Episode Summary: In this episode of Vertica's AI Update Podcast, we explore significant advancements and challenges within the AI and digital sectors. From Rakuten's daring telecom venture to Instagram's latest app release, and Google's AI innovation, we delve into how these developments shape the future of technology and business.Key Stories: 1. **Rakuten's AI-Driven Recovery Strategy** Rakuten Group Inc. is betting on AI to turn around its struggling telecom division. Despite incurring losses, CEO Hiroshi Mikitani plans to leverage AI to innovate and potentially redefine the telecom sector. Source: [Bloomberg](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-01-19/rakuten-billionaire-justifies-mobile-arm-losses-with-big-ai-bet)2. **Instagram Challenges CapCut with "Edits" App** Instagram has announced a new video editing app, "Edits," aimed at filling the void left by TikTok's unstable market position. This tool provides advanced capabilities for content creators, aiming to capture a segment of the digital market. Source: [The Verge](https://www.theverge.com/2025/1/19/24347358/instagram-edits-capcut-video-app-tiktok-ban)3. **Google's Titans: A Leap Towards AI with Memory** Google introduces Titans, an AI architecture that enables human-like memory, transforming applications in various domains by allowing AI to process and utilize past data efficiently. Source: [Forbes](https://www.forbes.com/sites/craigsmith/2025/01/19/googles-titans-give-ai-human-like-memory/)4. **FTC's Concerns Over OpenAI-Microsoft Partnership** The Federal Trade Commission scrutinizes the partnership between OpenAI and Microsoft over potential market competition impacts, indicating significant ramifications for the AI industry. Source: [PYMNTS](https://www.pymnts.com/artificial-intelligence-2/2025/ftc-openai-microsoft-pact-could-bring-competition-implications/)Additional Points of Interest: - "Behind the Curtain" introduces a breakthrough in AI technologies by Ph.D. researchers, with potential shifts in ethical standards through a new technique to identify AI biases.- Discussions on the future of computing with a focus on quantum computing versus traditional AI technologies and insights into future tech stock investments.- AMD's market outlook is boosted by reasoning agents, representing new growth opportunities within the AI landscape. Join us next time as we continue to explore how these advancements in AI and digital transformation are paving new paths in technology and business.
