OpenAI is reportedly shifting from Microsoft Azure to a massive $300 billion cloud deal with Oracle, signaling a major industry realignment as Microsoft diversifies its AI partnerships, while Apple focuses on traditional hardware upgrades over AI innovations. Meanwhile, safety concerns rise over electronic flush door handles in cars, the camera industry sees new affordable cinema gear, and significant software updates and AI funding milestones highlight ongoing tech advancements.
This week’s tech roundup begins with a major shakeup between Microsoft and OpenAI. Reports suggest that OpenAI is entering a massive $300 billion cloud deal with Oracle for its Stargate project, moving away from Microsoft Azure. This deal, while not officially confirmed, aligns with Oracle’s reported $455 billion in outstanding contract revenue. The scale of this investment is staggering, dwarfing major acquisitions like Twitter and LinkedIn. Oracle’s heavy debt financing and the enormous electricity demands of AI data centers highlight the risks if the AI industry faces a downturn. Meanwhile, Microsoft is diversifying its AI partnerships by incorporating models from Anthropic and developing its own AI models, signaling a decoupling from OpenAI that could have significant industry implications.
Apple’s recent launch event stood out for its traditional focus on hardware rather than AI innovations. The company unveiled new iPhones, Apple Watches, and AirPods, emphasizing tangible upgrades like thinner designs, improved cameras with larger sensors, and new in-house chips for Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and modems. Notably, the base iPhone 17 finally received a 120 Hz screen. Apple’s avoidance of AI buzzwords contrasted with other tech giants, reflecting a deliberate choice to highlight solid hardware improvements. However, the event drew criticism for misleading marketing around “optical quality zoom,” which confused many viewers about the actual camera capabilities.
In automotive news, concerns are rising over electronic flush door handles, especially in China where the government is reportedly considering a ban. Flush handles, which retract into the car body and rely on electricity, have been linked to safety issues during crashes, including the risk of trapping occupants inside. Tesla’s older models have faced particular scrutiny, prompting the addition of mechanical latches in newer versions. Studies show that electronic handles have a significantly lower success rate in side collisions compared to mechanical ones, and the aerodynamic benefits of flush handles appear minimal, strengthening calls for regulatory action.
The camera industry saw exciting developments with Nikon and RED collaborating on an affordable cinema camera combining high-end features, and Fujifilm launching its first cinema camera with unique film simulations. Canon also introduced a compact full-frame cinema camera with impressive specs but fewer premium features. These releases highlight ongoing innovation in professional imaging technology, catering to filmmakers and content creators seeking advanced yet accessible equipment.
Finally, several notable updates emerged in software and AI funding. Signal introduced secure automatic backups, Spotify launched lossless streaming for premium users, and Microsoft removed fees for individual developers on its app store. YouTube expanded multi-language audio support, enhancing global accessibility. Meanwhile, the beloved Nova Launcher for Android is shutting down, with alternatives like Negara recommended. In funding news, European AI leader Mistral secured €1.7 billion, backed by chipmaker ASML, underscoring the deep connection between AI advancements and semiconductor technology. The video concludes by promoting Brilliant’s interactive courses on AI and engineering, encouraging viewers to deepen their understanding of these complex fields.