Europe’s top court has ruled that Google’s decision to block an Enel e-mobility app from Android Auto could be considered an abuse of market power. The judgment reinforces competition rules and may push major tech firms to allow easier access for rival apps.
The case stemmed from a €102 million fine imposed by Italy’s antitrust authority in 2021 for restricting access to Enel’s JuicePass app.
Google challenged the penalty, arguing security concerns and the absence of a specific app template. However, the Court of Justice of the European Union backed the Italian regulator, stating that dominant companies must ensure interoperability unless valid security risks exist.
The court clarified that companies should develop necessary templates within a reasonable timeframe.
Although Google has since introduced the requested feature, the ruling may set a precedent for similar cases. Legal experts see it as aligning with EU competition law, citing past decisions against IBM and Microsoft.
The ruling also supports the objectives of the Digital Markets Act, which aims to regulate dominant digital platforms.
The decision is final and unappealable, meaning the Italian Council of State must now rule on Google’s appeal in line with the court’s findings.
For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu.
Italy is demanding 12.5 million euros ($13 million) from Elon Musk’s social network X following a tax probe linked to a broader investigation into Meta. The case, which focuses on value-added tax (VAT) claims for the years 2016 to 2022, is significant as it raises questions about how social networks provide access to their services. Italian tax authorities argue that user registrations on platforms like X, Facebook, and Instagram should be considered taxable transactions, as they involve the exchange of personal data for a membership account.
This case could have major implications for the tech sector in Europe, potentially altering the way business models are structured in the 27-nation European Union, as VAT is a harmonised EU tax. Although the claim of 12.5 million euros is a small amount for X, the outcome of this case could influence future tax policies across the region. Both X and Meta must respond to the tax authority’s observations by late March or early April, with the option to either accept the charges or challenge them in court.
The investigation also comes at a sensitive time, as US President Donald Trump has criticised digital taxes in countries like Italy that target US tech firms. Musk, who has strong ties with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, is also keen to expand his Starlink business in the country. If no agreement is reached, Italy’s Revenue Agency may pursue a lengthy judicial review, which could take up to 10 years to resolve.
For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu.
China has warned that the United States‘ efforts to pressure other nations into targeting its semiconductor industry will ultimately backfire.
During a regular press briefing, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian criticised Washington’s approach, arguing that it would disrupt the global semiconductor supply chain and hinder industry development worldwide.
Lin Jian emphasised that such actions not only undermine fair competition but also threaten the stability of the global technology market.
Tensions between the US and China over semiconductor access have escalated in recent years, with Washington implementing export controls and encouraging its allies to adopt similar measures.
Beijing has consistently opposed these restrictions, calling them politically motivated attempts to curb China’s technological progress.
For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu.
Alibaba is set to release an open-source version of its video and image-generating artificial intelligence model, Wan 2.1. The company announced the move on X, with full details to be revealed in a recorded video.
The tech giant originally introduced its AI model in January under the name Wanx before renaming it Wan. Alibaba has promoted its capability to generate highly realistic visuals and noted its strong performance on VBench, a ranking platform for video-generating models.
The company also previewed its reasoning model, QwQ-Max, with plans to make it open source in the future.
Major investments in AI and cloud computing are also underway, with at least 380 billion yuan ($52 billion) committed over the next three years.
Alibaba is positioning itself as a key player in the AI industry while competing with global leaders moving towards closed-source models.
For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu.
SpaceX is preparing to deploy its Starlink satellite internet terminals to enhance the information technology networks that support the United States Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) national airspace system, according to Bloomberg News.
The move is expected to improve connectivity and speed within the FAA’s complex network, which manages the vast and busy American airspace.
Integrating Starlink into the FAA’s infrastructure could boost the agency’s ability to handle data-heavy operations, improve real-time communications, and strengthen system resilience during peak travel periods or emergencies.
Reliable satellite internet could also help modernise outdated network components and reduce disruptions in air traffic control services.
Starlink, known for its global satellite coverage and high-speed internet capabilities, has been expanding its commercial and governmental partnerships.
The collaboration with the FAA highlights Starlink’s growing role in critical infrastructure, pushing SpaceX further into sectors where reliable connectivity is essential.
For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu.
Microsoft has reportedly scrapped leases for significant data centre capacity in the United States, raising concerns about a potential slowdown in its AI infrastructure expansion.
TD Cowen analysts revealed that the company cancelled leases amounting to “a couple of hundred megawatts” with at least two private data-centre operators. The move has added weight to investor worries that the AI-driven market surge may be losing momentum.
Despite the lease cancellations, Microsoft maintains its commitment to invest over $80 billion in AI and cloud capacity this fiscal year.
A company spokesperson confirmed the investment plan remains intact, noting that adjustments to infrastructure are part of strategic planning rather than a broader scale-back.
Analysts suggest the lease cancellations might reflect a shift in Microsoft’s data centre strategy following years of aggressive expansion to meet AI demand.
Supply chain constraints had previously forced the company to secure excess capacity, sometimes at premium rates.
However, with growing investor scepticism around the costs of AI infrastructure and emerging competition from low-cost Chinese firms like DeepSeek, Microsoft’s recalibration has intensified concerns about the long-term sustainability of the AI boom.
For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu.
Nvidia has filed a lawsuit against the European Commission for accepting a referral from Italy to review its acquisition of AI startup Run:ai. The US chipmaker argues that the Commission violated a recent court ruling that restricts its powers over minor transactions. This case follows growing concerns over the Commission’s use of Article 22, which allows it to review smaller mergers that fall below EU merger thresholds, a move companies have criticised as overreach.
While the case will not impact the approval of the AI‘s deal, which was cleared in December, a ruling in favour of Nvidia could curb the European Commission’s ability to regulate similar transactions in the future. Nvidia argues that the decision breaches legal principles, including proportionality and equal treatment, and undermines legal certainty for businesses operating in the EU.
For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu.
On Valentine’s Day in San Francisco, the NBA Tech Summit took place ahead of the NBA All-Star weekend, showcasing the latest trends in sports, media, and technology. With the help of NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang and legendary Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr, the audience was introduced to the evolution of event broadcasting, companies set to make significant investments in the coming years, and the future of basketball as a sport.
The panels also included renowned basketball experts, media figures, and former NBA players. A common consensus emerged: robotics and AI will reshape the sport as we know and significantly help athletes achieve far better results than ever before.
However, this is not exactly a novelty, as many innovations were presented ahead of the Paris Olympics, where certain programmes helped analysts and audiences follow their favourite events in greater detail.
The future of the NBA and the role of fans during matches
The same idea applies to the NBA, particularly with the integration of augmented reality (AR) and a feature called ‘Tabletop’, which allows the display of a virtual court with digital avatars tracking player movements in real time.
A feature like this one generated the most interest from the audience, as it enables viewers to watch matches from various angles, analyse performances in real-time, access interactive player data, and simulate alternative outcomes—essentially exploring how the game would have unfolded if different decisions had been made on the court.
An important aspect of these innovations is that fans have the opportunity to vote for competition participants, ask real-time questions, and take part in virtual events designed to keep them engaged during and after match broadcasts.
AI plays a crucial role in these systems, primarily by analysing strategies and performances, allowing coaches and players to make better-informed decisions in key moments of the game.
Player health as a priority
With a packed schedule of matches, additional tournaments, and extensive travel, professional basketball players face daily physical challenges. To help preserve their health, new technologies aim to minimise potential injuries.
Wearable health-tracking sensors embedded in equipment to collect data on physical parameters were introduced at the NBA Summit. This technology provides medical teams with real-time insights into players’ conditions, helping prevent potential injuries.
Basketball spirit through cutting-edge technology: What did the NBA Tech Summit deliver? 10
Biometric sensors, motion-analysis accelerometers, injury-prevention algorithms, dehydration and fatigue tracking, and shoe sensors for load analysis are just some of the innovations in this field.
Ultra cameras, ultra broadcasts, ultra experience
For fans of high-resolution and interactive matches, the latest technological advancements offer new viewing experiences. While still in the final development stages, fans can already enjoy Ultra HD 8K and 360-degree cameras, along with the highly anticipated ‘player cam’ perspective, which allows for close-up tracking of individual players.
It is also possible to independently control the camera during matches, offering a complete view of the court and arena from every possible angle. Additionally, matches can be broadcast as holograms, providing a new dimension in 3D space on specialised platforms.
The integration of 5G technology ensures faster and more stable transmissions, enabling high-resolution streaming without delays.
Fewer mistakes, less stress
Refereeing mistakes have always been part of the sport, influencing match outcomes and shaping the history of one of the world’s most popular games. In response, the NBA has sought to minimise errors through Hawk-Eye technology for ball and boundary tracking.
A multi-camera system monitors the ball to determine whether it has crossed the line, touched the boundary, or shot on time. AI also analyses player contact in real time, suggesting potential fouls for referees to review.
Beyond these features, the NBA now operates a centralised Replay Centre, offering detailed analysis of controversial situations where AI plays a crucial role in providing recommendations for quicker decision-making. Additional innovations include hoop sensors, audio analysis for simulating unsportsmanlike fouls, and more.
Environmental sustainability and awareness
As an organisation reliant on cutting-edge technology, the NBA is also focused on environmental awareness, which is increasingly becoming a key aspect of the league. Modern arenas utilise solar energy, energy-efficient lighting, and water recycling systems, reducing electricity consumption and waste.
Digital tickets and contactless payments contribute to sustainability efforts, particularly through apps that enable quicker and more eco-friendly entry to arenas and access to various services.
Partnerships with environmental organisations are a crucial part of the NBA’s sustainability initiatives, with collaborations including the Green Sports Alliance and the NRDC. These efforts aim to reduce the environmental impact of events while enhancing the fan experience.
For basketball fans (and followers of other sports adopting similar advancements), the most important takeaway is that the fundamental rules and essence of the game will remain unchanged. Despite the inevitable technological progress, the core spirit of basketball, established in Springfield in 1891, will continue to be preserved.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is set to make a significant $40 billion investment in Italy, covering sectors such as energy, technology, and defence. This follows the first-ever state visit by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to Italy. The investment will span various projects, including data centres, AI, renewable energy, and subsea activities.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni emphasised that this partnership will strengthen bilateral relations, with a focus on mutual economic growth and collaboration. The investment aligns with the Mattei plan, aimed at boosting African development and reducing migrant arrivals to Italy. One notable project involves transporting electricity through an undersea cable between Italy, Albania, and the UAE, further enhancing regional cooperation.
In addition to economic and energy initiatives, both nations agreed to ramp up defence and security collaborations, including joint military production, cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, and disaster response efforts. The partnership will also support advanced research and development, contributing to sustainable development and digital growth.
For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu.
Google has launched a new free AI tool aimed at helping developers with code completion and assistance. Gemini Code Assist for Individuals allows users to interact with a Google AI model through a chat window, helping to fix bugs, complete code, or explain parts of a codebase. The tool can be integrated into popular coding environments like VS Code and JetBrains, and supports a range of programming languages. It offers impressive capabilities, with 180,000 code completions per month—90 times more than GitHub’s free Copilot plan—and 240 daily chat requests, well beyond the limits of competing tools.
In addition, Google unveiled Gemini Code Assist for GitHub, a tool that automatically scans code in pull requests to identify bugs and provide helpful suggestions. These tools highlight Google’s increasing efforts to compete with Microsoft and GitHub in the developer space. Both tools leverage Google’s Gemini 2.0 AI model, fine-tuned for coding tasks, and offer a context window four times larger than similar models, enabling the AI to process more complex code.
The launch marks a strategic move by Google to attract developers, especially those early in their careers, with the hope that some will eventually transition to premium plans. Gemini Code Assist for Individuals is available through a free public preview, with Google planning to roll out additional enterprise features soon, including integration with third-party tools and more advanced customisation options for businesses.
For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu.
