GREY Journal Daily News Podcast

Moxie Marlinspike, founder of Signal, launched Confer, an AI chatbot that uses end-to-end encryption to protect user conversations. Confer encrypts prompts and responses on the user's device and processes them in a secure environment, using passkeys like Face ID or device PINs instead of traditional passwords. The platform provides cryptographic attestation to verify secure data handling and aims to prevent user data from being accessed by third parties or used for targeted advertising. Signal's encryption protocol was previously adopted by WhatsApp, and Confer seeks to set similar standards for privacy in AI applications.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/

Thompson Holdings acquired Tampa-based software firm Sourcetoad to expand its technology sector presence. Sourcetoad will leverage Thompson Holdings' resources and network to scale operations and pursue growth. The acquisition aligns with a broader trend of established firms acquiring specialized tech companies to enhance innovation and competitiveness.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/

In 2025, technology became a foundational component of the global economy, with artificial intelligence investments shifting toward large-scale infrastructure and the introduction of advanced models like GPT-5 enabling complex problem-solving. AI adoption expanded, with 78 percent of organizations integrating AI and 71 percent using generative AI in critical business functions. Generative watermarking and regulatory measures addressed concerns about content authenticity and compliance. Collaborative sensing and 5G coverage supported real-time urban management, while B2B transactions increasingly moved to digital channels, led by millennial buyers. Hardware priorities shifted to high-capacity RAM, and companies like NVIDIA transitioned to full-stack AI platforms. Structural battery composites and small modular reactors advanced energy efficiency and sovereignty, and sodium-ion batteries reduced reliance on foreign resources. Organizations adopted hybrid infrastructure strategies and prepared for the convergence of AI, robotics, and cybersecurity challenges as the pace of technological change accelerated.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/

Vivacity Tech announced the relocation of its education technology operations to Greenville, South Carolina, after nearly five years of maintaining a small office in the region. Founder and CEO Eli Maloley cited Greenville's talent pool, business climate, and quality of life as primary reasons for the move. The company aims to hire local professionals, benefit from the city's economic development initiatives, and expand its presence in the Upstate. The relocation is expected to generate new jobs and strengthen partnerships with local institutions.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/

Google has expanded its Gemini AI chatbot by partnering with Walmart, Shopify, Wayfair, and other retailers to enable users to browse products, receive personalized recommendations, and complete purchases directly within the chat interface. The instant checkout feature allows customers to make payments without leaving the app, and Walmart users can link accounts for tailored suggestions and cart integration. The announcement was made at the National Retail Federation’s annual convention, with similar AI shopping initiatives underway at OpenAI and Amazon. Salesforce reported that artificial intelligence influenced $272 billion in global retail sales during the recent holiday season. Gemini’s new shopping features are currently available in the United States, with plans for international expansion.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/

Walmart introduces advanced shopping technology, including self-service checkout kiosks, real-time inventory tracking, personalized mobile promotions, and contactless payment options. The White House advocates for lower credit card rates, aiming to increase consumer spending power and reduce transaction costs for businesses. These developments signal significant changes for retailers and entrepreneurs, emphasizing the need to adopt new technology and monitor regulatory shifts. Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/

The United States, by executive order from President Donald Trump, is withdrawing from multiple international organizations central to research, technology, climate science, renewable energy, and security, including the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, International Union for Conservation of Nature, International Renewable Energy Agency, International Solar Alliance, and the European Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats. These actions align with a broader policy shift toward energy exports and reduced participation in international climate and research initiatives, affecting access to global collaboration, funding, and technology markets for US businesses and research institutions.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/

A former Palantir Technologies executive raised fifty-four million dollars to establish a defense technology holding company, aiming to acquire and support startups focused on advanced security solutions such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and surveillance. The funding reflects increased private investment in national security innovation and highlights the role of experienced tech leaders in accelerating the development of new defense technologies for government and commercial sectors.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/

Google unveiled Willow, a quantum computer using 105 superconducting qubits to perform calculations beyond the reach of traditional supercomputers. The system is maintained at temperatures near absolute zero and is designed to address complex challenges in fields such as drug discovery, energy optimization, and food production. Quantum computing advancements raise security concerns, as the technology could potentially decrypt current encryption standards, prompting companies and governments to prepare for new cybersecurity threats. China and the United Kingdom are investing heavily in quantum research to compete globally. Some researchers are investigating whether quantum computers could access parallel universes, though this remains under debate.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/