Another bid to block state AI regulation has failed… for now

Amazon is offering its AI coding tool, Kiro, for free to startups for one year, aiming to attract founders who may already be using various AI coding tools. This initiative is part of Amazon's strategy to enhance its presence in the competitive AI landscape.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) is currently hosting its major tech conference, re:Invent 2025, where it is unveiling significant advancements in AI services and computing technologies, including new AI models and partnerships with key players in the industry.

Republicans have decided to remove a block on state-level artificial intelligence (AI) laws that was previously ordered by former President Donald Trump from the defense bill. This decision reflects a significant shift in the party's stance on AI governance, allowing states to implement their own regulations without federal interference.

WordPress's experimental vibe-coding software, Telex, has been utilized to create real-world websites, demonstrating its practical application despite being in the experimental phase.

Venture capitalists (VCs) are intensifying their 'kingmaking' strategy, making substantial investments in early-stage artificial intelligence (AI) startups to establish market leaders. This approach aims to identify and support potential winners in the burgeoning AI sector, leveraging significant financial backing to shape the competitive landscape.

Kohler's smart toilet camera, marketed as 'end-to-end encrypted,' has been revealed to allow the company access to customers' data stored on its servers, including images of users' toilet bowls, which can be utilized for AI training.

Google Photos has announced that its 2025 Recap feature will utilize Gemini's AI to curate users' memorable moments from the year, introducing new metrics such as a selfie count. This enhancement aims to provide a more personalized experience for users looking to reflect on their highlights.

Palantir's Immigration Operating System (OS) has been instrumental in assisting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in tracking and deporting undocumented immigrants. This development has drawn attention due to the controversial nature of Palantir's role in immigration enforcement, particularly as CEO Alex Karp previously criticized Trump's immigration plans as lacking sense.