AMD’s upcoming RDNA 4 flagship GPU is reportedly named the Radeon RX 9070 XT, as the company shifts to the Radeon 9000 branding, according to Chiphell’s senior member, Napoleon. This trajectory follows multiple reports about AMD’s RDNA 4 GPU series, which are expected to be unveiled at CES 2025, with releases expected in Q1 2025. Although early reports pointed to Radeon RX 8000 branding, it appears the graphics cards may be part of the RX 9000 series instead.
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AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT Could Be the Flagship RDNA 4 GPU with New Radeon 9000 Branding
According to Napoleon, AMD will be branding the next generation of cards as the Radeon RX 9000 series but may change it up slightly. The new GPUs will not use the usual XX00 naming scheme, but rather a new X0X0 format. This suggests that the successors of the Radeon RX 7700 XT or 7800 XT may carry a name like the 9070 XT or 9080 XT instead of the expected 9700 XT or 9800 XT.
This naming scheme puts AMD’s releases much closer to NVIDIA’s GeForce lineup — think RTX 4070 and the yet-to-arrive RTX 5070 — which is quite a departure from AMD’s usual marketing tactic. This follows the company’s apparent preference for big numbers at launch, such as with its AMD Ryzen AI series, which was once slated to use the Ryzen AI 100 branding—though pivoted to the 300 series with the intent to match Intel’s Core Ultra naming scheme.
The Radeon RX 9070 XT name is also in line with the three-digit naming from AMD’s Strix Halo iGPU — which peaks at Radeon RX 8060S. The RX 80X0 series is based on RDNA 3.5 architecture, making the move to the RX 90X0 branding for RDNA 4 logical.
In terms of performance, the Navi 48 GPU is rumored to rival the RTX 4080 in raster performance and be 45% faster than the 7900 XTX in ray tracing while consuming less power. Positioned in the mainstream segment, the Navi 48 lineup is expected to be priced around $500, competing with the RTX 5070 at a similar price point.
FAQs
What is the new branding for AMD’s RDNA 4 GPUs?
AMD is adopting the Radeon RX 9000 branding for RDNA 4 GPUs.
When will AMD’s RDNA 4 GPUs be released?
They are expected to be unveiled at CES 2025 and launch in Q1 2025.
BOULT, India’s No. 1 Rated Audio Brand, is kicking off the holiday season in style with its new campaign, #BOULTBEYONDJOY. This social-first initiative is designed to spread festive cheer and engage its community through a series of fun, creative, and interactive activities. Running from December 20, 2024, to January 1, 2025, the campaign promises 12 days of joy, challenges, and exciting prizes to make this holiday season unforgettable.
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What is #BOULTBEYONDJOY?
The #BOULTBEYONDJOY campaign is all about celebrating the spirit of Christmas and New Year with BOULT’s vibrant community. Over 12 days, BOULT will host a variety of social media contests and festive-themed activities that encourage creativity, participation, and fun.
What to Expect from the Campaign
Engaging Challenges: From musical guessing games to creative storytelling and festive-themed activities, the contests are designed to keep participants entertained while spreading holiday cheer.
Exciting Prizes: Participants stand a chance to win exclusive BOULT goodies throughout the campaign.
Daily Winners: Winners will be announced regularly, building excitement and anticipation as the new year approaches.
Grand Finale: The campaign will culminate in a special grand finale on January 1, 2025, marking the arrival of the new year in style.
Spreading Joy Through Creativity and Connection
Speaking about the campaign, Shivi Srivastava, Marketing Head at BOULT, said:
“The holiday season is all about spreading joy, building connections, and celebrating the spirit of togetherness. With #BOULTBEYONDJOY, we aim to create an interactive and festive experience that engages our community through creativity, fun, and the warmth of the season. This campaign reflects our commitment to making every moment joyful, just as our products enhance every audio experience.”
Why #BOULTBEYONDJOY is More Than Just a Contest
BOULT’s #BOULTBEYONDJOY campaign is more than a series of competitions—it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and connection. By blending entertainment with brand engagement, BOULT is creating a unique way for its audience to celebrate the holiday season and welcome the new year.
Key Highlights of the Campaign
Interactive Fun: The challenges are designed to bring out the festive spirit while keeping participants engaged and entertained.
Community Spirit: The campaign fosters a sense of togetherness, encouraging participants to share their creativity and connect with others.
Exclusive Rewards: BOULT goodies and prizes add an extra layer of excitement, making the campaign even more rewarding for participants.
How to Join the Festivities
Participating in #BOULTBEYONDJOY is simple! Follow BOULT on their Instagram page and other social media platforms to stay updated on the latest challenges, announcements, and giveaways. Each day brings a new opportunity to win and celebrate the holiday season with BOULT.
Celebrate the Holidays with BOULT
With #BOULTBEYONDJOY, BOULT is redefining how brands connect with their communities during the holiday season. By combining fun, creativity, and festive cheer, the campaign promises to make this Christmas and New Year truly special for its audience.
Don’t miss out on the chance to participate in this exciting campaign, win exclusive prizes, and celebrate the season with BOULT. Follow BOULT on social media and join the #BOULTBEYONDJOY movement today!
Consistent Infosystems, one of India’s fastest-growing IT and surveillance brands, has unveiled its latest innovation—the EDGE 360° Rotatable Phone Stand. Designed to combine style, functionality, and convenience, the EDGE is the perfect accessory for smartphone users who demand adaptability and ease in their daily lives.
Whether you’re working, gaming, binge-watching, or video calling, the EDGE 360° Rotatable Phone Stand is here to elevate your smartphone experience.
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Why the EDGE 360° Rotatable Phone Stand Stands Out
The EDGE is more than just a phone stand—it’s a versatile, durable, and portable solution for modern smartphone users. Here’s what makes it a must-have:
1. 360° Rotatable Base for Optimal Viewing
The EDGE features a 360° rotation base, allowing you to adjust your phone’s angle effortlessly. Whether you’re on a video call, watching movies, or gaming, you can customize the viewing angle for maximum comfort and convenience.
2. Universal Compatibility
No matter the size of your smartphone, the EDGE has you covered. Its universal compatibility ensures it works seamlessly with all devices, making it an essential tool for everyone.
3. Durable and Sleek Design
Crafted with high-quality ABS material and a robust carbon steel plate, the EDGE is built to last. Despite its durability, it maintains a sleek and modern aesthetic, making it a stylish addition to your workspace or home.
4. Lightweight and Portable
Weighing just 150g, the EDGE is incredibly lightweight and easy to carry. Its foldable design and compact size (112 x 92 x 42mm) make it the perfect travel companion, ensuring you can use it anywhere, anytime.
5. Charging Support for Uninterrupted Use
The EDGE is designed to accommodate modern needs, allowing you to charge your phone while in use. Whether you’re working or streaming, you’ll never have to worry about running out of battery.
A Statement of Innovation and Functionality
Speaking about the launch, Yogesh Agrawal, CEO and Co-Founder of Consistent Infosystems, said:
“At Consistent Infosystems, we strive to deliver solutions that enhance user experiences. The EDGE is more than a phone stand; it’s a statement of functionality and innovation. This product epitomizes our commitment to creating tools that fit seamlessly into our customers’ lifestyles.”
Key Specifications of the EDGE 360° Rotatable Phone Stand
Material: High-quality ABS body with a carbon steel plate for added stability.
Weight: Lightweight at just 150g, ensuring portability.
Dimensions:
Folded: 112 x 92 x 42mm
Packaged: 12.4 x 9.4 x 4.4cm
Color: Sleek black finish.
Features:
360° rotatable base for adjustable viewing angles.
Double folding mechanism for compact storage.
Supports charging while in use.
Compatibility: Works with all smartphone sizes.
Affordable Pricing and Availability
The EDGE 360° Rotatable Phone Stand is priced at an affordable MRP of ₹750, making it accessible to a wide range of users. It is available for purchase through Consistent’s official website and authorized retail partners across India.
Why You Need the EDGE 360° Rotatable Phone Stand
The EDGE is the ultimate smartphone accessory for anyone looking to enhance their productivity, entertainment, or travel experience. Its versatile design, durable build, and affordable price make it a standout choice in the market.
Whether you’re working from home, traveling, or simply enjoying some downtime, the EDGE 360° Rotatable Phone Stand ensures your smartphone is always at the perfect angle.
Intel’s “Core Ultra 200S” CPUs have reportedly seen significant performance improvements following a recent round of updates. The updates come as a fix for data problems with Intel’s Arrow Lake-S (ARL-S) desktop CPUs, which had been underwhelming in consumer-based systems.
Intel has said five areas contributed to the gap, including Performance and Power Management (PPM), Application Optimizer (APO), and others. Intel then rolled out such updates that seem to have made a significant difference according to a media briefing held by Intel China (via Chiphell).
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Intel’s “Core Ultra 200S” CPUs See Major Performance Boost After Optimizations, Better Memory & Overclocking Support
The updates yielded very promising results with performance gains across several metrics. During Geekbench testing, the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K delivered 12.3% better single-core performance and no differences in multi-core performance. We see similar results in Cinebench R23, with a 5% gain on the single-core side of things and no change to the multi-core results. Gaming performance also improved, seeing an 18% average FPS increase with some titles — like Cyberpunk 2077 — post-upgrade.
Intel has also fixed Easy Anti-Cheat issues that were preventing games from launching using the Core Ultra 200S CPUs. In playing Apex Legends, there seemed to be a noticeable improvement with the patch in terms of fluidity. These performance improvements were noted in the media briefing benchmarks Intel has released, but it’s difficult to understand how these changes will impact longer-term real-world performance.
Intel also talked about improved out-of-the-box memory timings, which the company said had limited the ARL-S performance, as well as improvements to overclocking features such as 1-click overclocking. You are up to date. Intel’s latest CPUs have had a rough start, but between microcode “0x114” expected in mid-January which should refine the raw power of the Core Ultra 200S series further, it seems this will bring a redemption arc of sorts for the company moving forward.
FAQs
What improvements were made to Intel’s Core Ultra 200S CPUs?
Intel applied updates addressing issues in performance and power management, boosting single-core and gaming performance by up to 18%.
When will Intel’s new microcode be released?
Intel plans to release the “0x114” microcode by mid-January for further performance enhancements.
The Unimech Aerospace IPO has officially opened for public subscription on December 23, 2024, and will remain open until December 26, 2024. This ₹500 crore IPO has already garnered significant attention from investors, with a mix of fresh equity issuance and an offer-for-sale (OFS) by the company’s promoters. As of Day 1, the IPO has been subscribed 1.04 times, with strong interest from retail investors and a promising grey market premium (GMP) indicating robust listing potential.
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Here’s everything you need to know about the Unimech Aerospace IPO, including its financial performance, subscription status, GMP, and expert recommendations.
Unimech Aerospace IPO: Key Details
IPO Size: ₹500 crore
Fresh Issue: ₹250 crore
Offer-for-Sale (OFS): ₹250 crore (by promoters and promoter group)
Price Band: ₹745 to ₹785 per share
Subscription Period: December 23 to December 26, 2024
Anchor Book: Raised ₹149.5 crore on December 20, 2024
Allocation:
50% for Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIBs)
15% for Non-Institutional Investors (NIIs)
35% for Retail Investors
Unimech Aerospace: Company Overview
Based in Bengaluru, Karnataka, Unimech Aerospace is a leading engineering solutions provider specializing in precision-engineered components for the aerospace, defense, energy, and semiconductor sectors. The company operates two state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities:
Unit I: Located in Peenya, Bengaluru, spanning 30,000 sq. ft.
Unit II: Situated in a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) near Bengaluru International Airport, covering 90,000 sq. ft.
Unimech’s product portfolio includes aero tooling, ground support equipment, electro-mechanical sub-assemblies, and other precision components. The company serves some of the world’s leading airframe and aero-engine OEMs, making it a critical player in the global supply chain.
Day 1 Subscription Status
As of the first day of bidding, the Unimech Aerospace IPO has been subscribed 1.04 times, with the following breakdown:
Retail Investors: Subscribed 1.58 times
Non-Institutional Investors (NIIs): Subscribed 0.9 times
Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIBs): Yet to be fully subscribed
The strong response from retail investors highlights the growing interest in Unimech Aerospace’s IPO, while institutional participation is expected to pick up in the coming days.
Grey Market Premium (GMP) Trends
The grey market premium (GMP) for Unimech Aerospace IPO is currently trending at ₹480 per share, according to market observers. This indicates that the shares are trading at a premium of 61.15% over the upper price band of ₹785, with an estimated listing price of ₹1,265 per share.
The upward trend in GMP reflects strong investor confidence in the company’s growth potential and financial performance.
Financial Performance and Growth
Unimech Aerospace has demonstrated exceptional financial growth, making it one of the fastest-growing companies in its sector.
Revenue CAGR: 139.7% (FY22-FY24)
EBITDA Growth: 220.2% (FY22-FY24)
PAT Margin: 27.9% in FY24 (up from 24.2% in FY23)
ROCE: 57.6%
The company’s strong financials are driven by its operational efficiency, advanced manufacturing capabilities, and partnerships with global OEMs.
Expert Recommendations
BP Wealth
BP Wealth has given a “SUBSCRIBE” rating for the Unimech Aerospace IPO, citing the company’s strong financial performance, attractive valuation, and industry tailwinds. The firm highlights Unimech’s impressive EBITDA margin of 38% and its ability to outperform peers in growth and profitability.
Nirmal Bang
Nirmal Bang also recommends subscribing to the IPO, emphasizing the company’s:
Advanced manufacturing capabilities
Digitally integrated operations
Expertise in a high-entry-barrier sector
Strong vendor ecosystem
The firm notes that Unimech’s valuation multiples (EV/EBITDA of 51x and P/E of 69x) are reasonable compared to its competitors, reflecting its strong fundamentals and growth potential.
Investment Rationale
Industry Leadership: Unimech Aerospace is a key player in the global precision tooling market, which is expected to grow at a CAGR of 15.8% from 2024 to 2028.
Strong Financials: The company’s revenue CAGR of 140% and industry-leading EBITDA margin of 38% make it a compelling investment.
High-Entry-Barrier Sector: Operating in a niche market with limited competition, Unimech benefits from its established expertise and strong vendor ecosystem.
Attractive Valuation: Despite its high growth rates, Unimech’s valuation multiples are more reasonable than its peers, offering significant upside potential.
Key Risks
While Unimech Aerospace presents a strong investment case, there are certain risks to consider:
Dependence on Export Markets: A significant portion of the company’s revenue comes from global industries, making it vulnerable to geopolitical and economic uncertainties.
Raw Material Price Volatility: Fluctuations in raw material prices could impact the company’s profitability.
Reliance on Imported Parts: Dependence on imported standard parts may pose supply chain risks.
Conclusion
The Unimech Aerospace IPO has opened to a strong start, with robust subscription numbers and a high grey market premium reflecting investor confidence. As a leader in the precision-engineered components market, Unimech Aerospace is well-positioned to capitalize on industry tailwinds and deliver sustained growth.
With its impressive financial performance, advanced manufacturing capabilities, and established expertise in a high-entry-barrier sector, Unimech Aerospace presents a compelling investment opportunity. Whether you’re looking for listing gains or long-term growth, this IPO is worth considering. However, as with any investment, it’s essential to evaluate the risks and align your decision with your financial goals.
1. What is the grey market premium (GMP) for Unimech Aerospace IPO, and what does it indicate?
The GMP for Unimech Aerospace IPO is currently ₹480 per share, indicating that the shares are trading at a 61.15% premium over the upper price band of ₹785. A high GMP suggests strong investor confidence and the potential for significant listing gains.
2. Should I invest in the Unimech Aerospace IPO?
Based on expert reviews and the company’s strong financial performance, Unimech Aerospace IPO is considered a promising investment. Its impressive growth rates, industry leadership, and reasonable valuation make it an attractive option for both short-term listing gains and long-term growth potential. However, investors should consider their risk tolerance and consult with certified financial advisors before making a decision.
In a significant move, former U.S. President Donald Trump has appointed Sriram Krishnan, an Indian-American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author, as the Senior White House Policy Advisor on Artificial Intelligence (AI). This announcement comes as part of Trump’s broader effort to ensure the United States maintains its leadership in the rapidly evolving field of AI.
In an official statement, Trump said, “Sriram Krishnan will serve as the Senior Policy Advisor for Artificial Intelligence at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. Working closely with David Sacks, Sriram will focus on ensuring continued American leadership in AI and help shape and coordinate AI policy across the Government, including working with the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology.”
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This appointment highlights the growing importance of AI in shaping global policies and the need for experienced leaders to guide its development responsibly.
Sriram Krishnan: A Journey of Innovation and Leadership
Sriram Krishnan’s career is a testament to his expertise in technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Born and raised in Tamil Nadu, India, Krishnan studied at SRM Valliammai Engineering College in Kattankulathur, Kanchipuram. His journey from a small town in India to becoming a key figure in the global tech industry is both inspiring and remarkable.
Early Career at Microsoft
Krishnan began his professional journey at Microsoft, where he was a founding member of the Windows Azure team. He played a pivotal role in developing the platform’s APIs and services, contributing to the foundation of what is now one of the world’s leading cloud computing platforms. His expertise in cloud technology also led him to author the book Programming Windows Azure for O’Reilly, which is widely regarded as a valuable resource for developers.
Scaling Success at Facebook and Snap
In 2013, Krishnan joined Facebook, where he was instrumental in scaling the company’s mobile app download ads business, a key revenue driver for the platform. His contributions helped Facebook solidify its position as a leader in mobile advertising.
Krishnan later worked at Snap, where he continued to leverage his expertise in scaling digital platforms and driving innovation.
Restructuring Twitter (Now X)
Krishnan’s career took another significant turn when he joined Twitter (now X) in 2019. During his tenure, he collaborated with Elon Musk on restructuring the platform, focusing on improving its functionality and user experience. His work at Twitter further cemented his reputation as a visionary leader in the tech industry.
Venture Capital and Global Expansion
In 2021, Krishnan became a general partner at Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), one of Silicon Valley’s most prominent venture capital firms. He played a key role in identifying and investing in innovative startups, particularly in the fields of AI and fintech.
In 2023, Krishnan led a16z’s first international office in London, marking a significant milestone in the firm’s global expansion. His leadership in venture capital has been instrumental in fostering innovation and supporting the growth of emerging technologies.
Other Ventures and Contributions
Krishnan is also an advisor to Cred, a leading Indian fintech company, and co-hosts a popular podcast, The Aarthi and Sriram Show, with his wife, Aarthi Ramamurthy. The podcast features conversations with industry leaders and innovators, offering insights into technology, entrepreneurship, and culture.
Sriram Krishnan’s Role in AI Policy
As the Senior Policy Advisor on Artificial Intelligence, Sriram Krishnan will play a critical role in shaping the U.S. government’s AI policies. His responsibilities will include:
Ensuring American Leadership in AI: Krishnan will work closely with David Sacks and other key stakeholders to maintain the United States’ position as a global leader in AI innovation and development.
Coordinating AI Policy Across Government: He will help align AI-related initiatives across various government agencies, ensuring a cohesive and forward-thinking approach.
Advising on Ethical AI Development: With AI’s growing influence on society, Krishnan’s role will also involve addressing ethical concerns and ensuring responsible AI development.
After the announcement, Krishnan expressed his gratitude on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “I’m honored to be able to serve our country and ensure continued American leadership in AI working closely with @DavidSacks.”
David Sacks, a prominent entrepreneur and investor, also praised the appointment, stating, “This extraordinary team is a testament to the amazing talent that President Trump is attracting to his Administration!”
Why Sriram Krishnan’s Appointment Matters
Krishnan’s appointment comes at a time when AI is transforming industries and reshaping global economies. The United States faces increasing competition from countries like China in the AI space, making it crucial to have experienced leaders like Krishnan at the helm.
His diverse background in technology, venture capital, and global expansion uniquely positions him to address the challenges and opportunities in AI. By leveraging his expertise, Krishnan can help the U.S. develop policies that foster innovation while addressing ethical and societal concerns.
Conclusion
Sriram Krishnan’s appointment as Senior Policy Advisor on Artificial Intelligence is a significant step in ensuring the United States remains at the forefront of AI innovation. With his extensive experience in technology, venture capital, and global leadership, Krishnan is well-equipped to navigate the complexities of AI policy and development.
As AI continues to shape the future of industries and societies, leaders like Krishnan will play a pivotal role in fostering innovation while addressing ethical and societal challenges. His journey from Tamil Nadu to the White House is an inspiring story of talent, hard work, and dedication, and his contributions are set to leave a lasting impact on the global AI landscape.
1. What is Sriram Krishnan’s background in AI and technology?
Sriram Krishnan has an extensive background in technology, having worked at leading companies like Microsoft, Facebook, Snap, and Twitter (now X). At Microsoft, he was a founding member of the Windows Azure team, contributing to the development of one of the world’s leading cloud platforms. He has also been a general partner at Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), where he focused on investing in innovative startups, including those in the AI space.
2. What will Sriram Krishnan’s role as Senior Policy Advisor on AI involve?
As the Senior Policy Advisor on AI, Sriram Krishnan will focus on ensuring the United States maintains its leadership in AI innovation. His responsibilities include shaping and coordinating AI policies across government agencies, working with the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology, and addressing ethical concerns related to AI development.
Google has announced another round of layoffs, this time targeting 10% of its managerial positions, including directors and vice presidents. The decision, confirmed by CEO Sundar Pichaiduring an all-hands meeting, is part of the company’s ongoing efforts to streamline operations and stay competitive in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.
The move comes as Google faces increasing pressure from AI-focused rivals like OpenAI, which are challenging its dominance in search and innovation. According to a report by Business Insider, the restructuring reflects Google’s broader strategy to boost efficiency and adapt to the changing demands of the tech industry.
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Google’s Restructuring: A Two-Year Journey
The latest layoffs are part of a multi-year cost-cutting initiative that began in 2022 when Sundar Pichai set a goal to make Google 20% more efficient.
Key Highlights of the Restructuring:
Managerial Cuts: 10% of managerial roles, including high-level positions like directors and VPs, have been eliminated.
Reassignments: Some affected managers have been reassigned to individual contributor roles, while others have been let go entirely.
Previous Layoffs: In 2023, Google laid off over 12,000 employees, marking one of the largest downsizing efforts in the company’s history.
This restructuring is aimed at reducing bureaucracy, empowering individual contributors, and ensuring Google remains agile in a competitive market.
Redefining ‘Googleyness’: A New Vision for Google Employees
At the same meeting, Sundar Pichai introduced a refined definition of ‘Googleyness’, a term that has long represented the ideal traits of a Google employee. Over time, the concept had become vague, prompting the need for a clearer vision.
The New ‘Googleyness’ Focuses On:
Mission-Driven Work: Prioritizing projects that align with Google’s core mission of creating helpful products.
Innovation and Risk-Taking: Encouraging bold ideas and a willingness to take calculated risks.
Scrappy Attitude: Fostering a resourceful and proactive mindset.
Collaboration: Emphasizing teamwork and effective communication.
Pichai described this shift as part of “updating modern Google,” ensuring the company’s culture evolves alongside its business goals.
The Bigger Picture: Layoffs Across the Tech Industry
Google’s decision to cut jobs is part of a larger trend sweeping through the tech industry. With rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and mounting economic pressures, tech giants are restructuring their workforces to stay competitive.
Tech Layoffs in 2024:
In the first half of 2024, over 98,000 employees from 333 tech companies were laid off, according to Layoffs.fyi.
In May 2024 alone, 39 companies collectively let go of nearly 10,000 workers.
Other Tech Giants Follow Suit
Google isn’t alone in its restructuring efforts. Several major tech companies have also announced significant layoffs and organizational changes:
Microsoft
Laid off over 1,000 employees across divisions, including Azure cloud and gaming.
Following its Activision Blizzard acquisition, the gaming division alone saw 1,900 job cuts.
Amazon
Trimmed its workforce across units like Audible, Prime Video, and Twitch.
Twitch lost 35% of its staff, amounting to roughly 500 employees.
TikTok
Reduced its global workforce by over 1,000 employees, impacting operations and marketing teams.
The layoffs come amidst regulatory challenges and increased scrutiny.
Meta
Enacted smaller cuts within its Reality Labs division, which focuses on metaverse and AR/VR projects.
Other Companies
Toshiba: Announced plans to cut 4,000 domestic jobs.
Indeed: Let go of 8% of its workforce during its second wave of layoffs in May.
Why Are Tech Companies Restructuring?
The wave of layoffs across the tech industry is driven by several factors:
AI Advancements: Companies are reallocating resources to focus on AI and automation, which are reshaping the industry.
Economic Pressures: Rising costs and uncertain market conditions are forcing companies to cut expenses.
Streamlining Operations: Reducing middle management layers to empower individual contributors and improve efficiency.
Final Thoughts
Google’s decision to cut 10% of its managerial roles is a clear indication of the challenges tech companies face in today’s competitive landscape. As AI continues to disrupt traditional business models, companies like Google are being forced to adapt quickly to maintain their edge.
While these layoffs are difficult, they reflect a broader shift in the tech industry toward leaner, more efficient operations. For Google, this restructuring is not just about cutting costs—it’s about redefining its culture, streamlining its workforce, and staying ahead in the race for AI dominance.
As Sundar Pichai leads Google through this transformation, the company’s ability to innovate and adapt will determine its future in an increasingly competitive market.
Apple has plans to launch a new “HomePod” equipped with a 7-inch LCD display, an A18 chip, and Apple Intelligence support in 2025, says DigiTimes. With the all-new device on the way, expect Apple to integrate smart home capabilities, and that means combining functionality with what we now know about the HomePod along with a smart home hub — a leap that would really expand Apple’s offering.
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Apple’s New HomePod with 7-Inch Display, A18 Chip, and Smart Features Expected to Launch in 2025
The Cupertino giant presumably would be aiming for a low price for the screen-enabled HomePod, since no pricing has been announced. According to Taiwan-based DigiTimes, the device’s LCD panels will be supplied by China-based manufacturer Tianma at an “exceptionally competitive” price of $10 per unit. This low component price is likely to help keep the device’s overall price accessible to a wider range of people.
It’s long been rumored that Apple has been working on a HomePod with a display. Most recently, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo wrote that a HomePod with a 6-7 inch display and smart home capabilities is set to enter mass production in the second half of 2025. Likewise, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman called the device a “square iPad,” with a 6-inch screen. It could feature an optional base that clips on, the ability to mount on a wall, and be powered by a new operating system called “home,” with widgets that can be customized.
It’s also anticipated the hub will help unify Siri, Apple Intelligence, and HomeKit integration and provide capabilities like spitting out camera footage and functioning as a home security system along with the ability to call people with a FaceTime phone using the camera. The device will compete for consumer attention with established offerings like Google’s Nest Hub and Amazon’s Echo Show, which retail between $150 and $400.
Apple is also said to be working on a wireless security camera that would integrate with the hub. It is not known if Apple will keep the HomePod name for the speaker, or if it will rebrand the device. A new HomePod mini is set to land next year, but the current HomePod speaker has yet to receive an update.
FAQs
What is the new HomePod expected to feature?
It will have a 7-inch display, A18 chip, and smart home capabilities.
Apple’s Vision Pro headset is a powerful, highly capable machine marketed as a spatial computer. It serves as a unique experience for users however with such a high price difficult for many consumers to purchase it. To fix this issue, Apple is developing a cheaper version of the headset. At the same time, the company was working on augmented reality (AR) smart glasses that will look something like Meta AR glasses. But these smart glasses aren’t coming out any time soon.
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Apple’s AR Smart Glasses Still 3-5 Years Away, Analyst Claims No Near-Term Launch
According to Mark Gurman, Apple wants to release its AR smart glasses in the next three to five years, which will make users of the headset wait for its debut. In the meantime, there is the Vision Pro for consumers but it’s a more cumbersome form factor that may not suit everyone. There is very little buzz around the glasses, Apple is putting a lot of effort into research and development for the product, wanting to ensure that it is polished and well-executed. This is in contrast to other companies, such as Meta, that rushed out products before fully polishing them.
Meta’s AR glasses have potential, but a couple of things would enable users to have more autonomy over the types of content they experience. By comparison, Apple is deliberate and cautious in the way it builds products. Sure, it might take a long time for products to hit the market, but when Apple releases something, it’s usually a fully fleshed out and polished product. The AR smart glasses will provide a user experience similar to the Vision Pro but with differences suitable for a more mobile, wearable device.
The goal for Apple is to integrate these AR smart glasses into the lives of users as naturally and effortlessly as people accept the iPhone or Apple Watch. To make this happen, the glasses would probably include compact components including an elegant, fashionable design, which would follow closer to the Apple Watch than the Vision Pro in both size and style.
FAQs
When will Apple’s AR smart glasses launch?
Apple plans to release them in 3 to 5 years.
Is the Vision Pro available now?
Yes, the Vision Pro is available but comes with a high price tag.
At CES 2025, NVIDIA should be revealing many of the hyped AI features of its next-gen RTX 50 series “Blackwell” GPUs, as leaked in the Inno3D announcement. This marks a major step in introducing AI to consumer gaming GPUs, as NVIDIA is rumored to present a series of technologies focused on aspects that can be accelerated by AI. NVIDIA is yet to officially confirm these, but the next-gen GPU developments will encompass AI features, marketing with AI tech like “neural rendering” and genAI acceleration as per one of its key AIB partners Inno3D.
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NVIDIA Set to Unveil AI-Powered Features with RTX 50 Series at CES 2025
NVIDIA generally keeps plans for new GPU technology under wraps until the very last moment, so this information is notable. In addition, like many other AIB partners, Inno3D intends to reveal a new series of graphics cards at the event, several new designs were introduced together including the iCHILL Frostbite, iCHILL X3, INNO3D X3, INNO3D Twin X2, INNO3D White, and INNO3D Small Form Factor (SFF) editions will take their bow. You are a new variant behind a new version with every coming year, making the options only wider for gamers and PC builders.
It is clear that AI-driven technologies are a major focus area for NVIDIA at CES 2025. One of the most tantalizing possibilities is the “neural rendering” that NVIDIA is said to have been developing for a while. In gaming, the future of neural rendering could mean real-time graphical upscaling via AI that offers players a more visually stimulating and enrapturing experience.
Gaming fans should mark CES 2025 on their calendars, as NVIDIA’s keynote will be a major highlight. The event, taking place on January 6, could show us more about the novel features and the future of gaming and GPU tech. In the realm of AI and its potential impact on gaming, NVIDIA’s next-gen GPUs could be at the center of it all.
FAQs
What AI features will NVIDIA reveal at CES 2025?
NVIDIA is expected to showcase “neural rendering” and genAI acceleration.
