Amazon Launches First 27 Satellites for Project Kuiper, Challenging Starlink in Space Internet Race

Amazon Enters the Space Race with Satellite Launch On Monday, Amazon took a significant step forward in its space ambitions by launching the first 27 satellites for Project Kuiper. This initiative aims to create a large network of internet-beaming satellites in low-Earth orbit, positioning Amazon to directly compete with Elon Musk’s SpaceX and its Starlink project. While Starlink currently leads the market, Project Kuiper offers the potential for more affordable and cloud-integrated services, particularly appealing to enterprise and telecom sectors. The coming years will be crucial in determining whether Amazon can catch up and establish itself as a formidable competitor in the space internet arena. IBM Invests $150B in U.S. Quantum Computing Push IBM has pledged a monumental $150 billion investment in the United States over the next five years to reinforce the country's leadership in quantum computing and artificial intelligence (AI). This substantial investment, one of the largest in U.S. tech history, comes in response to growing economic and geopolitical pressures. The move is expected to drive significant growth and innovation, although some analysts believe that the scale of the funding is also a strategic effort to curry political favor amid tense trade relations. At-Home Cancer Test Startup Raises $22M Japanese biotech startup Craif has raised $22 million to expand its operations into the United States and further develop its at-home microRNA cancer test. Using urine samples, Craif's technology provides a painless and accessible method for detecting early-stage cancers. This approach differs from other biotech companies like Grail, Freenome, and Clearnote Health, which typically use cell-free DNA extracted from blood samples. Craif's innovative solution promises to make early cancer detection more convenient and less invasive, potentially saving lives through timely intervention. Deliveroo Surges as DoorDash Eyes Buyout Deliveroo, the London-based food delivery giant, saw its stock soar to a three-year high after receiving a $3.6 billion buyout offer from U.S. competitor DoorDash. This deal would grant DoorDash access to 10 new markets, significantly expanding its global footprint. Currently, DoorDash operates in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Deliveroo, already working with thousands of restaurants and grocery retailers, including major European chains, stands to benefit immensely from this merger. The proposal underscores DoorDash’s strategy to solidify its position in the international food delivery market. Highlights in Tech Today Spotify's Podcast Investment: Spotify revealed that it spent over $100 million on global podcast publishers and creators in the first quarter of 2025, marking a significant milestone as the company becomes more transparent about its spending. Apple's iPhone Production Shift: Apple is reportedly set to manufacture nearly all iPhones sold in the U.S. in India by the end of 2026, as part of its broader strategy to diversify away from China. Duolingo’s AI Transition: Duolingo’s CEO announced that the language learning platform will phase out human contractors and evolve into an AI-first company, signaling a major shift in its operational model. Instagram Edits App Success: Meta's new video creation app, Instagram Edits, attracted 702,900 downloads on iOS devices within its first two days, outperforming CapCut’s launch. Google's Nest Thermostat Update Cutoff: Google announced it will cease software updates for early generations of its Nest thermostats starting October 25, affecting older models and potentially prompting users to upgrade. Slate Auto Manufacturing Site: EV startup Slate Auto is considering a former printing plant in Indiana for the production of its low-cost electric pickup truck, a move that could boost local employment and industrial innovation. Uber's New Office Policy: Uber informed its employees that they are now required to work in the office for at least three days a week, a policy change aimed at enhancing collaboration and productivity. YKK’s Motorized Zipper Prototype: Japanese zipper manufacturer YKK is testing a prototype of a self-zipping mechanism that operates without manual assistance, a novel solution that could transform garment technology. Yelp’s AI-Powered Voice Agents: Yelp plans to deploy AI-powered “voice agents” to assist restaurants in handling customer calls, answering queries, and managing waitlists, streamlining operations and improving customer service. Stay tuned for more insights and updates in the rapidly evolving world of science and technology.