Welcome to today’s curated collection of interesting links and insights for 2025/10/05. Our Hand-picked, AI-optimized system has processed and summarized 24 articles from all over the internet to bring you the latest technology news.
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AI data centers are driving a surge in demand that is devouring the world’s memory and flash production, setting the stage for a pricing squeeze that could last a decade. After a period of oversupply, #NAND and #DRAM prices reversed course in 2024 as output cuts propagated through the supply chain, with 512Gb TLC NAND spot prices up more than 100% in six months and consumer SSDs rising in price, while HDD pricing increased 5-10% as nearline shortages tightened enterprise storage. DRAM followed the pattern, with DDR4 prices forecast to jump in 2025 and #GDDR7 shortages nudging up GPU memory costs; memory cycles are now driven by #AI and #hyperscalers, where each GPU node can demand hundreds of GB of DRAM and flash, amplifying scarcity. Industry warnings about shortages and rising costs across consumer to data-center storage foretell a market where memory costs stay high as the demand-supply imbalance persists, reshaping buying decisions for years to come.
2. Sora by OpenAI launches a new video app to enhance content creation
OpenAI has introduced Sora, a new video application aimed at streamlining the video creation process by integrating advanced AI capabilities from #OpenAI. This app enables users to generate, edit, and customize videos quickly by leveraging @OpenAI’s machine learning models, promoting broader accessibility for content creators. The inclusion of AI-driven features like automatic transcription, scene detection, and personalized editing tools reflects a shift toward more intuitive multimedia production tools. By simplifying video creation, Sora is positioned to empower creators to produce high-quality videos with less effort and technical expertise, potentially transforming digital content workflows. This development underscores OpenAI’s ongoing commitment to innovating creative tools that expand the practical applications of artificial intelligence.
3. Sam Altman says Sora will add ‘granular,’ opt-in copyright controls | TechCrunch
@Sam Altman says #Sora will add granular, opt-in copyright controls, including more granular control over generation of characters, similar to the opt-in likeness model but with additional controls. Rights holders can specify how their characters are used, including not at all, reflecting a shift toward explicit consent for copyrighted IP. While rightsholders are excited about this interactive fan fiction potential, they want clear usage parameters. Altman also alludes to a new form of video monetization, potentially sharing revenue with rights holders, though details are not yet set. The plan acknowledges possible edge cases where generations slip through that shouldn’t, signaling ongoing complexity in balancing engagement with copyright.
OpenAI’s Sora 2 video generator and its invite-only social feed launched, promising creative potential but immediately yielded lifelike videos featuring violence, racism, and copyrighted characters, revealing safeguards are not preventing harmful outputs. In prompts viewed by the Guardian, SpongeBob dressed as Adolf Hitler appeared, with other clips showing bomb threats, mass-shooting scares on campuses, and scenes from Gaza and Myanmar, plus a Charlottesville rally with a white-supremacist slogan, even though OpenAI’s terms prohibit violence and harm. The platform includes mitigations on likeness and disturbing content, and @Sam Altman described it as a ‘ChatGPT for creativity’ moment while acknowledging risks; @BillPeebles said invites would continue, and researchers like @JoanDonovan warn such videos could fuel fraud, bullying, and intimidation. The rapid rise to No 1 on the App Store amid concerns about ‘slop’ and truth-fidelity highlights the core tension between innovation and safeguards in AI-generated media (#Sora #AI #misinformation).
Microsoft is reportedly considering a free cloud gaming service for Xbox Cloud Gaming that would include advertisements, which marks a shift from their current ad-free model for Game Pass Ultimate subscribers. A subscriber allegedly encountered an advertisement while loading a game, suggesting early testing of this approach. This move could help Microsoft attract more users by offering a free tier supported by ads, similar to models seen in other digital entertainment services. While ads might enhance accessibility, they could impact user experience for those accustomed to an ad-free environment. Microsoft’s potential shift aligns with broader industry trends of monetizing free gaming platforms through advertising.
6. If you’re not an AI startup, good luck raising money from VCs | TechCrunch
AI is reshaping startup funding in 2025, with data suggesting it will account for more than half of all VC investment this year. PitchBook reports VCs have poured $192.7B into the industry this year out of a total $366.8B, with the latest quarter showing AI at 62.7% of U.S. VC funding and 53.2% globally. Marquee names like @Anthropic have attracted large rounds, such as a $13B Series F announced in September. However, fundraising activity is cooling, with only 823 funds raised globally in 2025 compared with 4,430 in 2022, signaling a bifurcated market where AI leaders dominate while many non AI focused firms struggle. Kyle Sanford of PitchBook notes the market is bifurcated: you’re in #AI, or you’re not, and you’re a big firm, or you’re not.
7. Startups and the U.S. government: It’s getting complicated | TechCrunch
As @Anthony Ha, @Kirsten Korosec, and @Max Zeff explain on Equity, the tie between #startups and the U.S. government has strengthened as startups increasingly serve as customers, seek permits, or pursue defense related contracts in #AI, #automation, #space, #robotics, and #climateTech. When the government functions, that connection can boost revenue, but a shutdown that began on October 1 can slow progress and damp IPO momentum. The piece notes that the startup landscape has shifted from consumer internet to broad deep tech and defense, requiring more regulatory approvals and closer government interactions, a trend @Anthony Ha highlights. The Trump Administration’s moves to take equity stakes in tech and industrial sectors — including 5% stakes in Lithium Americas and a 5% stake in a Lithium Americas-GM JV, via no-cost warrants — plus renegotiations of a $2.26B DOE loan, illustrate how policy can reshape funding and ownership in ways startups must navigate. All of this points to a more entangled government-startup dynamic that will influence investment, regulatory risk, and growth strategies, especially in #defense and related industries.
A rare @Intel engineering sample of a dual-core Hyperthreaded Pentium 4 known as the Pentium Extreme Edition 980 clocked at 4.0 GHz has surfaced, offering a glimpse into the late #NetBurst era. On Reddit, owner diegunguyman shared photos of the chip and a @CPU-Z screenshot, but the @CPU-Z database wouldn’t validate due to quirks, and the only legible text was the model number and 4 GHz clock. The chip is believed to be an #LoanerChip, rarer than typical ES, likely lent to an @Intel employee under strict terms, with a culture of limited distribution, especially amid layoffs. The broader context explains why the public never saw it: @Intel pivoted to #Core around mid-2006, moving toward the #Core microarchitecture and a #performance-per-watt focus, relegating #NetBurst to history due to thermal and efficiency concerns, with the #Core2 lineup as a savior for desktop performance. The find highlights how @Intel’s strategic shift—from #NetBurst’s thermal limits to a mobile-first, efficiency-driven Core architecture—helped counter #AMD and shape the industry trajectory.
9. Breakthrough Blood Test Detects Head and Neck Cancer Up to 10 Years Before Symptoms
A new blood test developed by researchers offers the potential to detect #headandneckcancer up to ten years before symptoms appear, which could vastly improve early diagnosis and treatment outcomes. The test identifies specific DNA markers linked to cancer development, allowing for much earlier intervention compared to current diagnostic methods. By detecting cancer-associated genetic changes in blood samples, the test shows promise as a non-invasive, highly sensitive screening tool. This advancement could transform cancer diagnostics by enabling pre-symptomatic detection, reducing mortality rates through timely treatment. Early identification through such technology aligns with broader efforts to improve cancer prognosis and patient survival.
10. Anduril, Palantir battlefield communication system has ‘deep flaws,’ Army memo says
The U.S. Army has identified significant issues in a battlefield communication system developed by Anduril and Palantir, revealing deep flaws in the technology intended to enhance coordination among troops. An internal Army memo highlighted problems such as unreliable data integration, security vulnerabilities, and insufficient user interface design, which compromise the system’s effectiveness in combat scenarios. These deficiencies raise concerns about the system’s readiness and the potential risks for soldiers relying on it during operations. The Army’s critique prompts a reevaluation of the collaboration with tech companies like Anduril and Palantir to ensure battlefield systems meet stringent operational requirements. This scrutiny underscores the challenges of integrating advanced #military_technology in real-world settings and the necessity for rigorous testing before deployment.
11. Sylvester Stallone AI-Deaged for ‘Rambo’ Prequel
The new ‘Rambo’ prequel film employs cutting-edge #AI technology to digitally de-age @Sylvester Stallone, allowing him to portray a younger version of his iconic character. The innovative visual effects mark a significant advancement in how filmmakers can revisit characters from earlier decades without recasting or heavy makeup. This approach brings authenticity and continuity to the storytelling, engaging fans with a seamless connection to the original films. Additionally, the technology raises discussions about the future role of AI in cinema and actor representations. Overall, the film’s use of AI reflects evolving industry practices that blend technology and artistry to enhance narrative immersion.
12. Grokipedia: Elon Musk says xAI is working on a Wikipedia rival powered by AI
@Elon Musk has announced that his AI company, #xAI, is developing Grokipedia, a new encyclopedia aimed at rivaling Wikipedia. Grokipedia will be powered by #artificialintelligence to deliver accurate and curated information, addressing concerns about misinformation on existing platforms. Musk envisions Grokipedia as more interactive and responsive, utilizing AI to enhance knowledge dissemination. This initiative reflects the growing trend of leveraging AI to transform information access and challenges the dominance of traditional knowledge bases. Grokipedia could reshape how users engage with and trust online encyclopedias.
13. Tunisian sentenced to death over Facebook posts criticising president
A Tunisian court sentenced a man to death for posts on Facebook that were critical of President Kais Saied. The posts allegedly defamed the president and harmed state institutions, according to the prosecution. This sentence has sparked concerns about freedom of expression and human rights in Tunisia. The case reflects increasing tensions between the Tunisian government and online critics amid debates over political authority and civil liberties. It highlights the challenges faced by activists and citizens in expressing dissent in the current political climate.
14. F-Droid says Google’s new sideloading restrictions will kill the project
F-Droid warns that @Google’s new #devverification plan could kill its project by centralizing #Android software distribution and marginalizing #FOSS app stores like @F-Droid. The plan would require developers outside the #PlayStore to register with @Google and certify their apps; apps not validated would be uninstallable on certified devices, while F-Droid emphasizes that sideloading remains how its apps are delivered. F-Droid argues that forcing registration and possible fees would take over distribution rights from creators and erase independent projects that avoid tracking or invasive ads, noting that even the #PlayStore is not malware-free. They frame the move as an attempt to consolidate monopoly power under a security pretext and urge regulators in the US and EU to scrutinize @Google’s plans to protect user choice and open software ecosystems.
15. Google confirms Android dev verification will have free and paid tiers, no public list of devs
The upcoming Android Developer Verifier from @Google will gate sideloaded apps with free and paid verification tiers, aligning broad-distribution costs with the current Play registration while keeping sideloading and alternative stores in play. The system will verify each app’s package name and signing keys registered with @Google at install, may require Internet access for most checks, devices may cache common sideloaded apps while external checks rely on network or pre-auth tokens for other stores, and the move could affect #F-Droid. There will be a no-cost, hobbyist tier for students and hobbyists with an email signup but with unclear install limits, while a full verification remains a paid process that mirrors the $25 Play registration fee. Play Protect already scans all apps and can deactivate a developer’s apps if malware is detected, but how the new verification will interact with those safeguards and what it means for popular tools like ad blockers remains unclear #PlayProtect.
16. Nintendo Reportedly Lobbying Japanese Government to Push Back Against Generative AI
@Nintendo is lobbying the Japanese government to push back against #generativeAI in order to protect its IP. The move follows remarks by @Satoshi Asano, a member of Japan’s House of Representatives, who notes the convenience of AI but highlights risks to creators’ rights and cites lawsuits such as Yomiuri Shimbun’s 2.17 billion yen claim against Perplexity AI for unauthorized use of articles. METI has published a ‘Generative AI Utilization Guidebook for Content Creation’ advising companies to verify that AI-generated works do not closely resemble copyrighted material, while @DeNA shifts toward proprietary-data AI. Nintendo’s lobbying reflects its long-standing stance on defending its IP, and the ultimate impact will depend on how Japan balances AI innovation with rights protection for creators.
Discovery, once a dominant force in entertainment and media, is undergoing significant organizational changes as it adapts to the evolving industry landscape. Reports indicate that the company is restructuring key operations to focus more on digital streaming and international markets, responding to shifts in consumer preferences and competition from giants like Netflix and Disney. This transformation involves downsizing some divisions and investing in technology and content that align better with modern viewing habits. The move reflects a broader trend where traditional media companies must innovate to stay relevant in a streaming-centric world. These changes aim to ensure Discovery’s sustainability and competitiveness amidst rapid disruption, emphasizing agility and market responsiveness.
18. Could a U.S. visa fee push tech workers to Canada? Here’s what you need to know
The U.S. has unveiled a $100,000 fee for new #H-1B visa applications, which @MarkCarney says could push global tech talent toward #Canada as firms face higher U.S. costs. #H-1B visas are valid for three years and target workers with a bachelor’s degree, with about 60% of issuances since 2012 in computer-related fields, and the original application fee was $215, while @DonaldTrump’s administration argues the program undercuts American workers by paying lower wages according to #PewResearch and #EconomicPolicyInstitute. The higher fee could accelerate the exodus of tech workers to Canada, but Ottawa says admissions will be weighed within a plan to cut non-permanent residents to 5% of the population by 2027. Statistics Canada data show non-permanent residents were 7.1% on April 1, down from 7.4% at the start of 2025, and the government plans an updated immigration levels plan by the end of the month. Beyond Canada, #CUSMA’s #TN visa offers another path for Canadians to work in the U.S., and some firms could transfer staff to Canadian branches before a U.S. transfer, illustrating how policy shifts may reshape where talent goes.
19. Indian ministers push domestic alternatives to Google, Microsoft apps amid strained ties
Indian ministers are urging government agencies and officials to adopt locally developed software alternatives instead of American tech giants like Google and Microsoft, emphasizing digital sovereignty amid strained India-U.S. relations. The push highlights concerns over data security and the desire to bolster the domestic technology sector, with ministers advocating apps that comply with Indian data protection norms. This initiative reflects New Delhi’s broader strategy to reduce dependence on foreign technology and promote homegrown innovation. The move also aligns with India’s policy priorities on data privacy and digital self-reliance, aiming to support the country’s technology ecosystem and safeguard sensitive information. Overall, this shift underlines India’s intent to assert greater control over its digital infrastructure while fostering domestic technological capabilities.
20. Exclusive: Event startup Partiful wasn’t stripping GPS locations from user-uploaded photos
Partiful, the event-focused social app, wasn’t stripping GPS metadata from user-uploaded photos, potentially exposing precise locations. @TechCrunch set up an account and uploaded a profile photo taken near Moscone West, then found that the photo’s coordinates remained in Partiful’s backend on Google Firebase. The exposure could reveal a person’s home or work and amplifies privacy and security risks as Partiful builds a social graph of who you know and where you go, linking data points across users. @TechCrunch alerted Partiful co-founders @ShreyaMurthy and @JoyTao, underscoring the need for automatic metadata removal during uploads, and noted that the company has raised over $27M from investors including @a16z. This incident highlights the broader requirement for platforms hosting user images to strip metadata by default and to improve data-protection practices.
21. Starbucks to close hundreds of stores under CEO Brian Niccol’s plan
Starbucks, led by CEO Brian Niccol, announced plans to close hundreds of underperforming stores globally to improve profitability. This decision reflects ongoing efforts to restructure amid changing consumer habits and the rise of digital ordering. Niccol aims to focus on enhancing customer experience through technology investments and optimizing store formats. Market analysts view this move as a strategic pivot to boost efficiency and adapt Starbucks’ business model in a competitive coffee market. The closures align with the company’s broader agenda to sustain long-term growth while managing operational costs.
22. Costco to sell Ozempic and Wegovy at a large discount for people without insurance
Novo Nordisk will sell authentic @Ozempic and @Wegovy at Costco pharmacies nationwide, offering a four-week supply for $499 out of pocket and making the meds available at more than 600 stores #GLP-1. The $499 price matches the rate already offered on the company’s direct-to-consumer site and through CVS and Walmart, with Costco members eligible for cashback via Executive Membership or Costco Citibank cards. For insured patients, price varies by plan, while roughly 1 in 5 privately insured people lack coverage for at least one brand-name #GLP-1 medication; Novo Nordisk says many with coverage pay about $25 per month, and a self-pay option remains. The drugs have shown potential to reduce stroke risk, treat liver disease, and protect heart health, but experts warn access remains out of reach for uninsured or underinsured people; the Costco move expands access without solving overall insurance coverage and cost. Dr. Rekha Kumar of @WeillCornellMedicine and Dr. Harlan Krumholz of @YaleSchoolofMedicine say the program improves access but won’t reach the most needing patients unless affordability broadens; the effort aims to steer patients toward authentic medications rather than cheaper knockoffs.
23. Washington’s push to break up big tech hits a shutdown
Washington’s efforts to regulate and potentially break up big tech companies have stalled due to a government shutdown, impacting legislative and regulatory progress on #antitrust and #techpolicy reforms. Lawmakers, including @ElizabethWarren and @MarkWarner, have advocated for stricter oversight of dominant platforms to curb their market power and address concerns over data privacy and competition. However, the shutdown has paused meetings and hearings critical to advancing these initiatives, postponing decisions on landmark proposals aimed at limiting tech giants’ influence. The delay reflects broader political challenges in balancing innovation, consumer protection, and economic regulation. This interruption highlights the fragility of momentum behind major tech reforms amid shifting political priorities and procedural hurdles.
24. Quantum computing stocks show varied performance with players like Rigetti and D-Wave
Quantum computing technology is gaining traction, attracting investor interest in companies such as Rigetti Computing and D-Wave. Rigetti has demonstrated advancements in developing scalable quantum processors, while D-Wave focuses on specialized quantum annealing systems. Analysts note these companies face challenges including technical scaling and market adoption but highlight their breakthroughs as significant for future computing capabilities. The varied performance of quantum stocks reflects differences in technology approach and investor confidence. This underscores the growing importance of #quantumcomputing in the tech sector and its potential to revolutionize industries.
That’s all for today’s digest for 2025/10/05! We picked, and processed 24 Articles. Stay tuned for tomorrow’s collection of insights and discoveries.
Thanks, Patricia Zougheib and Dr Badawi, for curating the links
See you in the next one! 🚀