THIS HAPPENED LAST WEEK [Feb 17-23, 2025]

Microsoft Creates a New State of Matter to Power Quantum Computers

Microsoft has unveiled a game-changer in quantum computing — a “topological qubit” based on a brand-new phase of matter that isn’t solid, liquid, or gas. This discovery fuels the Majorana 1 chip, promising faster, more stable, and scalable quantum computers. After nearly two decades of research, Microsoft believes it’s now just years, not decades away from making quantum computing a reality.

Why does this matter?

1. The Majorana 1 chip could eventually outperform all existing computers combined.
2. From breaking down microplastics to developing self-healing materials and advancing agriculture, the potential applications are vast.
3. Microsoft says this tech can scale to one million qubits for practical, transformative quantum solutions.

Quantum computing just took a massive step closer to becoming part of our everyday world.

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AI Job Boards Are Here, And No, Humans Can’t Apply

AI agents are officially “job hunting.” A viral listing from US-based Y Combinator-backed startup Firecrawl offered a $10,000–$15,000 “salary” for an AI agent — not a human — to create product examples. But the rabbit hole goes deeper: inspired by this stunt, two Polish founders launched Job For Agent, the first-ever jobs board for AI agents. The catch? Humans still need to build and apply on behalf of their AI.

What’s the deal?

1. Startups and Big Tech alike are exploring AI agents for roles like SEO research, podcast editing, and even contract law.
2. Despite the buzz, AI agents aren’t quite autonomous — humans must create and fine-tune them before they can “apply.”
3. Microsoft, Google, and others are heavily investing in agentic AI, with Nvidia’s CEO calling this “The Age of Agentic AI.”

AI agents are now job hunting, but humans are still essential.

YouTube Shorts Gets AI-Powered Green Screens, No Studio Needed

YouTube Shorts is leveling up its AI game with the rollout of AI-generated green screens through its Dream Screen program, now powered by Google’s advanced Veo 2 video model. Creators can now use simple text prompts to generate dynamic video backgrounds or full clips — no fancy gear required.

What’s happening?

1. AI-generated backgrounds help creators tell bigger stories without extra filming or complex editing.
2. Powered by Veo 2, the upgraded model understands real-world physics and human movement, making clips look more realistic and detailed.
3. Currently rolling out in the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, with plans for wider access soon.

The era of AI-crafted content is here — all you need is an idea and a prompt.

Apple + Google Gemini? iOS 18.4 Leak Hints at AI Integration

The AI arms race just got more interesting. New code leaks suggest Apple is preparing to integrate Google Gemini into its Apple Intelligence ecosystem — adding another AI model to sit alongside OpenAI’s ChatGPT. The leaked iOS 18.4 code reveals that Gemini integration is in the works, though it’s unclear if it will debut in the next update.

What’s the leak?

1. With Samsung already using Gemini in its Galaxy lineup, Apple’s move could help it catch up in the AI-powered device race.
2. Apple wants users to pick between different AI models — a rare move in its usually closed ecosystem.
3. Rumors suggest Apple is developing its own large language model (LLM) for iOS 19 and macOS 16, aiming for total AI independence.

Siri might finally get the glow-up we’ve been waiting for — with some help from Google (for now).

Amgen Commits $200M to India Tech Hub, Eyes AI-Driven Drug Innovation

U.S. biopharma giant Amgen is doubling down on India’s growing biotech sector, announcing a $200 million investment into its new technology and innovation center in Hyderabad. The site, expected to house 2,000 employees by year-end, will focus on AI, data science, and accelerating drug development.

Why is this huge?

1. As the “pharmacy of the world,” India continues to attract global pharma giants aiming to leverage its talent pool and cost advantages.
2. Amgen’s new hub will tap into AI and data science to speed up drug discovery and development.
3. The expansion aligns with growing US-India trade ties, emphasizing collaboration in critical and emerging technologies.

Global drugmakers are betting big on India — and AI is leading the charge.

Google Eyes First-Ever Retail Stores Outside the US—India’s Up First

Google is on the verge of opening its first physical retail stores outside the US, with New Delhi and Mumbai leading the shortlist, sources reveal. The move aims to strengthen Google’s hardware game in India’s booming smartphone market and go head-to-head with Apple, which opened its own India stores in 2023.

What does this mean?

1. Google sees India as a core growth market, already investing heavily in smartphone manufacturing and now retail.
2. With Apple dominating India’s premium smartphone market, Google is eyeing a bigger slice with hands-on retail experiences.
3. Locations near upscale retail hubs in Mumbai and New Delhi are in advanced planning stages, with potential expansion.

Google’s Pixel is ready to step out of the shadows, and India might be where it finally shines.