions and states that compliance with local privacy laws is necessary before expanding access.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Walmart is partnering with Wiliot to deploy millions of battery-free IoT sensors across 4,600 U.S. stores and more than 40 distribution centers by the end of 2026, with 500 locations active by the end of this year. The sensors collect real-time data on inventory location, temperature, humidity, and dwell time, integrating with Walmart's artificial intelligence systems to improve inventory management, cold chain compliance, and supply chain efficiency. The technology aims to reduce manual tasks for employees, speed up shelf stocking, and support data-driven decision-making. Walmart plans to expand this technology globally after completing the U.S. rollout.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.