China’s Top Companies Focus on AI Agents as Next Battleground

Software startup Temporal Technologies Inc. is reportedly in advanced discussions to raise new capital, aiming for a valuation of $5 billion, which would mark a doubling of its worth from just three months prior. This surge in valuation is attributed to the ongoing boom in artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.

The U.S. Commerce Department has eased restrictions, allowing Nvidia to sell its H200 AI chips to approved customers in China, following a significant policy shift initiated by the Trump administration that lifted a previous export ban due to national security concerns. This decision marks a pivotal moment for Nvidia as it re-enters a crucial market after extensive lobbying efforts.

The United States has imposed a 25% tariff on imports of certain advanced semiconductors, a move linked to an agreement allowing Nvidia Corp. to export its H200 artificial intelligence processors manufactured in Taiwan to China. This decision was endorsed by President Donald Trump, marking a significant shift in U.S. technology export policy.

China has submitted two requests to the International Telecommunication Union to reserve orbital slots for a new satellite constellation aimed at enhancing its space-based communications capabilities. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to expand China's presence in low Earth orbit (LEO).

China has issued a directive prohibiting the use of cybersecurity products from leading American and Israeli firms, including Palo Alto Networks Inc., Fortinet Inc., and Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. This decision reflects ongoing tensions between China and these countries, particularly in the technology sector.

Microsoft has successfully shut down a scam website that facilitated the theft of millions by fraudsters leveraging pirated software. This action underscores the company's commitment to combating cybercrime and protecting its users from malicious activities.

Skild AI Inc., a rapidly growing robotics startup, has raised approximately $1.4 billion in a new funding round, elevating its valuation to over $14 billion, more than tripling its worth in just seven months. This significant financial backing underscores the increasing investor confidence in AI-driven technologies that enhance robotic learning capabilities.

Infosys Ltd. has raised its annual sales forecast, indicating a potential recovery in corporate information technology spending, driven by the adoption of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and cloud services.