Lots has happened this past week in the tech world! With Amazon testing a new drone delivery service, Cisco reporting a 7% workforce cut, Google launching new AI-powered projects, and more, there’s much to catch up on. So, let’s get started!
Amazon Tests New Drone Delivery Service
Amazon and six other organizations have been chosen to participate in a trial aimed at expanding drone usage in the U.K.
The country’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) announced Thursday that the trial will focus on integrating drones that operate beyond the visual line of sight of their operators into U.K. airspace. This means that operators will not need to maintain visual contact with the drones.
Cisco Reports 7% Workforce Cut
Cisco shares surged in after-hours trading on Wednesday after the networking tech company announced a 7% reduction in its global workforce and posted quarterly results that exceeded analysts’ expectations.
In a filing, Cisco revealed that it is implementing a restructuring plan, which will incur $1 billion in pretax charges. The company stated that this plan will enable it to invest in key growth areas and improve business efficiencies.
Google Launches New AI-Powered Projects
Google announced on Tuesday the introduction of new artificial intelligence features for Android devices. By bringing its Gemini AI assistant to supported devices, Google is once again positioning itself to get its AI tech in front of consumers ahead of Apple, which plans to launch its AI on iPhones, Macs, and iPads later this year.
Reports Say SpaceX Pollutes Texas Waters
Elon Musk’s SpaceX has been accused of violating environmental regulations by repeatedly discharging pollutants into or near Texas waterways, according to a notice of violation from a state agency. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) issued the notice last week, specifically targeting the company’s water deluge system at its Starbase launch facility.
Ola Electric Shares Surge for Startup
Shares of Ola Electric soared 20% during their market debut on Friday, bringing the valuation of the Indian electric vehicle startup to approximately $4.8 billion.
The company priced its shares at 76 rupees (91 cents) and raised over $730 million through the initial public offering in Mumbai. According to Reuters, this is the largest listing in India so far this year.
