?? Framework’s RISC-V, Apple’s Affordable Vision Pro & Meta’s Focus

Midweek Briefing: Keep up with our comprehensive coverage on the dynamic intersections of technology and AI.

Today’s pick

• The Framework Laptop 13 is about to become one of the world's first RISC-V laptops?
• Apple Suspends Work on Next High-End Headset, Focused on Releasing Cheaper Model in Late 2025?
• Meta Restructures Reality Labs to Better Focus on Ray-Ban Smartglasses and Other Wearables
• Blockchain is creating a smaller world, engaging fans and evolving technology?
• Nvidia's Ascent to Most Valuable Company Has Echoes of Dot-Com Boom

Let’s dive in

The Framework Laptop 13 is about to become one of the world's first RISC-V laptops?

By Sean Hollister via The Verge?

• Framework Laptop 13 to integrate RISC-V mainboard, expanding beyond Intel and AMD processors, offering an open-source, royalty-free architecture.
• Framework collaborates with DeepComputing, introducing a RISC-V mainboard aimed at developers and hobbyists, though it currently lags in performance compared to established chipsets.
• The initiative marks a significant step in diversifying the chip market, challenging the dominance of x86 and Arm architectures, despite initial limitations.

??: We're excited to share a preview of a Framework Laptop with a new CPU architecture today, and it's not the one you probably think it is.? @DeepComputingio is creating the first partner-developed Mainboard, and it's powered by a RISC-V processor! - Framework (@FrameworkPuter)

Apple Suspends Work on Next High-End Headset, Focused on Releasing Cheaper Model in Late 2025?

By Wayne Ma via The Information?

• Apple has halted development on the next high-end Vision Pro headset due to sluggish sales and is now prioritizing a cheaper model expected by late 2025.
• The new, more affordable Vision model will have fewer features compared to the Vision Pro, aligning with Apple's strategy to offer both premium and standard versions like its iPhone lineup.
• The decision reflects Apple's response to market trends and feedback from supply chain partners regarding the demand for a more cost-effective device.

??: What could Apple do to reduce BOM costs? So many things… ? move away from aluminum/glass build ? cheaper fabric straps ? no front display ? manual IPD adjustment ? no speakers ? cheaper, lower-distortion optics ? subsequently, larger, cheaper displays ? …and many more - Snazzy Labs (@SnazzyLabs)

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Meta Restructures Reality Labs to Better Focus on Ray-Ban Smartglasses and Other Wearables

By Scott Hayden via RoadTovr

• Meta's Reality Labs is being restructured into two groups: ‘Wearables’ and ‘Metaverse’, leading to a small number of layoffs.
• The focus will now be on expanding the success of Ray-Ban Meta smartglasses, which do not feature AR displays but include AI functionalities like object recognition.
• Meta continues to invest in the Quest platform and plans to license its Horizon OS to third parties like ASUS, Lenovo, and Xbox.

??: Meta restructured its Reality Labs hardware division today into two groups: Wearables and Metaverse I've heard that a small number of employees were laid off as a result. Sounds like more investment is going into the Ray-Ban smart glasses, which are apparently "a much bigger hit than we anticipated” - Alex Heath (@alexeheath)

Blockchain is creating a smaller world, engaging fans and evolving technology?

By Jon Stojan via VentureBeat?

• Blockchain technology is transforming fan engagement in sports by enabling unique VIP experiences, digital collectibles, and participatory Web3 models.
• Sports entities like Adidas and the Dallas Mavericks are leveraging these technologies to offer fans deeper connections and exclusive rewards, enhancing their sense of belonging.
• The trend towards tokenizing fan interactions and memorabilia is revolutionizing how fans interact with their favorite sports, fostering a global community through shared passions and cutting-edge technology.

Nvidia's Ascent to Most Valuable Company Has Echoes of Dot-Com Boom

By Asa Fitch via Wall Street Journal

• Nvidia has become the U.S.'s most valuable company, driven by the demand for its AI chips and fueling a tech boom reminiscent of the dot-com era.
• The company's AI chips are pivotal in the development of advanced AI systems, which have captivated the public with their ability to generate text, images, and audio.
• Nvidia's ascent reflects the growing importance and market impact of artificial intelligence technology in today's economy.

??: The Godfather of AI Jensen and Nvidia surpassing Microsoft in the race to $4 trillion market cap along with Apple is front and center for the tech world in this 1995 Moment.? As we said: this is just 9 pm in the AI Party that lasts till 4 am for the tech world - Dan Ives (@DivesTech)

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— Jose Montes de Oca