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OpenAI has confirmed it will release a new open-source AI language model in the coming months, marking its first public model release since GPT-2 in 2019. The move signals a shift in strategy for the company, which has largely kept its AI models proprietary since partnering with Microsoft.

The news came through a feedback form posted by OpenAI, inviting developers, researchers, and the public to share their input to help shape the model’s design and usefulness.

OpenAI Shifts Gears Toward Open Source

OpenAI has not released any open-source models since GPT-2, now operating on GPT-4.5 and advanced proprietary models like o1 and o3. After Microsoft’s $1 billion investment in 2019—followed by additional investments exceeding $13 billion—OpenAI kept its models exclusive to Azure users. However, this exclusive cloud arrangement ended in January 2025, paving the way for a new direction.

Open-Source Rivals Gaining Momentum

OpenAI’s decision follows the rising success of open-source AI models such as:

  • Meta’s LLaMA, which has seen over 1 billion downloads since 2023.
  • Mistral and DeepSeek, which have surged in popularity, even leading DeepSeek to restrict API access due to overwhelming demand.

Tech giants like Spotify and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) have integrated these models to enhance services, while Chinese firms like Alibaba, Baidu, and Tencent have released their own open-source models in response.

  • Alibaba’s Qwen 2.5-Omni-7B processes text, images, audio, and video and is open-sourced on Hugging Face and GitHub.
  • Baidu’s Ernie 4.5 and Ernie X1 aim to offer powerful reasoning and multimodal capabilities.
  • Tencent’s Hunyuan T1 is positioning itself as a high-performance, affordable alternative to DeepSeek.

Meanwhile, AI startup Manus gained attention for its general-purpose AI agent powered by existing foundation models, further diversifying the open-source landscape.

With OpenAI now re-entering the open-source arena, the competition among global AI developers is expected to accelerate.

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The U.S. Department of Defense has awarded $13.7 billion in military space launch contracts to SpaceX, United Launch Alliance (ULA), and Blue Origin. This landmark agreement under the National Security Space Launch (NSSL) Phase 3 Lane 2 initiative ensures reliable access to space for critical military and intelligence missions from 2025 to 2029.

Announced by the U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command on April 4, the deal marks the first time three providers will jointly handle high-priority national security payloads.

Contract Breakdown:

  • SpaceX: $5.9 billion | 28 missions (~60%)
  • ULA: $5.4 billion | 19 missions (~35%)
  • Blue Origin: $2.4 billion | 7 missions (~13%), starting in Year 2 (pending certification)

A Strategic Move for National Security

General Chance Saltzman, Chief of Space Operations, emphasized the strategic importance of building a resilient launch architecture to safeguard both economic interests and national defense.

Missions under Lane 2 focus on high-energy orbits and complex security requirements, such as missile warning systems and secure communication networks. The launches are scheduled from fiscal year 2027 through 2032.

Blue Origin’s Competitive Entry

For the first time, Blue Origin joins the ranks of national security launch providers, despite its New Glenn rocket not yet being certified. The company is expected to earn certification before its first mission and was designated the “third best value provider.”

ULA’s New Vulcan Rocket Certified

ULA recently achieved a critical milestone by certifying its Vulcan rocket on March 26, paving the way to begin launching Phase 2 missions and take on its new Phase 3 responsibilities.

Dual-Lane Acquisition Strategy Explained

  • Lane 1: 30 missions, lower-risk, commercial-style payloads.
  • Lane 2: High-stakes national security missions requiring top-tier performance and reliability.

These contracts are part of the Pentagon’s broader strategy to reduce reliance on Russian-made RD-180 engines and strengthen the U.S. launch industry.

Annual mission assignments begin in late 2025 and will continue through 2029, ensuring consistent access to space for vital defense operations.

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AI video startup Runway AI has secured over $300 million in a funding round backed by tech giant Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA) and other major investors, boosting its valuation to $3 billion.

Key Investors & Expansion Plans

The funding round was led by General Atlantic, with participation from Fidelity Management & Research Company, Baillie Gifford, Nvidia, SoftBank Vision Fund 2, and other new and existing investors. Runway plans to use the fresh capital to enhance its AI-driven media generation technology and expand its research team.

Advancing AI in Film & Media

Runway is making strides in AI-generated content through its in-house Runway Studios, which focuses on creating original AI-driven films and animations. Recently, the company unveiled its latest AI model, Gen-4, capable of generating realistic, consistent characters, locations, and objects across multiple scenes.

The startup’s AI software has already been used in high-profile projects, including:

  • Generating select scenes for Amazon’s House of David
  • Creating visuals for Madonna’s concert tour
  • Producing an advertisement for Puma

Partnership with Lionsgate

Runway has also partnered with Lionsgate to develop an AI model trained on the studio’s content for use in upcoming film projects. While additional studio collaborations remain undisclosed, Runway’s Co-Founder and CEO, Cris Valenzuela, confirmed that more partnerships are underway.

The Future of AI-Generated Media

With Nvidia’s backing and increasing industry adoption, Runway is poised to redefine content creation using AI. The investment underscores the growing interest in AI-driven media production, signaling a shift toward more advanced AI-generated film and animation technology.

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Ford Motor Company has announced a new sales promotion allowing all car shoppers to purchase 2024-25 Ford and Lincoln vehicles at the same discounted price offered to its employees.

Why Ford is Offering Employee Pricing

Dubbed “From America, For America,” the campaign was launched on the same day that a new 25% U.S. tariff on foreign vehicles took effect. The move is seen as a direct response to rising concerns over potential price hikes in the auto industry.

According to an analysis by Anderson Economic Group, the new tariffs could lead to car price increases of up to $12,200 on some models. In response, Ford aims to make vehicle ownership more affordable during uncertain economic times.

“We understand that these are uncertain times for many Americans. Whether it’s navigating the complexities of a changing economy or simply needing a reliable vehicle for your family, we want to help,” Ford said in a statement.

Promotion Details and Eligible Vehicles

The limited-time offer runs from April 3 through June 2 and includes significant discounts on various gas, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and diesel models from Ford and Lincoln.

Excluded Models:

  • Ford Raptor series
  • 2025 Ford Expedition
  • 2025 Lincoln Navigator
  • Ford Super Duty trucks

To further promote the initiative, Ford has launched a 30-second ad campaign featuring actor Bryan Cranston, which will air during the NCAA Final Four 2025 tournament on April 6-7.

Ford’s Sales Surge Amid Tariff Concerns

Ford’s first-quarter earnings report revealed a 5% increase in sales, with a notable 19% spike in March, as consumers rushed to buy cars before potential price hikes. Dealerships have reported increased foot traffic, further confirming the impact of the new tariffs on consumer behavior.

Industry-Wide Impact of the Tariffs

The ripple effects of the tariffs are already being felt across the automotive sector. Stellantis, the parent company of Jeep, Chrysler, Dodge, and Ram, recently announced temporary production halts in Canada and Mexico, leading to the layoff of 900 U.S. workers and the temporary suspension of operations at its Windsor Assembly Plant from April 7 to April 21.

Ford’s decision to extend employee pricing to all customers comes at a crucial time as the auto industry adjusts to higher import tariffs. By offering substantial savings on a range of vehicles, Ford aims to ease the financial burden on consumers while maintaining sales momentum in a volatile market.

If you’re in the market for a new car, this limited-time offer could be an excellent opportunity to secure significant savings before vehicle prices potentially climb even higher.

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Stellantis has announced the temporary closure of two major assembly plants in Canada and Mexico in response to the new 25% automotive tariffs imposed by the U.S. government. This strategic move aims to mitigate the financial impact of increased import costs, affecting thousands of workers across North America.

Impact of Tariffs on Stellantis Operations

The new tariffs, implemented on all imported vehicles, have forced Stellantis to reassess its production strategy. The company has decided to

  • Halt production at its Windsor Assembly Plant in Ontario, Canada, for two weeks starting Monday.
  • Shut down its Toluca Assembly Plant in Mexico for the entire month of April.
  • Temporarily lay off around 900 U.S. workers at supporting plants.
  • Impact 4,500 hourly workers at the Canadian plant.
  • Require Mexican workers to report to the facility but remain inactive due to contractual obligations.

Antonio Filosa, Stellantis’ North American Chief, addressed employees in an internal email, stating, “We are continuing to assess the medium- and long-term effects of these tariffs on our operations but have decided to take immediate actions to manage the situation.”

Reactions from Industry Leaders and Unions

The decision has drawn strong reactions from industry stakeholders. Unifor National President Lana Payne, representing Canadian auto workers, criticized the tariffs, highlighting the immediate layoffs as a significant concern.

“Unifor warned that U.S. tariffs would hurt auto workers almost immediately, and these layoffs confirm our fears,” she said.

Stellantis’ rivals, Ford and General Motors (GM), have taken a different approach. While Stellantis is cutting production, GM is temporarily increasing truck production at its Indiana plant to counterbalance potential supply chain disruptions. Ford, meanwhile, has launched an employee discount program for all customers to maintain sales amid economic uncertainty.

Broader Impact on the Auto Industry

The automotive industry is facing increased uncertainty as companies adjust their production and pricing strategies. Stellantis’ move could be a sign of further disruptions, with potential ripple effects across suppliers, dealerships, and consumers.

U.S. auto sales surged in the first quarter as buyers rushed to purchase vehicles ahead of tariff-induced price hikes. However, if production slowdowns continue, vehicle availability and pricing could be significantly impacted in the coming months.

Stellantis remains in discussions with government officials, unions, and industry stakeholders to navigate the evolving trade landscape. The company is also in the midst of a CEO search, adding another layer of uncertainty to its future strategy.

With Stellantis taking drastic steps to manage the impact of tariffs, the North American automotive industry is entering a period of significant transition. While some automakers are adjusting production strategies, others are focusing on sales incentives to retain customers. As trade policies continue to evolve, manufacturers, workers, and consumers alike must brace for potential long-term changes in the industry.

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Qualcomm, the San Diego-based semiconductor giant, has acquired NeuralVision, a startup specializing in generative AI technology, as part of its push to advance AI-powered innovation across smartphones, laptops, and next-generation vehicles.

Expanding AI Capabilities

The acquisition, announced on Tuesday, underscores Qualcomm’s commitment to enhancing research and development in AI, particularly in generative AI, which enables machines to create text, images, and videos by recognizing patterns in vast datasets.

Qualcomm did not disclose the financial terms or closing date of the deal.

NeuralVision, previously a division of TechNova Research Group, is known for developing AI models tailored for edge computing—a key focus area for Qualcomm as it seeks to integrate power-efficient AI into mobile and automotive devices.

Strengthening Qualcomm’s AI Roadmap

Jilei Hou, Qualcomm’s Senior Vice President of Engineering, highlighted the significance of the acquisition:

“By incorporating NeuralVision’s expertise, we are reinforcing our leadership in AI-driven solutions that will shape the future of mobile computing and automotive technology.”

As part of the deal, NeuralVision’s founder and CEO, Alex Tran, will join Qualcomm’s AI research division, bringing expertise in deep learning and AI optimization for embedded systems.

“We are excited to contribute to Qualcomm’s vision of advancing fundamental AI research and scaling it across industries,” Tran said.

Broader AI Expansion

This acquisition follows Qualcomm’s recent purchase of Edge Impulse, a German AI company, to strengthen its Internet of Things (IoT) and edge AI capabilities.

With its latest move, Qualcomm is doubling down on next-generation AI solutions, ensuring its chips remain at the forefront of smartphone, PC, and automotive innovation.

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LehLah, a fast-growing creator-led content commerce platform, has raised INR 12.5 crore in a seed funding round led by Gruhas, co-founded by Nikhil Kamath and Abhijeet Pai. This strategic investment underscores the rising significance of content-driven commerce in the digital era. The fresh funds will be utilized to enhance product development, strengthen brand visibility, and expand the company’s team.

LehLah’s Vision for the Future of Commerce

Commenting on the investment, Nikhil Kamath highlighted the evolving landscape of shopping habits. “Shopping today isn’t just about products—it’s about trust, influence, and community. People don’t want to be sold to; they want recommendations from those they relate to. The future of commerce may belong to platforms that empower individuals to monetize their influence while making discovery and purchasing seamless. Only time will truly tell.”

LehLah’s founder, Ashna Ruia, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with Gruhas. “We are excited to embark on this new chapter with the backing of Gruhas, who share our vision for transforming the creator economy. This support enables us to amplify our mission of empowering creators to build thriving businesses around their passions. As we continue to innovate and scale, we are inspired by the opportunity to redefine the intersection of creativity, commerce, and community, with key partners like Nikhil Kamath by our side.”

How LehLah is Revolutionizing Content Commerce

LehLah is a content commerce platform designed to help creators monetize their influence by sharing affiliate links for curated product recommendations. It bridges the gap between influencers and brand partners, converting authentic content into a sustainable revenue stream. By offering a seamless shopping experience, LehLah not only enhances user engagement but also drives sales and boosts brand conversions.

Rapid Growth and Strategic Partnerships

Since its inception, LehLah has witnessed exponential growth, collaborating with leading e-commerce platforms such as Myntra, Meesho, Flipkart, and Nykaa, along with popular D2C brands like Libas and Foxtale. These partnerships have fueled a remarkable 46% month-on-month increase in Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) and facilitated the creation of over 700,000 content pieces through its vast creator network.

LehLah’s successful funding round highlights the growing impact of content-driven commerce in today’s digital ecosystem. With the support of Gruhas and industry leaders like Nikhil Kamath, LehLah is well-positioned to reshape the future of influencer-led shopping, unlocking new monetization opportunities for creators while enhancing the overall e-commerce experience.

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Qualcomm has acquired the generative AI division of VinAI, a leading AI research company based in Hanoi, for an undisclosed amount. This strategic move reinforces Qualcomm’s commitment to advancing AI technologies and expanding its presence in the AI tooling sector.

Founded in 2019 by former DeepMind research scientist Hung Bui, VinAI specializes in developing generative AI solutions, including computer vision algorithms and language models. The company is backed by VinGroup, a prominent Vietnamese conglomerate, and focuses on AI-powered automotive products such as in-cabin monitoring, security, and smart parking systems.

Jilei Hou, Qualcomm’s senior vice president of engineering, highlighted the importance of the acquisition in a press release: “This acquisition underscores our commitment to dedicating the necessary resources to R&D that makes us the driving force behind the next wave of AI innovation. By bringing in high-caliber talent from VinAI, we are strengthening our ability to deliver cutting-edge AI solutions that will benefit a wide range of industries and consumers.”

VinAI’s generative AI expertise will be integrated into Qualcomm’s existing product ecosystem, enhancing its software and chip solutions for smartphones, PCs, and automotive applications. CEO Hung Bui expressed enthusiasm about the transition, stating, “Our team’s expertise in generative AI and machine learning will help accelerate the development of innovative solutions that can transform the way we live and work.”

Bui, who currently serves as VinAI’s CEO, will officially join Qualcomm upon completion of the acquisition.

This marks Qualcomm’s second AI-focused acquisition in 2025, following its purchase of Edge Impulse, a German AI and IoT company, in early March. Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon has emphasized the growing importance of edge AI—technology that enables AI processing directly on devices without relying on data centers—as a key driver for Qualcomm’s future growth.

With this latest acquisition, Qualcomm is positioning itself at the forefront of AI innovation, further solidifying its role in shaping the next generation of AI-driven technologies.

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OpenAI is gearing up to release its first open-weight language model with enhanced reasoning capabilities in the coming months. This marks the company’s first such release since GPT-2, according to CEO Sam Altman.

What is an open-weight language model?

An open-weight language model allows public access to its trained parameters, or weights, enabling developers to fine-tune and analyze the model for specialized applications. Unlike open-source models, which provide access to the entire source code, training data, and methodologies, open-weight models offer limited but valuable accessibility.

OpenAI’s Developer Engagement Plan

OpenAI plans to collaborate with developers to refine the usability of its open-weight language model. Altman announced via X (formerly Twitter) that the company will host a series of developer events to gather feedback and test early prototypes.

The first event is scheduled to take place in San Francisco within a few weeks, with additional sessions planned across Europe and the Asia-Pacific region.

Strategic Vision and Market Adaptation

Earlier this year, Altman emphasized OpenAI’s commitment to streamlining its AI offerings, outlining a structured roadmap for the latest advancements. The company aims to enhance AI accessibility while maintaining robust performance.

Furthermore, OpenAI, backed by Microsoft must transition to a for-profit model by the end of the year. This move is essential to securing the full $40 billion funding led by SoftBank Group (9984.T), as reported by an insider.

The transition to an open-weight model signals a major shift in OpenAI’s approach, fostering innovation within the developer community. It also underscores the need for significant capital investment to drive cutting-edge AI developments.

With OpenAI at the forefront of AI evolution, the release of an open-weight language model could redefine how businesses and developers harness artificial intelligence for diverse applications.

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OpenAI has achieved another milestone by securing a massive $40 billion funding round, spearheaded by SoftBank. This latest investment catapults OpenAI’s valuation to an astonishing $300 billion, marking the largest funding round for a private tech company in history.

A Strategic Funding Structure

As per reports, OpenAI will receive an initial $10 billion, with the remaining $30 billion contingent upon its conversion into a for-profit entity by year-end. If this transition does not materialize, the company risks forfeiting 25% of the investment.

This funding influx follows OpenAI’s recent announcement of Stargate, a groundbreaking $500 billion joint venture backed by SoftBank, Oracle, and the Abu Dhabi-based fund MGX. The project aims to develop large-scale AI data centers over the next four years, reinforcing OpenAI’s mission to lead the artificial intelligence revolution.

OpenAI’s Rapid Expansion and Innovations

The AI giant continues to push boundaries with record-breaking user growth and innovative features. CEO Sam Altman recently revealed that OpenAI amassed 1 million users in a single hour, largely attributed to the viral success of the Images in ChatGPT feature, which enables the creation of Studio Ghibli-style AI art.

Additionally, OpenAI plans to launch a powerful new open-weight language model with enhanced reasoning capabilities in the coming months. This announcement solidifies OpenAI’s commitment to advancing AI technology and meeting the increasing global demand for intelligent systems.

Financial Growth Amidst High Cash Burn

Despite its rapid expansion, OpenAI continues to operate at a substantial cash burn. Bloomberg reports that OpenAI projects $12.7 billion in revenue this year, a staggering increase from its $3.7 billion annualized revenue last year. However, profitability remains a long-term goal, with cash flow positivity expected by 2029, when revenue is projected to hit $125 billion.

The Future of OpenAI and AGI

OpenAI remains dedicated to developing Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) for the benefit of humanity. Achieving this ambitious goal requires vast computing resources, energy, and global infrastructure. The latest funding round is a crucial step toward realizing this vision.

As OpenAI continues its ascent in the AI industry, its strategic partnerships, technological advancements, and financial backing position it as a dominant force shaping the future of artificial intelligence. Stay tuned for further developments as OpenAI pioneers groundbreaking innovations in the AI landscape.

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