Polaris Dawn is the first of a series of private spaceflight missions being carried out with the help of SpaceX.

According to Elon Musk, the mission represents the farthest from Earth that anyone has been since the lunar landings, as well as the first private spacewalk.

Polaris Dawn is an important spaceflight from a scientific standpoint, as it will provide an opportunity to study the effectics of cosmic radiation on the astronauts, thanks to the mission’s flight plan, as NSF points out.

Following orbital insertion, the crew performs systems checks and pass through an area of high radiation known as the South Atlantic Anomaly. Dragon will then raise its apogee to 1,400 km, breaking the crew altitude record set by Gemini 11 in 1966 of 1,369 km. It also marks the farthest humans have been from the Earth since the Apollo program. This will also mean Gillis and Menon will set the record for the farthest distance traveled away from the planet by a woman.

Oracle Corporation, once seen as a laggard in the cloud industry, is making a powerful resurgence in the artificial intelligence (AI) market. With partnerships that include tech giants such as Nvidia and Amazon Web Services (AWS), Oracle is leveraging its newfound AI momentum to accelerate its growth in the cloud computing space. The company’s shares have surged, boosted by an earnings report that surpassed Wall Street’s expectations. This revival story is a testament to Oracle’s strategic pivot into AI and cloud services, areas that are increasingly defining the future of technology.

Surprising Earnings and AI Growth Power Stock Surge

Oracle’s most recent earnings report exceeded all projections, triggering a 9% spike in the company’s stock in premarket trading. The stock is now up roughly 33% for the year, significantly outpacing competitors such as Microsoft, Google, and Amazon. The earnings for the fiscal first quarter of 2024 showed a 6.9% rise in revenue to $13.31 billion, alongside a 10% leap in profits, which stood at $2.93 billion.

CEO Safra Catz underscored how Oracle’s shift to cloud services has transformed the company’s bottom line. “As cloud services became Oracle’s largest business, both our operating income and earnings per share growth accelerated,” said Catz, emphasizing that cloud infrastructure is now at the heart of Oracle’s business model.

Oracle’s AI strategy is playing an integral role in this shift. The company reported new contracts worth $3 billion for 42 additional Nvidia graphics processing units (GPUs), a clear indicator of its growing influence in AI. As AI becomes a major driver of enterprise transformation, Oracle’s cloud infrastructure is quickly emerging as a go-to solution for businesses looking to leverage this technology. Nvidia’s GPUs, essential for training AI models, have been a linchpin in Oracle’s cloud growth. “Nvidia’s GPUs are critical for the AI training workloads, and our partnership has created incredible demand for Oracle’s cloud infrastructure,” Catz added.

AI and Cloud Computing: Oracle’s Late-Mover Advantage

For years, Oracle’s competitors dominated the cloud computing space, leaving Oracle in the shadows. Oracle’s late entry into the cloud sector may have been a blessing in disguise. The company’s more modern cloud infrastructure is specifically designed to support AI workloads, a key differentiator as demand for AI processing power grows. According to Larry Ellison, Oracle’s co-founder and Chief Technology Officer, “Building giant data centers is something that Oracle has proven to be very good at. It’s the reason we’re doing so well in the AI training business.”

Ellison highlighted that Oracle’s approach is unique in that it does not compete directly with clients in the AI market, a neutral stance that has helped the company secure partnerships with some of the biggest names in tech. Microsoft, Google, and Amazon all allow Oracle’s databases to run on their clouds, and Oracle even provides the infrastructure for Microsoft’s Bing AI chatbot. The neutral positioning has attracted clients who want to avoid being upsold on proprietary cloud services. “They’re not testing out experimental things. They’re just building something that really works,” said Nick Frosst, co-founder of AI startup Cohere, which uses Oracle’s cloud services.

One of the most noteworthy partnerships Oracle has secured is with Nvidia. Nvidia selected Oracle to host its own cloud offering, which includes Nvidia’s advanced GPUs. These GPUs are critical for AI model training, a process that consumes vast amounts of computational power and resources. “Nvidia’s GPUs have been a scarce and highly sought commodity in the tech industry,” Ellison said, noting that Oracle’s data centers are well-equipped to handle the growing demand for AI training.

Strategic Alliances: Amazon, Nvidia, and Beyond

Oracle’s partnerships with Amazon and Nvidia are central to its current success. The company recently announced a strategic partnership with Amazon Web Services, which will allow customers to access Oracle’s Autonomous Database and Exadata Database Service on AWS infrastructure. The deal gives Oracle a foothold in one of the world’s largest cloud ecosystems. Larry Ellison spoke enthusiastically about the deal, stating, “We are seeing huge demand from customers that want to use multiple clouds. Amazon and Oracle are seamlessly connecting AWS services with the very latest Oracle Database technology.”

AWS CEO Matt Garman echoed Ellison’s sentiment, noting, “This new, deeper partnership will provide Oracle Database services within AWS to allow customers to take advantage of the flexibility, reliability, and scalability of the world’s most widely adopted cloud.”

These partnerships reflect Oracle’s strategic pivot toward offering a hybrid cloud environment, which allows companies to run Oracle databases on their preferred cloud platforms. In addition to AWS, Oracle has inked similar deals with Microsoft and Google, making Oracle’s cloud a popular choice for enterprise customers looking to leverage AI and machine learning tools across multiple platforms.

AI as a Long-Term Growth Driver

Oracle’s transformation is largely driven by the explosive growth in artificial intelligence, and the company is capitalizing on this trend. A recent Morgan Stanley report estimated that AI will grow to represent more than half of Oracle’s total cloud revenue by 2027, a significant leap from its current 15%. Larry Ellison remains confident that AI demand will continue to grow, stating, “There’s no slowdown or shift coming. This business is just growing larger and larger and larger.”

One reason for this optimism is the sheer scale of investment needed to build advanced AI models. Ellison remarked, “The entry price for a real frontier model is about $100 billion over the next 4 to 5 years. That’s a lot of money, and it doesn’t get easier.” Given the high cost and complexity of developing AI, Oracle’s modern data centers are well-positioned to capture market share as businesses increasingly turn to AI to drive growth.

However, some analysts have raised concerns about the sustainability of this growth. Brad Reback, an analyst at Stifel, warned that the demand for AI training could be transitory, particularly as competitors build more AI-specific data centers. “I do wonder whether Oracle can sustain what I view as a transitory architecture lead,” Reback said, questioning whether Oracle’s current momentum can be maintained over the long term.

Tech Investors Love the New Oracle

Oracle’s recent moves in the AI and cloud markets have garnered significant attention from tech investors, who are increasingly bullish on the company’s prospects. The buzz around Oracle’s AI initiatives and partnerships with Nvidia and Amazon is clear from investor sentiment on social media, where influential voices are weighing in on the company’s strategy and future.

Ben Pouladian, a noted tech analyst, emphasized Oracle’s methodical approach to scaling AI infrastructure, comparing it to Elon Musk’s Starlink satellites in terms of consistency. “Oracle has more demand than supply, scaling through the same AI automation they sell. The key? Repeating the exact same process—just like Elon Musk’s Starlink satellites or In-N-Out burgers, every data center is identical no matter the location,” he tweeted. This highlights Oracle’s disciplined strategy in building AI-ready data centers, which has been crucial to meeting the surge in demand for AI-powered cloud services.

Another tech influencer, Amy Marlow, praised Oracle’s focus on AI, tweeting, “Oracle’s strong earnings and new cloud services show they’re ready to compete in the AI market.” This sentiment is shared by investors who are excited about Oracle’s ability to pivot successfully toward AI and cloud, further evidenced by the 33% year-to-date increase in the company’s stock.

Larry Ellison’s vision for AI at Oracle is also resonating with the investment community. Ellison made a bold statement during the company’s earnings call, noting, “The entry price for a real frontier AI model is about $100 billion. That’s a lot of money, and it doesn’t get easier.” His remarks underline the capital intensity and exclusivity of the AI market, which has positioned Oracle as a critical player. Investors see this as a competitive advantage, particularly in light of the company’s strong partnerships and growing demand for AI infrastructure.

For those who have followed Oracle’s journey, it’s clear that the company is shedding its legacy image and emerging as a key enabler of AI technologies. As one investor tweeted, “Until people understand AI is not an application, but a way of computing that will live in all technology, they won’t understand the magnitude of what is going on.”

The combination of strong financial results, strategic AI partnerships, and consistent execution in cloud services has driven a wave of positive sentiment among investors. Oracle, once perceived as a laggard in the tech space, is now a stock to watch in the eyes of the tech investment community.

Oracle’s AI Renaissance

Oracle’s transformation from a cloud laggard to an AI powerhouse is a testament to the company’s strategic focus and partnerships. By aligning itself with tech giants like Amazon and Nvidia, and by investing heavily in AI infrastructure, Oracle has positioned itself as a key player in the AI revolution. Its financial performance reflects this resurgence, with strong earnings growth and a stock price that continues to climb.

As AI reshapes industries and economies, Oracle’s ability to sustain this momentum will depend on its continued innovation and its ability to meet the growing demands of AI developers. For now, Oracle’s AI-powered resurgence is proving that even tech giants from a bygone era can rise again—if they have the right strategy in place.

Apple Intelligence is the company’s “personal intelligence system that combines the power of generative models with personal context.” Since the company first demoed Apple Intelligence, it has provided one of the greatest demonstrations of the day-to-day value of generative AI systems for the average user.

Reports had surfaced as early as late July that Apple Intelligence would debut with iOS 18.1, not 18.0. Monday’s event helped provide a concrete timeline for when users can expect to get there hands on the tech.

Today, Apple announced that Apple Intelligence, the personal intelligence system that combines the power of generative models with personal context to deliver intelligence that is incredibly useful and relevant, will start rolling out next month with iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1, with more features launching in the coming months. In addition, Apple introduced the new iPhone 16 lineup, built from the ground up for Apple Intelligence and featuring the faster, more efficient A18 and A18 Pro chips — making these the most advanced and capable iPhone models ever.

Apple Intelligence first launches in U.S. English, and will quickly expand to include localized English in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, and the U.K. in December, with additional language support — such as Chinese, French, Japanese, and Spanish — coming next year.

Apple goes on to reiterate the benefits users can expect from Apple Intelligence.

With Writing Tools, users can refine their words by rewriting, proofreading, and summarizing text nearly everywhere they write, including Mail, Notes, Pages, and third-party apps.

In Photos, the Memories feature now enables users to create the movies they want to see by simply typing a description. In addition, natural language can be used to search for specific photos, and search in videos gets more powerful with the ability to find specific moments in clips. The new Clean Up tool can identify and remove distracting objects in the background of a photo — without accidentally altering the subject.

In the Notes and Phone apps, users can record, transcribe, and summarize audio. When a recording is initiated while on a call in the Phone app, participants are automatically notified, and once the call ends, Apple Intelligence also generates a summary to help recall key points.

The company emphasizes its privacy-first approach, with many of the models running locally on-device.

Apple Intelligence is deeply integrated into iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia, harnessing the power of Apple silicon to understand and create language and images, take action across apps, and draw from personal context to simplify and accelerate everyday tasks — all while protecting users’ privacy and security. Many of the models that power Apple Intelligence run entirely on device, and Private Cloud Compute offers the ability to flex and scale computational capacity between on-device processing and larger, server-based models that run on dedicated Apple silicon servers.

Despite pulling off what NASA’s Steve Stich, the commercial crew program manager, called a “bullseye landing,” the descent was marred by the failure of one of Starliner’s control thrusters and a temporary blackout of the navigation system during reentry. This latest round of problems has added to the growing list of challenges the program has faced, leaving many wondering about Boeing’s commitment to its manned spaceflight endeavors.

A Troubled Descent

The return of Starliner, although successful in reaching its landing site, was far from flawless. One of the capsule’s 12 control jets, responsible for the reentry process, failed to ignite, leaving a redundant system to pick up the slack. Furthermore, Starliner experienced a brief glitch in its navigation system, which led to a temporary blackout in acquiring GPS signals after emerging from the reentry blackout.

@NASA / @Boeing $4.2B Starliner Suffers New Problems While Coming Back to Earth@NASA admitted thruster had failed & blackout of Starliner's guidance.

"WE WOULD NOT BE SURPRISED IF @BOEING WERE TO DIVEST THE MANNED SPACEFLIGHT BUSINESS." https://t.co/3EHKYQhLE0

— THE CREATOR (@JOHNAVATARcom) September 9, 2024

Steve Stich reflected on the mixed results, explaining, “We did learn a lot, and although we had hoped to have astronauts onboard, we made the right decision in bringing the capsule back uncrewed.” The thruster issue highlighted the ongoing concerns that had already plagued the spacecraft earlier in the mission, notably during its approach to the ISS in June, when five out of 28 control thrusters overheated.

Ongoing Technical Struggles

These latest incidents are part of a broader pattern of technical failures and delays that have dogged the Starliner program. After launching in June, the spacecraft encountered helium leaks and thruster malfunctions, problems that Boeing and NASA had worked to address throughout the mission. NASA’s decision to return the spacecraft uncrewed came after these thruster malfunctions, raising questions about the spacecraft’s reliability in transporting astronauts back to Earth.

Yes indeed Scott: on https://t.co/wmWdXF5GGT https://t.co/gxvDSZxExg and YouTube: https://t.co/fXcqywjfNd

— sen (@sen) September 7, 2024

“We’re not ready to give up on Starliner yet,” Stich added. “There’s still significant work to be done before we move forward with crewed flights. The focus now is on fixing the overheating issues in the thrusters and ensuring we have all the data we need.”

NASA and Boeing engineers are now tasked with addressing the critical issues that emerged during the mission, including the thruster problems and the helium leaks. According to Stich, the thrusters overheated because Teflon seals in the valves expanded, preventing the flow of oxidizer. “It’s going to take time to work out the next steps,” Stich said. “We’re not sure whether another test flight will be required, but we’re focused on resolving these issues.”

Financial and Reputational Implications

Boeing has already absorbed significant financial losses as part of its Starliner program, with more than $1.6 billion in recorded charges due to cost overruns and delays. These latest technical difficulties could push the program even further behind schedule. As Bank of America aerospace analyst Ron Epstein noted, “It’s unclear if or when Boeing will have another opportunity to bring astronauts to space. We wouldn’t be surprised if Boeing eventually divested its manned spaceflight business.”

The company’s struggles in the space sector add to a growing list of challenges for Boeing, whose commercial aircraft division has also been hit hard by production issues and accidents, including the two fatal 737 MAX crashes. Some experts believe that Boeing’s troubled space program could be a reflection of larger systemic problems within the company, which has struggled with safety and quality control across its operations.

NASA’s Commitment to Starliner

NASA remains cautiously optimistic about the future of the Starliner program, but the agency acknowledges the need for substantial improvements before the spacecraft can be certified for operational crewed missions. “We still believe in the importance of having two independent vehicles to ferry astronauts to and from the ISS,” said Stich, referring to NASA’s broader objective of fostering competition between SpaceX’s Crew Dragon and Boeing’s Starliner.

My full take on Starliner & @Boeing's future in space. https://t.co/phvdt1VYLE @CBCNews pic.twitter.com/mEbkqoOKm2

— Chris Hadfield (@Cmdr_Hadfield) September 7, 2024

However, SpaceX has already completed multiple crewed missions since 2020, leaving Boeing playing catch-up. Starliner’s issues have delayed its first operational mission, now pushed to no earlier than August 2025. NASA is also working in parallel with SpaceX for its Crew-11 mission, scheduled for February 2025, which will bring back the two astronauts left behind by Starliner.

Engineers Exploring Design Changes

Looking ahead, NASA and Boeing will need to navigate a series of technical and financial hurdles to bring Starliner back on track. Engineers are exploring changes to the spacecraft’s thruster design, potentially involving the removal of insulation blankets to prevent overheating, while others suggest modifying the software to limit the strain on the thrusters during flight.

US ashamed to ask Russia for help to bring the stranded American astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS) home

Faulty Boeing Starliner fails to bring astronauts home as Suni Williams reportedly suffering from rapid cellular damage.

The NASA astronauts… pic.twitter.com/jYSXQPjCCr

— Real Global News (@FelastoryMedia) September 7, 2024

Despite the setbacks, NASA and Boeing both acknowledge that there is much to be learned from this extended test flight. “Starliner’s extended stay at the ISS provided valuable data, even without astronauts onboard,” said Stich. “But until we address the fundamental issues, it’s difficult to move forward with confidence.”

As NASA evaluates its next steps, it remains to be seen whether Boeing can overcome the obstacles that have plagued Starliner from the start—or whether the aerospace giant will eventually divest from the manned spaceflight sector altogether. One thing is certain: the clock is ticking for Starliner, with the ISS set to retire in 2030, leaving Boeing little time to turn its fortunes around.

What’s New? Boeing’s Starliner returned to Earth after an uncrewed mission, landing safely at White Sands Space Harbor in New Mexico. The capsule, originally meant to carry astronauts back from the ISS, faced delays due to unexpected thruster malfunctions and helium leaks.… pic.twitter.com/QkVspPmC57

— xKnowledge (@xSourced) September 9, 2024

The corporate law, part of China’s broader strategy to strengthen its influence over foreign companies, could give Beijing unprecedented access to sensitive information held by U.S. corporations. According to sources familiar with the matter, these “representatives” are likely to have strong ties to Chinese authorities or even be active CCP members. This setup has sparked concern over intellectual property theft, surveillance, and coercion of employees.

Espionage Fears and National Security Risks

The inclusion of employee representatives within corporate boards raises significant security concerns, especially for tech giants like Microsoft, which employs over 10,000 people in China. One anonymous U.S. House aide explained, “They can tell a [Chinese intelligence] agent, ‘This is the person you need to talk to. If you want to coerce them, here’s who they are… I have access to employee data. This is their wife. This is where they live. This is where their kid goes to school.’”

Paul Rosenzweig, a former Homeland Security official, warned that China’s strategy has shifted from external control of corporations to embedding operatives internally. “Now they’re adding an internal control, an employee representative. If you wanted to be ungenerous, you could call him a Communist Party spy,” he said.

Microsoft in the Crosshairs

Microsoft’s presence in China is under heightened scrutiny, not only because of the number of employees it has in the country but also because of the nature of its software, which is deeply integrated into critical infrastructure in the United States. The company has already faced significant cyber threats from Chinese hackers. Last year, Chinese cyber actors infiltrated the email accounts of Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo and other U.S. officials through Microsoft systems, exacerbating the concerns surrounding the company’s operations in China.

Microsoft executive Brad Smith, during a congressional hearing earlier this year, suggested that the company is largely immune from certain Chinese laws. “There are two types of countries in the world,” Smith said. “Those that apply every law they enact, and those who enact certain laws but don’t always apply them. And in this context, China, and that law, is in the second category.”

However, this stance has not comforted lawmakers. Rep. Carlos Gimenez (R-Fla.) warned that the company’s entanglements in China are becoming increasingly perilous, saying, “Sooner rather than later, all of these corporations are going to find that they’re going to be absorbed into the CCP and into China.” He urged firms to extricate themselves from the region, highlighting the potential dangers of continuing operations under the new legal framework.

Broader Implications for Foreign Companies

The new corporate law could apply to a range of foreign firms beyond Microsoft. Other multinational corporations, particularly those in technology and defense-related industries, are likely to face similar risks. The law’s provisions allow the CCP to wield greater control over internal corporate affairs, potentially giving China an edge in technology transfers and intellectual property theft.

The law’s timing is particularly concerning given that U.S. firms, including Microsoft, are developing advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, which could be critical in maintaining global competitive advantage. According to a House aide, “The corporate law is one method through which China could put pressure on them to keep the AI lab… What they’re going to do is just steal all the data, every single bit of data.”

Political Responses

U.S. lawmakers have been vocal in their opposition to China’s growing influence over foreign businesses. Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) described China’s latest corporate move as part of an ongoing strategy of intellectual property theft. “Beijing’s latest move, which will likely embed CCP officials further into companies, shows how far the government’s grasp extends,” she said.

Rep. John Moolenaar (R-Mich.), chairman of the House Select Committee on China, added that no company in China can be considered truly private. He warned American firms to be vigilant: “The Chinese Communist Party will settle for nothing less than complete control at your expense.”

Massive Intellectual Property Theft Concerns

China’s new corporate law represents a watershed moment in the country’s relationship with foreign businesses. By embedding CCP-linked representatives within corporate boards, the Chinese government is extending its reach into the internal workings of U.S. firms, raising concerns about security and intellectual property theft. For companies like Microsoft, which have long sought to balance their global interests, this latest development may force a critical reassessment of their presence in China.

As Derek Scissors, chief economist of the China Beige Book, noted, “The company law will be interpreted in whatever way the CCP deems fit at the time, so none of the revisions matter.” Firms now face an uncomfortable choice: adapt to China’s rules or risk exposure to espionage and coercion.

A Staggered AI Rollout: The Key Concern

Apple Intelligence, the tech giant’s answer to AI integration, is expected to transform the iPhone experience. From enhancing Siri’s capabilities to new tools for generating custom emojis and automated call transcriptions, Apple Intelligence promises to revolutionize how users interact with their devices. However, as Mark Gurman of Bloomberg points out, many of these AI-driven features won’t be immediately available, leading to concerns about the iPhone 16’s immediate impact.

The delayed rollout of core AI functionalities like ChatGPT integration and image generation tools (such as the Genmoji app) means consumers won’t experience the full power of Apple Intelligence until later updates. For instance, while iOS 18.1—set to release in October—will introduce some features, other key tools are postponed until iOS 18.2, scheduled for December.

This staggered approach could hinder the excitement that usually accompanies Apple’s major product launches. As Gurman noted, “Apple Intelligence is still not fully baked,” meaning the full potential of the iPhone 16’s AI capabilities won’t be realized until 2025. This dampens the possibility of the iPhone 16 triggering a much-talked-about “super cycle” of upgrades, where pent-up demand leads to a massive surge in sales.

Modest Hardware Updates and Design Changes

On the hardware front, the iPhone 16 series does not offer any radical redesigns. The phone retains a look similar to last year’s iPhone 15, which might disappoint consumers who crave noticeable aesthetic changes. However, Apple has made incremental improvements that could still appeal to those looking for a refined device.

One of the standout new features is the Capture button, which is available across all iPhone 16 models. This button is designed to mimic the feel of a DSLR camera shutter, allowing users to half-press to focus and fully press to capture a photo or video. Additionally, slimmer bezels and improved battery life, particularly for the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models, offer incremental upgrades over previous versions.

On the pricing front, Apple has decided not to raise prices for the Pro models, a welcome surprise in the current inflationary environment. The iPhone 16 Pro starts at $999, maintaining the same price point as the iPhone 15 Pro, even though it features new AI integration and improved hardware.

AI and the China Challenge

While AI is expected to be a game-changer, Apple faces challenges in some of its key markets, notably China. Apple’s sales in China have stagnated in recent quarters, with the company struggling to compete with local smartphone manufacturers. To complicate matters, Apple Intelligence won’t be available in China at launch, limiting the iPhone 16’s appeal in one of its most critical regions.

Trip Miller, managing partner at Gullane Capital Partners, observed, “Apple is doing partnerships instead of having to reinvent the wheel.” Apple’s collaboration with OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, is one such partnership aimed at boosting its AI capabilities. However, without a local AI partner in China, Apple may find it difficult to regain momentum in the region.

Will the iPhone 16 Spark a Sales Surge?

Analysts are divided over whether the iPhone 16 will trigger a super cycle of upgrades. The delayed rollout of key AI features and the lack of a dramatic hardware redesign have led many to believe that consumers may not rush to upgrade this year. As Michael Levin, co-founder of Consumer Intelligence Research Partners, put it, “People are holding on to their phones for longer and longer periods of time,” a trend that could dampen immediate demand for the iPhone 16.

However, some experts remain optimistic that the integration of AI, even if staggered, will eventually pay off for Apple. Cliff Maldonado, principal analyst at BayStreet Research, noted, “AI hasn’t resonated yet with the masses,” but believes Apple’s long-term strategy could still succeed, especially once the delayed features are fully available.

In contrast, some analysts, like Michael Burkhardt, believe the real iPhone breakthrough will come next year with the launch of the iPhone 17, which is rumored to feature a sleeker design and more comprehensive AI capabilities. Until then, Apple may be relying on incremental improvements and carrier promotions to keep iPhone sales steady.

The Importance of Carrier Partnerships

Carrier partnerships have always played a critical role in Apple’s success, especially in the U.S., where they account for about 75% of all iPhone sales, according to Consumer Intelligence Research Partners. While iPhone 16 may not deliver a revolutionary design or immediate AI advancements, wireless carriers are still expected to offer promotions and upgrade subsidies that could boost sales in the near term.

However, as Miller of Gullane Capital Partners pointed out, “Apple is swimming upstream” in a market where consumers are increasingly reluctant to upgrade without substantial improvements. Whether or not Apple’s AI features will be enough to convince consumers remains to be seen.

Launch Time

The integration of AI through Apple Intelligence holds great promise, but the delayed rollout of key features may hinder its potential to drive a massive sales surge this year. The phone’s modest hardware changes, though appreciated, are unlikely to trigger widespread upgrades.

Ultimately, the iPhone 16 could be a stepping stone toward Apple’s AI-driven future. While the buzz around the iPhone 16 may not reach super cycle levels, Apple’s long-term investment in AI could pay off as its technology matures, especially with the iPhone 17 on the horizon.

Altera’s Project Sid: Simulating Autonomous Societies

Perhaps the most fascinating development came from Altera and its ambitious Project Sid. The company achieved a remarkable milestone by creating a simulation in which 1,000 fully autonomous agents collaborated in a virtual world—using Minecraft as their sandbox. Without any human intervention, the agents built complex societies, complete with economies, governments, and even religions.

“This is really interesting work,” said Brett Adcock in his review. “It’s one of the first times we’ve seen AI agents engage in autonomous collaboration at such a large scale.” The implications of this project could extend far beyond gaming, hinting at future AI systems capable of handling intricate real-world problems like city planning, logistics, and governance.

Altera's Project Sid created the first simulation of 1,000 fully autonomous agents collaborating in a virtual world (Minecraft)

Without human intervention, the AI agents built economies, cultures, governments, and religions

Really interesting workpic.twitter.com/q2GWczoICJ

— Brett Adcock (@adcock_brett) September 8, 2024

Replit’s Agent: Democratizing Coding with AI

For those who have struggled with the complexities of coding, Replit’s launch of Replit Agent is a game-changer. The tool, which allows users to create apps based on simple text descriptions, is being hailed as a significant step toward making coding more accessible.

“AI is already good at coding, but setting up an IDE (Integrated Development Environment) has been a major hurdle for newcomers,” Adcock explained. “Replit Agent removes this barrier, making coding accessible to everyone.” The significance here is clear: by lowering the technical barriers to entry, more people can harness the power of AI to build applications, which could lead to a surge in innovation across various industries.

Waeve Robotics Introduces Isaac: The Future of Home Automation

Waeve Robotics made headlines this week with the introduction of Isaac, a personal robot designed for home use that will ship next year. Isaac can autonomously clean, fold laundry, and manage household chores via voice, text, or a mobile app. “This is another step toward bringing embodied AI into people’s daily lives,” Adcock remarked.

While robots have long been touted as the future of home automation, Isaac’s release suggests that practical, reliable domestic robots may finally be within reach. With its user-friendly controls and promise of reducing the burden of daily chores, Isaac could quickly find a place in many homes.

Google DeepMind’s AlphaProteo: Revolutionizing Drug Discovery

AI’s impact on healthcare continues to grow, as demonstrated by Google DeepMind’s unveiling of AlphaProteo, an AI system designed to create custom proteins that bind more effectively to molecular targets. This breakthrough has massive implications for drug discovery and cancer research, potentially reducing the time it takes to develop life-saving treatments.

“We’re presenting AlphaProteo, an AI system for designing novel proteins that bind more successfully to target molecules,” Google DeepMind announced. Brett Adcock noted the broader potential of this innovation: “This could revolutionize drug discovery and speed up research in critical areas like cancer treatment.”

In a related development, Ligo introduced an open-source implementation of AlphaFold3, Google DeepMind’s earlier protein-folding AI, making cutting-edge protein structure prediction more accessible to the scientific community.

SSI Raises $1 Billion to Develop Safe Superintelligence

In a bold move, SSI, the AI startup co-founded by Ilya Sutskever, raised $1 billion in funding to develop safe AI systems designed to surpass human intelligence. The startup, now valued at $5 billion, plans to focus on R&D for the next several years before launching any products.

“This is a huge statement about the future of AI,” Adcock noted. “They’re aiming for superintelligence, which is a daunting task, but if successful, it could reshape entire industries.” SSI’s commitment to safety will be critical, as concerns grow over the potential dangers of AI systems surpassing human intelligence.

Anthropic’s Claude for Enterprise: Competing with OpenAI

In the ongoing competition for AI supremacy, Anthropic launched Claude for Enterprise, designed to compete directly with OpenAI’s offerings. Claude comes equipped with a massive 500,000-token context window and integrates natively with GitHub, positioning itself as a tool optimized for coding and enterprise-level use.

“This is an exciting development for businesses looking to incorporate AI more deeply into their operations,” Adcock said. “With its large context window and seamless GitHub integration, Claude is making a strong case for enterprise adoption.”

PNDbotics’ ‘Adam’: The Rise of Humanoid Robots

Rounding out the week was PNDbotics, a Chinese robotics startup, which revealed its humanoid robot, Adam. Although details about Adam are still emerging, the robot is said to possess advanced reasoning and learning capabilities, positioning it as a major player in the rapidly growing humanoid robotics space.

Adcock, whose company Figure is also working on human-like robots, highlighted the significance of these advancements. “At Figure, we’re building robots that learn and reason like humans, and it’s exciting to see other companies pushing the envelope in this area as well.”

AI and Robotics No Longer Confined to Research Labs

This week’s flurry of AI and robotics developments showcases how rapidly the industry is advancing. From autonomous agents building virtual societies to humanoid robots like Isaac and Adam entering the home, we are witnessing a transformation that will reshape both the digital and physical worlds.

As Brett Adcock concluded, “AI and robotics are no longer confined to research labs—they’re entering our homes, businesses, and governments. The future is unfolding faster than we expected, and the potential applications are limitless.”

While the road ahead is filled with both opportunity and challenges, one thing is clear: AI and robotics are poised to redefine the way we live and work in ways that were unimaginable just a decade ago.

The Unfolding Crisis: AI Training on Copyrighted Content

AI’s dependence on vast datasets to learn how to perform tasks like generating text, images, and videos has sparked concerns over how companies are acquiring that data. For instance, the viral AI video startup Viggle recently admitted to training its models on YouTube videos without explicit permission. Viggle is not alone. Major players such as NVIDIA and Anthropic are facing similar accusations.

https://twitter.com/ViggleAI/status/1832114003562394013

“YouTube’s CEO has called it a ‘clear violation’ of their terms,” explains Mike Kaput, Chief Content Officer at the Marketing AI Institute. “Yet most AI companies are doing it, betting on a simple strategy: Take copyrighted content, hope nobody notices, and if you succeed, hire lawyers.” This has become a common approach in the rapidly developing AI sector, as companies rush to build more powerful models, often without securing proper licenses.

The underlying issue is the use of copyrighted material—often created by individual content creators or large media companies—without any compensation or acknowledgment. In Kaput’s view, this strategy banks on the public’s indifference: “Most people see cool AI videos and think: ‘Wow, that’s amazing!’ They don’t ask: ‘Wait, how was this trained?’”

Is This Fair Use or a Copyright Violation?

The heart of the debate lies in how copyright law defines “fair use,” a legal doctrine that allows limited use of copyrighted material without permission, usually for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, or research. But does AI training fall under this category?

“It hinges on a key distinction in copyright law: whether a work is transformative or derivative,” says Christopher Penn, Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist at TrustInsights.ai. He explains that if AI-generated content is seen as transformative—meaning it adds new expression or meaning to the original work—it may be protected under fair use. However, if it is deemed derivative, merely replicating the original content, it could violate copyright laws.

“In the EU, regulators have said using copyrighted data for training without permission infringes on the copyright owner’s rights,” Penn continues. “In Japan and China, regulators have taken the opposite stance, saying the model is in no way the original work, and thus does not infringe.”

This leads to a critical question: Is the legal responsibility on the tool (the AI itself) or the user who generates content with it? “Only resolved court cases will tell,” Penn concludes.

The Public’s Indifference: Do People Care?

While the legal community is wrestling with these issues, the broader public seems largely disengaged from the debate. Justin C., co-founder of Neesh.AI, suggests that the average person is indifferent to AI’s data practices. “Most people feel like it’s out of their control,” he says. “They aren’t paying attention because it doesn’t directly affect them.” This lack of awareness means that AI companies have little fear of public backlash, as long as they continue delivering impressive products.

Similarly, Paul Guds, an AI management consultant, believes that the momentum behind AI development is too strong to stop. “The gains for the public outweigh the potential costs,” he argues. “Regulation on this matter will take years, and litigation will be costly and lengthy. In the end, this train cannot be stopped, worst case, it will be slowed down slightly.”

However, some believe this complacency could come with significant costs. “It feels a lot like Uber when it started,” says Melissa Kolbe, an AI and marketing strategist. “Just worry about the consequences later. The public doesn’t really care—unless it’s their own video.”

The Artistic Backlash: Protecting Creativity

While many in the tech community view AI as a tool for innovation, artists and creators feel differently. For them, the unchecked use of their work for AI training represents a threat to their livelihoods and the integrity of creative expression.

“The only people that really care about this are genuine artists,” says Jim Woolfe, an electronic musician. “The problem is that it’s become harder to tell the difference between real and generated content, and true creativity is in danger of being drowned out by bland, AI-generated art.” Woolfe predicts a backlash as more artists realize the scope of what’s at stake.

Others agree that AI could erode the value of original content. “It’s already harder to make a living as a creator,” says Reggie Johnson, a communication strategist. “Now, Big Tech companies are using copyrighted content to train AI without permission, and the government seems to be letting them get away with it.” Johnson points to the recent rejection of the Internet Archive’s appeal, a case that has sparked debate about whether AI companies are playing by a different set of rules than other industries.

Legal Implications: Can Copyright Law Keep Up?

The rapid pace of AI innovation is exposing gaps in current copyright laws. “Laws around copyright are already out of date,” says Doug V., a digital strategist. “With AI using content without permission or attribution, it’s a very complicated knot to unravel.” He anticipates that companies will begin inserting clauses into their terms and conditions, effectively requiring users to waive rights to their content for AI training purposes. “What artist will willingly upload their creations to social media if they’re effectively giving it all away for others to make derivatives of their work?” Doug asks.

This concern is echoed by Elizabeth Shaw, an AI strategy director, who suggests that the issue may soon become a hot topic in AI policy discussions. “Are we teasing an upcoming panel on this at MAICON?” she asks, referencing the Marketing Artificial Intelligence Conference.

The Future of AI and Copyright: What Comes Next?

As AI continues to evolve, the questions surrounding the use of copyrighted material will become more pressing. Some predict that regulation is inevitable, but it will take years to catch up. “I don’t think there’s a way to stop it,” Kaput admits. “Pandora’s box is already open.”

However, others believe the issue will come to a head sooner rather than later. “I predict a movement will rise that values real art over AI-generated content,” says Woolfe. “Once people realize what’s at stake, there will be a backlash.”

For now, the debate over whether AI companies can freely use copyrighted content for training remains unresolved. As courts begin to take on these cases, the line between fair use and infringement will continue to blur, leaving creators, companies, and lawmakers to grapple with the implications of AI’s rapid advancement.

In the meantime, it’s clear that AI is not just a technological innovation—it’s a legal and ethical minefield. As Guds puts it, “We’re trending toward falling off the slippery slope. The question is: how do we stop it?”

Take, for example, Sadi, who calls herself Sadi The Blind Lady on social media. For the past six months, Sadi has been using Ray-Ban Meta glasses, a product that seamlessly integrates AI to enhance everyday experiences. “These glasses have been life-changing,” Sadi says. And it’s not hard to see why. The glasses offer a host of features, from functioning as a personal dashcam to discreetly taking calls and providing detailed environmental descriptions through Meta AI. The transition lenses have been a game-changer for someone like Sadi, who faces light sensitivity.

“This is how AI should work—extending human capabilities in meaningful, accessible ways,” says Alex Banks, an advocate for AI-driven innovations. “It’s not about replacing us but amplifying what we can do.” This sentiment is echoed across industries as we witness AI reshaping everything from healthcare to everyday personal tech.

AI as a Tool for Empowerment, Not Replacement

Contrary to popular fears that AI will render human jobs obsolete, experts argue that AI is a tool designed to enhance human capabilities. Anthony Miller, a thought leader in logistics tech, put it succinctly: “AI is a tool, just like the internet, the MacBook, and the smartphone. We get to choose how to use them.” Miller notes that while some misuse AI for manipulation or deception, its potential to solve real-world problems—like aiding the visually impaired or reducing human-error in driving—far outweighs the negatives.

Miller adds that AI is on track to make transformative changes in healthcare, reduce operational costs in governments, and eliminate negligence in industries like transportation. “I’m hoping that the next decade shows huge acceleration in development and tech breakthroughs because it will help many people improve their lives.”

Making Technology Accessible and Practical

One of the key takeaways from Sadi’s experience with AI is how it has bridged accessibility gaps in practical ways. “It’s not just about fancy gadgets, but about giving people more independence and confidence,” said Kushal Sinha, a leading AI expert. Sadi’s Ray-Ban Meta glasses, for instance, don’t look like specialized equipment—they’re stylish, modern sunglasses equipped with cutting-edge AI technology that makes daily life easier.

AI-powered tools like Meta glasses extend beyond aesthetics. The device allows Sadi to discreetly take calls in public, answer questions about her environment, and use voiceover functions, all without drawing attention to her disability. This technology enhances the user’s quality of life while integrating seamlessly into everyday experiences. “We’re seeing the best of AI—when it works quietly in the background to improve the lives of real people,” Sinha adds.

AI in Healthcare: A Game Changer

Healthcare is another sector where AI’s impact is becoming increasingly evident. From automating administrative tasks to providing personalized treatment plans, AI is transforming how care is delivered. “The applications of AI in healthcare never cease to amaze me,” Alex Banks remarked in response to Anthony Miller’s insights. AI has the potential to detect diseases earlier, streamline patient care, and optimize the way health systems operate, offering significant improvements in outcomes and cost-efficiency.

Creative Destruction and the Role of Leadership

While the rise of AI has stirred anxiety about job displacement, thought leaders like Adam Malone argue that this fear is misplaced. “AI is doing the same thing that machines did in factories, that computers did in offices. It’s destroying old ways of doing things and creating new ways,” says Malone, referencing economist Joseph Schumpeter’s theory of Creative Destruction. For leaders, Malone insists, the challenge is not to fight AI, but to embrace it and chart a path that ensures the technology benefits everyone.

Malone’s call for adaptive leadership resonates in an era where the pace of technological change is relentless. “The current is going to win either way—we just need to decide what sort of path we are going to chart through it,” he adds.

AI’s Expanding Influence in Everyday Life

The potential of AI to transform lives doesn’t end with healthcare or accessibility. From self-driving cars to personalized digital marketing, AI’s influence is felt across a range of industries. As Gary W, a sales leader and AI advocate, noted, “AI isn’t about replacing humans—it’s about enhancing our lives in incredible ways.”

However, Gary W also raises a critical point about the economic implications of AI. While AI promises to increase productivity and reduce operational costs, it will also shift the job market and displace certain roles. “Anyone who denies or pushes aside the reality of job paradigm displacement is intentionally ignorant,” Gary W argues, though he remains optimistic that AI will ultimately benefit society, especially in light of global population declines.

The Future of AI Integration

As AI continues to evolve, its integration into consumer products like Ray-Ban Meta glasses represents just the beginning. The coming years will likely bring advancements in smart assistants, self-driving technology, and AI-powered healthcare tools, all of which will make our lives easier and more efficient.

“We’re so early, and we’ve already seen so many incredible use cases pop up,” remarked Jimmy Slagle, an AI enthusiast. The possibilities for AI seem boundless, and the key will be continuing to find ways to make the technology accessible, ethical, and beneficial to as many people as possible.

“AI is empowering us, not replacing us,” sums up Derwish Rosalia, another AI advocate. Sadi’s experience with AI glasses is a perfect example of how technology, when designed thoughtfully, can extend human abilities and make the world more accessible. As AI becomes more integrated into our lives, it’s clear that the future is bright—and the best is yet to come.

A Future of Empowerment

It’s crucial to focus on how AI can enhance human lives. From giving visually impaired individuals a new way to experience their environment to revolutionizing healthcare systems, AI’s potential is staggering. The technology’s true value lies not in replacing human effort but in amplifying it, giving people tools to lead better, more empowered lives.

“AI is making a difference,” says Alex Banks. And as the technology continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly build a better future for us all—one step at a time.

The unveiling of Tesla’s Robotaxi plans is significant not just for Tesla’s future revenue streams but for the broader vision of full autonomy on public roads. The roadmap, which spans from September 2024 to Q2 2025, outlines key improvements in Full-Self Driving (FSD) technology, Cybertruck integration, and the long-awaited Smart Summon feature, all crucial to making Robotaxis a reality.

A Precise, Feature-Rich Roadmap

For the first time, Tesla’s AI team provided specific dates and milestones for features set to roll out in the coming months. According to the roadmap, September 2024 will see the introduction of FSD version 12.5.2, which is set to triple the miles driven between necessary interventions. This update will be available on both the AI3 and AI4 hardware platforms, thanks to a unified model that delivers equivalent performance across both versions.

“This is the first time they’ve dropped a roadmap like this,” remarked Tesla enthusiast Herbert, host of the YouTube channel Brighter with Herbert. “It’s not just Elon Musk tweeting a vague timeline. This is Tesla’s AI team officially putting dates and features out there, which means they must feel really confident that these features are ready or in advanced testing.”

In addition to improvements in FSD, September will also bring significant updates for Tesla’s Cybertruck, including Cybertruck Autopark and FSD functionality. Eye-tracking with sunglasses—a key safety feature for autonomy—is also set for release, along with end-to-end network functionality for highway driving, a long-awaited development for those following Tesla’s self-driving ambitions.

The Long-Awaited Version 13: Coming in October

The roadmap also revealed that FSD Version 13 is slated for October 2024, offering a sixfold improvement in miles driven between necessary interventions. “It’s interesting how they’re being so precise with the improvements,” said Herbert. “Instead of the vague ‘five to ten times’ improvements Musk has mentioned in the past, they’re now saying six times exactly. This kind of specificity suggests that the AI team is measuring these improvements rigorously.”

A particularly exciting feature in the October release is “unpark, park, and reverse” in FSD. “Unpark” seems akin to an advanced version of Smart Summon, allowing users to remotely direct their vehicle out of a parking space. This capability is especially valuable in crowded urban environments, where parking spots are tight and difficult to navigate.

Tesla’s Smart Summon, currently in beta with around 1,000 testers, is already creating buzz for its ability to autonomously drive through parking lots. Videos circulating on social media show the feature working impressively, with vehicles navigating complex parking scenarios. “It’s still not perfect, but it’s fast and functional. The fact that it can come right to your phone’s location within a few feet is impressive,” noted Herbert. This, combined with the upcoming “unpark” feature, will push Tesla further ahead in the race for autonomous driving.

Going Global: FSD in Europe and China

One of the most significant developments in Tesla’s roadmap is the expansion of FSD outside of North America. FSD in Europe and China is expected in Q1 2025, pending regulatory approval. The international rollout of FSD has the potential to add millions of new users. Longtime Tesla analyst Roland Percher estimates that in China alone, FSD could attract 2 million new customers with a 35% take rate, potentially adding $8 billion in profit annually.

However, regulatory hurdles remain a challenge, particularly in Europe, where Tesla has faced stiff resistance from some governments regarding autonomous driving. “Europe will likely be slower to approve, but I expect Norway to be the first to greenlight it. That could happen as early as January,” predicted Herbert. “China, on the other hand, is already seeing many companies successfully running autonomous driving programs, so I wouldn’t be surprised if FSD gets approved there soon.”

Cybertruck and the Path to Full Autonomy

Tesla’s Cybertruck, set for release later this year, will also be a crucial part of the Robotaxi roadmap. The Cybertruck represents a different form factor compared to Tesla’s other vehicles, and if Tesla can make FSD work on this platform, it will signal a significant leap toward full autonomy. As Herbert explained, “If Tesla can make FSD work on the Cybertruck, which is a completely different form factor, it’s a sign that they can adapt their FSD technology to any vehicle, whether it’s a semi-truck or a luxury sedan.”

The Cybertruck’s FSD capability, combined with the rollout of AI3 and AI4 hardware, will allow Tesla to move towards a unified FSD platform across all its vehicles. Herbert believes this is a key milestone. “Once all vehicles—whether it’s a Model S or a Cybertruck—are on the same FSD stack, Tesla will be that much closer to launching its Robotaxi fleet.”

What Does This Mean for Tesla’s Stock?

The long-term implications for Tesla’s business are profound. Analysts have long speculated about the potential revenue from FSD subscriptions, and with Tesla nearing feature-complete autonomy, the financial windfall could be massive. “Analysts aren’t even factoring in FSD revenue for the next year,” Herbert said. “But once FSD is global and RoboTaxi-ready, it’s going to drive demand for Tesla vehicles like never before.”

Elon Musk has repeatedly stated that once full autonomy is achieved, Tesla’s existing fleet of vehicles—estimated to reach 7 million by December 2024—will effectively “come alive” as autonomous Robotaxis. This could have significant ramifications for Tesla’s earnings, as more and more consumers opt for FSD to take advantage of the autonomy features.

In China, for example, if Tesla achieves a 35% take rate on FSD subscriptions, it could add billions to Tesla’s bottom line. And it’s not just FSD subscriptions that will drive revenue; the very fact that Tesla offers autonomy will likely increase demand for Tesla vehicles. “FSD is a demand driver,” Herbert said. “When people see Tesla’s cars driving themselves, they’ll want to buy one. That’s going to boost sales significantly, especially in regions like Europe where FSD isn’t available yet.”

October 10th: The Big Reveal?

With the October 10th event looming, there is rampant speculation about what Tesla will reveal. The event, set to take place at Warner Brothers Studios, is expected to showcase Tesla’s Robotaxi capabilities. Some speculate that attendees may even get to experience Smart Summon and other FSD features firsthand.

“There’s a possibility that attendees will be able to use their own Tesla apps to hail a Robotaxi,” Herbert suggested. “That would be a game-changing demo—actually letting attendees use the technology themselves rather than just watching a pre-recorded demo.”

While much of the roadmap is focused on FSD, there’s also speculation that Tesla may integrate its AI-based language model, Grok, into its vehicles. “It would be incredible if Grok were integrated into the FSD stack, allowing users to communicate with their car verbally and direct it to specific locations,” Herbert said. However, Grok’s integration may still be a few months away, as Tesla’s immediate focus remains on refining its driving technology.

Roadmap is a Huge Step Forward

The company is closer than ever to realizing its vision of a fully autonomous future. The October 10 event is expected to be a significant milestone, showcasing the culmination of years of AI development and technological advancements. But as Herbert cautioned, “It’s not over yet. This roadmap is a huge step forward, but there’s still more work to be done before we’re seeing Robotaxis on every street.”

A Historical Moment for AI

The introduction of AI capabilities into Apple’s iPhones marks what Ives believes will be a historical moment, not just for Apple but for the entire tech industry. “If you look at Microsoft and its partnership with OpenAI, they ignited a new wave of AI applications. Now, Apple is bringing that revolution to its massive global consumer base,” Ives said. With over 1.5 billion active Apple devices worldwide, the company has an unparalleled reach, and its ability to influence consumer behavior is unmatched. “Apple’s role here is crucial,” Ives explained. “Where would AI be right now if Microsoft hadn’t partnered with OpenAI? It would not have reached this level of adoption. Now, Apple is taking that torch and running with it, bringing AI to the everyday consumer.”

This “AI super-cycle,” as Ives calls it, is not just about flashy new iPhone features—it’s about setting the stage for AI integration across various sectors. “When 25% of the world accesses AI, it will be through an Apple device,” Ives predicted, underscoring how Apple’s ecosystem will be key to scaling AI technologies that have, until now, largely been confined to enterprise use cases and tech enthusiasts.

Apple’s Super-Cycle: More Than Just Hardware

Apple’s AI ambitions are not limited to hardware upgrades. Ives points out that AI’s potential lies in software and services, where the company is likely to drive significant revenue growth. “For Apple, it’s about monetization,” Ives explained. “We think AI could add $20 to $40 per share, and that’s how you get Apple to a $4 trillion market cap.” He believes that Apple’s unparalleled install base—both in hardware and software—gives it a unique advantage in driving AI adoption on a massive scale.

What makes this shift even more intriguing is that Apple isn’t necessarily the first company to the AI party. Companies like Microsoft, Google, and Nvidia have been leading the charge, but Apple’s strength lies in its ability to bring AI to the masses. “Were they first? No,” Ives said. “But betting against Cupertino and [CEO Tim] Cook in an AI-driven super-cycle is a bad bet.” According to Ives, Apple’s vast, loyal user base will ensure that the company is a major player in the AI space, even if it didn’t pioneer the technology.

Nvidia and Broadcom: The Infrastructure Behind the Revolution

While Apple is set to bring AI to consumers, it’s essential to remember that this revolution doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Chipmakers like Nvidia and Broadcom provide the critical infrastructure necessary to power these AI applications. “For every dollar spent on Nvidia chips, there’s an 8-to-10 multiplier across the rest of tech,” Ives noted. Nvidia’s dominance in AI hardware, especially through its GPUs, has been well-documented, but Ives believes that Broadcom is an “under-the-radar AI play” that will soon make its mark.

“Broadcom’s revenue from AI products reached a record $3.1 billion last quarter,” Ives pointed out. “That could ramp up to $15 billion annually.” According to Ives, Broadcom plays a crucial role in the AI ecosystem by providing the infrastructure for hyperscale data centers used by Microsoft, Google, and Amazon. “It’s all about where the data goes,” he explained. “Broadcom is positioning itself as a major beneficiary of AI growth, even if investors haven’t fully appreciated its potential yet.”

The Consumer and Corporate AI Divide

While much of the excitement around AI has been focused on corporate use cases, from automating workflows to enhancing cybersecurity, Ives sees the consumer side as just as critical. “There’s the corporate side of AI, where businesses are using it to drive efficiency and innovation. But the consumer-facing side, where most of us interact with AI through apps and services like ChatGPT or Siri—that’s where Apple comes in,” Ives explained.

By embedding AI into iPhones and other devices, Apple is not just creating new tools for users—it’s setting the stage for a cultural shift in how consumers interact with technology. “When Apple introduces AI into its devices, it’s not just about adding new features,” Ives said. “It’s about changing how people think about technology and what it can do for them. That’s where the revolution really happens.”

Tesla and the AI Ecosystem

Apple is not the only player in this evolving AI landscape. Ives also highlighted Tesla as an undervalued AI play, noting that the electric vehicle (EV) company’s AI ambitions extend far beyond autonomous driving. “Tesla is much bigger than just EVs—it’s about AI and automation,” Ives said. He believes that Tesla’s upcoming “RoboTaxi Day” will mark the next phase of the company’s growth. “Tesla is in between two growth waves right now, but the real Golden Goose for them is AI, specifically their autonomous driving technology,” he explained. For Ives, Tesla represents a broader trend where AI is becoming integrated into everything from transportation to energy management.

A New Frontier for Apple

As Apple gears up to launch its new iPhones with AI capabilities, Ives sees this moment as the beginning of a new frontier for both the company and the tech industry as a whole. “This is not just about upgrading hardware—it’s about creating a new ecosystem where AI is a central part of the consumer experience,” Ives said. He believes that Apple’s ability to seamlessly integrate AI into its products will set it apart from competitors and drive its next phase of growth.

The AI super-cycle is just beginning, and with Apple leading the charge, the future looks bright for both the company and its investors. “Apple’s AI story is about monetization and consumer adoption,” Ives concluded. “With their massive install base and Tim Cook’s leadership, Apple is set to redefine the consumer tech landscape once again.”

In a world where AI is quickly becoming the next big thing, Apple’s role in driving consumer adoption could well be the defining moment of the AI revolution. The tech giant is not just adding to the AI conversation—it’s poised to lead it. And as Ives puts it, “Betting against Cupertino in this AI super-cycle? That’s a bad bet.”

“We’ve started the world’s first straight-shot SSI lab with one goal and one product: safe superintelligence,” Sutskever said, explaining the singular focus of his new venture. The ambitious company aims to develop artificial intelligence that surpasses human intelligence while ensuring these advancements remain aligned with human values and safety concerns. The valuation of the three-month-old startup at $5 billion is a testament to the high expectations investors have for this emerging player.

A Shift in Focus: Safe AI at the Forefront

Sutskever’s departure from OpenAI earlier this year came after a period of internal strife, which included the controversial ousting of CEO Sam Altman. While Sutskever expressed regret over his role in the decision, his move to form SSI marks a definitive pivot. He left behind a company increasingly focused on monetizing AI technology in favor of building a research-centric startup solely committed to AI safety.

“Our singular focus means no distraction by management overhead or product cycles,” SSI wrote in its mission statement. “Our business model means safety, security, and progress are all insulated from short-term commercial pressures.”

The emphasis on safety sets SSI apart from other AI startups, many of which prioritize commercial applications and consumer-facing products. The AI community has long debated how to balance the rapid development of AI capabilities with the imperative to mitigate risks. SSI aims to solve both problems by advancing AI technology while ensuring that safety protocols remain a step ahead.

Investors Flock to SSI’s Vision

SSI’s funding round attracted some of the biggest names in venture capital, including Andreessen Horowitz, Sequoia Capital, DST Global, and SV Angel. Nat Friedman, who co-leads the NFDG partnership with SSI CEO Daniel Gross, was also a key investor. This massive infusion of capital comes amid a broader trend of venture capitalists betting heavily on AI, particularly on startups with high-profile founders and technical expertise.

According to industry insiders, the $1 billion funding round reflects confidence not just in the startup’s potential, but in Sutskever’s pedigree. As a co-founder of OpenAI and one of the key minds behind GPT-4, Sutskever is seen as a leading authority in AI research. His departure from OpenAI, coupled with his commitment to safety, has galvanized investor interest.

“It’s not about the product—it’s about the person,” said a venture capitalist familiar with the deal. “Investors are backing the talent and the vision. Ilya Sutskever has already proven he can take AI to new heights, and with SSI, he’s positioned to push the boundaries even further, while keeping a focus on safety.”

The Challenge Ahead: Safety vs. Speed

SSI’s mission to build “safe superintelligence” is both ambitious and fraught with challenges. Sutskever’s team, which currently consists of just 10 employees, is split between Silicon Valley and Tel Aviv. Much of the $1 billion funding will go toward acquiring computing power and hiring top-tier talent, a necessity given the computational demands of training large-scale AI models.

However, SSI’s focus on safety may place it in direct competition with other AI firms that are pushing the boundaries of AI capabilities without the same level of oversight. OpenAI, for instance, has continued to forge ahead with its commercial ventures, including partnerships with Microsoft, while maintaining its long-term goal of achieving artificial general intelligence (AGI). Meanwhile, competitors like Anthropic, founded by former OpenAI employees, have taken a similar approach to safety-focused AI development.

Critics of SSI’s approach argue that prioritizing safety could slow down innovation. As Brandon Purcell, an analyst at Forrester Research, put it, “The race to develop AI is intense, and safety measures, while crucial, can sometimes get in the way of progress. SSI’s challenge will be to balance these competing priorities—ensuring safety without losing its edge in the innovation race.”

A $1 Billion Bet on the Future of AI

Despite these concerns, the $1 billion funding round is a clear signal that investors believe in the long-term potential of safe AI. For venture capitalists, the decision to back SSI represents a bet on both the future of AI and the importance of maintaining ethical and safety standards in its development.

“We see this as the next frontier of AI development,” said one investor involved in the funding round. “The question isn’t whether AI will surpass human intelligence—it’s how we ensure that when it does, it remains aligned with human interests. SSI is leading that charge.”

SSI’s singular focus on safety comes at a time when governments and regulators are increasingly scrutinizing the AI industry. In California, for instance, lawmakers are considering a bill that would impose stringent safety regulations on AI companies, a move that has divided the tech community. While companies like OpenAI and Google have expressed concerns about the potential for overregulation, others, including SSI, have embraced the idea of greater oversight.

This Isn’t About Scaling Quickly

The startup plans to scale its operations and recruit top-tier researchers and engineers dedicated to advancing AI safety in the coming months. “We’re building a small, trusted team of the world’s best talent,” Gross said in a statement. “This isn’t about scaling quickly—it’s about scaling safely.”

For Sutskever, the journey from OpenAI co-founder to leader of a billion-dollar startup has been a whirlwind. But with SSI, he is determined to chart a new path, one that prioritizes safety and long-term progress over short-term gains. As he put it on social media following the announcement of the funding round: “Mountain: identified. Time to climb.”

The challenge ahead is immense and could literally change the world. Safe superintelligence, if achievable, could revolutionize the way humans interact with machines, unlocking new possibilities for AI to solve complex global problems. But for Sutskever and his team, the journey to get there will require not just technical expertise but a relentless focus on ensuring that AI remains a force for good.

Turo CEO Andre Haddad spoke about the importance of this collaboration, stating, “We’re incredibly excited about this partnership with Uber. We’re going to enable our hosts to list 365,000 active vehicles—over 1,600 makes and models—on the Uber app. This will provide Uber customers with unprecedented flexibility and choice in vehicle selection, while also expanding opportunities for Turo hosts.”

A Massive Market Opportunity

The integration of Turo’s vehicles into Uber Rent taps into an immense market. Haddad highlighted the vast potential, estimating the addressable market at over $150 billion. “Consumers spend north of $150 billion annually in our five markets on long-distance mobility, and this is exactly the type of trips that Turo hosts are perfect for—longer trips, typically lasting several days,” said Haddad. “Our average trip duration on Turo is four days, and this aligns perfectly with the type of journeys that Uber users often seek.”

By bringing together Turo’s peer-to-peer car-sharing model with Uber’s global reach, the partnership positions both companies to capture a larger share of the mobility market, especially in sectors where traditional rental car companies have long dominated.

Flexibility and Reach

One of the key advantages of Turo’s model is its decentralized nature. Unlike traditional rental car companies, Turo hosts aren’t bound by physical locations or brick-and-mortar facilities. “Our hosts can operate from their homes or park their cars near airports where we have permits,” explained Haddad. “We have an incredible network across over 15,000 cities, and we see demand in urban, suburban, and even rural areas.”

This flexibility allows Uber users to pick from a wide range of vehicles, whether they need a budget-friendly option or a luxury ride. Turo offers everything from economical sedans like the Honda Civic to high-end vehicles such as Audis, BMWs, and Corvettes. Haddad emphasized that the partnership with Uber enables more users to access these vehicles conveniently, whether they are renting for a weekend getaway or an extended road trip.

Displacing Traditional Rental Models

The partnership could shake up the traditional car rental industry, which has long dominated the market for long-distance trips. When asked about who the partnership would displace, Haddad noted that this deal could redefine the competitive landscape. “We see a massive shift away from traditional rental companies toward more flexible, peer-to-peer models like ours. Our hosts provide a broader range of vehicles, more convenient locations, and competitive pricing compared to the traditional rental agencies,” he said.

Uber’s Global Head of Consumer Vehicles, Niraj Patel, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Flexible access to shared vehicles is a critical part of the future of transportation. By working together with Turo, we’re reducing the need for private car ownership while giving Uber Rent customers more choice. This partnership allows us to bring a best-in-class car-sharing platform to millions of users.”

A Strategic Move for Turo’s Growth

For Turo, this partnership with Uber is not just about immediate market share—it’s a long-term strategic play that could accelerate its growth. Haddad alluded to the company’s plans for an initial public offering (IPO) in the near future, although he refrained from sharing specific details. “We’re in a quiet period right now, so there’s not much we can say about going public,” Haddad stated. “But what we can say is that this partnership will allow us to grow even faster. We’re excited about the potential to expand our business and reach more customers through Uber’s platform.”

Turo has been eyeing an IPO since 2021, and the company has recently provided financial updates that indicate strong performance. Turo posted a profit for the first six months of 2024, a milestone that will likely boost investor confidence as the company moves closer to going public.

Revolutionizing Car Ownership and Mobility

Both Uber and Turo share a vision of reducing private car ownership and making better use of the cars already on the road. Haddad emphasized that Turo’s mission is to unlock the hidden value of underutilized vehicles, helping car owners turn their idle assets into income-generating opportunities. “With 1.5 billion cars worldwide, most of them sit unused for the majority of the time. Our goal is to put these cars to better use, and this partnership with Uber will help us achieve that on a global scale,” he said.

Uber’s Patel reinforced this, stating, “We’re not just looking at car rentals—we’re looking at the future of transportation. By offering shared vehicles on-demand, we’re contributing to a more sustainable, efficient, and accessible mobility ecosystem.”

A Bright Future for Car Sharing

This partnership between Uber and Turo represents a significant shift in how consumers will access vehicles in the future. Turo’s peer-to-peer model, combined with Uber’s technology and user base, positions both companies to lead the next wave of innovation in mobility.

Haddad sees continued growth for both Turo and the broader car-sharing market. “We’re just scratching the surface of what’s possible,” he said. “The future of transportation is shared, and we’re excited to be at the forefront of this movement, providing flexible, affordable, and accessible options for millions of users around the world.”

As Turo’s vehicles become available on Uber Rent in early 2025, consumers can expect a more diverse, flexible, and seamless experience renting cars for their needs. Whether for a weekend adventure or a cross-country road trip, the partnership is set to redefine the way we think about car rentals and transportation and, in the process, disrupt the mobility industry.

Nemil Dalal, the product lead for the Coinbase Developer Platform, recently shared insights on this development, noting that the first AI-to-AI crypto transaction is not just a novelty but a glimpse into the future of decentralized finance. “AI and crypto are two of the hottest trends in the industry right now,” Dalal explained. “The combination is powerful because crypto allows programmable conditions, enabling AI agents to transact autonomously in ways that traditional financial systems simply can’t match.”

The Importance of AI-Crypto Integration

According to Dalal, AI agents are poised to become increasingly central to the digital economy. One of the major obstacles AI faces is the inability to interact with traditional financial systems—AI cannot walk into a bank and open an account. This is where crypto comes into play. “AI can’t open a bank account, but it can own a crypto wallet. That’s why crypto becomes a perfect financial ecosystem for AI,” Dalal emphasized.

In a recent announcement, Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong echoed this sentiment, celebrating the first AI-to-AI transaction using USDC on Coinbase’s Layer 2 (L2) blockchain network, Base. Armstrong pointed out that this new capability could enable AI agents to transact with humans, merchants, and other AI agents without the limitations imposed by traditional banking infrastructure. “This is a huge step forward. AI agents can now use crypto to complete tasks autonomously,” Armstrong said.

A New Era for AI Agents and Financial Transactions

The AI-to-AI transaction opens the door for more sophisticated financial interactions between AI agents. Imagine, for instance, one AI specializing in web crawling for data analysis and another specializing in summarization. These AI agents could now pay each other for services rendered, creating a dynamic ecosystem of digital agents performing tasks and settling payments without human intervention.

Dalal offered a compelling example: “Skyfire, one of the companies we’re working with, is building financial platforms for AI agents. In a recent transaction, one AI agent crawled the web for specific data, which it then sold to another AI agent. This level of interactivity is unprecedented.”

The ability to facilitate micro-payments through crypto also enhances the utility of AI. Dalal explained that AI agents could pay humans in crypto for specific tasks, such as gathering opinions or summarizing information. This capability could foster a new gig economy where AI-driven tasks are completed through micro-transactions, further expanding the role of crypto in AI ecosystems.

Overcoming Traditional Barriers

One of the most exciting aspects of this development is the way it bypasses existing limitations in the traditional financial system. AI agents have long been hindered by the inability to access services like credit cards or bank accounts, which are necessary to use platforms like AWS or GitHub. Crypto, with its decentralized and programmable nature, provides a solution.

“AI agents can now interact with crypto wallets seamlessly through APIs, enabling them to access services without the need for traditional financial tools,” Dalal said. “This is where AI and blockchain create something truly unique. We can finally facilitate tasks and transactions that were impossible in the past.”

The Future of the AI-Crypto Economy

As the potential of AI-crypto integration becomes clearer, industry experts are increasingly bullish on its future. Bitwise Asset Management forecasted that AI and crypto could add $20 trillion to the global economy by the end of the decade. Meanwhile, global investment manager VanEck predicts that the revenue from AI-crypto integration could reach $10.2 billion by 2030.

Armstrong has posed a provocative question: “How big will the AI-to-AI economy be in a few years?” While the answer is still uncertain, the possibilities are vast. From micro-tasking and data aggregation to autonomous transactions between machines, the combination of AI and crypto has the potential to reshape entire industries.

Dalal is optimistic about what’s to come: “We’re seeing a tremendous amount of demand for these types of AI-crypto transactions, and we’re only scratching the surface. Developers are eager to explore what this can do for industries ranging from finance to e-commerce.”

Coinbase’s AI Strategy and Developer Platform

Coinbase isn’t stopping at financial transactions between AI agents. The company’s broader AI strategy includes developing AI agents that can assist with customer support, automate code generation, and enable faster app development. Coinbase’s developer platform is a cornerstone of this effort, providing tools that allow developers to integrate AI and blockchain seamlessly.

“We’re incredibly bullish on AI and crypto,” Dalal stated. “Blockchain development can be challenging, but our goal is to make it as simple and secure as possible. From wallets to APIs, we want to give developers the tools they need to build on-chain applications that leverage both AI and crypto.”

Last week, @brian_armstrong and I spoke to all Coinbase employees about our vision for @CoinbaseDev (CDP):

"Making it easier to build onchain than online, and supporting a million onchain developers building for a billion users." pic.twitter.com/UH9dwzd1kC

— Nemil Dalal (@nemild) August 23, 2024

The platform’s Onchain Kit, for instance, allows developers to build decentralized applications (dApps) in minutes rather than weeks. Meanwhile, Coinbase’s smart wallets provide end-users with secure access to the blockchain ecosystem, empowering AI agents to use these tools for a variety of tasks.

As Armstrong noted, “AI is going to run on the device, in the cloud, and on the blockchain. The future will involve entirely new experiences made possible by the integration of these technologies.”

Integration of AI and Crypto Just Starting

The integration of AI and crypto is still in its infancy, but the early signs are promising. As developers experiment with new use cases, it’s clear that the marriage of these two technologies could be a game-changer for industries worldwide.

Dalal summed up the potential: “We’re witnessing the dawn of a new financial ecosystem. The fusion of AI and crypto has the potential to unlock tremendous value, and Coinbase is at the forefront of making that happen.”

As more AI agents begin to interact autonomously and transact using crypto, the implications for finance, technology, and commerce will be game-changing. For now, Coinbase’s first AI-to-AI crypto transaction is just the beginning of what promises to be a transformative journey into the future of decentralized finance. This is potentially world-changing stuff.

Arm-based chips have increasingly made headway against Intel’s dominance in the desktop and server markets. Apple helped get the ball rolling with its Arm-based M-series of chips, delivering performance that rivals Intel’s best, while simultaneously deliver far superior battery life. The tech industry took note, with Qualcomm’s Arm-based Snapdragon chips offering similar performance.

Intel engineers say the competition with Arm-based chips caused the engineering teams to go back to the drawing board.

“We had new competition showing good performance – roughly equal to what we have – but with much lower power,” said Arik Gihon, Intel senior principal engineer of SoC Architecture.

One of the main decisions the teams had to make was choosing to design a more purpose-built chip, rather than one designed to serve a wide range of PC categories. The new chip would be designed almost exclusively for thin laptops and fanless devices, such as tablets.

“The story was efficiency,” Gihon explains, “and we literally turned over every rock.”

The company says its efforts were successful, yielding the energy-efficient Core Ultra 200V.

The result is Core Ultra 200V. It’s a processor to power AI PC laptops that draws as much as 40% less power than its predecessor, which itself was a radical re-architecture focused on efficiency. The new Core Ultra delivers several more hours of battery life — and, critically, similarly large gains in performance, graphics and AI.

Intel’s engineers focused on better utilizing the chips Efficient-cores (E-cores) versus the Performance-cores (P-cores).

“Thanks to Thread Director updates, along with enhanced power management decisions, we can monitor all of this at a milliseconds level,” said Intel Fellow Rajshree Chabukswar. “And we can change based on the type of work that we are running – do I need to burst up my frequency or do I need to be conservative? That gave us a lot of benefit.”

“When Lunar Lake runs on battery, we use Windows hetero-scheduling, which means we start from the Efficient-cores and move up,” Chabukswar added. “We have a new feature called OS containment where we try to keep the work on E-cores as much as possible.”

Heavier loads are shifted to the P-cores, which quickly shut down once the heavier workload is completed.

The end result is a chip Intel believes will allow it to compete with Arm’s performance, while at the same time maintaining the compatibility the Intel and Microsoft world is accustomed to.

“It’s one of the biggest projects we ever did in terms of architecture shift,” Gihon said. “When we look at the competition, and we look at where we are, we are pretty satisfied.”

In an exclusive interview with CNBC, Amon described the collaboration as one focused on creating “new products and new experiences” that will push mixed-reality technology beyond the bulky headsets currently available. “What I really expect to come out of this partnership is that I want everyone who has a phone to go buy companion glasses to go along with it,” Amon said. The vision is clear: to make mixed-reality technology as ubiquitous and effortless as wearing a pair of sunglasses.

A Game-Changing Product for XR

Unlike Apple’s Vision Pro, which has garnered attention but struggled with its bulky design and high price point, Qualcomm and its partners are aiming to develop a more user-friendly alternative. “We’re incredibly pleased with the success of the Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses,” Amon shared, referencing a product that Qualcomm also powers. He added that the new glasses would similarly be lightweight and sleek, directly connected to smartphones, making them easier to adopt for the average consumer.

The emphasis on portability and design was echoed by Lance Ulanoff, editor-at-large for TechRadar, who noted, “The problem with many XR headsets is their size and weight. Apple’s Vision Pro is incredible but far from what consumers are looking for in their everyday lives. Qualcomm, Google, and Samsung seem to be addressing that with a more approachable product in the form of smart glasses.”

Amon explained that by leveraging AI technology, these glasses will not only be functional but interactive in ways that previous XR devices couldn’t achieve. “AI is going to run on the device. It’s going to run in the cloud. It’s going to run some in the glass, some in the phone, but at the end of the day, there’s going to be whole new experiences,” Amon said. This decentralized approach to AI processing should help lighten the hardware load while still offering cutting-edge augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) experiences.

Competing with Apple in a Rapidly Growing Market

The mixed-reality market is expected to grow rapidly, with tech giants vying for dominance. Apple made headlines with its Vision Pro headset, but many experts believe that its high price point and cumbersome design could hinder widespread adoption. In contrast, Qualcomm’s strategy with Samsung and Google is to create a more accessible product that can appeal to a wider audience by integrating it into existing smartphone ecosystems.

“Samsung’s role here is crucial,” said Ulanoff. “They’ve got the hardware expertise, and with Qualcomm handling the chipsets and Google providing the software, this could be the trio that finally cracks the code on XR adoption.”

"We've been hearing about this partnership, forever it seems," TechRadar editor at large @LanceUlanoff says on Qualcomm-Google mixed reality glasses, adding: AI "is a good way of getting people interested in this product." pic.twitter.com/M1fztPSJlr

— Yahoo Finance (@YahooFinance) September 5, 2024

While Apple and Meta are targeting the high-end market with devices like the Vision Pro and Meta Quest 3, Qualcomm, Google, and Samsung are betting on a product that seamlessly integrates into everyday life. “We need to get to the point where wearing smart glasses feels no different than wearing regular glasses,” Amon emphasized. The partnership is focused on creating a device that is not only powerful but comfortable and stylish enough for consumers to wear regularly, solving a key issue that has plagued previous XR devices.

The Role of AI and 5G in Mixed Reality

A key differentiator for Qualcomm’s approach is the integration of AI directly into the device, as well as in the cloud, with 5G playing a critical role in this ecosystem. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 chip is designed specifically for smart glasses, enabling AI-driven tasks to be processed locally, while other computationally heavy processes can be offloaded to the cloud via 5G networks.

“AI was the ingredient that was missing,” Amon remarked. “Now, with AI and 5G, we can provide real-time augmented experiences that weren’t possible before.” This technological leap could help push mixed-reality glasses into the mainstream, providing users with experiences like real-time translations, object recognition, and even immersive AR-enhanced navigation.

The power of AI in these smart glasses is not just about advanced features, but also about simplifying how users interact with the technology. “Generative AI changes the way we interact with these devices,” Ulanoff said. “It’s no longer just about overlaying information on what you see—it’s about interacting with the world in real-time in a more intuitive way.” Instead of relying on hand gestures or smartphone controls, users can interact with their environment using voice commands and AI-assisted tasks.

A Product Set for 2025 Launch

While there’s no official release date, industry insiders suggest that the smart glasses could launch commercially as early as 2025. TM Roh, head of Samsung’s mobile division, hinted during the Galaxy Unpacked event that the new XR platform could be unveiled as soon as late 2024. However, leaks suggest that the first public iteration may only be a developer version, with a consumer release likely in early 2025.

According to Amon, the ultimate goal of the collaboration is to achieve scale. “We’re trying to create something that isn’t niche,” he said. “We want this to be a product that millions of people use daily.” This focus on widespread adoption could give Qualcomm, Google, and Samsung an edge over competitors like Apple, whose products remain relatively niche due to their high cost and specialized use cases.

Meta’s Role in the Growing Market

Qualcomm’s partnership with Meta on the Ray-Ban smart glasses has already given the company valuable experience in the smart glasses market. These glasses, powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon AR chip, are an early example of how lightweight, AI-powered devices can be adopted by consumers. “We’re incredibly proud of the work we’ve done with Meta,” Amon said. “It’s proven that there’s a real market for these types of products.”

Meta, too, is preparing to launch its next-generation smart glasses, potentially setting up a head-to-head battle between the two tech powerhouses. Meta’s new smart glasses will reportedly include a viewfinder display and neural interface wristbands that allow for subtle hand gestures, expanding on the use cases for AR glasses. Meta’s approach contrasts with Qualcomm’s, which is more focused on integrating smart glasses into the everyday smartphone experience.

The Future of Mixed Reality

The partnership between Qualcomm, Google, and Samsung will potentially redefine the mixed-reality market, making smart glasses a mainstream product. By focusing on portability, style, and seamless AI integration, the companies hope to avoid the pitfalls that have hampered previous XR devices. “This is about more than just technology,” Amon said. “It’s about creating a product that fits into people’s lives.”

With a potential 2025 launch and intensifying competition between Apple, Meta, and now Qualcomm, the race to define the future of mixed reality is heating up. As Ulanoff aptly summed it up, “This is the moment we’ve been waiting for—when mixed reality finally moves from niche to necessity.”

Intel’s fortunes continue to diminish as the company struggles to turn things around regain its former glory. Most recently, Intel announced layoffs of some 15,000 employees. The company’s situation has become dire enough that almost all options are being considered, including spinning off its foundry business and a possible sale of Altera, the company’s programmable chip unit.

According to Reuters, Qualcomm’s executives are looking at the possibility of acquiring the part of Intel responsible for client PC design, although they are investigating other Intel units as well. The outlet’s sources say Qualcomm has been quietly working on plans to purchase parts of Intel for months.

Intel says it has not been approached by Qualcomm, and a company spokesperson said the company is “deeply committed to our PC business.” Qualcomm declined to comment on Reuters’ story.

While it may be hard to imagine Intel selling off one of its core units, with the company’s fortunes continuing to deteriorate, the time may come when it has little choice. If that day comes, Qualcomm may be well-positioned to benefit from it.

According to Financial Times, OpenAI executives are trying to find the subscription sweet spot, one where the company can make money off of its AI models, yet still drive subscriber growth with a price point customers will accept. Unfortunately, FT reports that $2,000 subscription fees are being discussed, although nothing has been decided.

OpenAI’s subscription dilemma is indicative of the challenges the AI industry is facing in general. Financial firms and investors have increasingly been sounding the alarm over the high price tag that comes with generative AI development.

In fact, the high cost has been cited as one of the reasons AI could be the tech industry’s latest bubble, rather than a transformative tech that’s here to stay. Jim Covello, Goldman Sachs Head of Global Equity Research, compared AI to earlier tech revolutions, saying its high cost limits its ability to have the same impact.

Many people attempt to compare AI today to the early days of the internet. But even in its infancy, the internet was a low-cost technology solution that enabled e-commerce to replace costly incumbent solutions. Amazon could sell books at a lower cost than Barnes & Noble because it didn’t have to maintain costly brick-and-mortar locations. Fast forward three decades, and Web 2.0 is still providing cheaper solutions that are disrupting more expensive solutions, such as Uber displacing limousine services. While the question of whether AI technology will ever deliver on the promise many people are excited about today is certainly debatable, the less debatable point is that AI technology is exceptionally expensive, and to justify those costs, the technology must be able to solve complex problems, which it isn’t designed to do.

While it’s hard to imagine that OpenAI will go with a $2,000 subscription, the fact that it is even discussing such a high price underscores the growing pressure OpenAI—and the AI industry in general—is under to start recouping the massive investments that have been made.

The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday that Verizon was close to a deal, although the terms were not known at the time. Given Frontier’s market valuation of more than $7 billion, any deal was clearly going to be an expensive one.

According to Verizon, the two companies have reached a definitive agreement for the nation’s largest wireless carrier to purchase the internet company for $20 billion, in an all-cash transaction. The deal will give Verizon an additional 2.2 million fiber subscribers, as well as Verizon network reach to 25 million premises in 31 states. Verizon currently only covers nine states with its Fios internet, although it has 7.4 million Fios customers.

“Connectivity is essential in nearly every part of our lives and work, and no one delivers better than Verizon,” said Verizon Chairman and CEO Hans Vestberg. “Verizon offers more choice, flexibility and value, and we continuously look for ways to provide the best product and network experience to our customers as we bolster our position as the provider of choice.”

Vestberg added: “The acquisition of Frontier is a strategic fit. It will build on Verizon’s two decades of leadership at the forefront of fiber and is an opportunity to become more competitive in more markets throughout the United States, enhancing our ability to deliver premium offerings to millions more customers across a combined fiber network.”

“Less than four years ago, we set out an ambitious plan to Build Gigabit America, the digital infrastructure this country needs to thrive for generations to come,” said Nick Jeffery, President and CEO of Frontier. “Today’s announcement is recognition of our progress building a best-in-class fiber network and delivering reliable, high-speed broadband to millions of customers across the country. It’s also a vote of confidence for the future of fiber. I am confident that this delivers a significant and certain cash premium to Frontier’s shareholders, while creating exciting new opportunities for our employees and expanding access to reliable connectivity for more Americans.”

The deal represents a 43.7% premium over Frontier’s 90-day average share price, and was unanimously approved by the boards of both companies. Frontier shareholders still must approve the deal, although neither company expects opposition.

Frontier is a popular broadband provider, serving customers in 25 states in the US. According to The Wall Street Journal, talks between the two companies are in the advanced stages. Frontier’s market value is upwards of $7 billion, making any deal a substantial commitment on Verizon’s part.

As the outlet points out, Verizon sold network infrastructure to Frontier in 2016, meaning a deal would bring those assets back to the nation’s largest wireless carrier.

Verizon has been increasing its broadband business, both its Fios Home Internet, 5G Home Internet, and LTE Home Internet. A deal with Frontier would bolster the carrier’s broadband offerings and help it compete with T-Mobile’s popular home internet service, a service that has a larger footprint than Verizon’s wireless home internet options.

The deal also comes at a time when Frontier is vulnerable to a takeover. As WSJ points out, the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2020. Although it came out of that a leaner company, Frontier is facing an expensive upgrade cycle as it converts from copper to fiber. With the state of the economy, investors have grown increasingly concerned that the cost of the network infrastructure upgrades could lead to a repeat of 2020.