Good morning, tech fam; here are some quick tech updates for you to catch on to!
What’s New Today: Chinese Scientists Aim for RISC-V CPU Breakthrough by 2025
Fast-Track Insights: Top AI Startup Funding Deals of 2024
China’s top government research academy, the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), plans to deliver its XiangShan open-source RISC-V processor by 2025, aiming to boost China’s semiconductor self-reliance amid US restrictions. Initiated in 2019, the XiangShan project seeks to develop high-performance open-source processors, likened to becoming “the Linux of processors.” The project has gained attention, with US experts questioning the absence of a comparable American initiative. Despite progress, CAS acknowledges a significant gap between XiangShan and mainstream industry standards. XiangShan’s development reflects China's broader efforts to reduce reliance on foreign semiconductor technology.
In 2024, AI startups attracted substantial funding, with Databricks leading at $10 billion, followed by OpenAI at $6.6 billion. xAI secured two rounds of $6 billion, Waymo raised $5.6 billion, and Anthropic received $4 billion from Amazon. Anduril Industries and G42 each raised $1.5 billion, while CoreWeave and Wayve secured $1.1 billion each. These significant investments highlight the growing interest in AI technologies, driving innovation and competition. The funding will enable these companies to enhance AI capabilities, expand globally, and strengthen their positions in the rapidly evolving AI market.
The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has announced the 2024 recruitment for Ministerial and Isolated Categories (MI) under Notification Number CEN 07/2024. A total of 1,036 vacancies are available across various roles, including Junior Stenographer, Junior Translator, Staff and Welfare Inspector, Chief Law Assistant, Physical Training Instructor, Music Teacher, and Laboratory Assistant. The online application process starts on January 7, 2025, and ends on February 6, 2025. A detailed notification with eligibility criteria, job descriptions, and other essential information is also released on January 7, 2025.
Crypto Investments Reach $44B in 2024 Record Inflows
In 2024, cryptocurrency investments surged to a record-breaking $44 billion in net inflows, signaling strong growth and confidence in the digital asset market. This impressive influx of capital comes amid increasing adoption and integration of blockchain technologies, with institutional investors showing heightened interest. Key factors driving this growth include advancements in decentralized finance (DeFi), non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and the rise of crypto-based financial products. Additionally, regulatory clarity and the development of innovative platforms have encouraged both retail and institutional investors to expand their portfolios. The record net inflows highlight the maturing crypto market and its potential for long-term growth.
The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 is set to unveil a new wave of groundbreaking innovations, with Artificial Intelligence (AI) taking center stage. As AI technology continues to advance at breakneck speed, it's transforming industries from healthcare and wellness to entertainment and redefining the future of tech. Get ready to experience the latest AI-powered trends that will completely change the way we live, work, and play.