#Technology

Irish startup Equal1 has launched Bell-1, the first quantum computer using a hybrid quantum-classical silicon chip. Weighing 200kg, it connects to a standard electrical socket, making it a practical solution for quantum computing.

The HP EliteBook 8 G1 is a modular laptop designed for easy repairs and upgrades. It features swappable components like the battery, fans, SSD, and keyboard. Available with AMD or Intel processors, it offers enhanced efficiency and uses recycled materials, promoting sustainability.

Google expands its UK AI initiatives with enhanced data residency options to bolster security, massive investments in AI upskilling, and a new focus on supporting AI startups. The company aims to drive innovation while ensuring data privacy and safety, launching cutting-edge projects like Chirp 3.

Zoom introduces an AI Companion with agentic features to automate tasks like scheduling and document generation. Additional updates include a voice recorder, real-time meeting summaries, and new avatar features, all offered at no extra cost to Workplace users.

Alphabet's Taara, a laser-based internet service, is becoming an independent company, challenging Starlink by providing high-speed internet to remote areas using light beams. It aims to expand rapidly with strategic investors, while Alphabet retains a minority stake.

Nearly 100 tech organizations urge the European Commission to reduce Europe's dependence on foreign digital services by creating a sovereign tech fund to foster homegrown solutions amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Security researcher Yohanes Nugroho cracked Akira ransomware on Linux using powerful cloud GPU resources. By analyzing encryption timestamps, he developed a brute-force decryption tool, costing $1,200 and taking three weeks. The tool is now available on GitHub.

Cybersecurity researchers revealed that Black Basta ransomware operators have developed BRUTED, a tool to automate brute-force and credential stuffing attacks on VPNs and firewalls. Businesses are urged to use strong passwords and multi-factor authentication to mitigate such threats.

The UK government is launching a £16 billion competition for IT services after a six-month delay. The Technology Services 4 framework has expanded by £4 billion, increasing the potential spending by 25% compared to previous plans. Procurement is set to begin this week.