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1. Microsoft announces two new custom chips

At its Microsoft Ignite conference, Microsoft announced two new custom chips: Maia 100 and Cobalt 100. Maia 100 is an AI chip designed to run large language models, while Cobalt 100 is a 128-core cloud-native CPU.

Maia 100 is designed to help AI systems process large amounts of data faster, which could lead to improved performance on tasks such as speech recognition and image recognition. Microsoft does not plan to sell Maia 100 for now, but will instead make it available as part of its Azure cloud computing service.

2. SpaceX Starship to launch again on November 17

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has reinstated SpaceX's Starship launch license. The rocket was grounded after its first test flight failed on April 20. SpaceX plans to launch its second Starship test flight on November 17 at 7:00 a.m. Central Time (11:00 p.m. Beijing time).

The second test flight will be a more ambitious test than the first. It will involve a higher altitude and speed, and it will be the first test of Starship's new Super Heavy booster.

3. Meta appeals EU designation as 'gatekeeper'

Meta has filed an appeal against the European Commission's decision to designate its platforms Messenger and Marketplace as "gatekeepers" under the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The DMA is a new set of rules that aims to regulate the power of large tech companies.

Meta is the first company to challenge the DMA. The company argues that the designation is unfair and that it will harm competition.

4. Germany considers export ban on 'fat pill' Ozempic

The German Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM) is considering an export ban on Novo Nordisk's diabetes drug Ozempic. The drug is also effective in weight loss, and its demand has skyrocketed, leading to supply shortages.

An export ban would ensure that there is enough Ozempic available for patients in Germany.

5. Amazon launches theft-fighting robot

Amazon has launched Astro for Business, a smart robot that can help small and medium-sized businesses reduce shoplifting and other threats. Astro for Business combines robot, intelligent security, and AI technologies.

Astro for Business can patrol a business's premises, monitor for suspicious activity, and issue alerts. It is designed for businesses such as retailers and manufacturers.