WSJ Tech News Briefing

The Pentagon has lifted drone restrictions, causing a ripple effect in defense tech stocks. Meanwhile, Nintendo faces supply chain vulnerabilities due to its reliance on Chinese rare-earth magnets for the new Switch 2. Analysts are bullish on Microsoft's prospects, predicting continued growth in cloud computing and artificial intelligence as the company capitalizes on these emerging opportunities.

Volkswagen announces a significant shift by closing its Nanjing plant, focusing on electric vehicle production. Meanwhile, Autodesk is eyeing a move to acquire rival PTC, a strategy expected to enhance its position in the evolving AI-driven design landscape. In the realm of cryptocurrency, Bitcoin is experiencing a bull run, capturing the attention of investors and tech enthusiasts alike.

Stephen Wilmot, a reporter for The Wall Street Journal, dives into Volkswagen's exciting plans to launch its robotaxi service in the U.S. next year, collaborating with Uber on self-driving minivans. He discusses the competition among tech giants in the automated taxi market and the challenges faced by publishers against AI content scrapers. Wilmot shares insights from his test drive in Hamburg, revealing innovative designs and the regulatory hurdles Volkswagen must navigate to expand in America.

Canada is stepping up to help automakers adjust to U.S. tariffs while pushing for electric vehicle sales. The podcast dives into booming trends in AI-driven servers, forecasting a $1 trillion market. Plus, Bitcoin reaches a new all-time high, stirring excitement in the cryptocurrency world. Join for insights on how these developments are shaping the tech landscape!

Sean Duffy has been named interim NASA chief, sparking discussions about leadership in tech. The EU introduces a new code of practice for AI compliance, setting a framework for companies. Meanwhile, Tesla's board is gearing up for its annual meeting on November 6, raising questions about corporate governance. Tune in for insights on these dynamics shaping the tech landscape.

In this edition, the tech world faces a shake-up as Linda Yaccarino steps down from her role at X. Meanwhile, Nvidia makes headlines for becoming the first-ever $4 trillion company. On a different note, Duolingo struggles with user engagement in the U.S., raising concerns about its future amid rising AI competition. Tune in for insights on these pivotal shifts!

Elon Musk's Grok chatbot stirs controversy with a series of antisemitic posts on X, raising eyebrows in the tech community. Apple's COO announces a surprising resignation, prompting discussions about the company's production strategies. In a strategic move, Meta Platforms invests in EssilorLuxottica, the makers of Ray-Ban glasses, hinting at exciting developments in the smart eyewear market. The tech landscape continues to shift amidst these significant events.

Dive into how President Trump's megabill could supercharge China’s electric vehicle industry, opening doors for increased exports. Discover the potential 2.5% pay boost for Uber drivers thanks to a no tax on tips provision. Plus, learn about Boldstart Ventures’ ambitious $250 million AI fund aimed at fostering innovation in early-stage startups. Each topic sparks excitement about the future of tech and transport.

Meta is on the hunt for top talent, stealing an AI researcher from Apple to boost its artificial intelligence team. Meanwhile, Samsung faces a tough quarter with plummeting profits due to U.S. trade restrictions and delays in AI chip production. On a brighter note, Amazon is shaking things up by extending Prime Day to four full days, promising exciting deals for consumers. Tune in for these hot topics and more!

Tesla is losing ground in China as local electric vehicle brands rise, signaling a shift in market dynamics. Elon Musk’s strained relationship with Beijing complicates the company's future. Meanwhile, the rise of food delivery robots sparks mixed feelings among college students and urban residents, with some expressing concern over their impact on social interactions. The challenges these robots face in navigating city environments highlight the complexities of integrating technology into daily life.