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U.S. Government Secures Major Nuclear Deal to Strengthen Clean Energy Future

2025-08-29 14:32:14 By Harper Garcia

The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), responsible for managing government buildings, has just announced a major nuclear energy deal. This follows a series of nuclear energy agreements made by prominent tech companies last year.

The 10-year contract, valued at $840 million, involves 10 million megawatt-hours of electricity, which the GSA claims is enough to power over 1 million homes annually. The contract was awarded to Constellation, which operates the largest nuclear fleet in the U.S., and has recently entered into an agreement with Microsoft to restart a reactor at the infamous Three Mile Island site. According to Constellation spokesperson Paul Adams, nuclear energy comprises a significant portion of the contract, amounting to around 4 million megawatt-hours.

As demand for electricity from AI data centers continues to rise, Silicon Valley is increasingly turning to nuclear energy to meet its needs. As the largest energy consumer in the U.S., the federal government’s contract is a significant boon to the nuclear industry.

Joe Dominguez, Constellation’s President and CEO, commented in a press release, "Frustratingly, nuclear energy had been excluded from many corporate and government sustainable energy procurement programs. Not anymore. This agreement is another powerful example of how things have changed." He added, "The U.S. government, alongside Microsoft and other entities, is backing continued investment in reliable nuclear energy, enabling Constellation to relicense and extend the life of these critical assets."

Constellation claims to generate 10% of the nation's carbon-free energy. Most of its output comes from nuclear power, but it also produces hydropower, wind, and solar energy. Additionally, the company operates gas-fired plants, though it has set a target to reach 100% carbon-free electricity by 2040, up from nearly 90% today.

Neither Constellation nor the GSA responded to inquiries about the breakdown of the electricity sources other than nuclear in the contract. This is the largest energy procurement deal the GSA has ever signed.

“This historic procurement locks in a cost-competitive, reliable supply of nuclear energy,” GSA Administrator Robin Carnahan said in a press release. “We’re showing how the federal government can collaborate with major corporate clean energy buyers to stimulate new nuclear energy capacity and ensure a steady, affordable supply of clean energy for all.”

The contract will allow Constellation to extend licenses for existing nuclear plants and "invest in new equipment and technology," potentially adding 135 megawatts of additional capacity. Over the next 10 years, GSA has agreed to purchase 2.4 million megawatt-hours of electricity from this expanded capacity. The deal also extends to 13 other federal agencies, including the Departments of Veterans Affairs, Transportation, and the Federal Bureau of Prisons, as well as the National Park Service, Social Security Administration, and the U.S. Mint.

The GSA frames this contract as a way to lock in lower prices amid rising electricity demand from data centers and increasing competition for clean energy sources:

"With the uncertainty over future electricity prices and the growing demand from data centers and AI facilities, this contract provides federal agencies with budget stability and protection from future price hikes by fixing their electricity costs for 10 years, while also continuing to strengthen the domestic nuclear industry."

Over the past year, companies like Google, Meta, Amazon, and Microsoft have all made notable nuclear energy deals. In September, Microsoft and Constellation announced plans to restart a shuttered reactor at Three Mile Island in Pennsylvania, the site of the worst nuclear accident in U.S. history.

The Biden administration has also made nuclear energy a key component of its strategy to shift the U.S. away from fossil fuels and toward energy sources that don’t contribute to climate change. Last October, the Department of Energy announced a $1.52 billion loan to help restart a retired nuclear plant in Covert Township, Michigan. While President-elect Donald Trump plans to reverse progress made on clean energy, his campaign agenda included efforts to "support nuclear energy production."

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Artificial Intelligence's Struggle with Historical Knowledge, Study Reveals

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has shown prowess in areas such as coding and podcast creation, but a recent study has uncovered its limitations when it comes to tackling complex historical questions. Researchers have developed a novel benchmark, Hist-LLM, to evaluate the performance of three leading large language models (LLMs) on historical queries: OpenAI’s GPT-4, Meta’s Llama, and Google’s Gemini. This benchmark assesses the accuracy of their responses using the Seshat Global History Databank, an extensive repository of historical information named after the Egyptian deity of wisdom. The findings, unveiled at the prestigious AI event NeurIPS, were underwhelming, with researchers from the Complexity Science Hub (CSH), an Austrian research institute, reporting that even the top-performing LLM, GPT-4 Turbo, scored only around 46% accuracy—barely above the level of random chance. “Despite their capabilities, LLMs lack the in-depth comprehension necessary for advanced historical studies,” commented Maria del Rio-Chanona, a co-author of the study and an associate professor at University College London’s computer science department. “They can handle basic historical facts, but when it comes to more intricate, doctoral-level historical analysis, they fall short.” The researchers provided TechCrunch with examples of historical questions that the LLMs mishandled. For instance, GPT-4 Turbo incorrectly affirmed the presence of scale armor in ancient Egypt during a specific epoch, when in fact, the technology emerged 1,500 years later. Why do LLMs falter on detailed historical inquiries when they can adeptly answer complex coding questions? Del Rio-Chanona suggested to TechCrunch that LLMs often rely on prominent historical data, struggling to access less common historical facts. For instance, when asked about the existence of a professional standing army in ancient Egypt during a particular period, the LLM incorrectly affirmed it, likely due to the abundance of information on standing armies in other ancient civilizations like Persia. “Imagine being told A and B repeatedly, and C only once; when asked about C, you might default to what you remember about A and B and extrapolate from there,” explained del Rio-Chanona. The study also pointed out that certain models, such as those from OpenAI and Llama, performed poorly on questions related to regions like sub-Saharan Africa, indicating possible biases in their training datasets. The study’s leader, Peter Turchin, a faculty member at CSH, emphasized that LLMs are not yet ready to replace humans in certain fields. Nevertheless, the researchers remain optimistic about the potential of LLMs to assist historians. They are refining their benchmark by incorporating data from underrepresented regions and introducing more sophisticated questions. “The study’s results, while highlighting areas for improvement in LLMs, also indicate their potential to contribute to historical research,” the paper concludes.

Advancing Our Dedication to Open Source Security

The community of open source software (OSS) enthusiasts convened at the Open Source Security Foundation's (OpenSSF) Secure Open Source Software Summit in Washington, DC, to foster collaboration across various sectors including business, government, and essential infrastructure. Open source software, freely accessible for utilization and modification, is a driving force behind innovation for many tech professionals. At JPMorgan Chase, our extensive team of over 57,000 technologists integrates numerous open source components into our tools, providing a competitive advantage for our company, clients, and customers. Why is the security of Open Source Software crucial? The collaborative and open nature of OSS allows tech experts to tackle common issues together, leading to software that supports vital operations in both public and private sectors, including national security systems and essential infrastructure. While OSS's open accessibility spurs innovation, it can also be exploited by malicious actors to identify and target vulnerabilities in widely-used code, impacting organizations on a broad scale. The recent surge in high-profile OSS attacks highlights the necessity for robust public-private partnerships to create tools and solutions that support the many volunteers maintaining OSS. We all have a part to play in enhancing OSS security, and we invite others who utilize open source to join us in this vital endeavor. What achievements has the Open Source Community made in the past year? In May 2022, OpenSSF introduced the Open Source Software Security Mobilization Plan, instrumental in guiding industry and government initiatives to safeguard the open source software supply chain. The plan has prompted improvements in OSS security education and the creation of tools like Sigstore, for secure software validation, and Alpha-Omega, for identifying and resolving vulnerabilities in popular packages. JPMorgan Chase, in collaboration with other financial entities, established the Financial Services Information Sharing and Analysis Center (FS-ISAC) Supply Chain working group. This group aims to share emerging supply chain threats with the financial sector and develop guidance to counter such threats, exemplified by the Software Supply Chain Primer White Paper published in 2025. What transpired at the Summit? Summit attendees explored security challenges in OSS consumption across critical infrastructure sectors, the potential for leveraging AI advancements to bolster OSS security, and the shared responsibility to enhance OSS resilience in critical infrastructure. The significant U.S. Government presence at the Summit underscores the public sector's commitment and backing for initiatives aimed at improving OSS security and fostering strong public-private partnerships for more secure outcomes. The summit concluded with discussions on strategies for achieving tangible results aligned with three objectives for the coming year: (1) providing security education for OSS developers and stakeholders, (2) bolstering the security of OSS repositories, and (3) facilitating cross-collaboration for incident response. What are our next steps? There is further work to be done in enhancing tools to counter software supply chain attacks. We recognize the importance of supporting OSS evaluation tools like Security Scorecard, an automated security tool that helps users assess the risks associated with their software dependencies, and Software Bill of Material (SBOM) capabilities, which provide an inventory of application components. At JPMorgan Chase, our security teams are致力于 developing such solutions and are collaborating with organizations like OpenSSF to create more integrated tooling and capabilities that will foster safer practices and prevent significant future software supply chain security breaches. Fulfilling Our Role JPMorgan Chase is steadfast in our commitment to partnerships aimed at improving open source security. As a founding member of OpenSSF and through our leadership in the Financial Services Sector Coordinating Council (FSSCC) and the Financial Services Information Sharing and Analysis Center (FS-ISAC), we will continue to play an active role in supporting and shaping the efforts of both industry and government to secure the open source software ecosystem.

Strengthening Community Cyber Defenses through Education

As part of our commitment to Cybersecurity Awareness Week at JPMorganChase, we organized a variety of interactive community events aimed at educating both young people and older adults on the essential aspects of cybersecurity, ensuring their digital safety. Read on to discover the significance of these initiatives in bolstering the cyber resilience of the communities we support. Fueling Cyber Enthusiasm at Global Impact Academy By Candice Biamby and London Murray, Product Security Marking Cybersecurity Awareness Week, the cybersecurity team from Atlanta Tech Center collaborated with the External Community Engagement initiative to stimulate interest in cybersecurity among students at Global Impact Academy (GIA) STEM Magnet High School in Fairburn, GA. With 588 talented students from grades 9-12, GIA offers a range of career paths in advanced mathematics, science, engineering, biotechnology, cybersecurity, game design, computer science, and beyond. This half-day event included presentations from JPMorganChase’s Cybersecurity and Technology Controls staff, who shared their personal experiences and the diverse career opportunities available in the cybersecurity sector. Students engaged in interactive breakout sessions that covered various aspects of cybersecurity, such as security engineering, governance, risk management, and compliance, and cyber operations. The event was a fantastic opportunity to engage with future STEM leaders. The students at GIA asked thought-provoking questions and demonstrated impressive knowledge. Our team relished the dynamic discussions, particularly the lively exchange when students shared their experiences with AI, which led to a mix of curiosity, admissions, and laughter. The students' passion and curiosity are a promising sign for the future of cybersecurity, making a fitting conclusion to our Cybersecurity Awareness Week at JPMorganChase. Enhancing Digital Safety for Youth and Elders By Sesh Subramanyan and Venkat Melam, Cybersecurity and Technology Controls Cybersecurity Awareness Week was a nationwide initiative in India, featuring a range of community engagement events focused on cybersecurity. These events included quizzes, puzzles, and awareness sessions for children and seniors from employee families, with over 200 participants. The goal was to increase understanding of cybersecurity and encourage secure online behavior. The 'CyberKids' session, for children aged 12-16, covered essential topics such as secure browsing, recognizing online threats, and safeguarding personal data. Meanwhile, the 'CyberSeniors' session targeted older family members, offering practical advice on online security, scam identification, and protecting one's digital identity. These sessions provided critical knowledge about online risks, including cyberbullying and phishing, helping families to establish a secure digital environment. Given the increasing cyber threats targeting the young and elderly, such awareness sessions are vital for safeguarding our loved ones. The foundation of cybersecurity lies within the home.

Leveraging Data to Strengthen the Asian American Narrative

Amidst a landscape where data serves as the foundation for strategic decisions, organizations such as Kundiman, dedicated to nurturing Asian American literature, often grapple with the complexities of fragmented data management. In response to these challenges, JPMorganChase's Force for Good initiative emerges—a program under the Tech for Social Good umbrella that showcases the potential of corporate expertise in assisting non-profit organizations to overcome technological hurdles and expand their impact. Kundiman, established in 2004, has been a sanctuary for Asian American writers, offering them retreats, online classes, and workshops. With over 250 writers having participated in their retreats and around 400 books authored by these participants, Kundiman's contribution to literature is significant. However, as Kundiman's influence and activities have expanded, so has the complexity of data collection necessary for their operations. Historically, Kundiman relied on a donor management system for contact management and collected data through various survey tools, leading to inconsistencies, especially in recording ethnic backgrounds. The diverse terms used by participants to describe their heritage complicated the standardization and precise analysis of demographic data. The primary goal for Kundiman was to streamline these data streams, reduce manual data handling, and improve data accuracy. The Force for Good team, inspired by Kundiman's mission, addressed this challenge by implementing a pre-built workflow automation solution to harmonize and automate data transfer across different platforms. This approach ensures that data from various sources can be automatically updated in a centralized database, eliminating the need for manual entry and reducing errors. The project's impact extended beyond mere data consolidation. It empowered Kundiman to track demographic trends and identify communities in need. As the pandemic and economic challenges shifted the needs of Asian American communities, accurate demographic tracking became essential. A 2022 report by Equitable Growth revealed that Asian Americans in New York City faced longer periods of unemployment and higher poverty rates compared to other ethnic groups. With this knowledge, Kundiman's ability to adapt and extend their support became increasingly crucial. The project's success was a testament to the collaborative spirit and dedication of all parties involved. The Force for Good team not only provided a technological solution but also offered training and documentation, ensuring that Kundiman's staff could independently maintain the new system. This comprehensive approach guaranteed long-term benefits and sustainability for Kundiman. The Force for Good program's collaboration with Kundiman exemplifies how strategic, thoughtful technological interventions can lead to significant social change. It underscores the importance of the Force for Good's ongoing support and innovation within the non-profit sector, ensuring that organizations like Kundiman can thrive and continue their vital work.

AI in 2025: What's Next for ChatGPT, Apple Intelligence, and More

As 2025 unfolds, artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s here, and it’s shaping our world in ways we could never have imagined just a few years ago. After a transformative 2024, AI development continues at full speed, with companies like OpenAI, Meta, Google, and Apple pushing boundaries and introducing groundbreaking innovations. Here's a glimpse into what life with AI could look like in 2025. Smarter Devices, Smarter Life In 2025, AI won’t just be confined to smartphones. Apple’s AI technology will continue to power iPhones and Apple Watches, making Siri more proactive and responsive. Google Gemini is set to deepen its integration into Android and Chrome, providing seamless, intelligent experiences, especially with Google Pixel phones. Home appliances will also see a major upgrade. Companies like LG and Samsung are betting big on AI-powered refrigerators, ovens, and washing machines. Picture a fridge that can scan its contents, suggest recipes, and even add missing ingredients to your shopping list. AI will also extend to wearables, especially those that sit on your face. Meta’s next-gen Ray-Ban smart glasses and the Orion augmented reality headset will offer you immersive experiences, overlaying real-time information right in front of your eyes, essentially becoming an extra layer of your brain. The AI Assistant Revolution By 2025, AI assistants will no longer be limited to answering questions. They will anticipate your needs and proactively manage your daily tasks. Imagine ChatGPT reorganizing your schedule based on real-time traffic and weather updates, rescheduling a missed doctor’s appointment without your prompt, or even drafting a birthday card for a friend—complete with personalized gift suggestions. Google Gemini is working on similar predictive features within Google Workspace, while Amazon is enhancing Alexa with task prioritization and advanced calendar integration. The rise of such assistants will spell the end of juggling between apps and to-do lists. Instead, your smart devices will serve as hubs from which AI seamlessly manages both your personal and professional life. Think of it as having an omnipresent executive assistant who never needs a lunch break or overtime pay. Multimodal AI: Breaking the Boundaries of Sight, Sound, and Action In 2025, AI’s reach won’t be limited to text or voice recognition. The integration of image, video, and audio with text-based AI will be ubiquitous. While multimodal AI had a breakout year, in 2025 we will see it reach full integration. Imagine snapping a photo of a broken appliance and having your AI assistant not only suggest repair steps but also find the replacement part on Amazon and connect you to a local repair service. Apple’s Vision Pro headset, expected to refine its design later in 2025, will leverage multimodal AI, overlaying real-time data onto objects in your physical environment. For example, it could guide you through assembling furniture, identifying each part and offering step-by-step AR instructions. In creative industries, Adobe’s AI-powered Creative Cloud tools will make workflows more efficient, automatically generating mood boards or editing videos from simple text prompts. Microsoft will integrate multimodal AI into its Teams and Office applications, offering features like summarizing video calls and turning meeting notes into PowerPoint slides, complete with relevant visuals. AI in Social Media: New Faces, New Realities 2025 will be a turning point for AI’s role in social media, particularly within Meta’s Facebook and Instagram. AI-generated characters will take center stage, becoming influencers, fashion advisors, and even travel guides. These bots will assist users in planning vacations, suggesting restaurants, and syncing with Google Calendar to manage bookings. Meta’s "Metabots" project will likely integrate into Messenger, allowing users to interact with virtual stylists who curate outfits based on preferences and budget. These bots might also handle customer service issues, resolving order queries or account troubleshooting instantly, without the dreaded "please hold" music. However, as AI-generated content becomes more prevalent, platforms will face the challenge of distinguishing between real and synthetic accounts. While Meta has promised safeguards, balancing enhanced user experiences with maintaining trust will be a delicate task.

Tesla Sees First-Ever Year-Over-Year Sales Decline

Tesla’s production and delivery figures for 2024 have revealed a sobering reality for the electric vehicle leader. The company produced 1.77 million vehicles this year, marking a 4% decrease compared to 2023. In terms of deliveries, Tesla reached 1.79 million, about 1% fewer than the previous year. Additionally, Tesla deployed 31.4 GWh of energy storage, though this alone wasn’t enough to offset the overall sales downturn. Despite these setbacks, the company did experience a strong fourth quarter, setting new records for both deliveries and energy storage deployment. Tesla delivered 495,570 vehicles during the final quarter of the year, with 459,445 units produced, predominantly consisting of Model 3 and Model Y vehicles. Energy storage deployments also reached a record 11 GWh in Q4. However, this late surge in deliveries wasn’t enough to bring Tesla’s full-year figures up to 2023 levels. Tesla CEO Elon Musk had already signaled earlier in the year that intensified competition and reduced demand for its aging model lineup would weigh on 2024 results. Even the introduction of the Cybertruck, which began deliveries late last year, failed to reverse the trend. While the fourth-quarter performance was strong, it still fell short of Wall Street’s expectations, which had forecast 504,800 vehicles delivered. As a result, Tesla’s stock price took a hit, dropping by about 5% following the announcement of the disappointing numbers. Looking ahead, the future remains uncertain. A potential shift in U.S. policy following a possible second term for President Donald Trump could further impact Tesla’s prospects. If the new administration eliminates key incentives, such as the $7,500 EV tax credit, Tesla vehicles may become less affordable, which could dampen demand. Musk has teased the release of a more affordable Tesla in 2025 and a fully autonomous Cybercab by 2026, but both projects face significant hurdles. Furthermore, Tesla’s position in China is becoming increasingly precarious as the country’s domestic EV market grows at a rapid pace. The Chinese market, which is Tesla’s largest and most important, is seeing rising competition from local manufacturers like BYD, eroding Tesla’s market share.

Apple May Not Be at CES, But CES Will Definitely Be About Apple

CES 2025 is fast approaching, and as always, one glaring omission from the lineup is Apple. The tech giant hasn’t officially attended the event since the early 90s. Despite being the world’s largest technology trade show, Apple has shown little interest in participating. However, even in their absence, the iPhone maker will undoubtedly cast a long shadow over the event. Almost every year, CES articles emerge discussing the impact of Apple’s influence on the show. Last year, for example, Apple strategically dropped the Apple Vision Pro launch date just one day before CES kicked off, shifting attention away from any virtual or augmented reality hardware showcased at the event. Even if Apple isn’t presenting, its presence is everywhere. Whether it’s iOS- or macOS-compatible products being displayed, cleverly placed advertisements around Las Vegas during the show, or industry professionals attending with iPhones and MacBooks in hand, Apple’s footprint is undeniable. This year is likely to be no different. With the impressive M4 chip making its way into iPads and Macs by the end of 2024, and more Mac products on the horizon, Apple has thrown down the gauntlet for its rivals, especially in the laptop and chipmaking arenas. Who Needs to Beat Apple at CES? Let’s start with CPUs and GPUs, as that’s the hot topic right now. Intel, AMD, Qualcomm, and Nvidia are all expected to have a significant presence at CES this year, with Qualcomm revealing its second-gen Snapdragon X Elite chips, and Nvidia teasing its upcoming RTX 5000 GPUs. Apple broke into the first-party silicon game in 2020 with the M1 chip, and since then, the company has elevated its chips—and the devices that use them—to new heights. There’s also buzz about the possibility of an M4 Ultra chip arriving soon, possibly alongside new Mac Studio or Mac Pro models. Whatever happens, Apple is currently in a strong position when it comes to desktop and laptop chip performance, and its rivals will have to surpass these achievements to claim any victory at CES. Today, the competition isn’t just about traditional processors and graphics. Neural Processing Units (NPUs) are becoming increasingly vital as AI tools infiltrate our software and hardware. The M4 generation’s Neural Engine is quite powerful, though I personally suspect Apple might fall behind in this area when it comes to raw specs. The M4 NPU offers 38 trillion operations per second (TOPS), while Qualcomm’s current-gen Snapdragon X Elite can already achieve 45 TOPS. Conclusion: Even though Apple won’t be officially present at CES, it will undoubtedly be a central topic of conversation. From hardware innovations to AI advancements, Apple’s influence continues to shape the global tech landscape. In 2025, CES will still revolve around Apple’s shadow.

Apple Settles Siri Privacy Lawsuit for $95 Million Over Accidental Recordings

Apple has agreed to a $95 million settlement to compensate users whose conversations were unintentionally recorded by Siri and potentially overheard by human contractors. According to Bloomberg, the settlement would provide up to $20 per device for U.S.-based Apple users who own up to five Siri-enabled devices, though the payout amount will depend on the number of claimants. The settlement still requires court approval. If the deal is approved, it will cover users in the U.S. who owned or purchased a Siri-enabled device, such as an iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, MacBook, iMac, HomePod, iPod touch, or Apple TV, between September 17, 2014, and December 31, 2024. Additionally, claimants must attest under oath that they accidentally activated Siri during a private or confidential conversation. Depending on the number of valid claims, the final payout may be less than the $20 maximum per device. The class action lawsuit stems from a 2019 report by The Guardian, which revealed that Apple contractors were regularly exposed to sensitive and confidential recordings, including medical details, drug transactions, and private conversations. While Siri is intended to be triggered by a specific wake word, a whistleblower revealed that accidental triggers were common, with even a simple sound like a zipper potentially activating the assistant. In response, Apple stated that only a small portion of Siri recordings were shared with contractors and later apologized, announcing that it would stop storing audio recordings. One of the plaintiffs, who was a minor, claimed that their iPhone recorded multiple conversations through Siri, sometimes without any wake word being spoken. Apple is not the only tech company accused of allowing contractors to listen to private recordings. Google and Amazon have also faced criticism for using contractors to listen to recorded conversations, including those captured by accident. Google is currently facing a similar lawsuit over the issue.

Make It Happen: Tech for Social Good Expands Globally

The Make It Happen initiative, which has been motivating youth to delve into the realm of technology and actualize their innovative concepts, has had a significant impact since its launch in 2018. It has reached over 73,000 students across more than 300 primary schools, igniting their passion for STEM subjects. In 2024, this program was integrated into JPMorganChase’s Tech for Social Good portfolio, amplifying its global reach. The Make It Happen charity was established by two top executives from JPMorganChase’s Glasgow Technology Center with the mission of contributing to their community by fostering digital creativity among the youth. In collaboration with a team comprising six technology experts and educators, Make It Happen engaged with four Glasgow schools to initiate an app design contest. The straightforward objective was to have students conceive an app that would simplify life, address an issue, enhance the world, or provide amusement. Subsequently, JPMorganChase’s tech volunteers would transform the winning proposals into fully operational apps for students to present to their social circles. The young tech enthusiasts proposed a variety of app concepts, from improving communication to easing daily tasks, enhancing the learning experience, or animating characters and illustrations. Their fresh viewpoints have been a valuable asset, prompting a shift in perspective on our engagement with the world. With a strong emphasis on inclusivity, Make It Happen has successfully extended its influence to the most remote parts of Scotland, including the Scottish islands, ensuring that every young person, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to join. The program has organized several nationwide contests in England and Scotland, highlighting themes such as environmental sustainability, spreading holiday cheer, and advocating for STEM, providing a platform for students from various regions to demonstrate their ingenuity and innovation. To foster STEM learning beyond the app design contests, Make It Happen has crafted workshop materials aimed at enhancing community and family involvement. Equipped with green screens, modular construction toys, and mini robots, Make It Happen workshops stimulate children aged 5-12 to produce brief stop-motion films. Through this process, they are encouraged to think critically and creatively, tackle challenges, grasp the basics of coding, and interact with their peers. As we gaze into the future, the trajectory of Make It Happen stands as a beacon of the potential of collaborative efforts and innovation. With the app design competition now overseen by Tech for Social Good and the commitment of numerous volunteers and educators, Make It Happen is set to inspire the forthcoming generation of digital innovators.

Why AI-Powered Smart Glasses Will Dominate 2025

After a decade of skepticism and mockery, AI-powered smart glasses are poised for a major comeback in 2025. Once ridiculed as a novelty, these innovative wearables are now on the verge of becoming the next big thing. With heavyweights like Meta and Baidu joining forces with startups such as Brilliant Labs and Solos, the technology behind smart glasses is finally catching up to its potential. These glasses blend advanced AI capabilities with cutting-edge hardware, fundamentally transforming the way we interact with the world. Here’s why 2025 will be the year AI-powered smart glasses take center stage. Smart Glasses: The Gateway to Practical AI As AI tools become increasingly embedded in our daily lives, people are eager to use them in more versatile ways. Smart glasses are the perfect solution for those who want AI on the go without the hassle of constantly reaching for their phone. Unlike the ill-fated Google Glass, today’s smart glasses are designed to be subtle yet functional. For example, Meta’s collaboration with Ray-Ban allows wearers to take photos, connect with the Meta AI assistant, and still maintain a stylish look. Features like real-time translation and health monitoring, as seen in the Solos AirGo 3 Smart Glasses, take the integration of eyewear and AI to the next level. Moreover, smart glasses offer a unique advantage in the AI hardware space. Devices like the Humane AI Pin, Rabbit R1, and Plaud.ai NotePin have faced challenges in capturing public interest, but smart glasses are more likely to succeed. Their practical application and sleek design make them a safer bet for AI integration compared to other devices. Productivity on the Go: Your AI Assistant, Right on Your Face The convergence of smart glasses and AI isn't just about cool tech—it’s about making life easier and more efficient. In 2025, your personal office assistant might not be sitting on your desk but rather perched on your face. Brilliant Labs is pushing this future with their Frame Smart Glasses, which come equipped with the Noa AI assistant. These glasses are tailored for busy individuals, offering features like contextual reminders, task lists, and quick information access—all in a wearable format. Baidu’s Xiaodu Smart Glasses are another example of this evolution. Powered by Baidu’s Ernie large language model, the glasses can provide real-time answers about your surroundings, recommend nearby restaurants, or even track calories from your meals. Thanks to the rapid development of context-aware conversational AI, integrating sensors and communication tools directly into eyewear takes productivity to new heights. Augmented Reality Meets AI: The Future of Smart Glasses Smart glasses today are equipped with everything from mini speakers to small embedded screens, but the true potential lies in their ability to enhance reality through augmented reality (AR). While improvements in AR alone might not spark a revolution, combining AR with AI, as demonstrated by Meta's Orion, has the potential to create an entirely new market for smart glasses. Orion isn’t launching until next year, but it’s not alone. Brilliant Labs’ Frame Smart Glasses also leverage AR to elevate user experiences. By offering an open-source platform, Brilliant Labs invites developers to create customized apps, meaning that, in the near future, users could have tailor-made applications that cater specifically to their needs. Though it might not be right around the corner, the idea of universally wearing AI-powered smart glasses is becoming clearer every day. With rapid advancements in AR and AI, the future of these devices is now more tangible than ever.