**US Updates Science and Technology Pact with China Amid Rising Rivalry** In a significant move reflecting the escalating technological rivalry between the United States and China, the U.S. has revised its longstanding science and technology agreement with China. Originally signed in 1979, the updated pact introduces stricter safeguards to protect national security and narrows the scope of cooperation to basic research, explicitly excluding critical technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing. The revised agreement, finalized in Beijing after extensive negotiations, aims to address growing concerns over intellectual property theft and potential espionage. It reinforces intellectual property protections and establishes new provisions on transparency and data reciprocity. By focusing solely on basic research, the agreement seeks to maintain scientific collaboration while mitigating risks associated with the transfer of sensitive technologies. This development comes amid escalating tensions between the two nations, with the U.S. implementing restrictions on advanced technology exports to China and curtailing scientific cooperation due to concerns about Chinese espionage. Despite these challenges, the revised agreement underscores a mutual interest in preserving scientific collaboration in a more secure manner. Experts and lawmakers have advocated for oversight mechanisms to ensure that the cooperation aligns with U.S. values and interests. The updated pact reflects a delicate balance between fostering scientific progress and safeguarding national security in an increasingly competitive global landscape. **Source:** Associated Press **Date Published:** 2024-12-13 **URL:** [https://apnews.com/article/f15ec895ce37b793f0418000ff8a11de](https://apnews.com/article/f15ec895ce37b793f0418000ff8a11de) –>

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US Updates Science and Technology Pact with China Amid Rising Rivalry In a significant move reflecting the escalating technological rivalry between the United States and…

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**Google’s ‘Private AI Compute’ Aims to Revolutionize Data Privacy in AI Processing** In a significant move to enhance data privacy in artificial intelligence (AI) applications, Google has unveiled ‘Private AI Compute,’ a new technology designed to process AI queries securely within the cloud. This initiative seeks to unlock the full potential of Google’s Gemini cloud models while ensuring that personal data remains private and inaccessible to unauthorized parties, including Google itself. The core objective of Private AI Compute is to create a secure, fortified environment for processing sensitive user data, akin to on-device processing but with the extended capabilities of cloud-based AI models. By integrating this technology, Google aims to address growing concerns over data privacy in AI applications, particularly as AI becomes increasingly integrated into various aspects of daily life. The announcement of Private AI Compute comes at a time when AI’s role in data processing is expanding rapidly. As AI models become more sophisticated, the volume of data they handle grows exponentially, raising the stakes for data security. Google’s initiative reflects a broader industry trend towards developing technologies that balance the power of AI with the imperative of protecting user privacy. While the specifics of Private AI Compute’s implementation remain limited, the technology is expected to have wide-ranging implications. For developers and businesses, it offers a framework to build AI applications that can process sensitive information without compromising user trust. For consumers, it promises a future where AI services can be utilized without the fear of personal data being exposed or misused. The introduction of Private AI Compute also highlights the competitive landscape in the tech industry, where companies are vying to lead in AI innovation while addressing ethical considerations. Google’s focus on data privacy positions it as a key player in this space, potentially setting new standards for how AI technologies handle personal information. As AI continues to permeate various sectors, from healthcare to finance, the need for secure data processing becomes increasingly critical. Google’s Private AI Compute represents a proactive step towards ensuring that AI’s growth does not come at the expense of individual privacy. By developing solutions that prioritize data security, Google is not only advancing its AI capabilities but also reinforcing its commitment to user trust and ethical technology development. **Source:** [The Hacker News](https://thehackernews.com/2025/11/google-launches-private-ai-compute.html) **Date Published:** 2025-11-12 **URL:** https://thehackernews.com/2025/11/google-launches-private-ai-compute.html –>

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Google’s ‘Private AI Compute’ Aims to Revolutionize Data Privacy in AI Processing In a significant move to enhance data privacy in artificial intelligence (AI) applications,…

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**FTC Appoints Jake Denton as Chief Technology Officer Amidst Big Tech Scrutiny** In a significant move signaling the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) commitment to addressing the complexities of the digital age, the agency has appointed Jake Denton, a former tech policy researcher from the conservative Heritage Foundation, as its new Chief Technology Officer (CTO). This appointment, announced in February 2025, comes at a pivotal time when the FTC is intensifying its scrutiny of major technology companies and their influence on the market. Denton, a 2021 graduate of American University, brings a wealth of experience in technology policy to the FTC. Prior to his appointment, he was known for his advocacy on issues such as artificial intelligence (AI) regulation and the need for the United States to take a leading role in setting international AI standards. His appointment is seen as a strategic move by the FTC to bolster its technological expertise and to navigate the increasingly complex landscape of digital innovation and regulation. Under the leadership of new FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson, Denton is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the agency’s approach to regulating Big Tech. Ferguson, who has been vocal in his criticism of the dominance of major technology firms, has signaled a pro-innovation stance for the FTC’s future direction. The agency’s current major cases include trials against Meta and Amazon over alleged anticompetitive behavior, highlighting the pressing need for informed and decisive action in the tech sector. The FTC’s decision to appoint Denton reflects a broader recognition of the need for specialized knowledge in technology policy within regulatory bodies. As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, agencies like the FTC are tasked with balancing the promotion of innovation with the protection of consumers and the maintenance of fair market practices. Denton’s background in tech policy research positions him well to contribute to this delicate balance. In his previous role at the Heritage Foundation, Denton was instrumental in advocating for legislative action on AI and other emerging technologies. His work emphasized the importance of proactive policy-making to address the challenges and opportunities presented by technological advancements. At the FTC, Denton is expected to leverage this experience to inform the agency’s regulatory strategies and to ensure that its policies are grounded in a deep understanding of technological trends and their potential impact on the market. The appointment also underscores the FTC’s commitment to enhancing its technological capabilities in response to the growing influence of tech companies. As digital platforms become increasingly integral to daily life, the need for effective oversight has never been more critical. Denton’s expertise is anticipated to strengthen the FTC’s ability to navigate the complexities of the digital economy and to enforce regulations that promote competition and protect consumers. The tech industry is closely watching the FTC’s actions under Ferguson and Denton’s leadership. The outcomes of ongoing investigations and potential future regulations could have far-reaching implications for how technology companies operate and how consumers interact with digital platforms. The appointment of a CTO with a strong background in tech policy signals the FTC’s readiness to engage with these challenges head-on. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the role of the FTC in regulating technology companies will be increasingly scrutinized. Denton’s appointment is a clear indication that the agency is taking proactive steps to ensure that its policies are informed by a comprehensive understanding of technological developments and their implications. This move is expected to foster a more nuanced and effective approach to technology regulation, one that balances the promotion of innovation with the safeguarding of consumer interests. In conclusion, the FTC’s selection of Jake Denton as its Chief Technology Officer represents a strategic and timely decision aimed at enhancing the agency’s capacity to regulate the rapidly evolving tech industry. Denton’s expertise in tech policy and his advocacy for proactive legislative action on emerging technologies position him to make a significant impact in his new role. As the FTC continues to navigate the complexities of the digital age, Denton’s leadership is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of technology regulation in the United States. **Source:** Reuters **Date Published:** 2025-02-10 **URL:** [https://www.reuters.com/world/us/ftc-hires-heritage-foundation-policy-alum-tech-chief-2025-02-10/](https://www.reuters.com/world/us/ftc-hires-heritage-foundation-policy-alum-tech-chief-2025-02-10/) –>

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FTC Appoints Jake Denton as Chief Technology Officer Amidst Big Tech Scrutiny In a significant move signaling the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) commitment to addressing…

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**US Revises Science and Technology Agreement with China Amid Rising Tensions** In December 2024, the United States and China updated their longstanding science and technology agreement, originally signed in 1979, to address the escalating rivalry and security concerns between the two nations. The revised pact, finalized in Beijing after extensive negotiations, introduces stricter safeguards to protect national security and narrows the scope of cooperation to basic research, explicitly excluding critical technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing. The U.S. State Department emphasized that the updated agreement sustains intellectual property protections and establishes new measures to ensure the safety and security of researchers. Additionally, it introduces provisions on transparency and data reciprocity. Notably, the agreement now focuses solely on basic research, deliberately omitting areas related to AI and quantum computing, which are deemed vital for economic strength and military supremacy. This revision comes amid escalating technological tensions between the U.S. and China. The United States has imposed restrictions on advanced technology exports to China and curtailed scientific cooperation, citing concerns over potential Chinese espionage. Despite these challenges, the revised agreement aims to maintain a framework for scientific collaboration that aligns with U.S. values and interests, as highlighted by experts and lawmakers advocating for oversight to ensure the cooperation remains secure and mutually beneficial. **Source:** Associated Press **Date Published:** 2024-12-13 **URL:** [https://apnews.com/article/f15ec895ce37b793f0418000ff8a11de](https://apnews.com/article/f15ec895ce37b793f0418000ff8a11de) –>

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US Revises Science and Technology Agreement with China Amid Rising Tensions In December 2024, the United States and China updated their longstanding science and technology…

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**Pentagon’s $25.2 Billion AI Investment: Transforming Military Operations and Industry Practices** In a significant move that underscores the escalating role of artificial intelligence (AI) in defense, the Pentagon has announced a $25.2 billion investment in AI technologies for 2025. This substantial funding aims to revolutionize military operations by integrating cutting-edge AI solutions into various facets of defense, from strategic planning to battlefield management. The initiative not only seeks to enhance the United States’ military capabilities but also presents valuable lessons for enterprises striving to adopt AI technologies securely and effectively. **Strategic Objectives and Implementation** The Pentagon’s investment is strategically allocated to develop and deploy AI systems that can process vast amounts of data, identify patterns, and make informed decisions in real-time. These capabilities are crucial for modern warfare, where the speed and accuracy of information processing can determine the outcome of engagements. The focus areas include: – **Autonomous Systems**: Developing AI-driven drones and unmanned vehicles capable of conducting surveillance, reconnaissance, and even combat missions with minimal human intervention. – **Cybersecurity Enhancements**: Utilizing AI to detect and counter cyber threats, ensuring the integrity of military communications and data storage. – **Logistics Optimization**: Implementing AI algorithms to streamline supply chain management, ensuring that troops receive necessary resources promptly and efficiently. – **Decision Support Systems**: Creating AI tools that assist military leaders in making strategic decisions by analyzing complex datasets and simulating various scenarios. **Challenges in Deployment** Despite the promising potential of AI, the Pentagon faces several challenges in integrating these technologies into military operations: – **Data Security and Privacy**: Ensuring that AI systems do not become vulnerable points for cyberattacks is paramount. The military must implement robust security measures to protect sensitive information processed by AI systems. – **Ethical Considerations**: The use of autonomous weapons raises ethical questions about accountability and the potential for unintended consequences. Establishing clear guidelines and oversight mechanisms is essential to address these concerns. – **Interoperability**: Integrating AI systems with existing military infrastructure requires careful planning to ensure compatibility and seamless operation across various platforms and units. – **Training and Adaptation**: Military personnel must be trained to work alongside AI systems, understanding their capabilities and limitations to make informed decisions. **Implications for the Private Sector** The Pentagon’s AI investment offers several insights for private enterprises looking to adopt AI technologies: – **Secure Integration**: Just as the military emphasizes secure AI deployment, businesses must prioritize cybersecurity when implementing AI solutions to protect proprietary data and maintain customer trust. – **Scalability**: The military’s focus on scalable AI systems that can be adapted to various operational needs serves as a model for businesses aiming to deploy AI across different departments or functions. – **Ethical Frameworks**: Developing ethical guidelines for AI use is crucial. Companies should establish policies that govern AI deployment, ensuring responsible and transparent use of the technology. – **Continuous Training**: Ongoing education and training programs are vital to keep employees updated on AI advancements and best practices, fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability. **Industry-Wide Impact** The Pentagon’s commitment to AI is likely to spur further innovation and investment in the private sector. As defense contractors and technology companies collaborate on AI projects, there will be a cross-pollination of ideas and technologies that can benefit both military and civilian applications. Additionally, the development of AI solutions for defense purposes can lead to advancements that have broader societal benefits, such as improved cybersecurity measures and more efficient logistics systems. **Conclusion** The Pentagon’s $25.2 billion investment in AI for 2025 marks a pivotal moment in the integration of artificial intelligence into military operations. While the challenges are significant, the potential rewards in terms of enhanced operational efficiency and strategic advantage are substantial. For enterprises, the military’s approach to AI offers valuable lessons in secure deployment, ethical considerations, and the importance of continuous adaptation. As both sectors advance in AI integration, the collaboration between defense and industry will likely drive innovation and set new standards for the responsible use of artificial intelligence. **Source:** TechDay US **Date Published:** 2025-11-20 **URL:** [https://techday.com/](https://techday.com/) –>

Technology

Pentagon’s $25.2 Billion AI Investment: Transforming Military Operations and Industry Practices In a significant move that underscores the escalating role of artificial intelligence (AI) in…

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