Last Week's Tech Highlights
OpenAI Launches First AI Agent ‘Operator’
OpenAI has introduced Operator, an AI agent utilizing GPT-4o’s visual capabilities and advanced reasoning algorithms. Operator can browse web pages, click links, type text, and scroll to complete user tasks like shopping and travel bookings. Initially available in the U.S. for $200/month ChatGPT Pro subscribers, the tool requests user approval for critical actions. Partnerships with DoorDash, Uber, and OpenTable are in place, and broader availability with ChatGPT integration is planned.
Trump Confirms Microsoft in Talks to Acquire TikTok
U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that Microsoft is negotiating to acquire TikTok, warning of strong competition for the sale. Trump previously postponed the app’s ban by 75 days, requiring ByteDance to divest U.S. operations. Other potential buyers include billionaire Frank McCourt, investor Kevin O'Leary, and YouTuber MrBeast. In 2020, Microsoft attempted a TikTok acquisition, but negotiations fell through.
Stem Cell Patches Partially Repair Damaged Heart Tissue
German researchers successfully used stem cell-derived heart patches to repair damaged hearts in macaque monkeys. The patches, containing cardiomyocytes, increased heart wall thickness and improved contractions without causing tumors or rhythm disturbances. Early human trials have shown promising results, though vascular integration remains a challenge. The study highlights the potential of stem cell therapy for heart disease.
Hackers Remotely Control Subaru Cars via Security Flaw
Two cybersecurity experts exposed a vulnerability in Subaru's Starlink infotainment system, allowing them to remotely start, unlock, and track a 2023 Subaru Impreza for a year. They accessed vehicle location history through a Subaru web portal flaw. The researchers warned that similar issues exist in brands like Acura, Toyota, and Hyundai. Subaru has patched the vulnerability, but the incident raises concerns over automotive cybersecurity.
Hydrogen-Storing Jet Fuel Could Revolutionize Clean Energy
Scientists at Washington State University developed lignin-based jet fuel capable of storing hydrogen safely in liquid form. Unlike traditional pressurized tanks, this innovation binds hydrogen molecules to lignin, reducing storage risks. The method could advance sustainable aviation fuels and clean energy technology. Future research aims to improve efficiency with AI-powered catalysts.
Humans to Race Against Humanoid Robots in Beijing
In April, Beijing will host a half-marathon where humans will compete alongside humanoid robots. Companies like Tesla, Boston Dynamics, and 1X are entering robots capable of speeds between 8-12 km/h. Human runners average 14 km/h over 21.1 km. The event will allow robots to swap batteries mid-race, addressing energy limitations. This marks a new milestone in sports and AI integration.
Apple Cancels AR Glasses Project "N107"
Apple has canceled its N107 augmented reality (AR) glasses, originally designed to work with Mac computers. Initially planned for iPhone, high power consumption forced a shift to Mac compatibility, but testing revealed low consumer interest. Apple has previously discontinued similar projects, including the Vision Pro 2, in favor of a cheaper model. This setback could leave Apple trailing in the AR market behind competitors like Google, Samsung, and Meta.
AI Designs a Protein That Would Take 500 Million Years to Evolve
Scientists used AI to design esmGFP, a fluorescent protein that would have taken 500 million years to evolve naturally. EvolutionaryScale’s ESM3 AI model created the protein, which functions similarly to jellyfish-derived green fluorescent proteins but with only 58% genetic similarity. This breakthrough could accelerate drug development and protein engineering.
Alibaba Releases AI Model That Surpasses DeepSeek-V3
Alibaba launched Qwen 2.5-Max, claiming it outperforms China’s rising DeepSeek-V3 AI model. Alibaba is competing aggressively, cutting AI prices by 97% to counter DeepSeek’s cost-effective approach. DeepSeek’s founder, Liang Wenfeng, has set a long-term goal of developing Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), arguing that large corporations struggle with innovation. The competition signals an intensifying AI race in China.
100,000 Humanoid Robots to Be Shipped Over Four Years
Humanoid robotics startup Figure announced plans to deploy 100,000 robots over the next four years. CEO Brett Adcock revealed that the company has secured a major corporate client, speculated to be Amazon, Walmart, or Apple. Figure 02 robots are already in use, with Figure 03 in development. Competitors like Tesla, Agility Robotics, and Sanctuary AI are also expanding in this field.
OpenAI Accuses DeepSeek of Stealing Its Data
OpenAI and Microsoft allege that DeepSeek, a Chinese AI firm, used data scraped from OpenAI models to train its R1 model. The accusations focus on "distillation" techniques, where one AI model extracts knowledge from another. Critics highlight the irony, as OpenAI itself has been accused of mass data collection from the internet. The case raises questions about AI training ethics.
AI Blood Test Detects Breast Cancer at Earliest Stage
Researchers at Edinburgh University have developed an AI-powered blood test that detects breast cancer in its earliest stages with 98% accuracy. Using Raman spectroscopy, the test identifies subtle chemical changes in the blood before conventional methods can. It also differentiates between four major breast cancer subtypes with over 90% accuracy. Future trials aim to expand detection capabilities to other cancers.
First Experimental Step Toward Interstellar Light Sails
Caltech researchers have taken the first experimental step toward developing laser-propelled light sails for interstellar travel. Part of the Breakthrough Starshot initiative, the study tested 50-nanometer-thick silicon nitride membranes with argon lasers to measure mechanical responses. The findings will aid in developing full-scale light sails for deep space exploration.
Synthetic Yeast Successfully Engineered
Researchers have successfully engineered a fully synthetic eukaryotic genome for yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) in a groundbreaking development led by Macquarie University. The creation of the final synthetic chromosome (SynXVI) marks the completion of a multi-year effort to design a completely synthetic yeast cell. Using CRISPR gene-editing technology, scientists modified and optimized yeast DNA, allowing cells to survive in higher temperatures and use glycerol as an energy source. This breakthrough could revolutionize biotechnology, medicine, and sustainable food production.
XB-1 Supersonic Aircraft Breaks Sound Barrier
Boom Supersonic’s XB-1 experimental aircraft successfully surpassed the sound barrier, reaching Mach 1.11 during a January 28 test flight. This marks the first time a civilian supersonic aircraft has flown since Concorde's retirement in 2003. The data collected will contribute to the development of "Overture," a Mach 1.7 supersonic commercial jet capable of carrying 80 passengers. Boom Supersonic plans to begin passenger flights by 2029 and is working with NASA and Lockheed Martin on further supersonic technology advancements.
DeepSeek’s AI Breakthrough Shakes U.S. Tech Market
Chinese AI startup DeepSeek has stunned the industry by unveiling R1, an AI model developed for only $5.6 million, competing with OpenAI and Google’s much costlier alternatives. The announcement sent Nvidia stocks down by 17%, wiping out $588 billion in market value. Despite U.S. restrictions on AI chip exports to China, DeepSeek's ability to train models efficiently on low-power chips has raised concerns over China’s growing AI capabilities.
Git Security Flaw Exposed Millions of User Credentials
A newly discovered vulnerability in Git’s authentication system has put millions of user credentials at risk. Security researcher RyotaK identified the "Clone2Leak" attack, which exploits GitHub Desktop’s credential management to expose user data. The flaw also affects Git Credential Manager and Git LFS, allowing attackers to steal authentication tokens. Git has since released version 2.48.1, which introduces new security mechanisms to prevent similar exploits.
Türksat 6A Satellite to Begin Service in February
Turkey’s latest communications satellite, Türksat 6A, is set to begin operations in February 2025. The satellite will expand Turkey’s coverage to four new countries and reach 3.5 billion people worldwide. Developed with domestic technology, Türksat 6A will improve civil and military communications while enhancing TV broadcasting security. The government has also announced plans for 5G deployment by 2026, with 34 locations currently running test networks.
Apple and SpaceX Integrate Starlink Satellite Connectivity in iPhones
Apple has partnered with SpaceX and T-Mobile to enable Starlink satellite connectivity in iPhones via the iOS 18.3 update. This feature allows text messaging in remote areas, with plans to expand support for voice and data services. Beta testing has begun with a small group of U.S. users, and full rollout is expected by February. Unlike previous satellite services requiring users to point their phones at the sky, Starlink-enabled iPhones will connect seamlessly.
Meta AI to Use Facebook & Instagram Data for Personalized Responses
Meta announced that its AI chatbot, Meta AI, will now use Facebook and Instagram data to personalize responses. The AI will analyze user chat history, profile information, and watched content to offer tailored interactions. However, this feature will be active by default, and users cannot opt out. Critics argue that this raises serious privacy concerns, as the AI can generate responses based on private user activity.
EU Sanctions Three Russian Officers Over Cyberattacks
The European Union has imposed sanctions on three Russian military officers for their involvement in cyberattacks targeting Estonia in 2020. These officers, linked to Russia’s GRU 29155 unit, are now subject to asset freezes and travel bans. The EU stated that Russia’s cyber operations aim to disrupt European democratic institutions. The sanctions bring the EU’s total cyber blacklist to 17 individuals and four entities.
FullFibre & Zzoomm Merge to Create UK Fiber Internet Leader
UK fiber internet providers FullFibre and Zzoomm have announced a merger, creating a major player in the broadband market with 600,000 properties covered and 65,000 active customers. The combined company aims to expand fiber infrastructure, improve service efficiency, and accelerate nationwide broadband rollout. The merger is pending regulatory approval, expected to finalize in early 2025.
DeepSeek Blames Cyberattack as Security Flaws Emerge in R1 Model
Chinese AI company DeepSeek reported a major cyberattack, preventing users from registering on its website. Meanwhile, security experts found vulnerabilities in its R1 model, allowing the generation of malicious code and access to sensitive data. Threat intelligence firm Kela detected known exploits in R1, raising concerns over data privacy and cybersecurity risks for AI users.
FCC Approves Bulk Internet Billing in Apartment Buildings
The FCC has overturned a Biden-era proposal banning mandatory ISP selection in apartment buildings. The new rule allows landlords to force tenants to use a single ISP, arguing it will reduce costs. However, critics warn this could eliminate competition and raise prices by limiting tenant choice. The decision could favor ISPs while restricting alternative providers from entering apartment complexes.
India Successfully Launches NVS-02 Navigation Satellite
India has successfully launched NVS-02, its latest NavIC navigation satellite, via the GSLV Mk II rocket. The satellite replaces IRNSS-1E and will improve precise timing and location services. This is India's first mission of 2025, with plans for ten more launches, including a NASA-ISRO project (NISAR) and Gaganyaan’s crewed spaceflight test.
Apple Intelligence Now Enabled by Default in iOS 18.3 Update
Apple’s iOS 18.3 update introduces "Apple Intelligence" as a default feature, enhancing image recognition, notifications, and AI-generated news summaries. Concerns over user privacy led Apple to temporarily disable news-related AI features after backlash from BBC and other organizations. macOS Sequoia 15.3 now supports "Genmoji", allowing users to generate custom emojis from text inputs.