Tech Brew Ride Home
Thu. 01/16 – Nintendo Switch 2
· Summarized
Key takeaways
- The Nintendo Switch 2 is set for an April 2nd reveal, promising exciting features and news on the return of Mario Kart.
- Political negotiations surrounding TikTok continue, with Trump looking for ways to prevent a ban just ahead of his inauguration.
- A new AI lab launched by notable researchers aims to push the boundaries of AGI development through innovative techniques.
- Nothing, the smartphone startup, impressively doubled their revenue growth and is set to make a larger impact in the U.S. market by 2026.
- Walgreens' attempt to modernize with smart fridge screens turned into a costly misstep highlighting the difficulties of technology integration in retail.
Summary
Nintendo Switch 2 Reveal
Nintendo unveiled the Switch 2, showcasing new features like a redesigned kickstand, USB-C port, and enhanced Joy-Con controllers with potential magnetic attachments. While specific sales details are pending, a Nintendo Direct on April 2nd is anticipated to provide further information and a tease of a new Mario Kart title.
TikTok's Future Under Trump
In the backdrop of a potential TikTok ban, there's significant political maneuvering to extend the app's viability in the U.S. Donald Trump is reportedly considering issuing an executive order to delay the enforcement of the law mandating TikTok's sale, creating a whirlwind of legal and political implications as the deadline approaches.
Innovation in AI Research
AI researcher François Chollet and Zapier co-founder Mike Nopp launched a new lab aiming to develop AGI using program synthesis, a technique believed to significantly drive innovation in AI. Their endeavor reflects a growing trend of notable AI researchers branching out from major tech companies to explore independent projects.
Nothing's Impressive Growth
The tech company Nothing is making waves, having sold 7 million devices and doubled its revenue to over $500 million in 2024. They are looking to raise more capital for expansion and are primarily focusing on international sales, particularly in India, with plans for a stronger U.S. market presence by 2026.
Walgreens' Smart Fridge Fiasco
Walgreens faced a $200 million debacle after replacing refrigerator doors with digital screens that resulted in technical failures and customer complaints. This incident underscores the challenges retailers face in digital transformation amid competing technology demands and advertising ambitions.
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Show notes
Nintendo finally takes the wraps off the Switch 2. Everybody seems to want to give TikTok more time, but can they find a way to do it? A big new AI research lab. A check in with Nothing. The company, I mean. And the weird story of when Walgreens tries to replace refrigerator doors with smartscreens.
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Links:
Here’s the Nintendo Switch 2 (The Verge)
Trump considers executive order hoping to ‘save TikTok’ from ban or sale in U.S. law (Washington Post)
Biden administration looks for ways to keep TikTok available in the U.S. (NBCNews)
AI researcher François Chollet founds a new AI lab focused on AGI (TechCrunch)
Phone Startup Nothing Raises Funding, Crosses $1 Billion in Lifetime Sales (Bloomberg)
Walgreens Replaced Fridge Doors With Smart Screens. It’s Now a $200 Million Fiasco (Bloomberg)
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