Your brief - 24h (12 articles)

Elon Musk announced during Tesla's annual shareholders meeting that the company is close to launching unsupervised Full Self-Driving (FSD) capable of allowing drivers to "text and drive" in a few months. Additionally, Cybercab, a robotaxi with no pedals or steering wheel, is set for production in April 2026. Musk also teased a flying car demo for April 2026 and revealed plans to scale production of the Optimus humanoid robot, claiming it could become Tesla's biggest product. However, Musk’s statements raise questions about regulatory approval and the feasibility of such ambitious timelines, given his history of missed deadlines. Engadget The Register Source 24

Microsoft’s Mustafa Suleyman outlined the company’s vision of a "humanist superintelligence" (HSI) focused on safety and interpretability, avoiding total autonomy or self-improvement in AI systems. This approach contrasts with the industry’s push toward unregulated AI development. The initiative also reflects Microsoft’s shift in AI strategy as its relationship with OpenAI evolves. The plan prioritizes safety over performance, aiming for AI systems that remain controllable and aligned with human values. Source 25

Google revealed “Project Suncatcher,” an initiative to deploy AI data centers in orbit via solar-powered satellites. The concept aims to achieve sustainable computation by leveraging continuous sunlight in low Earth orbit. While early tests show promising results in data transfer and radiation resistance, the economic feasibility of such infrastructure remains uncertain. The project underscores Google’s ambition to innovate in AI hardware but faces challenges in scaling and cost reduction. Source 38

Acer introduced the Veriton GN100, a mini workstation featuring NVIDIA’s Grace Blackwell Superchip, delivering up to 1 petaflop of AI performance. This device targets enterprises requiring localized AI processing, offering privacy and latency benefits compared to cloud-based solutions. With a starting price of €3,999, the GN100 emphasizes cost predictability and GDPR compliance for European markets. However, its high price may limit adoption outside niche enterprise sectors. Tech Radar

Huawei launched two desktop PCs, the Qingyun W515y and W585y, running China-made Linux systems instead of Western software like Windows. Both devices are equipped with the Kirin 9000X processor, signaling Huawei’s push for independence from U.S. technology. This development aligns with broader efforts by China to reduce reliance on foreign tech amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. However, the practical performance and competitiveness of these systems remain uncertain. Source 32

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, announced that the company expects to reach $20 billion in annualized revenue by year-end, with $1.4 trillion in data center commitments over the next eight years. OpenAI plans to expand into enterprise services, robotics, and consumer devices. However, the company’s rapid growth raises concerns about overextension, as highlighted by recent controversies over potential government support for its infrastructure investments. Source 40

Google updated its NotebookLM app, adding flashcards, quizzes, and enhanced chat options for mobile users. These tools, powered by Gemini AI, aim to improve on-the-go learning efficiency. By offering deeper customization and longer memory contexts, Google positions NotebookLM as a versatile education platform. However, its reliance on AI raises questions about accessibility and the digital divide in education. Tech Radar

The U.S. government has prohibited Nvidia from selling scaled-down AI chips to China, citing national security concerns. This decision underscores growing tensions between the two nations over semiconductor technology and could impact Nvidia’s revenue, as China has been a significant market. The restriction reflects broader U.S. efforts to curb China's access to advanced technologies. MacRumors

Lowercarbon Capital, led by Chris Sacca, announced a second fund dedicated to nuclear fusion startups, following its $250 million fund in 2022. The firm has backed Commonwealth Fusion Systems and other companies aiming to achieve commercial viability in fusion energy. The increasing interest in fusion reflects optimism about breakthroughs in clean energy, though high costs and long timelines remain significant obstacles. Tech Radar

New research presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions links long-term melatonin use to a higher risk of heart failure and overall mortality. While findings are preliminary, they highlight the need for more studies on the supplement’s long-term safety, especially as it grows in popularity. Researchers emphasize that these results should not prompt immediate changes in usage but warrant caution. Science Alert