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What’s New Today: Apple MacBook Air M4: Launch Expected Before iPhone SE 4
Fast-Track Insights: SandboxAQ Secures $300M to Drive AI Quantum Technology Forward
Here’s a quick rundown of the biggest tech headlines making waves today. From the Apple MacBook Air M4 to Unilever Opens Opportunities, let’s dive into the top tech stories of the day.
Apple’s MacBook Air with the M4 chip is rumored to launch earlier than expected, possibly in Q1 2025, ahead of the iPhone SE 4 and new iPads slated for Spring 2025. Renowned analyst Mark Gurman suggests the lightweight laptop might be announced via a press release, deviating from Apple's usual event-based reveals. Expected in 13-inch and 15-inch variants, the MacBook Air will feature the M4 chip, offering a 25% multi-core performance boost, Thunderbolt 4 ports, and a Center Stage camera. Apple aims to refine performance while retaining the iconic design, solidifying its position in the ultraportable laptop market.
SandboxAQ secured over $300 million in funding, valuing the company at $5.3 billion pre-money. Emerging from Alphabet, the Palo Alto-based firm focuses on Large Quantitative Models (LQMs) to address challenges in biopharma, materials science, cybersecurity, and more. Led by Fred Alger Management and others, the funds will accelerate LQM development and applications. CEO Jack Hidary and Chairman Eric Schmidt emphasized LQMs' potential beyond LLMs in driving AI innovation. In 2024, SandboxAQ advanced neurodegenerative disease therapies, lithium-ion battery tech, cardiac diagnostics, GPS-devoid navigation, and cryptography management, securing partnerships with the U.S. Air Force and Accenture. J.P. Morgan advised the funding.
Unilever is hiring a Territory Sales Officer in Mumbai, India, focusing on the Horeca (Hotels, Restaurants, Cafes) channel for sales and business development of UFS packs. Responsibilities include acquiring new clients, managing distributors, analyzing market trends, achieving sales targets, and reporting activities. Applicants must have 3+ years of sales experience in Horeca, strong communication and negotiation skills, a proven sales record, and the ability to work independently and in teams. An MBA/PGDM or Hotel Management degree is required, with preference for experience in food and beverage sales. Fluency in English and the local language and travel readiness are essential.
South Korea's cryptocurrency investment has surged, with over 15.5 million retail investors, about 30% of the population, by November 2024. This increase reflects optimism following US President-elect Trump’s crypto push and his market-friendly policies. The number of crypto investors grew by 610,000 in a month, with Bitcoin's price rising significantly. The total value of crypto holdings in Korea reached 102.6 trillion won, up from 58 trillion in October. Crypto trading volumes now rival daily stock trading on Korea’s top exchanges. Despite regulatory uncertainty and public skepticism, crypto is becoming integral to Korea’s financial landscape.
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