Technology

In part two of this two-part podcast episode, we discuss some predictions for 2024 that are too specific to be 100% certain about but could still come true, including: which car company Amazon could potentially acquire, how AI might land itself in hot water, and the next digital consumer privacy lawsuit. Tune in to the discussion with our vice presidents of content Suzy Davidkhanian and Paul Verna and analyst Max Willens.

Meta’s Audiobox, an AI for voice cloning and sound generation, has potential but faces restrictions and copyright concerns. Future commercial versions are expected.

Three generative AI startups get fresh funding: Mistral AI, Aleph Alpha, and Essential AI draw significant VC investments and signal a shift toward a more diverse sector.

Microsoft and AFL-CIO launch workforce alliance: It could promote worker-focused tech development and pro-worker policies amid concerns over mass tech job losses.

In part one of this two-part podcast episode, we discuss some predictions for 2024 that are too specific to be 100% certain about but could still come true, including: which subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) platform Apple will likely buy, where metaverse playgrounds will spring up, and what the ruling between Google and the US Department of Justice will be. Tune in to the discussion with our vice presidents of content Suzy Davidkhanian and Paul Verna and analyst Max Willens.

Regulators examine its $13 billion deal with Microsoft and potential control issues. Focus on billion-dollar AI deals will likely intensify.

EU finalizes world’s first comprehensive AI regulations: Rules for AI companies pave the way for future regulatory frameworks around the world but are met with mixed reception.

Apple is planning a foldable device. Samsung wants a piece: It could release an iPhone or iPad/MacBook hybrid in 2026 as it seeks to make its mark on the foldable field.

On today's podcast episode, we discuss the travel rebound and how tech is helping it out, how Black Friday football (with a side of online shopping) performed this year, will X (formerly Twitter) go bankrupt next year, a new way to stream NBA games post-cable, what to expect from ChatGPT next year, why your passport is the color it is, and more. Tune in to the discussion with our forecasting writer Ethan Cramer-Flood, forecasting analyst Zach Goldner, and director of forecasting Oscar Orozco.

Apple is targeting 50 million to 60 million iPhone units made in India while also expanding into Vietnam. Its success could attract tech companies moving away from China.

Funding scarcity is leading to layoffs, bankruptcies, and a focus on profitability, affecting future startup innovation and growth.

Is Google’s Gemini a real leap in AI or just clever marketing? The launch boosts Alphabet shares by 5.3%, but skepticism arises amid staged demos and performance issues.

The share of online orders being returned is falling: Consumers are keeping more of their purchases as retailers add friction to the returns process.

AI's environmental footprint revealed: Research calls for transparent emissions reporting and efficient tech amid consumer and regulatory push for sustainability.

Apple's MLX, focuses on machine learning for Apple Silicon– the shift towards AI integration in services favors open-source development over mainstream genAI.

Microsoft, OpenAI, and Meta look beyond Nvidia’s chips: AMD’s latest Instinct MI300X chip is set to shake up the generative AI sector, potentially eating some of Nvidia’s market share.

Amazon faces employee exodus over RTO policy: Dissatisfaction grows over mandates to work from designated city hubs, causing notable departures, especially in Amazon Web Services.

Amazon joins Google in criticizing Microsoft’s restrictive UK cloud licensing, adding weight to the CMA’s ongoing investigation into market fairness.

Google’s Gemini launches in three sizes: Ultra, Pro, and Nano show prowess on benchmarking tests, but questions loom about release timing and how the technology measures up.