Apple unveils new iPad Air featuring M3 chip, offering up to 3.5x faster performance and advanced AI capabilities through Apple Intelligence. Available in 11-inch and 13-inch models with a redesigned Magic Keyboard, the device starts at $599 and includes enhanced features like ChatGPT integration and improved environmental considerations.
Italy's Council of Ministers approved a draft law to reintroduce nuclear power, reversing the country's 1987 phase-out decision. The legislation aims to create a framework for sustainable nuclear energy implementation, targeting up to 16 GW capacity by 2050 while focusing on advanced reactor technologies and strict safety measures.
A repairable flatpack toaster project demonstrates the feasibility of DIY-assemblable consumer electronics, challenging traditional manufacturing approaches while addressing e-waste concerns. The design allows users to assemble and repair their toasters, extending product lifespan through repair-oriented design and circular economy principles. User testing revealed positive engagement with the assembly process, increased repair confidence, and changed perceptions about appliance complexity.
A former Microsoft engineer shares their journey from networking enthusiast to software developer, ultimately leaving their role at Viva Insights due to ethical concerns about surveillance. The narrative explores the conflict between high-paying tech jobs and personal values, leading to a decision to pursue entrepreneurship through an IT startup called Fourplex.
A quarterly electronics and tools swap event is being launched at Berlin's c-base hacker space, focusing on right-to-repair and reuse principles. The event offers free seller spaces for trading electronics, computer equipment, and tools, with flexible payment options and minimal restrictions.
Microsoft has confirmed Skype will be discontinued on May 5, 2025, after 21 years of service. Users will be gradually migrated to Microsoft Teams, with the ability to log in using Skype credentials and retain their existing contacts and chat history.
Microsoft appears to be preparing to shut down Skype in May 2024, as revealed by hidden code in the latest Windows preview. The messaging platform, acquired by Microsoft for $8.5 billion in 2011, has struggled to maintain relevance against modern competitors like WhatsApp and Discord. Microsoft plans to transition remaining users to Teams, marking the end of Skype's 21-year run.
Nigerian entrepreneurs are developing local cloud infrastructure alternatives to AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud, offering naira-based payments and data sovereignty solutions. The rise of homegrown cloud providers like Nebula, Nobus, and Galaxy addresses challenges faced by Nigerian tech companies dealing with currency depreciation and data localization needs. In response to local competition, AWS has started accepting naira payments, while Nigerian providers leverage shared data centers to build cost-effective infrastructure.
IBM has completed its $6.4 billion acquisition of HashiCorp, integrating advanced cloud infrastructure automation and security capabilities into its portfolio. The merger aims to help enterprises manage hybrid cloud environments more efficiently, with HashiCorp's Terraform and Vault products now available through IBM's automation software lineup. The acquisition strengthens IBM's position in multiple growth areas including Red Hat, watsonx, and IT automation.
ForeverVM provides a secure sandbox environment for running Python code with persistent state through memory snapshots, eliminating session expiration limitations. The platform enables long-running applications and agents through a REPL interface, with seamless worker allocation and state management.