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Pappas

TikTok COO Pappas quits after five years in the role

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TikTok’s Chief Operating Officer (COO), V Pappas, is leaving the popular social media platform after almost five years with the company. In a note to employees and on Twitter, Pappas, who uses she/her and they/them pronouns, mentioned that now that TikTok has achieved significant success, she feels it’s the right time to pursue her entrepreneurial passions. TikTok CEO Chew Shou Zi announced that Pappas will continue to serve as a strategic adviser.

Pappas
Image Source: scmp.com

Chew expressed gratitude for Pappas’ contributions, acknowledging her instrumental role in growing the business, promoting the company, enhancing product offerings and marketing campaigns, and fostering a positive community of creators and users.

Chew wrote, “I want to take this opportunity to thank V for their many contributions over the years. Throughout their time at TikTok, they have been instrumental in growing the business, advocating for the company, elevating our product offerings and marketing campaigns, and fostering a positive community of creators and users.

They have had a significant and lasting impact and we are truly grateful for their tireless efforts.” US lawmakers grill TikTok CEO on App’s alleged ties to Chinese Communist Party.

Also Read: Intel spends $33 billion in Germany in landmark expansion

Pappas initially joined TikTok in 2018 as the general manager and later became the interim head in 2020 when the previous CEO departed. She assumed the COO position the following year and has been a vocal advocate for the company, testifying before the US Senate committee on social media’s impact on homeland security.

TikTok has faced scrutiny over its Chinese origins, with concerns raised about user data sharing with the Chinese government and the dissemination of propaganda and misinformation.

The company is currently in negotiations with the Biden administration regarding its data privacy plans. TikTok maintains that it has never been asked by the Chinese government to share US user data and that it would refuse such a request if made.

In 2020, the Trump administration in the United States issued executive orders that sought to ban TikTok, citing national security concerns related to data privacy.

However, these bans were later blocked by court rulings, and negotiations between TikTok and various US companies, including Oracle and Walmart, resulted in the formation of a new entity called TikTok Global. This partnership was intended to address the concerns raised by the US government.

Since then, TikTok has taken steps to address data privacy and security concerns. They have established transparency centers, expanded their content moderation policies, and emphasized their commitment to safeguarding user data. TikTok’s data is stored in the United States, with backup copies in Singapore.

In addition to Pappas’ departure, TikTok CEO Chew announced an organizational shake-up. Zenia Mucha, a former communications executive at Disney, will join TikTok as the Chief Brand and Communications Officer, overseeing marketing and public relations. Adam Presser, currently the chief of staff, will take on the role of head of operations.

iPhone

Can the iPhone 16 be cheaper than the iPhone 15 Pro?

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According to a recent rumor, there will be significant differences between the initial and future versions of Apple’s A17 Bionic chip, which is expected to debut in the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max later this year.

The key distinction lies in the manufacturing process, with the initial A17 chip utilizing TSMC’s N3B process, while a later version will transition to the N3E process in 2024. The switch to N3E is primarily motivated by cost-cutting measures, potentially compromising some efficiency gains.

iphone
Image Source: notebookcheck.net

TSMC’s N3B process, developed in collaboration with Apple, represents the original 3nm node and has been ready for mass production for a longer period than N3E. However, N3B exhibits a lower yield and is not compatible with TSMC’s upcoming successor processes.

On the other hand, N3E is a more accessible node with fewer EUV layers and lower transistor density. While N3E may sacrifice some efficiency, it can offer improved performance. Apple had originally planned to use N3B for the A16 Bionic chip but had to settle for N4 due to time constraints.

Therefore, it is possible that the initial A17 chips will adopt the N3B CPU and GPU core design intended for the A16, before transitioning to the original A17 designs with N3E in 2024. Apple will likely continue refining this architecture through TSMC’s future nodes for subsequent chips like the “A18” and “A19.”

Also Read: Is Starfield coming to PS5 or PlayStation?

Considering the drastic nature of such a change, it is highly unlikely that Apple would introduce such a significant alteration to the A17 Bionic chip during the product cycle of the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max. Therefore, it is more plausible that the N3E version of the chip will be incorporated into next year’s standard iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus models.

This aligns with past practices where Apple has introduced variations in chip configurations across different iPhone generations while still utilizing the same chip base.

The source of this rumor is a Weibo user claiming to be an integrated circuit expert with 25 years of experience working on Intel’s Pentium processors.

This individual has previously made accurate predictions, such as the inclusion of a Lightning-like authenticator chip in the USB-C port and charging cables of the iPhone 15 and 15 Pro, a rumor that was later supported by established sources.

They also correctly indicated that the standard iPhone 14 models would feature the A15 Bionic chip, while the A16 would be exclusive to the iPhone 14 Pro models.

In summary, the rumor suggests that Apple’s A17 Bionic chip will undergo significant changes, with an initial version utilizing TSMC’s N3B process and a subsequent version transitioning to N3E for improved cost efficiency.

However, it is unlikely that these changes will occur within the product cycle of the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, making it more probable for the N3E version to appear in the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus models next year. The source of the rumor has a track record of accurate predictions, adding credibility to these claims.

VC firms

What happens to the smaller VC firms in a conservative market?

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In the dynamic world of venture capital (VC), market conditions play a significant role in shaping the fortunes of firms. When confronted with a conservative market, characterized by risk aversion and cautious investor sentiment, smaller VC firms face unique challenges. This blog explores the potential consequences and strategies available to navigate such circumstances.

In a conservative market, investors tend to gravitate towards safer, established companies with proven track records, often overlooking riskier early-stage startups.

vc firms
Image Source: g2.com

This reduced appetite for risk impacts smaller VC firms, which primarily focus on early-stage investments. As a result, these firms may struggle to attract sufficient capital, making it challenging to deploy funds and support new ventures.

With limited investor interest, smaller VC firms may face difficulties in raising the necessary funds to sustain their operations. The conservative market environment often leads to decreased commitments from existing limited partners and makes it more challenging to attract new investors.

Consequently, smaller VC firms may experience a decline in their available capital, hindering their ability to participate in lucrative investment opportunities.

Also Read: Why is Microsoft Teams integration being removed from Win11?

Conservative markets tend to have a ripple effect on portfolio companies within the VC firm’s investment ecosystem. As startups face reduced funding options, they may encounter difficulties in securing subsequent financing rounds.

Smaller VC firms may be forced to allocate more resources to support existing portfolio companies rather than making new investments. Consequently, the overall growth and success of the portfolio may be limited, potentially affecting the firm’s reputation and ability to attract future investments.

To adapt to a conservative market, smaller VC firms may need to adjust their investment focus. They may shift towards industries or sectors that are more resilient in such conditions, such as healthcare or essential services.

Additionally, they might concentrate on later-stage investments or seek out more established startups that demonstrate stability and a clear path to profitability.

By adapting their investment strategy, smaller VC firms can increase their chances of generating returns even in a conservative market.

In a conservative market, smaller VC firms face significant challenges due to limited investor appetite, funding constraints, and portfolio company struggles.

However, by adapting their investment focus, exploring alternative funding sources, and providing extensive support to existing portfolio companies, these firms can navigate the conservative landscape and position themselves for success in the long run.

B. Pagles Minor, a first-time fund manager who established DVRGNT Ventures seven months ago, has encountered challenges in the fundraising landscape.

Contrary to expectations, limited partners are demanding more extensive metrics and data, resulting in unexpected expenses. Additionally, emerging managers like Minor are facing financial burdens as certain insurances, previously not commonly required, are now being requested.

Another emerging trend is limited partners seeking concessions such as waiving certain management fees or requesting lower carry in the fund. These circumstances further strain fund managers’ ability to establish and effectively run their funds.

Microsoft Teams

Why is Microsoft Teams integration being removed from Win11?

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Nearly two years after the first announcement of the integration, Microsoft is getting ready to remove the built-in Microsoft Teams client from Windows 11.

This integration aimed to provide seamless communication and collaboration for Windows 11 users, enabling them to connect with colleagues, join meetings, and share files easily.

Microsoft Teams
Image Source: theverge.com

The more adaptable free edition of Microsoft Teams, which is also accessible as a Windows 10 app, will replace the Chat capability. Microsoft revealed the improvements this week in a fresh Windows 11 test build.

Also Read: Why Music Publishers are suing Twitter?

According to a blog post by Microsoft’s senior program manager Brandon LeBlanc, “Starting with his build, Chat is now Microsoft Teams – Free.” “Microsoft Teams – Free is pinned to the taskbar by default and can be unpinned like other apps on the taskbar.”

The operating system was tightly integrated with the first Teams integration in Windows 11, known as Chat. The Chat app was pinned to the taskbar by default and has to be disabled by navigating to Settings.

Up until now, Microsoft has been steadily introducing new features to Chat inside of Windows 11, including enhanced video conferencing capabilities in October, Discord-like communities in early November, and an AI art tool.

The Microsoft Teams 2.0 client served as the basis for the new MS Teams software that is currently being sent out to organizations, and it also served as the basis for the built-in Chat capabilities in Windows 11.

Days after announcing intentions to discontinue support for Cortana on Windows 11 later this year, Microsoft has decided to remove the built-in Teams client from the operating system. Microsoft is almost at the beginning of a new fiscal year, and it is evident that the corporation is concentrating its resources on brand-new Windows initiatives, such as its AI-powered Windows Copilot tool.

When speaking at CES earlier this year, Windows CEO Panos Panay hinted at the significance of AI for Windows, saying that “AI is going to reinvent how you do everything on Windows.” Undoubtedly, AI will be a significant component in Windows 10 as well.

Also Read: Why are other automakers chasing Tesla’s ‘Gigacasting’?

Additionally, Microsoft apparently agreed to discontinue bundling Teams with Office only a few months prior to the modifications to Teams. In an effort to placate EU regulators, Microsoft has decided to stop requiring Office customers to install Teams on their devices in April, according to The Financial Times.

After competitor Slack complained about Microsoft’s bundling of Teams in 2020, the European Commission opened a formal antitrust investigation on Microsoft’s practices.

solid-state batteries

How could solid-state batteries improve next-gen EVs?

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Small electrical gadgets like pacemakers and smartwatches have utilized solid-state batteries. The development of EV battery mass production has been slower than expected.

Toyota claimed to have solved a solid-state battery durability problem, clearing the door for manufacturing, which it anticipates will start in 2027–2028.

solid-state batteries
Image Source: timeslive.co.za

·Solid-state batteries offer higher energy density compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. This means they can store more energy per unit volume or weight, enabling EVs to have longer driving ranges on a single charge.

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This improved energy density is particularly advantageous for electric vehicles where maximizing range is a critical factor. Solid-state batteries are considered safer than conventional lithium-ion batteries.

The absence of liquid electrolytes eliminates the risk of leakage, thermal runaway, and fire hazards associated with traditional battery chemistries. This makes solid-state batteries more stable and less prone to accidents, increasing the overall safety of EVs.

These batteries have the potential to support significantly faster charging speeds. Their unique structure and advanced materials allow for improved ion conductivity, reducing charging times compared to lithium-ion batteries. Rapid charging capabilities are crucial for the widespread adoption of EVs by addressing one of the primary concerns of consumers—long charging times.

They exhibit improved cycle life, meaning they can withstand a greater number of charge and discharge cycles before experiencing degradation. This extended lifespan translates into longer-lasting EV batteries that require less frequent replacement, reducing costs and environmental impact.

Solid-state batteries perform better across a wide range of temperatures, including extremely cold or hot conditions. They are less affected by temperature fluctuations, allowing EVs equipped with solid-state batteries to maintain their performance and range in challenging weather conditions.

They offer greater design flexibility due to their solid and flexible nature. They can be made thinner, lighter, and molded into various shapes, allowing for more creative integration into different vehicle designs.

This flexibility could lead to improved space utilization, increased cargo capacity, or even the integration of batteries into structural components, optimizing the overall vehicle design.

Also Read: AI startup Cohere raises funds from Nvidia, valued at $2.2 billion

Solid-state battery cells for EVs have been manufactured in prototype form by automakers and technology companies, but mass production has not yet been scaled up. It is challenging to create a solid electrolyte that is chemically inert, stable, and nevertheless an effective ion conductor between the electrodes.

In addition, they are hard to make and expensive to crack. As a result, liquid lithium-ion batteries are much less expensive than solid-state batteries.

Toyota withheld projected expenses for its new solid-state battery electric vehicle (EV) or the additional investment required to increase manufacturing.

Cohere

AI startup Cohere raises funds from Nvidia, valued at $2.2 billion

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Cohere, which is building an AI model ecosystem for the workplace, recently revealed that it collected 270 million USD as a portion of the company’s Series C investment, demonstrating that there is a lot of funding available for generative artificial intelligence new businesses.

Cohere
Image Source: enterprisetalk.com

Cohere was reportedly in discussions with investors for raising hundreds of millions of bucks previously this year at an estimated value of up to little more than six billion dollars, according to Reuters.

If that information is accurate, Cohere looks to have significantly undervalued the business, an individual with knowledge of the situation informs TechCrunch this particular tranche assesses the organization at between 2.1 billion USD and 2.2 billion USD.

“The new capital will fuel the continued development of Cohere’s AI platform, which is focused on enterprise customers, allowing companies to use their preferred cloud provider to increase data privacy and make implementation simpler,” president and COO Martin Kon told TechCrunch via email.

“The latest round allows us to invest in compute, grow our team, engage with more of the world’s leading enterprises, and further advance our world-leading AI, ultimately empowering companies to build incredible products while keeping their data private and secure.”

Also Read: Netflix shareholders withhold support for executive pay package

Cohere was established in 2019 by Nick Frosst, who was one of the first executives at Google AI lab in Toronto) along with Aidan Gomez and Ivan Zhang.

Prior to founding Cohere, Gomez collaborated on the seminal article “Attention Is All You Need,” which proposed the Transformer, which is the framework behind well-known large language models (LLMs) such as GPT-4 powered by OpenAI. Kon became part of the firm in early 2023 after leaving his previous role as the chief financial officer at YouTube.

In addition to other types of artificial intelligence, Cohere has created multilingual models of language that have been taught on data from local people. By concentrating on applications in business cases, Cohere hopes to differentiate itself in the sea of generative artificial intelligence firms.

The artificial intelligence (AI) solution from Cohere is cloud agnostic and may be set up on-site, in a client’s present cloud, a virtual private cloud, or maybe a public cloud such as Google Cloud or Amazon Web Services (AWS). The startup employs a hands-on strategy, collaborating with clients to develop unique LLMs based on their confidential data.