South Korea's Lee says plans record $25 bln govt spending on research in 2026

Apple is reportedly in early talks with Google to integrate a customized version of Gemini AI into a redesigned Siri voice assistant. This unusual partnership for Apple, which typically develops technology in-house, comes as competitors like Samsung have already adopted generative AI features. The collaboration would allow Siri to leverage Gemini's advanced language and image processing capabilities, potentially enabling smarter voice commands, enhanced content creation features, and improved conversational abilities. The news has positively affected both companies' share prices, with analysts viewing this as a significant move in the competitive AI landscape. If successful, users could see a substantially improved Siri experience as early as next year.

Waymo has received New York City's first permit to test self-driving vehicles, allowing it to operate eight Jaguar I-Pace SUVs in Manhattan and Downtown Brooklyn until September. The program includes strict safety measures requiring trained operators behind the wheel and regular reporting to authorities. This testing represents Waymo's entry into its most challenging urban environment yet, complementing its existing robotaxi services in San Francisco, Austin, Los Angeles, and Phoenix. The company secured approval through coordination with first responders and obtaining permits from city and state agencies. If successful, Waymo may apply to extend testing beyond September.

Sweden's Wallenberg Group has partnered with AstraZeneca, Ericsson, Saab, and SEB to form a new AI company focused on developing advanced infrastructure for Swedish industry and research. This strategic consortium unites expertise from pharmaceuticals, technology, defense, finance, and investment sectors to enhance Sweden's global AI competitiveness. The initiative will develop secure, ethical AI systems, foster academia-industry collaboration, and address growing demands for computational resources needed by modern AI technologies. The venture complements the existing Wallenberg AI research program (WASP) and demonstrates Sweden's commitment to becoming a leader in responsible AI development and application.

Elon Musk approached Mark Zuckerberg and Meta for support in his $97 billion OpenAI acquisition bid, according to newly revealed court documents. Neither Zuckerberg nor Meta agreed to participate in the proposed takeover. OpenAI has subpoenaed Meta for communications related to this bid, seeking evidence of potential coordination, but Meta has objected to sharing what it considers private information. The legal dispute centers on Musk's claims that OpenAI violated its founding principles by transitioning from a nonprofit to a public benefit corporation with commercial interests. Meanwhile, Meta has expanded its own AI initiatives, hiring former OpenAI researchers and making significant investments in the sector.