Tue. 10/15 – Tech Going Nuclear

Oct 15, 2024 17m

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The Nuclear Energy sector is clearly getting back in business, thanks to big tech and their AI needs. The latest back and forth in the Wordpress brouhaha. The US is considering caps on the chips Nvidia can deliver to a bunch of countries worldwide. And is Tether getting deeper into the global finance game?

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Nuclear Energy and Big Tech

In an unprecedented move, Google has signed a deal with Kairos Power to purchase nuclear energy generated from small modular reactors. This groundbreaking agreement aims to support the tech company's demand for electricity driven by AI needs, helping to kickstart a U.S. nuclear revival. Google's commitment involves the construction of seven reactors, with plans to generate about 500 megawatts of power starting in the late 2030s. This shift highlights a significant partnership between the nuclear energy sector and major tech firms as they seek sustainable energy sources.

WordPress Controversy

The episode delves into the recent spat involving WordPress's Matt Mullenweg and Ruby on Rails creator DHH. Mullenweg responded to DHH's criticisms regarding open source practices, leading to a fierce back and forth where both parties showcased contrasting philosophies on open source contributions and their value. Mullenweg ultimately retracted some of his comments, admitting to overreacting, while DHH expressed a more philosophical approach to their differing views. This exchange reflects the ongoing tensions within the open source community.

Apple's New iPad Mini

Apple has unveiled an updated iPad Mini featuring the new A17 Pro chip, which promises substantial performance improvements. The 7th generation iPad Mini maintains its compact 8.3-inch design while offering additional capabilities, including enhanced writing tools via Apple Intelligence. Priced starting at $499, with improved connectivity options and support for the Apple Pencil Pro, this release bolsters Apple's push in the tablet market with a focus on both performance and usability.

US AI Chip Export Regulations

There are discussions among U.S. officials regarding potential caps on AI chip exports from companies like Nvidia. The measures appear aimed at specific countries in the Middle East, raising national security concerns. These new regulations may represent a shift in the Biden administration's approach, reflecting a growing recognition of the need for tighter control over the distribution of advanced technologies, especially in regions where surveillance capabilities could be amplified.

Tether's Expansion into Finance

Tether is exploring new lending opportunities with commodity trading firms, focusing on how its stablecoin could facilitate loans and as a means to conduct trades without the traditional constraints of regulatory requirements. This strategy could enable Tether to carve out a significant niche in the commodity finance landscape, especially for smaller trading firms with limited access to capital.

Credential Exchange Protocol Development

A significant advancement in password management is highlighted with the introduction of the Credential Exchange Protocol, aimed at improving passkey portability. Developed collaboratively by industry leaders, this specification promises to reduce user lock-in by enabling secure transfers of authentication data across platforms. With a goal of standardizing the process, this initiative may enhance the overall security environment while addressing longstanding criticisms surrounding digital identity management.