Latest AI News

Apple's hardware VP Johny Srouji revealed the company is exploring generative AI to speed up custom chip development. Speaking in Belgium, he emphasized that AI-driven tools could significantly boost productivity and innovation in chip design. Srouji noted the importance of advanced electronic design automation (EDA) tools in Apple's journey from its first A4 chip to current silicon powering Macs and Vision Pro. He highlighted Apple's risk-taking approach, referencing the company's all-in transition from Intel to Apple Silicon. The AI integration could lead to faster chip development cycles, better management of complex designs, and potentially more advanced features in future Apple products.

Poor grid planning in Europe threatens to reshape data centre locations as digital infrastructure booms strain electricity systems. The growth in cloud computing and AI is creating localized energy demand surges that existing grids may not support. Without coordinated infrastructure upgrades, data centres may relocate from current tech hubs to regions with more reliable power, shifting economic benefits. Solutions include enhanced collaboration between energy providers and the tech sector, accelerated green infrastructure development, and improved planning processes.

Meta is pursuing former GitHub CEO Nat Friedman and SSI co-founder Daniel Gross to strengthen its AI capabilities in a market expected to exceed $300 billion by 2025. These strategic hires would leverage Friedman's experience scaling community initiatives and Gross's AI safety expertise. Meta's approach emphasizes that while data and computing resources are important, exceptional talent is crucial for transforming AI research into practical products and gaining competitive advantage.

Microsoft is reportedly ready to abandon lengthy negotiations with OpenAI, threatening their strategic AI partnership. The eight-month talks center on restructuring their relationship as OpenAI transitions to a for-profit model. Points of contention include OpenAI's desire to limit Microsoft's ownership to 33% despite its $13+ billion investment, modify exclusive API reselling rights, and restrict Microsoft's access to the Windsurf AI code editor. OpenAI is considering accusing Microsoft of anticompetitive behavior and seeking regulatory review of their contract, which expires in 2030. This potential split could significantly reshape the AI industry's competitive landscape, potentially allowing other tech giants to access OpenAI's technology.