GREY Journal Daily News Podcast

Microsoft is testing a new feature for Windows 11 that introduces a Linux-style top menu bar through PowerToys, offering customizable access to system information and controls. This feature allows users to pin the menu bar to any screen edge and personalize its appearance. Currently in an early proof of concept stage, Microsoft is collecting feedback on GitHub, and developers can test it by compiling a dedicated branch.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/

The European Union is restructuring its digital infrastructure to reduce its 80% reliance on non-EU technology providers, addressing vulnerabilities from extraterritorial jurisdiction and economic sanctions. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasizes the need for technological autonomy to maintain operational continuity. Concerns about data privacy and US surveillance, highlighted by the Patriot Act and Edward Snowden's revelations, drive this initiative. The EU's digital market is concentrated, with US companies dominating cloud computing. To mitigate risks, EU nations are adopting open-source software and developing domestic platforms. The European Parliament directs the European Commission to reduce reliance on foreign providers, aligning with the upcoming Cloud and AI Development Act.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/

CRC Group emphasizes client experience over technology, using AI to enhance interactions and competitiveness in insurance. The company operates in wholesale brokerage and underwriting, focusing on simplifying complex processes for clients. Their strategy involves small-scale experimentation with multiple vendors to identify effective technologies. Data management and process transformation are key challenges, with efforts to align innovation with business needs under the leadership of Chief Technology and Innovation Officer David Hurst.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/

IonQ acquires SkyWater Technology for $1.8 billion to enhance quantum computing and semiconductor manufacturing capabilities. The acquisition integrates SkyWater's semiconductor expertise with IonQ's quantum technology, aiming to create efficient quantum processors and expand market reach into new sectors. This strategic move reflects a trend of consolidation in the tech industry, emphasizing collaboration for technological advancement.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/

Capital One Financial Corp. acquires Brex for $5.15 billion to expand its business payments capabilities and compete with traditional banks and tech-driven payment providers. The acquisition reflects ongoing consolidation in the fintech industry, influenced by higher interest rates and a shift towards profitability. Brex's platform offers corporate cards, banking services, and expense management software, aligning with Capital One's strategy. Brex, founded in 2017, initially focused on startups and expanded to larger enterprises. The transaction is subject to regulatory approval and aims to enhance Capital One's competitive position in the payments sector.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/

Ubisoft announced the closure of studios in Halifax and Stockholm, restructuring in Abu Dhabi, Helsinki, and Malmö, and the cancellation of six games, resulting in a 33 percent drop in share price. The company projected an operating loss of 1 billion euros for the fiscal year ending 2026, following a 650 million euro write-down. Ubisoft plans to cut costs by 500 million euros by March 2028 and reduce fixed costs from 1.75 billion euros to 1.25 billion euros. The company is considering asset sales and revised its net bookings forecast for 2026 to 1.5 billion euros, down 330 million euros from previous guidance.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/

Bellevue College announced the dissolution of its School of Business and Technology and the elimination of the Parent Education Program by January 2026 to address a projected 4.7 million dollar budget shortfall. Faculty and staff responded with protests, formal grievances, and concerns about a lack of transparency and communication from the administration. President Dr. David May requested 250,000 dollars from reserves to extend the Parent Education Program until June 2026. The Bellevue College Association of Higher Education cited contractual violations regarding faculty involvement in decision-making. The college is preparing for an accreditation review by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities in April 2026, while faculty express concerns about leadership decisions and the impact on programs.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/

Reports indicate that Oppo may discontinue the OnePlus smartphone brand, with sources citing operational shutdowns, product cancellations, and staff reductions. OnePlus India CEO Robin Liu denies these claims, stating operations continue as usual. Market data shows OnePlus shipments dropped over 20 percent in 2024, while Oppo saw a slight increase. India and China account for most OnePlus sales, but both markets have seen declines. Oppo states that security updates and warranties for existing OnePlus customers will continue.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/