Join Lizzie Burden, Bloomberg's UK correspondent, as she reveals Rachel Reeves' ambitious plans to stimulate the UK economy through infrastructure projects. Meanwhile, Mark Gurman, the chief technology correspondent, discusses the secret collaboration between Apple, SpaceX, and T-Mobile to integrate Starlink support in smartphones. Delve into Microsoft's investigation into data security linked to AI, and uncover how the tech sector navigates these turbulent waters while pushing for innovation.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves aims to invigorate the UK economy by prioritizing infrastructure projects and attracting investors, despite regional criticisms.
Apple is strategically collaborating with SpaceX and T-Mobile to enhance iPhone connectivity through Starlink, expanding emergency service capabilities.
Deep dives
UK's Plan for Economic Growth
The UK government's current strategy aims to stimulate economic growth by prioritizing infrastructure development and deregulation. Chancellor Rachel Reeves emphasized the need for immediate action to kickstart the economy, announcing potential backing for significant projects such as a third runway at Heathrow and improved transport links in the Oxford-Cambridge area. This approach is viewed as an attempt to generate wealth and enhance investor confidence, with a vision for creating what some call Europe’s Silicon Valley. However, criticisms arise regarding the focus on southern England over other regions, and concerns persist about the effectiveness of merely talking about growth without concrete actions.
Concerns Over AI Data Usage
Concerns have emerged regarding the unauthorized access to OpenAI's data by a group linked to China's DeepSeek, raising alarms within both Microsoft and OpenAI. Distillation techniques used by AI models are under scrutiny, with claims that DeepSeek may have drawn insights from OpenAI's models, leading to ramifications for the American tech landscape. This incident has contributed to a significant decline in tech stocks, highlighting the competitive pressures facing US companies in the rapidly evolving AI sector. As the market grapples with these developments, OpenAI remains vigilant, aware that various entities are actively trying to replicate the capabilities of leading AI firms.
Apple’s Collaboration with Starlink
Apple is reportedly collaborating with SpaceX and T-Mobile to integrate Starlink’s satellite network into iPhones, enhancing connectivity in remote areas. This partnership aims to provide users with SMS and emergency service capabilities where traditional cellular networks fall short. Apple had previously established its own emergency satellite service with Global Star, but the alliance with Starlink appears to be a strategic move to broaden service offerings and avoid potential antitrust issues. While currently in early stages, advancements in satellite technology may lead to improved functionality for users in the future as the integration progresses.
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On today's podcast:
(1) Rachel Reeves will pledge to go “further and faster” to boost the UK economy by unblocking new infrastructure projects, as she seeks to lure investors and win back business support after a rocky start to her tenure as Chancellor of the Exchequer.
(2) Microsoft and OpenAI are investigating whether data output from OpenAI’s technology was obtained in an unauthorized manner by a group linked to Chinese artificial intelligence startup DeepSeek, according to people familiar with the matter.
(3) Apple has been secretly working with SpaceX and T-Mobile US Inc. to add support for the Starlink network in its latest iPhone software, providing an alternative to the company’s in-house satellite-communication service.The companies have been testing iPhones with the Starlink.
(4) President Trump's surprise announcement to halt trillions of dollars in federal spending sparked panic in Washington and among local officials across the country.
(5) Bernard Arnault said a wind of optimism is blowing through the US after Donald Trump’s inauguration as president, in contrast to his native France, where the government is seeking to raise corporate taxes and unemployment is increasing.