Marketplace Tech Bytes: Week in Review – Apple adds billions more to U.S. investments, OpenAI embraces openness, and Google restructures DEI funding
5 snips
Aug 8, 2025 In this engaging discussion, Natasha Mascarenhas, a Reporter at The Information, delves into significant developments in the tech world. OpenAI's new open-weight models allow for enhanced user customization by running on local machines. She also highlights Apple's monumental $100 billion investment in U.S. manufacturing, signaling commitment to domestic production. Moreover, the conversation uncovers Google's controversial cuts to its diversity funding, raising alarms about tech's dedication to equity. Mascarenhas's insights reveal the evolving dynamics in technology, business, and culture.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Apple Commits $100 Billion To U.S. Supply Chain
- Apple pledged $100 billion to build up its U.S. supply chain and shift some component production stateside.
- Natasha Mascarenhas notes most iPhones still assemble in China, so the pledge's full impact remains uncertain.
Cook Presented A Corning Glass Sculpture
- Tim Cook presented President Trump a custom sculpture made from American-made Corning glass set in a 24-carat gold base.
- Natasha Mascarenhas described the gift as a show of force and an increase in Apple's commitment.
OpenAI Releases Open-Weight Models For Local Use
- OpenAI released two open-weight models that can run locally and be fine-tuned by users, signaling a move toward openness.
- Natasha Mascarenhas says this responds to developer demand and competition from international open models.