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Category: tech

  • SEEQC Secures $30 Million to Advance Quantum Chip Technology

    SEEQC Secures $30 Million to Advance Quantum Chip Technology

    Quantum computing startup SEEQC has raised $30 million in new funding, co-led by Booz Allen Ventures and NordicNinja, a Japanese-European venture capital firm. SIP Capital also joined as a new backer, alongside existing investors. This funding will help SEEQC speed up the commercial rollout of its groundbreaking quantum computing chips.

    What Makes SEEQC Different?

    SEEQC focuses on creating specialized quantum chips designed to make quantum computing more practical and efficient. These chips combine classical computing with quantum processors to solve some of the biggest challenges in the field, including:

    • Scaling quantum systems to handle more data.
    • Reducing energy use, which is a major issue for quantum hardware.
    • Simplifying complex systems by minimizing the number of connections and cables needed to control qubits (the building blocks of quantum information).

    Why This Funding Matters

    SEEQC’s hybrid approach—integrating classical and quantum computing—could be a game-changer. CEO John Levy said, “This investment strengthens our financial, geographic, and strategic position. It shows belief in our vision that chips are the key to unlocking quantum computing’s potential. We’re turning theory into real-world applications.”

    The funds will help SEEQC improve its chip manufacturing and testing capabilities, focusing on performance and scalability. The goal is to make quantum computing ready for enterprise and data center use. Industries like healthcare, finance, and logistics could see significant benefits from large-scale quantum systems.

    Collaborating with Nvidia

    Despite some skepticism about how soon quantum computers will be widely useful, SEEQC is partnering with Nvidia to develop connections between quantum chips and GPUs (graphics processing units). This collaboration aims to combine the power of classical and quantum computing for faster and more efficient solutions.

    Built on a Strong Foundation

    SEEQC has a unique advantage because it spun out of Hypres, a leader in superconductor electronics. It owns a chip foundry and has a team experienced in building advanced superconducting systems, giving it a head start in developing quantum chip technology.

    What’s Next for SEEQC?

    With this funding, SEEQC plans to make quantum computing more than just a research project. By focusing on practical, scalable solutions, the company aims to transform industries like drug discovery, financial modeling, and supply chain optimization.

    This new investment is a strong step forward for SEEQC’s mission to turn quantum computing into a commercially viable technology that changes how we solve complex problems.

  • Google Cloud Introduces New Tools at NRF 2025 to Help Retailers Build Gen AI Search and Agents

    Google Cloud Introduces New Tools at NRF 2025 to Help Retailers Build Gen AI Search and Agents

    Google Cloud has announced a powerful set of AI tools to help retailers tackle challenges like rising costs, supply chain issues, and growing demand for personalized shopping experiences. The announcement comes just ahead of NRF 2025: Retail’s Big Show, where these tools will be showcased.

    Smarter Shopping with AI Agents

    Google Cloud’s Google Agentspace brings AI agents powered by Google’s Gemini models to the retail world. These AI agents can handle advanced reasoning and integrate with enterprise data to make shopping more efficient and personalized.

    For example, store employees can use Agentspace to quickly find product details and answer customer questions. A store worker might ask, “What are the new features of this product?” and instantly get detailed, helpful answers.

    Better Search for Online Shopping

    Google has also upgraded Vertex AI Search for Commerce with large language model (LLM) capabilities. This enhancement allows online retailers to offer smarter, more accurate search and product recommendations. Shoppers can find what they need faster, thanks to improved search relevance and personalized results.

    Boosting Product Catalogs

    Google Cloud’s new Gen AI Catalog and Content Enrichment tool uses advanced AI models like Gemini 1.5 and Imagen 3 to improve product catalogs. Retailers can now automatically generate product descriptions, tags, and images with minimal input. This means better product information, higher-quality search results, and more engaging shopping experiences.

    AI-Powered Customer Service

    A new customer service solution integrates AI-powered virtual agents into existing CRM systems. These agents can help schedule appointments, track orders, and recommend products in real-time, offering faster and more personalized customer support.

    Connected Stores and Real-Time Insights

    Google is also introducing tools like Veo and Imagen 3 to create “connected stores.” These tools can turn images into videos and provide real-time insights, improving in-store experiences and making inventory management more efficient.

    Real-Life Impact

    Retailers like Wayfair are already using Google’s AI tools. Wayfair leverages Gemini on Vertex AI to automate product tagging and categorization, helping them launch products faster and improve productivity.

    Google’s Vision for AI in Retail

    These AI tools highlight Google Cloud’s commitment to reshaping retail through technology. By offering smarter operations and personalized shopping, Google aims to create seamless and engaging experiences for both retailers and customers.

    You can see these tools in action at NRF 2025 at Google Cloud’s booth (#5507).

    About Google Cloud
    Google Cloud offers advanced AI, data, and infrastructure solutions to help organizations thrive in the digital world. With services in over 200 countries, Google Cloud supports businesses in transforming their operations with cutting-edge technology.

    Links

    https://blog.google/products/google-cloud/google-cloud-ai-retailers-nrf-2025

  • Qualcomm Unveils Snapdragon X Series for Affordable AI-Powered CPUs for Budget PCs at CES 2025

    Qualcomm Unveils Snapdragon X Series for Affordable AI-Powered CPUs for Budget PCs at CES 2025

    At CES 2025, Qualcomm introduced its Snapdragon X series CPUs, designed to bring advanced AI-powered computing to budget-friendly PCs. These processors aim to deliver strong performance and efficient AI capabilities at a price point that makes AI PCs accessible to more people.

    Snapdragon X Series: Key Features

    The Snapdragon X series is a new addition to Qualcomm’s computing platform, focusing on affordability without compromising on innovation:

    • Powerful Performance: Equipped with eight Oryon CPU cores, the Snapdragon X offers a peak clock speed of 3GHz, making it competitive with budget processors from Intel and AMD.
    • AI Capabilities: The integrated Hexagon NPU provides 45 TOPS (Trillions of Operations Per Second), enabling AI features like real-time translation, noise cancellation, and advanced video editing. These features, often found in high-end chips, are now available in budget PCs.
    • Battery Efficiency: Qualcomm claims the Snapdragon X offers up to two times longer battery life compared to its competitors while delivering 163% faster performance at the same power consumption levels.
    • Future-Proof Connectivity: Support for 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and USB 4 Type-C ensures that devices powered by Snapdragon X are equipped for modern connectivity standards.
    • Affordable AI PCs: These CPUs will drive a new line of Copilot+ PCs starting at under $600, with laptops from brands like Dell, Lenovo, HP, Acer, and Asus expected to hit the market soon.

    Impact on the Market

    The Snapdragon X series could significantly disrupt the PC market, particularly in the budget segment:

    • Democratizing AI: Qualcomm is making AI technology accessible to more users by incorporating high-end NPU performance into affordable devices.
    • Challenging Competitors: This move puts pressure on Intel and AMD, which have yet to offer comparable AI performance in this price range. It may force them to innovate further in the budget segment.
    • More Consumer Choice: Buyers now have a wider selection of budget-friendly PCs with AI features, ideal for tasks like creative work, productivity, and personal use.

    Positive Industry and Consumer Response

    The tech community has reacted positively to the Snapdragon X announcement. Posts on X (formerly Twitter) highlight the impressive AI capabilities at a low cost, with many eager to see real-world performance once the first Copilot+ PCs are released. The chip’s potential for efficient multitasking and creative applications has generated buzz among tech enthusiasts.

    Looking Forward: What’s Next for Qualcomm?

    Qualcomm’s plans for the Snapdragon X series don’t stop here. The company has hinted at future developments, including potential “V2” and “V3” models. These could offer even more powerful or specialized CPUs, catering to a broader range of users and further solidifying Qualcomm’s presence in the budget computing market.

    With the Snapdragon X series, Qualcomm has not only redefined the possibilities for budget PCs but also opened the door to a future where AI-powered computing becomes a standard feature for all users.

    Links

    https://www.qualcomm.com/snapdragon/news/welcome-to-the-future-with-snapdragon-x-unveiled-at-ces-2025-

    https://www.qualcomm.com/products/mobile/snapdragon/laptops-and-tablets/snapdragon-x

  • Meet Omi: The $89 AI Gadget That Listens, Learns, and Might Read Your Mind

    Meet Omi: The $89 AI Gadget That Listens, Learns, and Might Read Your Mind

    At the CES 2025 event in Las Vegas, Based Hardware, a tech startup from San Francisco, introduced Omi, an affordable AI wearable designed to boost productivity and make interacting with technology easier. Priced at $89, Omi is not just another gadget—it’s a glimpse into the future, with plans to read brain activity in upcoming versions.

    What Makes Omi Unique?

    Omi has a sleek, minimalist look, resembling a mint from a Mentos pack. You can wear it as a necklace or attach it to your head with medical tape for a futuristic “brain interface” experience. The first version works with audio only, but in mid-2025, Based Hardware plans to release a brain-interface module. This upgrade will allow Omi to interpret signals from your brain, making it more intuitive to use.

    How Does Omi Work?

    The device uses advanced AI powered by GPT-4o to listen to your voice and respond without needing a wake word like “Hey Omi.” It can:

    • Take notes during meetings.
    • Create to-do lists.
    • Answer questions.
    • Provide personalized advice by remembering details about you.

    Omi’s battery lasts up to three days, making it a practical companion for everyday use.

    The upcoming brain-interface module will add a new layer of functionality. With a single electrode, Omi will try to read brain signals to understand when you’re interacting with it versus random thoughts. While this feature is still in development, it offers a sneak peek at how technology might evolve to be even more integrated into daily life.

    Privacy and Ethical Concerns

    A device that can potentially read thoughts raises understandable privacy concerns. To address this, founder Nik Shevchenko emphasized Omi’s open-source design. Users can choose where their data is stored, such as locally on their device, or see exactly where it’s sent. This approach aims to provide transparency and reduce fears of misuse.

    How Does Omi Compare to Other Gadgets?

    Omi isn’t trying to replace smartphones but instead works alongside them to enhance productivity. Unlike other AI wearables that overpromise and underdeliver, Omi focuses on complementing existing technology.

    The device also has an app store, allowing developers to create custom applications for Omi. This feature could turn it into a versatile platform for personal AI assistance.

    The Bigger Picture

    Devices that interact with thoughts aren’t new, but Omi’s focus on affordability and open-source ethics sets it apart. It has already generated buzz online, with some people excited about its potential and others raising concerns about ethics and practicality.

    Whether it’s summarizing your day, creating a to-do list, or offering a glimpse into a future of thought-controlled technology, Omi might be a game-changer.

    Links

    https://www.omi.me

    Demo Video:

  • Moonrider Secures $2.2 Million to Revolutionize Farming with Electric Tractors

    Moonrider Secures $2.2 Million to Revolutionize Farming with Electric Tractors

    Bengaluru-based startup Moonrider, a leader in electric tractor technology, has raised $2.2 million in seed funding. The funding round, announced on January 7, 2025, was led by AdvantEdge Founders and Micelio Technology Fund, along with angel investors. This investment aims to boost Moonrider’s efforts to create cost-effective and eco-friendly solutions for modern farming.

    How the Funding Will Be Used

    Moonrider plans to use the funds to improve its technology and bring more innovation to electric tractors. Key areas of focus include:

    • Vehicle Engineering: Making electric tractors more powerful, durable, and efficient to match diesel models.
    • Vehicle Software: Adding smart features like better automation and integration with advanced farming techniques.
    • Battery Technology: Improving batteries to increase range and reduce charging time, making electric tractors more practical for farmers.

    Moonrider’s Mission

    Founded in August 2023 by Anoop Srikantaswamy and Ravi Kulkarni, Moonrider aims to make farming more sustainable and affordable. The startup’s tractors help farmers save up to 80% on operational costs, costing only INR 300 per hour compared to INR 1,000-1,500 for diesel tractors.

    “Our focus is on getting the product right. The next six months will involve testing, validation, and engineering improvements,” said Anoop Srikantaswamy, co-founder and CEO. Moonrider’s goal is to make tractors farmers can trust in a field that has been slow to embrace new technology.

    Support from Investors

    Kunal Khattar of AdvantEdge Founders shared his excitement:

    “Electric tractors are the next big thing. They are 50% cheaper to own and maintain, and we believe they will make a huge impact on farming.”

    Shreyas Shibulal from Micelio Fund added:

    “Moonrider aligns perfectly with our mission to back sustainable innovations in clean mobility.”

    Market Impact and Future Plans

    Moonrider has already partnered with businesses in India and East Africa, preparing to expand globally. Its tractors, set to launch soon, aim to replace diesel models, cutting carbon emissions and reducing farming costs.

    Despite a tough funding climate for electric vehicle startups—investments in India nearly halved between 2022 and 2024—Moonrider’s success shows strong confidence in the potential of electric tractors to reshape agriculture.

    Moonrider is set to lead the charge in modern, eco-friendly farming, offering a glimpse into a future where technology makes farming more sustainable and affordable for everyone.

    Links

    https://www.moonrider.ai

  • Samsung Unveils Vision AI to Redefine Smart TVs at CES 2025

    Samsung Unveils Vision AI to Redefine Smart TVs at CES 2025

    At CES 2025, Samsung Electronics introduced Vision AI, a groundbreaking feature for its 2025 smart TV lineup. This innovation transforms TVs from simple entertainment devices into interactive, intelligent companions, enhancing how users engage with their screens.

    What Is Vision AI?

    Vision AI is an on-screen AI system that improves Samsung’s smart TVs, monitors, and smart home appliances with screens. Here’s what it offers:

    • Personalized Experience: Vision AI can translate subtitles in real-time, instantly search for content by recognizing what’s on the screen, and even create custom wallpapers using AI.
    • Wide Applications: It will be available in Samsung’s 2025 Neo QLED, OLED, QLED, and The Frame TVs, making cutting-edge AI accessible across different models.
    • AI-Powered Features:
      • Live Translate: Provides real-time subtitle translations in up to seven languages for international shows and movies.
      • Click to Search: Lets users click on any part of the screen to get more information or related content without interrupting their viewing.
      • Generative Wallpaper: Turns idle TVs into artistic displays by creating personalized wallpapers.
      • Smart Home Hub: Monitors pets or family members, sends security alerts, and adjusts settings like lighting based on activity in the home.

    Collaborations and Partnerships

    Samsung is teaming up with major tech players to expand Vision AI’s capabilities:

    • Microsoft: Bringing Microsoft Copilot to Samsung TVs and monitors for personalized content recommendations and advanced AI tools.
    • Google: Collaborating to integrate Vision AI into a broader ecosystem for seamless smart home functionality.

    Availability and Future Plans

    Vision AI was first revealed at Samsung’s “First Look” event before CES 2025. It will be a central feature of Samsung’s 2025 TV lineup. Pricing and availability details are expected closer to the launch, with updates available on Samsung’s official website. Early sign-ups might even enjoy preorder perks.

    Looking forward, Vision AI aims to make TVs not just for entertainment but also for managing smart homes, learning, and cultural experiences. In regions like India, where smart home demand is rising, Vision AI’s ability to break language barriers and improve home connectivity is expected to be especially popular.

    Market and Industry Impact

    The announcement has sparked excitement among tech enthusiasts and analysts. Posts on X (formerly Twitter) praise Vision AI’s potential to change how people use TVs, with features that focus on enhancing convenience without sacrificing privacy. Samsung’s Knox security ensures user data remains safe, adding trust to its advanced AI technology.

    Vision AI represents Samsung’s bold step towards blending entertainment, AI, and smart home innovation, setting a new standard for what smart TVs can do.

    Links

    https://news.samsung.com/global/samsung-electronics-unveils-samsung-vision-ai-and-new-innovations-at-first-look-2025-delivering-personalized-ai-powered-screens-to-enrich-everyday-life