Welcome back to your daily memorandum talking tech, business, AI, markets, and more. 🗞️

In today’s edition we are tackling the following:

🚫 U.S. blacklists 50+ Chinese tech firms to curb access to sensitive chip technology.
🧠 Microsoft’s Copilot gains AI agents that handle research and analyze raw data.
🔌 OpenAI adopts a new protocol to give its models live access to workplace tools.
🎵 Napster acquired for $207M with plans to re-launch as a virtual music social platform.
🇹🇷 Mass protests erupt in Turkey following the arrest of Istanbul’s mayor.

TECH

• Microsoft Enhances 365 Copilot with 'Deep Reasoning' AI Agents

  • Microsoft unveiled Researcher and Analyst, new AI agents built into its 365 Copilot productivity suite.

  • The researcher performs complex research tasks using OpenAI models and third-party business integrations.

  • The analyst uses Python and o3-mini to interpret raw data, acting like a virtual data scientist at scale.

• OpenAI Adopts Anthropic's Model Context Protocol (MCP)

  • OpenAI will support MCP, an open-source format allowing AI models to pull real-time data from systems.

  • The protocol enables deeper integration with tools like Notion, Slack, and internal company databases.

  • MCP will soon roll out across OpenAI products, including ChatGPT’s desktop app and enterprise tools.

• Waze Phases Out Google Assistant on iOS

  • Waze is removing Google Assistant from its iOS app due to persistent bugs and integration issues.

  • It plans to introduce a new voice assistant, potentially powered by Google’s Gemini technology.

  • The Android version will retain Google Assistant support for now, pending further Gemini rollout.

BUSINESS

• ChatGPT's New AI Image Feature Delayed for Free Users

  • OpenAI CEO Sam Altman announced a delay in rolling out ChatGPT's AI image generation feature to free users due to high demand.

  • The feature, introduced on Tuesday, allows users to create and edit images within ChatGPT using the GPT-4o model.

  • Currently, only subscribers to ChatGPT Pro, Plus, and Teams have access; no timeline was provided for free-tier availability.

• President Trump Imposes 25% Tariff on Imported Automobiles

  • A 25% tariff will be applied to all foreign cars and light trucks entering the U.S. starting April 2.

  • The White House expects the policy will generate $100B annually and revive American manufacturing.

  • Trade partners including Canada have condemned the move, warning of retaliation and rising prices.

• Napster Acquired for $207 Million

  • Infinite Reality bought Napster with plans to reinvent it as a music-focused social metaverse platform.

  • The new Napster will blend streaming with virtual shows and fan monetization in immersive spaces.

  • Once a file-sharing disruptor, Napster is now repositioned to lead music innovation once again.

CONTENT

• David Perell's 'The Ultimate Guide to Writing with AI'

  • Perell explores integrating AI tools into writing workflows to enhance creativity and efficiency.

  • He emphasizes maintaining a personal voice to differentiate human writing from AI-generated content.

  • The guide offers practical strategies for writers to effectively collaborate with AI technologies.

• a16z Podcast: 'The Top 100 GenAI Products, Ranked and Explained'

  • Andreessen Horowitz's Consumer team discusses the latest 'GenAI 100' list, highlighting leading AI-first web products and mobile apps.

  • The episode examines shifts in the consumer AI landscape, noting emerging trends and standout applications.

  • Insights into user engagement and monetization strategies for AI products are also provided.

• DoorDash CEO Tony Xu on Building the Future

  • Tony Xu discusses DoorDash's origin, emphasizing customer obsession and overcoming early startup challenges.

  • He highlights the importance of adaptability and resilience in transforming the food delivery industry.

  • Xu shares insights on sustaining growth, fostering innovation, and maintaining a strong company culture.

WORLD

• Sweden Plans Largest Military Buildup Since the Cold War

  • Sweden will raise defense spending to 3.5% of GDP, the biggest increase since Cold War tensions.

  • The move aims to strengthen NATO ties and respond to rising threats from Russia in the region.

  • Prime Minister Kristersson emphasized the urgency of building a stronger European defense base.

• Istanbul Mayor's Arrest Sparks Mass Protests Across Turkey

  • Ekrem Imamoglu’s arrest ignited protests nationwide, with critics calling it a political crackdown.

  • Demonstrators accuse Erdogan of targeting rivals ahead of key elections to retain power longer.

  • The unrest has drawn international concern over democratic backsliding in Turkey’s legal system.

• Trump Administration Restricts Chinese Tech Firms' Access to U.S. Chips

  • Over 50 Chinese firms were added to a U.S. export blacklist to limit military access to chip technology.

  • The restrictions target companies like Inspur Group to disrupt China's supercomputing and defense aims.

  • U.S. officials say this move protects national security by curbing sensitive tech transfers to China.

AND MORE…

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• Italy Pursues VAT Payments from Meta, X, and LinkedIn

  • Italy is demanding nearly €1 billion in unpaid VAT, arguing platforms offer taxable services in exchange for user data.

  • Meta, X, and LinkedIn are accused of failing to declare VAT on years of user access between 2015 and 2022.

  • If upheld, the ruling could reshape digital tax enforcement and influence policy across the European Union and beyond.

• Krisp Introduces AI Tool to Convert Accents to American English in Real-Time

  • Krisp’s new Accent Conversion tool modifies a speaker’s voice into American English without changing identity or speech timing.

  • The tool supports 17 Indian dialects and integrates directly into Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams video platforms.

  • Users receive 60 minutes per day free, with unlimited usage available under a $15-per-month premium subscription plan.

• Stephen Curry and Michelle Obama Collaborate on New Sports Drink

  • Steph Curry and Michelle Obama partnered on PLEZi Hydration, a healthier sports drink with reduced sugar and added potassium.

  • The drink is aimed at kids and teens, launching in three flavors and marketed as an alternative to Gatorade.

  • PLEZi sells for $2.29 per bottle and is now available nationwide at Amazon, Walmart, Target, and additional retail stores.