People who may not understand the complexities of the matters being discussed will need clear explanations that break things down to the heart of the matter. Lawsuits involving tech issues can be difficult for non-tech experts to understand. In fact, even people in the industry might struggle to make sense of the high-level details surrounding a tech squabble.

People who aren’t familiar with the lingo of the industry might be at a loss for words as tech terminology goes right over their heads. That’s one reason for expert witnesses.

If you’re called for jury duty for a case involving complex technology issues, your head might spin. Lawyers from both sides will use terms you don’t fully comprehend, but expert witnesses retained by either or both sides can help you do your job as a juror in these six ways.

1. Translating Complex Tech Concepts

Expert witness testimony is essential in explaining technical jargon so it’s clear and easily digestible.

If the men and women on the jury don’t understand what’s being discussed or what’s at stake, they won’t be able to make intelligent decisions. Jurors will have help making sense of complex concepts to ensure the integrity of the legal proceedings isn’t jeopardized.

2. Providing Context for Digital Evidence

Whether the issue is phishing, ransomware, botnets, malware, DDoS attacks, data breaches, source code, authentication, or something else, you’ll want to know what they mean. It’ll be hard to help render a fair verdict if you don’t understand what the lawyer or witnesses said.

Expert witnesses with tech-specific knowledge can explain how digital evidence was obtained, attest to whether or not the evidence is reliable, and explain what the evidence means.

3. Clarifying Industry Standards

Jurors hearing cases about data breaches, source code, cybersecurity, software development, or other areas in the tech industry must know about industry best practices and whether or not these industry best practices were followed or ignored.

Expert witnesses are uniquely qualified to explain the norm and if there were any deviations from what’s expected given the circumstances.

Understanding industry standards and what the parties did or didn’t do will help jurors understand what’s at stake. You’ll be more confident as a juror when expert witnesses clarify industry standards.

4. Evaluating Patents & Intellectual Property Disputes

Patent issues in the tech space can cause a lot of legal issues. Harvard Business Review previously reported that big tech businesses in the U.S. regularly violated smaller companies’ intellectual property. It added that the U.S. government had projected that Chinese businesses ignoring IP protections cost the American economy up to $600 billion annually.

Patents are a regular source of conflict and often lead to problems in the courtroom. When jurors are asked to decide who’s wrong in such cases, they need expert witnesses to explain software copyrights, patent validity, and if patents were violated.

5. Assessing Technical Fault or Liability

In court cases involving hacking or IT failures, expert witnesses can provide information that helps jurors figure out responsibility and if negligence factored into the matter.

6. Interpreting Digital Forensic Evidence

According to the National Institute of Justice, almost one in two jurors expect scientific evidence during court cases. Specifically, 46% of jurors anticipate scientific evidence in every case.

In criminal cases involving encrypted data, deleted digital documents, and hacked accounts, expert witnesses can explain in plain language what forensic tools disclose and what the findings mean.

When it comes to legal cases involving technology issues, expert witnesses can help. If you’re called for jury duty, the information you get from these professionals can make your job a little easier.

Senator Josh Hawley has introduced “Decoupling America’s Artificial Intelligence Capabilities from China Act of 2025,” a bill that would criminalize the use of DeepSeek. The bill is designed to prohibit U.S. citizens from advancing China’s AI capabilities.

A bill to amend title 18, United States Code, to prohibit United States persons from advancing artificial intelligence capabilities within the People’s Republic of China, and for other purposes.

If passed, the bill would criminalize the import/export of AI technology from China. As a result, it is likely that the mere use of Chinese AI models, such as DeepSeek, would be considered a criminal act under the new law.

The bill includes stiff penalties for companies and individuals alike.

IN GENERAL.—A United States per19 son that violates section 2742 that is not an individual shall—

• (i) be fined not more than $100,000,000; and
• (ii) forfeit any license, contract, subcontract, grant, or public benefit awarded by any Federal agency.

ASSOCIATES OF ENTITIES.—An officer, director, partner, agent, or employee that violates section 2742 shall—

• (i) be fined not more than $1,000,000; and
• (ii) forfeit any license, contract, subcontract, grant, or public benefit awarded by any Federal agency.

INDIVIDUALS.—A United States person who is an individual that violates section 2742 shall—

• (A) be fined not more than $1,000,000; and
• (B) forfeit any license, contract, subcontract, grant, or public benefit awarded by any Federal agency.

If Hawley’s bill passes, it would be a marked departure from previous U.S. policy. Previous bans of Chinese apps and services, such as TikTok, have never gone so far as impose penalties on individual users. The fact that this bill would do that underscores just how much U.S. lawmakers consider China’s AI capabilities a threat.

Arm and Qualcomm’s legal spat began when the latter acquired Nuvia, a chip design firm founded by former Apple engineers. Like Qualcomm, Nuvia was an Arm licensee. Qualcomm used Nuvia’s designs as the basis of its latest Snapdragon chips, including those powering the first-gen Copilot PCs.

Arm sued Qualcomm, as well as canceled its license, saying Qualcomm tried to transfer Nuvia’s licenses to itself without getting Arm’s approval first. The jury in the case sided with Qualcomm, finding the company did not violate its agreement with Arm. At the same time, the jury deadlocked on whether Nuvia violated its contract with Arm, leaving the door for another trial. Arm initially said it intended to pursue that option, but it appears to have changed course.

In a, earnings call, via Seeking Alpha, Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon revealed that Arm has no further plans to threaten Qualcomm’s license.

Before I turn the call over to Akash, I would like to provide an update on the Arm vs. Qualcomm trial from December 2024. The jury’s verdict vindicated Qualcomm’s CPU innovations and affirmed that Qualcomm’s contract with Arm provides a license for Qualcomm’s products containing our proprietary Oryon CPUs in industries such as smartphones, automotive, next generation PCs, IoT, and data center. In addition, ARM recently notified us that it was withdrawing its October 22nd, 2024 notice of breach and indicated that it has no current plan to terminate the Qualcomm Architecture License Agreement. We’re excited to continue to develop performance leading, world-class products that benefit consumers worldwide that include our incredible Oryon custom CPUs.

The revelation is good news for Qualcomm, especially at a time when its Snapdragon chips are gaining traction in the Windows market. Amon revealed just how much of the market Snapdragon has captured.

We look at the United States, which one of the priority markets that we had, and the data show that the sale, within the sale of US retail of Windows laptops above $800, we had more than 10% share, which is actually consistent with the projection we made of how we’re going to grow under five years.

Given the importance and growing popularity of Arm-based semiconductors in the PC market, Qualcomm’s ability to continue making Arm-based chips is a big win for consumers, as well as the company.

The DeepSeek Phenomenon

DeepSeek’s announcement that it built its AI model for less than $6 million, a stark contrast to the billions U.S. companies invest, has led to what many are calling a “panic” in the market. Nvidia, a company at the epicenter of this storm, saw its market cap plummet, losing more than the total value of companies like ExxonMobil. The sell-off was fueled by concerns over the sustainability of AI investments, especially when a startup from China appears to have achieved comparable results with significantly less investment.

Expert Insights

On “Power Lunch,” Dan Ives, Wedbush’s Global Head of Technology Research, alongside Nancy Tengler, CEO and CIO at Laffer Tengler Investments, offered their take on this market upheaval. “I think this is a top three buying opportunity that I’ve seen in the last decade for tech,” Ives stated, emphasizing his conversations over the weekend with tech executives and CIOs. “In no way does this change their sort of plans for these AI arms races or use cases,” he added, suggesting that the panic is overblown.

Ives pointed out that despite the doubts, Nvidia remains indispensable. “There is one GPU that’s fueling AI, and it’s Nvidia. When you think about these build-outs, when we talk about the enterprise, the $2 trillion of AI CapEx in the next three years, that doesn’t change from DeepSeek,” he explained. This perspective positions Nvidia not as a casualty but as the backbone of the AI revolution, potentially undervalued at this moment.

The Broader Market Impact

While Nvidia bore the brunt of the sell-off, not all tech stocks reacted equally. Ives highlighted, “Not all of the companies at the center of the sell-off today are necessarily affected the same way.” He sees this as an opportunity across the board for tech investments, particularly in software companies that could benefit from lower AI inference costs. “Names like Palantir, the hyperscalers, I could argue with inferencing, if you actually think costs are coming down, it’s actually bullish for even some of the software players like Salesforce, ServiceNow, Oracle, and others,” Ives elaborated.

Navigating the Hype vs. Reality

The skepticism around DeepSeek’s claims is palpable, with Scale AI CEO Alexandr Wang noting from Davos, “My understanding is that DeepSeek has about 50,000 A100s, which they can’t talk about, obviously, because it is against the export controls.” This raises questions about the true cost and capabilities of DeepSeek’s technology, suggesting the market might have overreacted based on incomplete or speculative data.

Investment Strategy

Nancy Tengler, with her focus on investment strategy, echoed Ives’ sentiments on the sell-off being a buying opportunity. “These are the times you own these names,” she affirmed, highlighting the resilience of tech giants in adapting and leading technological innovation.

The Bubble Is Not Bursting

While the DeepSeek narrative has introduced a wave of uncertainty, the consensus among market analysts like Ives is clear: the sell-off represents a buying opportunity. Nvidia, with its pivotal role in AI hardware and other tech companies poised to leverage AI’s growth, is seen as undervalued in this dip. The AI industry’s trajectory might be questioned, but the underlying demand for advanced computing power remains. As the dust settles, investors might look back at this moment not as the beginning of an AI bubble burst but as the perfect entry point into the next phase of AI expansion.

Fries acknowledged the transformative potential of these new competitors. “I think what they’re doing is brilliant,” he said of Starlink and Kuiper, recognizing their ambition and financial muscle. However, he was skeptical about their immediate impact on traditional broadband. “Will it replace your home broadband? Unlikely because we’re offering one gig. It’s going to be ten gig. And just the economics of physics of that make that difficult,” Fries noted, pointing out the practical limitations of satellite technology in matching the speed and reliability of fixed broadband.

Recent sentiments on X echo Fries’ concerns and observations. Posts suggest that while Starlink has made significant inroads in rural and underserved areas, its role in urban, high-speed internet markets remains niche.

@WholeMarsBlog tweeted, “There’s actually a ton of competition. Satellite internet has been around before Starlink even existed. What we are seeing is just SpaceX outcompeting the rest of the industry so strongly that there effectively is no other alternative of the same quality.” This highlights how Starlink’s entry has redefined what “quality” broadband means, particularly in areas where traditional providers have been slow to invest.

Yet, the competitive landscape is not static.

@SawyerMerritt shared, “J.P. Morgan predicts that Viasat, a competitor of Starlink, could lose up to $80 million of revenue per year due to

@SpaceX‘s new deal with United Airlines to equip its entire fleet of over 1,000 airplanes with Starlink internet service.” This indicates that satellite internet isn’t just a threat to residential service providers but also to specialized markets like in-flight connectivity.

Fries also touched on the broader European context, where regulatory frameworks have historically favored price control over infrastructure investment. “Europe is in a very important inflection point,” he said, echoing sentiments in posts by

@woye1 on X, who pointed out the alarm among traditional telecom operators about Starlink’s potential to disrupt the market. “Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators are raising alarm against the license issued to Starlink that it might lead them to EXTINCTION,”

@woye1 tweeted, highlighting the existential threat perceived by some incumbents.

The conversation at Davos wasn’t just about competition but also about Europe’s digital future. “If you want to increase productivity, increase investment, increase innovation, we’d better get this regulatory thing right,” Fries emphasized, signaling a need for regulatory reform to foster a more competitive and innovative telecom sector. This sentiment aligns with

@ajtourville‘s tweet about SpaceX’s openness to competition, quoting their COO, “NEWS:

@SpaceX President and COO Gwynne Shotwell said today at the 2024 Baron Investment Conference that

@Starlink welcomes competition from Eutelsat’s OneWeb, Amazon’s Project Kuiper, Telesat’s Lightspeed, and AST SpaceMobile.”

Fries’ insights, paired with the ongoing discourse on X, illustrate a telecom industry at a crossroads. While satellite providers like Starlink bring new competition and innovation, traditional providers face the challenge of adapting or risk being overshadowed. The coming years will be telling, as Europe navigates this “inflection point” with both traditional and emerging players vying for dominance in the digital sphere.

Reports began circulating in September that Qualcomm was pursuing a takeover of Intel, an embarrassing turn of events for the storied chipmaker. Although the talks never went anywhere, it hasn’t stopped Qualcomm from making a move for some of Intel’s talent, specifically Kottapalli.

Kottapalli announced the news in a LinkedIn post:

As we head into 2025, I am excited to share that I have joined Qualcomm. The opportunity to innovate and grow while helping to scale new frontiers was immensely compelling to me – a once-in-a-career opportunity that I could not pass on.

Kottapalli goes on to highlight the work he did during his 28 years at Intel:

The start of this new chapter also coincides with the closing of a previous one at Intel that lasted 28 years. This experience was tremendously gratifying, and I would like to acknowledge it.

What kept me going at Intel for almost three decades was the continuous learning experience and the challenge of doing something meaningful, not just for Intel, but for the world at large. My journey took me through roles as a validation engineer, logic designer, full-chip floor planner, post-silicon debug engineer, micro architect, and architect. I worked on CPU cores, memory, IO, and platform aspects of the system, spanning multiple architectures across x86 and Itanium, and products including CPU and GPU, most importantly shaping the Xeon product line. Each role presented unique challenges and struggles, which I deeply appreciated and look back on fondly. Intel never failed to provide me with opportunities to learn and grow as a technologist, a leader, and as a person overall. I have always been inspired by numerous brilliant colleagues who motivated me to do better, and I have benefited from the guidance of many who were generous with their time and commitment as partners, supervisors, mentors, coaches, and sponsors.

Kottapalli also made a passing reference to Intel’s current situation, indicating his hope the company can turn things around:

While there is never a suitable time to end a journey, I feel good about where Xeon is right now and what is coming up next. Intel holds a special place in my heart, and I will continue cheering for its return to greatness.

It’s never a good thing when a top engineer leaves for another company. It’s even worse when that engineer shines a spotlight, however briefly, on his former company’s troubles.

Either way, Intel’s loss is certainly Qualcomm’s gain, and Kottapalli’s experience with Xeon should be a boon for Qualcomm as it moves further into the desktop and data center markets.

The AI Diffusion rule expands the administration’s restrictions on the export of chips used to power AI models.

With this interim final rule, the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) revises the Export Administration Regulations’ (EAR) controls on advanced computing integrated circuits (ICs) and adds a new control on artificial intelligence (AI) model weights for certain advanced closed-weight dual-use AI models. In conjunction with the expansion of these controls, which BIS has determined are necessary to protect U.S. national security and foreign policy interests, BIS is adding new license exceptions and updating the Data Center Validated End User authorization to facilitate the export, reexport, and transfer (in-country) of advanced computing (ICs) to end users in destinations that do not raise national security or foreign policy concerns. Together, these changes will cultivate secure ecosystems for the responsible diffusion and use of AI and advanced computing ICs.

Nvidia says the rule is a stark departure from the policies put forward by the first Trump administration.

The first Trump Administration laid the foundation for America’s current strength and success in AI, fostering an environment where U.S. industry could compete and win on merit without compromising national security. As a result, mainstream AI has become an integral part of every new application, driving economic growth, promoting U.S. interests and ensuring American leadership in cutting-edge technology.

Nvidia says the Biden Administration is pushing through legislation, at the last minute, that will cripple America’s AI innovation.

In its last days in office, the Biden Administration seeks to undermine America’s leadership with a 200+ page regulatory morass, drafted in secret and without proper legislative review. This sweeping overreach would impose bureaucratic control over how America’s leading semiconductors, computers, systems and even software are designed and marketed globally. And by attempting to rig market outcomes and stifle competition — the lifeblood of innovation — the Biden Administration’s new rule threatens to squander America’s hard-won technological advantage.

While cloaked in the guise of an “anti-China” measure, these rules would do nothing to enhance U.S. security. The new rules would control technology worldwide, including technology that is already widely available in mainstream gaming PCs and consumer hardware. Rather than mitigate any threat, the new Biden rules would only weaken America’s global competitiveness, undermining the innovation that has kept the U.S. ahead.

Although the rule is not enforceable for 120 days, it is already undercutting U.S. interests. As the first Trump Administration demonstrated, America wins through innovation, competition and by sharing our technologies with the world — not by retreating behind a wall of government overreach. We look forward to a return to policies that strengthen American leadership, bolster our economy and preserve our competitive edge in AI and beyond.

Nvidia Joins a Growing List of Companies Appealing to Trump

On the eve of President-elect Donald Trump’s second term, companies are bending over backward to get into his good graces. This is especially true within the tech industry given Trump’s vocal criticism of Big Tech.

Meta announced it is ending its fact-checking program in favor of community moderation, and major banks bailed on the Net Zero Banking Alliance. Both moves were were seen as efforts to appease Trump and his allies, and avoid a confrontation with the incoming administration.

While Nvidia’s commentary is certainly an appeal to the incoming Trump administration to loosen the Biden administration’s export rules, it also appears to be a thinly veiled attempt to get and stay on Trump’s good side.

And there’s also a new ingredient that’s getting mixed into the equation more and more frequently: technology. Whether it’s AI, IoT, connected devices, or social media – technology is closely intertwined with false confessions. And it’s worth digging deeper to understand what’s happening beneath the surface.

The Psychology Behind False Confessions

False confessions don’t occur because someone is guilty or weak. They happen because the methods used during interrogations are often designed to wear people down and manipulate their emotions. 

To understand why false confessions occur, you first need to recognize the psychological toll of an interrogation. Police interrogations are carefully crafted to exploit stress, fear, and confusion, often pushing suspects to a breaking point.

Imagine sitting in a small, cold room for hours without contact with the outside world. Officers repeatedly accuse you of something you didn’t do, presenting fabricated evidence or twisting your words until you start to doubt your own memory. Over time, the pressure builds, and confessing feels like the only way to make it stop.

False confessions typically fall into three categories:

1. Voluntary Confessions: These are given without coercion, often due to a desire for attention or mental illness.

2. Coerced-Internalized Confessions: This occurs when someone starts to believe they actually committed the crime, even if they didn’t.

3. Coerced-Compliant Confessions: These happen when someone knows they’re innocent but confesses to avoid further stress or harm.

Most false confessions fall into the latter two categories, often driven by the aggressive tactics police use during interrogations.

How Technology Shapes Police Confessions: A Double-Edged Sword

You probably think of technology as a tool for accuracy, fairness, and progress. When it comes to police investigations, however, technology can be both a hero and a villain. Nowhere is this duality more evident than in the role technology plays in police confessions, especially false ones. 

On the one hand, technology offers tools to expose coercion, preserve evidence, and uphold justice. On the other, it sometimes amplifies the exact problems it seeks to solve, leading to wrongful convictions.

Imagine you’re being questioned in a small, windowless room. Cameras record every fidget and hesitation. Artificial intelligence tools might analyze your body language, looking for signs of deception. The problem is that these tools aren’t infallible. In fact, they can sometimes increase the likelihood of false confessions.

AI systems, for example, often lack context. They may flag innocent gestures – like crossing your arms or pausing to think – as signs of dishonesty. If an investigator is already convinced of your guilt, these false red flags can reinforce their bias, pushing them to apply more pressure. What happens next? You might confess to something you didn’t do, just to end the ordeal.

Voice stress analysis tools, which claim to detect lies based on changes in your vocal pitch, are another example. Studies have shown these tools are far from reliable, yet some officers rely on them during interrogations. If the technology says you’re lying, you could face more aggressive questioning, increasing the risk of a coerced confession.

Social media surveillance adds another layer. Investigators might pull your posts, messages, or photos to paint a narrative of guilt, even if the context is misunderstood. A sarcastic comment or inside joke could suddenly be used against you, creating a situation where you feel trapped.

Technology also makes it easier to exploit vulnerabilities. Police officers sometimes use tactics like showing you doctored evidence – a video that appears to place you at the scene of a crime, for instance. Even if you know you’re innocent, the psychological pressure can be overwhelming. After hours of questioning, you might confess just to make it stop.

And then there’s the issue of recorded interrogations. While it might seem like a safeguard, recording can backfire. Some officers use the presence of a camera to give an illusion of fairness, all while employing subtle psychological tricks off-camera – like suggesting your situation will improve if you just “admit” to something.

How Technology Can Prevent False Confessions

It’s worth noting that there’s a flip side to all of this: Technology can also be used to prevent or reduce false confessions. When used responsibly, it offers tools to reduce the likelihood of false confessions and hold officers accountable.

Mandatory recording of interrogations from start to finish is one way. If every word, gesture, and tactic is documented, it’s harder for officers to manipulate you. Full recordings provide a clear record of whether you were coerced, misled, or denied your rights.

AI and machine learning can also flag patterns of coercion. For instance, algorithms can analyze thousands of interrogation recordings to identify tactics associated with false confessions. This data can help reform interrogation practices, making them fairer and less prone to abuse.

Additionally, transparency tools like body cameras and dashboard cameras play a critical role. These devices capture interactions that might otherwise go unrecorded, ensuring officers follow protocols. If you’re questioned on the spot or during an arrest, a body camera can provide evidence of what was said and how you were treated.

The key, of course, is balance. You need technology that protects you without becoming another tool of coercion. That means rigorous oversight of how tools like AI and surveillance are used. It means independent reviews of interrogation practices and clear guidelines for officers using technology during investigations.

Prolonged Questioning: Wearing You Down

Regardless of the role of technology, there are several tactics that law enforcement has long used to get confessions – even at the expense of landing a false confession. One of the most common techniques is prolonged questioning. Interrogations can last for hours without giving you a real break.

The longer you’re kept in an interrogation room, the more likely you are to become fatigued, confused, and emotionally drained. This is exactly what interrogators want. They rely on your exhaustion to lower your resistance and make you more likely to agree to their narrative.

Sleep deprivation is often a byproduct of prolonged questioning. When you’re sleep-deprived, your decision-making abilities decline, and your ability to think critically or remember events accurately is severely impaired. This makes you more susceptible to suggestion and coercion.

Misleading Evidence: Making You Doubt Yourself

Another tactic involves presenting misleading or false evidence. Officers may claim they have video footage, fingerprints, or witness testimony linking you to the crime, even if none of it exists.

This strategy is particularly effective because it creates doubt. You start to question your own memory or assume the evidence must be correct, even if you know you didn’t commit the crime.

In some cases, interrogators fabricate scenarios to make their story more convincing. They may say, “We know you were in the area at that time,” even if there’s no proof you were. These lies are legal in most jurisdictions, making it even harder for you to defend yourself during an interrogation.

The Good Cop/Bad Cop Routine: A Manipulative Dynamic

The classic “Good Cop/Bad Cop” routine is another tactic designed to elicit confessions. This method pairs one aggressive, intimidating officer with a second, more sympathetic officer. And even with more video recording and technology, officers still use this as one of their tried and true ways to get confessions (true or false).

The “bad cop” applies pressure by yelling, accusing, or making threats, while the “good cop” steps in to offer comfort or a way out – usually by confessing. This creates a psychological dynamic where you feel compelled to trust the “good cop” and comply with their suggestions.

As attorney Rowdy G. Williams explains, “The suspect is brought into a dark, sometimes unpleasant room and made to sit in a chair alone until the officer decides to come in. By forbidding the suspect from having any outside contact with friends or family or any way to let them know what has happened, the police hope to isolate the suspect and make them feel alone and like they have no other way out but to talk.”

This isolation and manipulation can wear down even the most resilient people, leading to outbursts, false confessions, or even total emotional breakdowns (which don’t bode well for anyone’s defense).

How to Protect Yourself

If you find yourself in an interrogation room, it’s important to understand your rights and take steps to protect yourself from coercive tactics. Police interrogations can be high-pressure environments designed to make you feel cornered, but knowing how to respond can prevent you from inadvertently giving a false confession or incriminating yourself. And if you understand the role that technology plays, you can actually turn it into your ally.

Here are some steps you can take:

1. Request an Attorney Immediately

The most important step you can take is to request an attorney as soon as you realize you’re being interrogated or investigated. The moment you ask for legal representation, law enforcement is required to stop questioning you until your lawyer is present.

An attorney acts as a shield between you and the police, ensuring your rights are upheld. They’ll help you navigate the legal process, prevent officers from twisting your words, and advise you on how to respond to questions. Even if you think you can explain your innocence, resist the urge to do it alone. Police are trained to manipulate conversations, and anything you say can – and likely will – be used against you later.

2. Stay Silent

Remember that there are cameras everywhere. Law enforcement officers who respond to a scene are almost always required to have a body camera running. And if you’re in a police car being questioned, there’s a camera on the dash recording you. If you’re in an interrogation room, there’s a camera in there. Always assume that everything you say and do is being tracked by technology. 

But here’s the good news: The Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution gives you the right to remain silent, and you should exercise this right during an interrogation. Once you’ve requested an attorney, avoid answering any questions, no matter how harmless they may seem.

Officers might say things like, “We just need your side of the story,” or, “It’ll look better if you cooperate.” Don’t be fooled. Their goal is to gather evidence against you, not to clear your name. Politely but firmly state, “I choose to remain silent until my lawyer is present.”

Remaining silent isn’t an admission of guilt – it’s a way to protect yourself from making statements that could be misinterpreted or taken out of context.

3. Know Your Rights

Before you find yourself in a high-pressure situation, familiarize yourself with your rights. Some of the key protections under the constitution include:

• The Right to Remain Silent: You don’t have to answer any questions without legal counsel.

• The Right to an Attorney: You can request legal representation at any point during an interrogation.

• Protection Against Self-Incrimination: You cannot be forced to say anything that implicates you in a crime.

Police are required to inform you of these rights through a Miranda warning, which typically includes statements like, “You have the right to remain silent,” and, “Anything you say can be used against you in a court of law.” If these rights aren’t read to you, any statements you make may be inadmissible in court.

This is one of those areas where technology can actually give you an assist. Because the cameras are always rolling, you can usually prove if an officer did not read you your Miranda rights prior to questioning you. As a result, you could get key information thrown out of the case against you by having your attorney go to the recording.

Adding it All Up

If you ever find yourself in a situation where you’re being questioned by law enforcement, don’t assume that being cooperative or polite will lead to leniency or cause them to eliminate you as a suspect. And remember that technology – including connected devices, AI, and other tools – are always there, slowly running in the background.

While it’s important to remain calm and respectful, this doesn’t mean you should volunteer information or try to explain yourself. Technology can be used to manipulate you, and you don’t want to find yourself in a situation where you give a false confession out of fear or confusion.

Ampere’s chips are based on Arm designs and have made significant inroads in the server market, thanks to the power and energy efficiency Arm-based chips provide. According to a report by Bloomberg, via Tom’s Hardware, Arm is considering purchasing Ampere in an effort to improve its data center presence.

As Tom’s Hardware points out, such an acquisition could upset the balance in the Arm ecosystem. The company has long been known as the Switzerland of the semiconductor industry, licensing its designs to any company willing to pay, while not making any chips of its own. Purchasing a company that makes and sells chips could lead to Arm licensees crying foul, especially if Arm plays favorites and reserves its best tech for the Ampere line.

Oracle could also prove to be a major obstacle to any deal with Arm. Oracle has gone all-in on Ampere, migrating its Oracle cloud Infrastructure (OCI) to Ampere CPUs. Even more telling, a proxy statement in late 2024 revealed that Oracle currently owns 29% of Ampere, with the company having the option to become majority owner in 2027.

We also own convertible debt investments in Ampere which, under the terms of an agreement with Ampere and other co-investors, will mature in June 2026 and are convertible into equity securities at the holder’s option under certain circumstances. During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2024, we invested an aggregate of $600 million in convertible debt instruments issued by Ampere. In accordance with the terms of an agreement with other co-investors, we are also a counterparty to certain put (exercisable by a co-investor) and call (exercisable by Oracle) options at prices of approximately $400 million to $1.5 billion, respectively, to acquire additional equity interests in Ampere from our co-investors through January 2027. If either of such options is exercised by us or our co-investors, we would obtain control of Ampere and consolidate its results with our results of operations.

If Arm is going to make a move on Ampere, the company will need to do so before Oracle exercises its options. Even then, Arm would still have to address Oracle’s current 29% ownership stake, a stake Oracle may not be interested in selling.

Apple has been rumored to be moving into the smart home market, with the company planning robots and assistants that will tap into the work it has done in the AI field. The company’s efforts have benefited from it killing off its autonomous automotive project, Project Titan.

According to CNET, Apple is working on a smart doorbell that will use Face ID-like tech to unlock the door for authorized individuals. Similarly, Apple is reported to be working on in-home cameras, similar to what is offered by Ring and Nest.

As CNET points out, Apple could be in a unique position to capitalize on its reputation for championing user privacy. Other companies have struggled with privacy, with Ring practically being a poster-child for the issues. Ring suffered a string of embarrassing security incidents, in which its cameras were repeatedly hacked and customers harassed. In the wake of the hacks, an investigation by VICE found that Ring’s security was abysmal.

In contrast, Apple has a reputation for offering its users strong security and privacy, often to the detriment of other features. That reputation could be a major factor in convincing users who have hesitated to get on the smart home bandwagon over privacy concerns.

Apple has been looking for its “next big thing.” Many thought autonomous vehicles could be that thing, before the company axed the program after spending billions on development. Apple is currently pushing its Vision Pro as the next evolution of computing, dubbed “spatial computing.”

Apple’s smart home venture could well be its “next big thing.”

Arm and Qualcomm’s legal issues started when the latter purchased Nuvia, a semiconductor design firm founded by ex-Apple engineers. Nuvia, like Qualcomm, was an Arm licensee. Qualcomm used Nuvia’s designs as the basis for its new Snapdragon line of chips, which power Microsoft’s first-gen Copilot PCs.

Arm accused Qualcomm of transferring Nuvia’s license to itself without seeking Arm’s permission, something that goes against Arm’s licensing terms. As a result, Arm sued Qualcomm and eventually revoked its license altogether.

Qualcomm has maintained that its existing license covers its acquisition and use of Nuvia’s intellectual property.

“Arm’s complaint ignores the fact that Qualcomm has broad, well-established license rights covering its custom-designed CPU’s, and we are confident those rights will be affirmed,” Ann Chaplin, General Counsel of Qualcomm, said in a statement at the time.

A jury agreed with Qualcomm, saying the company’s Arm license covers its processors. The jury also found that Qualcomm did not violate its license with Arm.

“We are pleased with today’s decision,” Qualcomm said in a statement. “The jury has vindicated Qualcomm’s right to innovate and affirmed that all the Qualcomm products at issue in the case are protected by Qualcomm’s contract with ARM. We will continue to develop performance-leading, world class products that benefit consumers worldwide, with our incredible Oryon ARM-compliant custom CPUs.”

Unfortunately, the decision was not all good news, as the jury deadlocked on the question of whether Nuvia breached its contract with Arm. As a result of the deadlock, Arm has the option of asking for another trial, which the company has said it will do, according to Reuters.

Judge Maryellen Noreika urged both parties to resolve their dispute outside of court, saying neither would likely win outright.

“I don’t think either side had a clear victory or would have had a clear victory if this case is tried again,” Judge Noreika told the parties.

With VPS hosting, you can discover new opportunities for collecting, processing, and storing data, making marketing research more accurate, faster, and accessible. Modern technologies have changed the marketing approach. Instead of slow, offline methods, companies increasingly use digital tools that work with large volumes of information.

VPS is becoming an indispensable tool, providing flexibility, reliability, and scalability to perform even the most complex analytical tasks. Pay attention to is*hosting services. The company offers different tariff plans to help you choose the perfect option.

Advantages of VPS Hosting in Marketing Research

Using VPS hosting in marketing research comes with many advantages. You can efficiently process more data without restrictions, make individual settings, increase data processing speed, and more. Let’s take a closer look at the advantages that VPS users receive.

Processing Big Data Without Limits

Marketing research often requires analyzing vast amounts of data, such as user behavior on websites, social networks, sales reports, and demographic indicators. VPS hosting allows you to create powerful analytical systems to handle such tasks without problems.

Due to dedicated resources, the server provides high performance, even under intensive loads. In addition, VPS helps organize parallel processing of data from different sources. Companies can simultaneously analyze online requests, CRM data, and advertising effectiveness reports.

Flexibility in Setting Up Tools

Each business uses its methods and tools for analysis. VPS provides a unique opportunity to install specialized software, set up databases, and integrate third-party services. Thus, you can use more than ready-made solutions and create a unique infrastructure that meets your needs.

You can make individual settings. For example, to analyze consumer behavior, you can deploy data visualization tools. VPS hosting allows you to use machine learning for forecasting. Such opportunities are available due to the flexibility of a virtual server.

Increased Data Processing Speed

Traditional analysis methods can be slow, primarily if local devices with limited capacity are used. VPS hosting gives users high data processing speed, allowing researchers to receive real-time results.

Such capabilities are critical in a rapidly changing market. A delay in decision-making can cost a competitive advantage. High VPS performance provides everything you need to adapt quickly to changes in user preferences. You can quickly adjust your marketing strategy to current user requests.

Centralized Data Management

One of the critical aspects of successful research is data organization. VPS allows you to centralize the storage of all information, including:

• survey results;
• advertising campaign metrics;
• sales statistics.

This approach simplifies access and protects against losses. Companies can set up different levels of access for employees. This feature ensures that only authorized persons can work with confidential information.

Improved Security

Marketing research often involves working with users’ data, so security is one of the top priorities. VPS hosting allows companies to set up data encryption, install firewalls, and conduct regular backups, protecting their data from cyber threats and leaks.

Key Ways to Use VPS in Marketing Research

You can maximize the potential of VPS hosting. To do this, you need to understand the specifics of its use in marketing practice. The main methods of implementation are as follows:

• analysis of data from multiple sources;
• deployment of a machine learning platform;
• management of online surveys and questionnaires;
• storage of large data sets;
• monitoring competitor activity in real time.

Each method helps improve the quality of research, reduce time costs, and increase the accuracy of results. VPS’s flexibility allows you to combine these methods and adapt them to the needs of a specific company.

Why VPS is Becoming an Indispensable Tool

Today, businesses face a huge amount of data that needs to be quickly analyzed and used for decision-making. With robust and reliable infrastructure, this is possible. VPS provides companies with tools to keep up with digital transformation.

Traditional data analytics solutions are limited. They cannot provide comfortable conditions for existence and work. VPS offers high performance and flexibility for reasonable money.

Conclusion

VPS hosting opens up new forecasts for marketing research. It facilitates efficient work with big data, develops complex analytical models, and provides high security.

Companies that use VPS can quickly adapt to market changes. They understand their customers better and create more accurate forecasts. Such technologies are becoming the most critical competitive advantage in a world where information is the main asset. 

This transformation signals a burgeoning relationship between Silicon Valley and the Department of Defense (DoD), driven by entrepreneurial vigor and an urgent need for modernized defense systems.

Listen to our conversation on how tech startups are revolutionizing defense!

The Genesis of the Trend

The roots of this transformation trace back to 2014 when then-Secretary of Defense Ash Carter launched the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) to bridge the gap between the DoD and Silicon Valley. However, the real catalysts for the current surge were the successes of SpaceX and Palantir. Boyle noted, “These companies proved that private sector innovation could deliver results where traditional defense contractors had stagnated.”

SpaceX, for instance, revolutionized satellite deployment and military logistics, while Palantir’s data analytics have been indispensable in battlefield intelligence. Their triumphs inspired a wave of entrepreneurs eager to tackle defense challenges, particularly as geopolitical tensions intensified.

The Ukraine Effect

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 underscored the need for advanced defense technologies. “Young engineers watching a modern land war unfold realized the urgency of building effective defense systems,” Boyle explained. This realization accelerated the creation of startups aimed at developing autonomous drones, cybersecurity platforms, and battlefield communication tools.

Companies like Anduril and Shield AI exemplify this trend. Founded nearly a decade ago, they have transitioned from promising startups to critical defense partners. Shield AI, for example, now employs over 4,000 people and supports large-scale military programs. Boyle emphasized, “These are not startups anymore; they’re foundational to modern defense.”

New Players and Emerging Innovations

As the ecosystem matures, a new wave of companies is emerging. Boyle highlighted Apex Space, a firm specializing in modular satellite buses, which boasts the fastest timeline from design to deployment in low Earth orbit. Another standout is Sanic Technologies, an Austin-based maritime autonomy company focused on unmanned surface vessels for the Navy.

“These startups are learning from the playbooks of SpaceX and Anduril,” Boyle said. “They understand the importance of speed, scalability, and securing production contracts early.” Such innovations are not confined to traditional defense domains. Startups are also tackling challenges in energy resilience, such as nuclear microreactors and solar thermal batteries, which are vital for both defense operations and commercial applications.

The Role of Policy and Leadership

The shift in defense innovation has been bolstered by political support. The current administration has prioritized integrating tech-savvy leaders into key roles. “These leaders come from diverse backgrounds, often outside the traditional defense ecosystem,” Boyle noted. “They bring fresh perspectives and a willingness to challenge inefficient procurement processes.”

This cultural shift within the DoD has enabled faster adoption of emerging technologies. Boyle pointed to ongoing efforts to reform cost-plus contracting and streamline the path from prototype to deployment. “For the first time in my career, there’s a genuine chance to change how defense procurement works,” she said.

Funding and Market Dynamics

The influx of venture capital into defense startups is another critical factor. While private markets initially pulled back amid economic uncertainty, public market enthusiasm for tech innovation is reigniting investment. “We’re seeing a renewed interest in categories like AI, cybersecurity, and autonomous systems,” Boyle observed. “The momentum is real, and it’s attracting top-tier talent and capital.”

Andreessen Horowitz’s American Dynamism Fund exemplifies this trend. Focused on defense, energy, and critical infrastructure, the fund aims to support startups that align with national interests. “The opportunity to modernize defense while fostering economic growth is immense,” Boyle stated.

A New Era for Government Service

Beyond the private sector, the renewed focus on defense innovation has made government service appealing again. Boyle credited figures like Elon Musk and J.D. Vance for inspiring a new generation to see public service as both impactful and exciting. “Making government cool again is one of the most unexpected yet positive outcomes of this movement,” she said.

As 2025 approaches, the intersection of technology and defense continues to gain traction. Startups are poised to deliver groundbreaking solutions that address modern challenges, from autonomous warfare to energy independence. Boyle remains optimistic: “This is a pivotal moment for innovation. The collaboration between Silicon Valley and Washington has the potential to redefine not just defense but the broader technological landscape.”

With the convergence of entrepreneurial ambition, policy reform, and public investment, the future of tech defense startups looks brighter than ever. These companies are not just shaping the battlefield; they’re building the foundation for a safer, more resilient world.

According to Taipei Times, Minister of Economic Affairs J.W. Kuo (郭智輝) told the country’s Economics Committee that TSMC could not be forced to produce its latest generation of chips at Arizona—regardless of the outcome of the US election—because the company was bound by Taiwanese law.

Taiwan’s regulations stipulate that chipmakers can only produce the latest version of their technology domestically. Any chips manufactured at facilities abroad must be at least one generation old.

“Since Taiwan has related regulations to protect its own technologies, TSMC cannot produce 2-nanometer chips overseas currently,” Kuo told the committee.

“Although TSMC plans to make 2-nanometer chips [abroad] in the future, its core technology will stay in Taiwan,” Kuo added.

As Taipei Times points out, TSMC’s Arizona fabs are currently preparing to manufacture 4-nanometer chips. The company doesn’t plan to produce 2 or 3-nanometer chips in Arizona till the end of the decade, when its second fab comes online in 2028. By that time, the company will likely be on its next-gen chips, making 2-nanometer a generation old and legally viable for overseas manufacture.

Taiwan Semiconductor Industry Association (TSIA) chairman and TSMC VP Cliff Hou (侯永清) offered assurances that the US election results would not change the relationship between the US and Taiwan.

“The bilateral relationship has not changed because of the political landscape changes in the US,” Hou said.

“There could be some alterations in details regarding this partnership. We will look at it when everything is certain,” Hou added.

Hou also emphasized the need for the Taiwanese government to work more closely with the country’s chipmakers to further innovation in an effort to remain competitive.

“We should accelerate research and development to ensure our standing as an indispensable member of the global semiconductor supply chain,” Hou said. “We are also working with the government to see whether we can attract foreign partners to set up design and materials centers in Taiwan.”

Adopting sustainable tech not only reduces a company’s carbon footprint but also contributes to long-term cost savings and operational efficiency.

From renewable energy sources to waste reduction technologies, businesses have a range of tools to enhance their sustainability practices.

Embracing Renewable Energy

One of the most impactful ways for businesses to adopt sustainable tech is through renewable energy solutions. Solar power, in particular, has become widely accessible, offering companies the chance to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

For example, smaller enterprises or remote operations can benefit from portable RV solar panels, which provide a flexible, eco-friendly power source without requiring a permanent installation. These panels can be an ideal solution for off-site projects or temporary setups, helping to cut down on fuel consumption and reduce environmental impact.

Just as many individuals now enjoy living off the grid, businesses can also invest in renewable energy to gradually reduce their dependency on the grid, making their operations more resilient.

Waste Reduction Technologies

Minimizing waste is essential for companies aiming to adopt sustainable practices. Waste reduction technologies, such as smart recycling systems and composting machines, help businesses manage waste efficiently.

Smart recycling bins, for example, can sort and separate waste types automatically, ensuring that recyclable materials don’t end up in landfills.

Similarly, composting systems convert food waste and organic materials into compost, which can then be used for landscaping or sold.

Companies in retail, hospitality, and manufacturing, where waste generation is often high, can significantly benefit from these solutions.

Energy-Efficient Equipment

Upgrading to energy-efficient equipment is a practical step for businesses aiming to reduce energy consumption.

Many companies are now investing in LED lighting, energy-efficient HVAC systems, and smart thermostats to optimize their electricity usage.

Energy-efficient equipment reduces operational costs and supports sustainability goals, creating a win-win scenario for businesses.

Sustainable Supply Chain Solutions

Sustainable tech solutions are also transforming supply chain management. By implementing cloud-based systems and advanced analytics, companies can track their supply chain activities with greater precision, allowing them to identify inefficiencies and reduce resource use.

Additionally, businesses can use blockchain technology to improve transparency, making it easier to verify that their suppliers follow sustainable practices.

Green Data Centers

As data usage continues to rise, data centers have become significant energy consumers. To address this issue, many businesses are adopting green data centers, which use renewable energy sources and energy-efficient equipment to power and cool servers.

Green data centers often incorporate advanced cooling systems, such as liquid cooling, which require less energy than traditional air conditioning.

Data centers can also benefit from on-site renewable energy installations, like solar or wind power, to supplement their energy needs.

Building a Sustainable Future

The shift toward sustainable tech solutions is helping businesses of all sizes align their operations with environmental priorities.

By embracing renewable energy, waste reduction, and efficient resource management, companies can create a lasting impact on the environment while optimizing their bottom line. Sustainable technology not only provides a path toward a greener future but also enhances business resilience and brand appeal in an eco-conscious marketplace.

Lunar Lake was a break from Intel’s traditional designs in the way it handled RAM. Rather than being a separate component, Lunar Lake integrated the memory directly on the processor, much like Apple’s M-series chips. In exchange for no ability to upgrade the RAM post-purchase, Lunar Lake offered significant performance and battery savings boosts.

Unfortunately, users hoping that Lunar Lake would become the default path for Intel moving forward are in for a disappointment. According to comments by Gelsinger at the Q3 2024 earnings call, via VideoCardz, Lunar Lake proved too expensive for the company to continue down that path.

That’s at a volume product and a volume industry like the PC industry, you don’t want to have volume memory going through that channel [memory on package]. It’s not a good way to run the business. So it really is, for us, a one-off with Lunar Lake. That will not be the case with Panther Lake, Nova Lake and its successors as well. We’ll build it in a more traditional way iwth memory off package in the CPU, GPU, NPU and I/O capabilities in the package. But volume memory will be off package in the roadmap going forward.

Unfortunately, it seems Lunar Lake’s advances aren’t the only thing Intel may be abandoning. Gelsinger went on to indicate that the company’s discrete graphics cards may also be on the chopping block.

Similarly, in the client product area, simplifying the roadmap, fewer SKUs to cover it. How are we handling graphics and how that is increasingly becoming a large integrated graphics capabilities. So less need for discrete graphics in the market going forward.

The news is sure to disappoint many users. Intel has struggled to compete with Apple M-series, as well as other Arm-based chips, in terms of energy efficiency. Lunar Lake was an important step forward, only for Intel to now be taking two steps back.

The issue is the latest in a long line of challenges Intel is facing as Gelsinger struggles to turn the company around. The situation has become dire enough that lawmakers are reportedly considering more bailout options for the troubled chipmaker.

Siemens is a well-known name in the tech, infrastructure, healthcare, and transport industries, but the company has been increasing its software business, buying up other companies to bolster its capabilities. The company purchased Brightly Software for $1.5 billion in 2022, and the company is now adding Altair Engineering to its list of acquisitions.

By adding Altair’s highly complementary simulation portfolio, with strength in mechanical and electromagnetic capabilities, we are enhancing our comprehensive Digital Twin to deliver a full-suite, physics-based, simulation portfolio as part of Siemens Xcelerator. Altair’s data science and AI-powered simulation capabilities allow anyone, from engineers to generalists, to access simulation expertise to decrease time-to-market and accelerate design iterations. Additionally, Altair’s data science capabilities will unlock Siemens’ industrial domain expertise in product lifecycle and manufacturing processes.

Siemens estimates the acquisition will increase the company’s digital business revenue by more than 8%, translating to an addition of EUR ~600 million to the EUR 7.3 billion the company earned in 2023.

“Acquiring Altair marks a significant milestone for Siemens. This strategic investment aligns with our commitment to accelerate the digital and sustainability transformations of our customers by combining the real and digital worlds. The addition of Altair’s capabilities in simulation, high performance computing, data science, and artificial intelligence together with Siemens Xcelerator will create the world’s most complete AI-powered design and simulation portfolio,” said Roland Busch, President and CEO of Siemens AG. “It is a logical next step: we have been building our leadership in industrial software for the last 15 years, most recently, democratizing the benefits of data and AI for entire industries.”

“The acquisition of Altair is highly synergistic, underpinning Siemens’ stringent capital allocation, balancing investments and shareholder returns on the basis of a strong balance sheet. The transaction is expected to be EPS accretive two years post-closing,” said Ralf P. Thomas, CFO of Siemens AG.

“This acquisition represents the culmination of nearly 40 years in which Altair has grown from a startup in Detroit to a world-class software and technology company. We have added thousands of customers globally in manufacturing, life sciences, energy and financial services, and built an amazing workforce, and innovative culture,” said James Scapa, Altair’s founder and CEO. “We believe this combination of two strongly complementary leaders in the engineering software space brings together Altair’s broad portfolio in simulation, data science, and HPC with Siemens’ strong position in mechanical and EDA design. Siemens’ outstanding technology, strategic customer relationships, and honest, technical culture is an excellent fit for Altair to continue its journey driving innovation with computational intelligence.”

Carbon removal has become the focal point of many climate change efforts, as it represents one of the best, most cost-effective ways of combating climate change and rising temperatures. Ebb Carbon’s Electrochemical Ocean Alkalinity Enhancement (OAE) ” increases the ocean’s natural ability to draw down and permanently store atmospheric CO2.”

Ebb Carbon’s technology taps into the process whereby weather rocks produce alkaline minerals that make their way into the ocean and “convert CO2 in seawater into bicarbonate and carbonate ions.” The ions are able to safely store the carbon “for more than 10,000 years.” Ebb Carbon says the ocean has already absorbed nearly a third of all CO2 since the Industrial Revolution began. Increasing its natural capability could be a significant step toward getting CO2 emissions under control.

“Microsoft is setting a powerful example with its commitment to becoming carbon negative by 2030 and by using its purchasing power to accelerate the most promising climate solutions. This agreement underscores the potential of Ebb Carbon’s technology to contribute meaningfully to gigaton-scale carbon removal in the years ahead,” said Ben Tarbell, CEO of Ebb Carbon

“The ocean is a critical part of the carbon cycle,” said Brian Marrs, Senior Director of Energy & Carbon Removal at Microsoft. “Ebb has developed technology to leverage the natural attributes of the ocean – its massive surface area and natural ocean processes that already pull CO2 from the atmosphere – to durably remove and store large volumes of atmospheric carbon. We are pleased to collaborate with Ebb to both accelerate the scientific foundation for ocean-based carbon dioxide removal and explore the potential of ocean-based carbon removal solutions at scale.”

“It’s great to see Microsoft and Ebb using Isometric’s first of its kind Ocean Alkalinity Enhancement (OAE) protocol to verify carbon removal,” said Stacy Kauk, P.Eng., Chief Science Officer, Isometric. “OAE is promising because of the vast surface area of the ocean. This same fact requires careful monitoring, reporting and verification (MRV). Isometric’s protocol requires measurements and the use of internationally recognized ocean models to quantify carbon removal so buyers and suppliers can be sure one credit equals one tonne of carbon dioxide removed from the atmosphere. This is another step towards creating trust and transparency in carbon markets.”

Carbon capture efforts have been in the news quite a bit recently, with UC Berkeley chemists inventing a a game-changing material that is far more effective at carbon removal than any current non-ocean solutions.

With so much investment in carbon removal efforts, scientists are clearly coming up with innovative ways to tackle climate change.

Governments around the world are struggling to meet emissions and climate change goals. Various factors are posing issues, including the energy requirements of AI models, dampened enthusiasm for EVs, and some jurisdictions continuing to deny the very existence of the problem. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is one of the leading components of climate change, with many mitigation efforts centered on reducing or capturing CO2.

According to Omar Yaghi, the James and Neeltje Tretter Professor of Chemistry at UC Berkeley, the university’s chemists have created a new porous organic material—a covalent organic framework (COF)—that is far more effective at capturing carbon than anything currently available.

“We took a powder of this material, put it in a tube, and we passed Berkeley air — just outdoor air — into the material to see how it would perform, and it was beautiful. It cleaned the air entirely of CO2. Everything,” said Yaghi.

“I am excited about it because there’s nothing like it out there in terms of performance. It breaks new ground in our efforts to address the climate problem,” he added.

The new material is so effective that less than half a pound of it can capture as much as 44 pounds of CO2 in a year, the same amount captured by a tree.

“Flue gas capture is a way to slow down climate change because you are trying not to release CO2 to the air. Direct air capture is a method to take us back to like it was 100 or more years ago,” said UC Berkeley graduate student Zihui Zhou. “Currently, the CO2 concentration in the atmosphere is more than 420 ppm, but that will increase to maybe 500 or 550 before we fully develop and employ flue gas capture. So if we want to decrease the concentration and go back to maybe 400 or 300 ppm, we have to use direct air capture.”

Best of all, the new material can easily be incorporated into existing carbon capture system, making it a cost-effective upgrade to systems currently in use. The new COF also has advantages over existing methods since it takes less energy to use.

“Trapping CO2 from air is a very challenging problem,” Yaghi said. “It’s energetically demanding, you need a material that has high carbon dioxide capacity, that’s highly selective, that’s water stable, oxidatively stable, recyclable. It needs to have a low regeneration temperature and needs to be scalable. It’s a tall order for a material. And in general, what has been deployed as of today are amine solutions, which are energy intensive because they’re based on having amines in water, and water requires a lot of energy to heat up, or solid materials that ultimately degrade with time.”

“This COF has a strong chemically and thermally stable backbone, it requires less energy, and we have shown it can withstand 100 cycles with no loss of capacity. No other material has been shown to perform like that,” Yaghi added. “It’s basically the best material out there for direct air capture.”

RISC-V is the open semiconductor platform designed to compete with the Arm chips. The platform is gaining in popularity, offering organizations a customizable option without the licensing fees that come with using Arm. The latest development, ratifying the RVA23 profile standard, is an important step to further RISC-V adoption.

RVA Profiles align implementations of RISC-V 64-bit application processors that will run rich operating systems (OS) stacks from standard binary OS distributions. RVA Profiles are essential to software portability across many hardware implementations and help to avoid vendor lock-in. The newly ratified RVA23 Profile is a major release for the RISC-V software ecosystem and will help accelerate widespread implementation among toolchains and operating systems.

RISC-V International, the nonprofit that stewards the RISC-V instruction set, said RVA23 will improve the platform in a couple of critical ways.

• Vector Extension: The Vector extension accelerates math-intensive workloads, including AI/ML, cryptography, and compression / decompression. Vector extensions yield better performance in mobile and computing applications with RVA23 as the baseline requirement for the Android RISC-V ABI.
• Hypervisor Extension: The Hypervisor extension will enable virtualization for enterprise workloads in both on-premises server and cloud computing applications. This will accelerate the development of RISC-V-based enterprise hardware, operating systems, and software workloads. The Hypervisor extension will also provide better security for mobile applications by separating secure and non-secure components.

“Profiles are the foundations of application and systems software portability across RISC-V implementations. A large software ecosystem is only possible with a standard Profile for software vendors to target and within which multiple suppliers can work together,” said Andrea Gallo, Vice President of Technology at RISC-V International. “Software vendors need portability to reduce their development and maintenance costs and enable them to successfully sell their software and services on a wide variety of RISC-V products. The ratification of RVA23 makes this happen.”

“The RISC-V community has grown tremendously to more than 16,000 engineers around the world. The focus, collaboration, and investment of our members has truly formed the bedrock of computing for generations to come. RISC-V’s open standard is now propelling innovation across industries and implementations. Today’s announcement is a great milestone and further positions the RISC-V ISA as the future of computing,” said Calista Redmond, CEO of RISC-V International.

With growing support for the platform, the ratification of RVA23 the profile standard is good news for RISC-V and should help further adoption.