Photo/Wang Jing (NBD)

1. India's First Solar Probe Arrives at Targeted Orbit

India's first solar probe, Aditya-L1, arrived at its intended orbit around the Sun-Earth Lagrange point on January 6, 2024. The probe is now able to observe the sun continuously, without interference from Earth's atmosphere or other celestial bodies. Aditya-L1 is equipped with seven scientific instruments that will help researchers learn more about solar flares, coronal mass ejections, and other solar activity.

Commentary: This is a significant achievement for India's space program and will contribute to global efforts to understand the sun. Aditya-L1's data will help scientists better understand the sun's impact on Earth and the solar system.

2. US Justice Department Weighs Broader Antitrust Case Against Apple

According to a report from The Wall Street Journal, the US Justice Department is considering bringing a broader antitrust case against Apple. The case would focus on Apple's alleged anticompetitive practices in the App Store, such as its requirement that developers use its own in-app payment system. If the Justice Department does bring a case, it would be the latest in a series of legal challenges facing Apple.

Commentary: This is a sign that the US government is taking a more aggressive approach to antitrust enforcement. A broader antitrust case against Apple would be a significant development and could have a major impact on the tech industry.

3. CES 2024 to Feature AI-Focused Tech Showcases

The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) will take place in Las Vegas from January 9-12, 2024. The event is expected to be a showcase for the latest AI-powered technologies, with companies such as Nvidia, Samsung, and Intel planning to hold special events to highlight their AI-related products and services.

Commentary: CES is always a major event for the tech industry, and this year is no exception. The focus on AI is a sign of the growing importance of this technology in our lives.

4. Three Companies Plan to Deploy Autonomous Trucks by the End of 2024

Aurora Innovation, Kodiak Robotics, and Gatik AI, three US companies developing autonomous trucks, announced that they plan to deploy their vehicles on public roads in Texas by the end of 2024. The companies have already been testing their trucks with cargo for companies such as Walmart, Kroger, FedEx, and Tyson Foods.

Commentary: The deployment of autonomous trucks would be a major milestone for the autonomous vehicle industry. It would also have a significant impact on the logistics industry, which could see a reduction in costs and improved efficiency.

5. New Study Finds No Evidence that Wegovy Increases Suicidal Thoughts

A study published in the journal Nature Medicine found no evidence that Wegovy, a weight loss drug developed by Novo Nordisk, increases the risk of suicidal thoughts. The study was conducted by researchers at the University of California, San Francisco, and involved over 14,000 patients.

Commentary: This is good news for patients who are considering taking Wegovy or other GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight loss. The study provides further evidence that these drugs are safe and effective for weight loss.

6. DeepMind Drafts "Robot Constitution"

DeepMind, a research company owned by Google, has drafted a "robot constitution" that would govern the development and use of artificial intelligence. The constitution would establish principles for the safe and responsible development of AI, such as the requirement that AI systems should not harm humans.

Commentary: This is a significant step forward in the development of AI ethics. The robot constitution could help to ensure that AI is developed and used in a way that benefits humanity.

Disclaimer: The content and data in this article are for reference only and do not constitute investment advice. Please verify before using.