Daily tech: New Tech Milestones

January 15 2025

FutureGate | Google Cloud has unveiled a groundbreaking new feature with its Automotive AI Agent, built using the Gemini platform. The AI system is already being integrated by Mercedes-Benz, marking a significant advancement in the use of AI in the automotive industry. This innovation aims to enhance driver experiences with personalized and intelligent solutions.

Meanwhile, Apple is facing legal challenges in the UK over its App Store practices. A London tribunal is hearing claims that Apple has abused its dominant position by charging developers a hefty 30% commission, costing British consumers approximately £1.5 billion ($1.8 billion). This case could set significant precedents for the tech industry regarding app store fees and their impact on consumers.

Amazon is set to relaunch Alexa, its virtual assistant, with a major upgrade. The new version will evolve Alexa from handling simple tasks to becoming a more personalized concierge, marking a major step forward in the AI-driven home assistant market. This shift is aimed at increasing Alexa’s utility and appeal in an increasingly competitive market.

In the social media space, China’s RedNote app has surged to the top of the App Store charts, as concerns grow over the potential ban of TikTok. RedNote’s rise comes amid growing scrutiny of TikTok’s operations, giving it a chance to capture more users looking for alternatives.

Apple’s manufacturing partner, TSMC, has started producing the A16 Bionic chips at its new facility in Arizona. This marks a milestone for both Apple and TSMC as the companies continue to strengthen their ties and boost domestic chip production in the U.S.

Goldman Sachs has issued a bullish prediction for Alibaba (NYSE: BABA) in 2025, forecasting a rally due to the weakening U.S. dollar. The analysts believe that the global shift in currency dynamics will favor Chinese companies, including Alibaba, in the coming year.

In space technology, WISeKey successfully launched its WISeSat satellite, powered by SEALSQ’s next-generation post-quantum security, into orbit via SpaceX. This satellite promises to bring enhanced security features to satellite communications, marking a new era of secure space technologies.

IonQ, a leader in quantum computing, has announced a landmark partnership with the University of Maryland and the State of Maryland as part of a $1 billion initiative to establish Maryland as a hub for the quantum computing industry. This partnership is set to drive major advancements in the field, positioning the region as a global leader in quantum technology.