From our Manhattan news studio, welcome to the GREY Journal Daily News Podcast! We bring you digestible news and business insights tailored for ambitious entrepreneurs and CEOs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Google is beta testing a feature called Call Reason in the Phone by Google app, allowing Android users to mark calls as urgent. The urgency indicator appears on the recipient's incoming call screen and remains in the call history if missed. The feature requires both parties to be saved in each other's contacts and to use Google's default calling app. Availability depends on device manufacturer, and users can check for updates in the Google Play Store. The current version only supports the urgent label, with potential for future expansion.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Element Fleet Management acquired Car IQ to integrate vehicle payment technology that enables automated, secure payments for services like fuel, tolls, and maintenance. The acquisition aims to streamline expense management for commercial fleets, reduce administrative tasks, and enhance transaction security through vehicle-centric authentication. The move accelerates digital transformation in the fleet management industry and expands Element's digital payment solutions for business clients.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

PayRange acquired KioSoft Technologies to expand its portfolio and reach in unattended retail payments, integrating KioSoft's technology and customer base. The combined company will offer a broader range of cashless payment solutions to industries such as laundromats and vending operations. The acquisition reflects ongoing consolidation in the payment industry to address increasing demand for digital and contactless transactions. Clients can expect new product offerings and enhanced support as integration continues.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Samsung announced the Galaxy Z TriFold, its first multi-folding smartphone, launching December 12 in South Korea and expanding to additional markets including China, Taiwan, Singapore, the UAE, and the US in early 2026. The device features a 10-inch display, two inward-folding hinges, 16GB of memory, 512GB of storage, and the largest battery capacity among Samsung foldables, with super-fast charging. Samsung is releasing the TriFold in limited volume to test durability, hinge design, and software performance, while collecting user feedback. The launch comes amid increased competition from Chinese brands such as Huawei and Honor, who have advanced their own foldable devices, and as Apple is expected to enter the foldable market in 2026.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Polly Chu, with over 30 years of industry experience and 21 patents, has been appointed executive director of the Battery Tech Hub led by Binghamton University. The initiative, part of the New Energy New York ecosystem and supported by the U.S. Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration, aims to strengthen domestic battery manufacturing, drive economic growth, and create jobs by connecting businesses, academia, government, and nonprofits. The Tech Hub supports education, workforce development, innovation, and supply chain advancement, and collaborates with regional programs like the NSF Energy Storage Engine to build a robust battery manufacturing ecosystem in Upstate New York.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WACKER and SICO Performance Material opened a 2,300-square-meter application development center in Jining, China, to advance organofunctional silane technology for plastics, coatings, and adhesives. The facility consolidates research, technical support, and production resources, enabling faster product development and market introduction. WACKER holds a majority stake in SICO and aims to address rising demand for specialty silanes in sectors such as electromobility, electronics, power engineering, and telecommunications.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Iowa completed a five-year technology upgrade, integrating 22 state departments into a single system for tax, alcohol, and lottery operations. The new GovConnectIowa platform enables users to file taxes, obtain business licenses, and communicate with the Department of Revenue online. Over 400,000 users have registered, and the system has processed more than 8.7 million web forms and 40,000 messages. The project involved multiple state agencies and received national awards for innovation and accessibility.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 driving advancements across industries, with agentic AI enabling autonomous workflows and application-specific semiconductors meeting increased computing demands. Quantum computing is progressing toward practical applications, while autonomous systems and robotics are expanding into real-world use cases. Human-machine collaboration is evolving through improved interfaces and adaptive intelligence. Scaling these technologies requires addressing infrastructure, supply chain, and regulatory challenges. Nations and corporations are investing in sovereign infrastructure and localized chip manufacturing to reduce geopolitical risk. Responsible innovation is prioritized to ensure transparency and accountability. Investment in frontier technologies has stabilized and rebounded in sectors such as cloud computing, bioengineering, and robotics. Business leaders are focusing on talent, infrastructure, and regulatory adaptation to accelerate technology adoption and transformation.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tribute Technology partnered with Family Shield Credit to integrate funeral financing solutions into its platform, enabling funeral homes to offer families flexible payment options for funeral expenses. This partnership aims to streamline payment processes, improve cash flow for service providers, and address changing consumer expectations by making funeral services more accessible through manageable payment plans.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 reduced free access limits for Gemini 3 Pro and Nano Banana Pro, setting new daily caps and making limits subject to frequent change in response to high demand and capacity constraints. Free users now have basic access with prompt and image generation limits that may vary, while NotebookLM has temporarily restricted new features for both free and Pro users. Paid Google AI Pro and Ultra subscribers retain their existing usage limits without interruption.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Show description:OpenAI's ChatGPT and Microsoft's Copilot will be removed from WhatsApp on January 15, 2026, due to Meta's updated terms of service prohibiting third-party AI chatbots not developed by Meta from using the WhatsApp Business API. ChatGPT users can link their accounts to preserve chat history, while Copilot users do not have this option. Other AI chatbot providers are also expected to leave WhatsApp. Meta will continue to allow customer support and update bots, but will restrict the platform from serving as a distribution channel for competing AI products.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

DuoTech, a defense technology company based in North Carolina, is expanding to Huntsville, Alabama, with a 25,000-square-foot operations center set to open in spring 2026. The company cites Huntsville's strong defense sector and skilled workforce as reasons for the move. DuoTech specializes in military electronics repair, automated test equipment, and electronic warfare products, providing cost-saving services to clients. The expansion is expected to create at least 50 new jobs. DuoTech partnered with The Square Foot Huntsville Group to secure a facility that meets its technical and security needs. Local business leaders report increased demand for commercial real estate and jobs in Huntsville, and public-private collaboration played a key role in the project.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Purpose Technology Group announced the relocation of its headquarters to the Crossroads Arts District in Kansas City to align with a collaborative business environment, gain proximity to downtown, access public transportation, and leverage the area's resources for future growth and talent attraction.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Qualcomm launched the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset, which uses an Oryon CPU structure with lower clock speeds than the Elite version and delivers increased CPU and GPU performance compared to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. The chip supports satellite connectivity, ultra wideband, and an X80 modem with slightly reduced peak 5G speeds, while maintaining Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, charging, display, and most camera hardware capabilities. The Gen 5 does not support UFS 4.1 storage. Motorola, OnePlus, and Vivo plan to use the chip in upcoming devices, including the OnePlus 15R, with product launches expected soon.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Federal authorities charged four men, including two U.S. citizens and two Chinese nationals, with smuggling advanced NVIDIA GPUs from Tampa to China using a shell company and falsified shipping documents. The operation allegedly routed shipments through Malaysia and Thailand, received over $3.8 million in wire transfers from China, and attempted four large exports, two of which were intercepted by law enforcement. The defendants face up to 20 years in prison for money laundering and export control violations, and up to 10 years for each smuggling charge.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fidelity Investments' Center for Applied Technology is advancing research and development in artificial intelligence, blockchain, and data analytics to improve financial services. The center collaborates with startups, academic institutions, and technology partners to accelerate innovation and bring new solutions to market. These initiatives aim to enhance customer experiences, optimize operations, and create opportunities for business owners and startup founders to engage with emerging technologies.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Show description:Google responded to viral social media claims that Gmail content is used to train its Gemini AI model, stating that no user settings have changed and Gmail messages are not part of Gemini's training data. The company clarified that Gmail's smart features have existed for years and confirmed that any future changes to data policies will be communicated directly. Google emphasized the importance of verifying information through official channels amid the spread of misinformation online.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Polly Chu has been appointed executive director of the Battery Tech Hub, a Binghamton University-led initiative within the New Energy New York ecosystem, which aims to strengthen U.S. battery manufacturing and support technology innovation. The initiative operates under the U.S. Department of Commerce's Build Back Better Regional Challenge, focusing on workforce development, education, prototyping, and supply chain support. Chu brings over 30 years of industry experience, including roles at Corning Incorporated and 21 patents in material science. The Battery Tech Hub collaborates with organizations such as the National Science Foundation's Energy Storage Engine to align innovation and workforce development, supporting both startups and established companies 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.

Cisco has doubled its presence in Washington D.C. by opening a technology showcase that allows business and government clients to explore networking, cybersecurity, and collaboration solutions through interactive demonstrations and workshops. The facility provides direct access to Cisco experts, supports digital transformation initiatives, and offers personalized consultations. The expansion is intended to foster networking and knowledge sharing among industry leaders, technology professionals, startups, and established enterprises in the D.C. area. Cisco's investment is part of a long-term strategy to support modernization efforts in both public and private sectors.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 updating Windows 11 File Explorer with preloading to improve launch speed, particularly on devices with limited processing power, and allowing users to disable this feature if desired. The context menu is being redesigned to reduce clutter by moving less-used actions into submenus and grouping common tasks in a new manage file flyout. Cloud file options, including Send to My Phone, are relocated to a dedicated section. These changes are in developer preview builds and are expected to roll out to all users in early 2026.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A federal judge is considering whether to break up Google's advertising technology business following arguments from the Department of Justice that a forced sale of key ad tech units is necessary to restore competition. The DOJ seeks the divestiture of technology handling ad transactions and data sharing with competitors, while Google proposes behavioral changes as a faster alternative to a lengthy breakup process. Judge Leonie Brinkema, who previously ruled Google holds illegal ad tech monopolies, is weighing the practicality and timing of both remedies, with a decision expected next year. The outcome could mark the first major breakup of a tech giant in the modern internet era and significantly impact Google's $3.64 trillion business.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 introduced a new feature for the Pixel 10 smartphone that allows users to share files directly with iPhones using a workaround compatible with Apple's AirDrop protocol. This update enables cross-platform file transfers between Android and iOS devices, addressing previous limitations in mixed-device environments. The development targets business owners and teams that use both platforms, aiming to improve workflow efficiency and device interoperability. The move also challenges Apple's closed ecosystem and may influence future industry standards for mobile file sharing.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A U.S. court is considering whether Google must break up its advertising technology business after the Department of Justice and several states alleged the company holds illegal monopolies in digital advertising. Judge Leonie Brinkema has ruled that Google maintains two illegal ad tech monopolies, and the DOJ is seeking the sale of Google's AdX platform to restore competition. Google argues that a breakup would be technically complex and disruptive. The company plans to appeal any adverse rulings, potentially extending the legal process for years. Google is also appealing a separate antitrust decision related to its search and advertising practices. Other major tech companies, including Meta, Amazon, and Apple, are facing similar antitrust cases 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.

Xchange Chicago opened a 28,000-square-foot technology business hub in Grand Crossing to provide workforce development and tech innovation opportunities for local residents. The initiative, supported by the Comer Science and Education Foundation, P33, SDI Presence, and community stakeholders, offers apprenticeship programs in fields such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and cybersecurity, leading to direct job placements with SDI Presence. Mayor Brandon Johnson and business leaders attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony, and SDI Presence committed to a 10-year lease at the facility. The project aims to redirect IT outsourcing budgets to local services, support economic growth, and bring IT investment back to Chicago.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Action1, Cart.com, and Tellihealth, all based in Houston, secured spots on the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 list, which ranks North America's fastest-growing technology, media, telecommunications, life sciences, fintech, and energy tech companies by three-year revenue growth. Action1 provides cloud-based endpoint security and patch management, Cart.com offers an e-commerce platform for online sales and logistics, and Tellihealth delivers remote patient monitoring solutions. Their inclusion highlights Houston's increasing presence in the national 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.

Microsoft introduced Copilot Actions, an experimental AI feature for Windows designed to automate tasks such as file organization and email management. Security experts identified vulnerabilities including AI hallucinations and prompt injection, which can result in incorrect responses and allow hackers to execute malicious commands. Microsoft stated that Copilot Actions is off by default and recommended only experienced users enable it, but did not specify required expertise or protective steps. IT administrators can manage the feature using tools like Intune, though concerns remain about user awareness and security prompt fatigue. Similar AI integrations are being adopted by other major tech companies, often moving from optional to default features. Business leaders are advised to evaluate security risks when adopting new AI technologies.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Show description:Cisco is doubling its office space in Washington D.C. to establish a technology showcase for clients in the public and private sectors. The new facility will provide hands-on access to networking, cybersecurity, and collaboration tools, enabling organizations to explore digital solutions and collaborate with Cisco experts. This expansion aims to support digital transformation and innovation for business and government clients 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.

A recent Udemy report finds that nearly three-quarters of Indian employees aged 18 to 70 are using AI tools at work and actively reskilling to remain competitive, but many companies have not provided clear strategies or guidance for applying AI in daily business operations, resulting in a gap between employee readiness and organizational implementation.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Show description:Xchange Chicago opened a 28,000 square foot technology business hub in Grand Crossing to train South Side residents for tech careers through apprenticeship programs. The initiative, supported by the Comer Science and Education Foundation, P33, SDI Presence, and local stakeholders, aims to address gaps in IT services and economic development. The hub provides hands-on training in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and cybersecurity, with participants moving into roles at SDI Presence. SDI Presence committed to a ten-year lease, and corporate partners are redirecting IT outsourcing spend to local talent. Over 50 residents have already benefited, and the hub is expected to drive workforce and commercial growth while retaining investment in Chicago.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Microsoft has introduced experimental agentic AI features in Windows 11, including Copilot Actions, to automate tasks like organizing files and scheduling meetings. These features are available in early test builds and are off by default. Microsoft has implemented security measures such as separate user accounts for AI agents, required user approvals for data access, and detailed activity logs to address potential risks of unauthorized actions. The company is collecting feedback to refine these tools before broader release, with a focus on balancing increased productivity and security 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.

ThreatLocker announced plans to hire hundreds of technology professionals in Orlando, including roles in software development, cybersecurity analysis, IT operations, and project management. The expansion aims to meet increased demand for cybersecurity services and is expected to create opportunities for both experienced professionals and recent graduates. Local economic leaders noted that the new jobs will contribute to Orlando's economic growth and support its position as a technology hub.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Google parent Alphabet is in settlement negotiations with the U.S. Department of Justice over allegations of monopolistic practices in online advertising following a federal court ruling that Google illegally monopolized ad auction technology. The DOJ has proposed that Google sell its Google Ad Manager business, and delays in trial closing arguments suggest ongoing settlement talks. A settlement could affect other digital ad companies including Magnite, PubMatic, and Trade Desk. Google has also submitted remedies to the European Commission after receiving a nearly 3 billion euro antitrust fine. Google shares rose over four percent amid news of the settlement talks, while shares of other ad tech firms experienced volatility.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Google disabled remote control features for early Nest Learning Thermostats but continues to collect data such as manual temperature changes, occupancy, sunlight exposure, and sensor readings. Security researcher Cody Kociemba, working with right-to-repair group FULU, discovered ongoing data transmission while restoring smart features to unsupported devices. Google states these logs are for diagnostics, but discontinued support means the data no longer assists users. FULU awarded Kociemba and another developer for their efforts to restore smart functionality, highlighting ongoing data collection practices after official device support ends.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Northwell Health Physician Partners will expand its office space at Stony Brook Technology Center in East Setauket, New York, increasing its total area to nearly thirteen thousand square feet by early 2026. The expansion supports Northwell Primary Care's delivery of services such as annual checkups, health screenings, immunizations, and chronic disease management. The site, owned by Tritec Real Estate and located near three major hospitals, offers strategic access for healthcare providers. Colliers facilitated the lease transaction, highlighting continued demand for medical office space 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.

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.