Technology

A study of 180 Chinese cities from 2010–2022 found AI development was consistently associated with more renewable-energy patent approvals. The relationship was strongest among cities with medium innovation capacity, relatively stronger in large cities and western China, and more stable in cities less dependent on natural resources, supporting tailored policies.

Nvidia, Micron Technology and Sandisk could rise more than 30% before the end of 2026, according to a Motley Fool contributor. Nvidia’s valuation and upcoming Vera Rubin architecture underpin the bullish case, while Micron and Sandisk could benefit from strong AI-driven memory demand, constrained supply and higher chip prices.

An agentic AI system successfully conducted literature reviews, ran hundreds of experiments and produced research papers, but struggled with deeper scientific reasoning. When evaluated by authors of the original research it attempted to replicate, the AI received low scores, suggesting fully autonomous, open-ended AI research remains out of reach.

Meta launched Muse Glimmer, a new open-weight AI model designed to run agentic tasks locally on PCs and Macs using a single graphics card. CEO Mark Zuckerberg also called for fewer U.S. restrictions on open AI development, arguing that American companies must compete more effectively with rapidly advancing Chinese models.

A private mission launched a robotic spacecraft designed to attach jetpack-like propulsion units to aging satellites running low on fuel. The technology could extend satellite operations by several years, helping operators avoid costly replacements and marking a major step toward in-orbit satellite servicing and maintenance.

Samsung's leaked Galaxy S27 lineup may include a new Galaxy S27 Pro, mirroring Apple's iPhone strategy. Reports suggest upgraded cameras, improved selfie sensors, and silicon-carbon batteries for longer life. The Pro and Ultra models are expected to feature premium camera hardware, while battery improvements may vary across the lineup.

Apple is reportedly preparing its first major high-end MacBook redesign since 2021, possibly branded “MacBook Ultra.” Rumoured upgrades include an OLED touchscreen, touch-friendly macOS, reinforced hinge, thinner bezels, Dynamic Island-style camera cutout, slimmer body and optional cellular connectivity. The 14- and 16-inch models could arrive globally in early 2027.

Artificial intelligence is beginning to reshape hiring as companies automate routine tasks and equip workers with AI tools. Roles involving administration, customer service, data processing, writing, coding and entry-level professional work appear most exposed. However, evidence suggests many jobs will be augmented rather than completely replaced in the near term.

Skyroot Aerospace has successfully launched Vikram-1, India’s first privately developed orbital rocket. The vehicle carried commercial payloads and experiments into a 450-kilometre orbit from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre. The mission represents an important milestone in India’s effort to develop a competitive private space industry and global satellite-launch market.

SpaceX is reportedly discussing a potential agreement to provide the US Department of Defense with data-centre computing capacity for artificial-intelligence models. The proposed arrangement could be worth billions of dollars. If completed, it would expand SpaceX beyond rockets and satellite communications into government-focused AI infrastructure and computing services.