Advancements In Technology

Every two hours, someone is killed or injured by landmines or unexploded ordnance. These remnants of war still threaten lives and livelihoods in over 60 countries — blocking access to homes, schools, farmland, and vital services for an estimated 75 million people. Technology innovation is key to changing this reality. Smarter detection tools, autonomous clearance systems and new sensing technologies are making mine action safer and more efficient, helping reduce exposure to danger. That’s why I’m proud to share the first-ever edition of our new WIPO Technology SPARK series: Technologies for Mine Action, produced in close collaboration with the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining (GICHD). The mine action sector has traditionally had low awareness of intellectual property. Through this report we aim to raise awareness of how IP and technology insights can support humanitarian goals, helping innovators, policymakers and field experts work together more effectively. Access the report here: https://lnkd.in/dAu8WXps This report explores the patenting trends that support humanitarian mine action and highlights how innovation can advance safety, recovery and sustainable development in post-conflict areas. A special thank you to my colleagues Lakshmi Supriya, Chris Harrison and Brianne Nicole Sanchez for their excellent work in developing this inaugural SPARK report at WIPO, and to our partners Boris Ohanyan, Pedro Basto, and Igor Karpachev at GICHD. Also, to Daren Tang for his support and enthusiasm for this new publication series as part of our growing IP analytics portfolio. Through the SPARK series (Short Pieces of Analysis, Research and Knowledge) we aim to ignite new ideas and collaboration, showing how IP analytics can help shape technology development across sectors, including those with strong humanitarian impact. More SPARK reports are already in development for 2026. If there’s an emerging technology that you think deserves a closer look, we would be happy to hear your ideas. #WIPO #Innovation #IPAnalytics #MineAction #Spark #GICHD #Collaboration #IntellectualProperty #Technology

Like many folks, I've spent some time reviewing Spotify’s latest Loud & Clear report, which highlights Spotify’s growing financial impact and candidly addresses debates about artist compensation. In 2024, Spotify distributed $10 billion in royalties, with the number of artists earning significant royalties tripling since 2017. While per-stream royalty concerns persist, Spotify’s global reach has undeniably created new opportunities for artists worldwide, across various languages and territories. Reflecting on this, I view the music industry's evolution over the past 25 years through three distinct eras: 2000s: The Gatekeeper Era – Dominated by physical CDs, major-label control, radio discovery, and high-budget music videos on platforms like MTV and BET. Opportunities were scarce, with a limited number of artists getting through industry gatekeepers. The late 2000s saw music blogs signaling early digital change. 2010s: The Streaming Revolution – Streaming platforms reshaped discovery, building upon momentum from blogs and digital media. DIY distribution empowered independent artists, shifting economics towards touring, merchandise, and streaming revenue. 2020s: The Era of Artist Ownership – Artists increasingly own their masters, directly monetize fanbases (Discord, Patreon, Even), and leverage short-form platforms like TikTok for marketing. Merchandising evolved into private labels, limited drops, and digital collectibles. This timeline isn't perfect nor universally applicable, but it captures significant industry shifts. In this week's bag drop—"The New Music Economy of Abundance"—I'll further analyze insights from Spotify’s Loud & Clear report, explore broader industry trends, and discuss what they mean for artists today. To receive the full breakdown, subscribe to my free newsletter: www.newbagdrops.com

What's a key innovation driver in leading-edge logic and memory chips? 𝐈𝐭'𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐫𝐝 𝐝𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧. A bit of an explainer below, with spotlights on wafer bonding and backside power delivery. 🔎 For advanced logic chips, the third dimension is used to 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 and to be able to 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐬. It started with FinFET transistors, taking planar transistors into the third dimension. This now extends into gate-all-around and nanosheet transistors, where chipmakers use 3D layers to boost performance, and into the next-gen "CFET" transistors, where chipmakers stack in order to scale. All of this is enabled by innovations such as 𝐁𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐃𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲. More below! 👇 And for a little bit of transistor history and future, read Always Be Curious: https://lnkd.in/eQg3_gKF For memory, the evolution to 3D has also been going on for a while already. NAND memory has a super dense structure, so when real estate became scarce, chipmakers started to build up to further increase bit density. The industry is now mass producing 3D NAND with high 200-something layers, with a roadmap to more than 1,000 (!) layers by the end of this decade. In DRAM, the roadmap is also increasingly 3D-powered with vertical cells, followed by stacked layers of horizontal cell transistors and capacitors. A key enabler for some of these innovations is 𝐰𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐫 𝐛𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠. In wafer bonding, the chip manufacturing process is split over multiple wafers that have to come together as one. An example: 3D NAND originally combined the logic circuitry and the layers of memory cells on a single wafer. To scale further, chipmakers are now splitting the manufacturing process: the logic circuits are made on one wafer, and the memory stack on another. The surfaces are covered in oxide insulation and pads that link up the chips’ interconnect layers. The bonding process then brings the logic wafer and the flipped-over memory wafer together as one, after which the memory wafer is ground down to the memory array and gets an additional interconnect layer. 🔎 𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐠𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐨𝐧 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 Today’s chips have power delivered from the top of the chip, which requires the power ‘lines’ to go through many layers of wiring to get to the transistors at the bottom of the stack. This means that precious chip real estate has to be used for power delivery, while power is lost as it travels through those many layers. Backside power delivery flips the script and routs power delivery from the bottom (or ‘backside’) of the chip, gaining more direct access to the transistors. In return, the ‘frontside’ real estate can be used to increase transistor density, while improving the overall power and performance of the chip. Image source: ASML's Investor Day, November 2024 #3dintegration #gaafet #cfet #transistors #3dnand #dram #nand

Robots are starting to reshape the installation of solar panels. Chinese company Leapting recently rolled out its AI-controlled robot in Australia for its first commercial deployment — installing 10,000 panels at Neoen’s Culcairn solar farm in NSW. It makes a lot of sense. The largest solar farms have over a million panels, each weighing around 30 kg and requiring 3-4 people to handle. This translates to an installation rate of about 100 panels per 8-hour day. By comparison, Leapting says its robot can install 3-5x as many, at an average rate of 60 modules an hour. As well as the sheer scale of the work involved, large scale solar farms are often located in remote areas with harsh construction environments and strong sunlight, not to mention the heat in countries like Australia. Leapting hopes the use of robots will help address worker shortages and reduce the amount of downtime due to injury. The robot itself consists of a 2.5m high robotic arm mounted on a self-guided and self-propelled crawler. It has its own navigation system, uses visual recognition to adapt to different terrain, and multimodal sensors ensure each panel goes in the right place. Next up, Leapting will deploy this robot and several others to another solar farm in Australia, where together they will install half a million panels. And Leapting isn’t alone — many other companies are exploring the use of robots to speed up solar module installations. Expect to see a lot more of this in the coming years. Video credit: Leapting #energy #renewables #energytransition

Something extraordinary happened at the Republic Day parade in Kolkata. Not the usual tanks or aircraft displays. But a pack of robotic dogs executing a perfectly synchronized bow. This wasn't a tech demo. These are MULE (Multi-Utility Legged Equipment) - India's combat-ready robotic warriors: And they're not just for show. These machines are deployment-ready: - Navigate terrains that would challenge human soldiers  - Operate remotely up to 10km  - Pack military-grade thermal imaging  - Can be weaponized for combat situations These are developed in-house under Make In India, showcasing our defense technology capabilities. While the world is still experimenting with military robots, India just casually showed them off at a public parade, demonstrating them in perfect formation. These aren't just fancy toys - they're designed to save soldiers' lives in high-risk operations across India's diverse terrains. From snowy mountains to urban warfare, these four-legged warriors are changing the game of military operations. And where did India choose to showcase this groundbreaking technology?  Right here in Kolkata! The City of Joy is rapidly emerging as a hub of defense innovation. From hosting cutting-edge military exhibitions to becoming the launchpad for next-gen defense tech, Kolkata is writing a new chapter in India's technological journey. Proud to see our city leading the way! #DefenceTech #MakeInIndia #Kolkata 

Intel Foundry Research Shows How New Bonding Technology Powers AI Chips with Precision : https://lnkd.in/eTVHXq5f Intel Foundry researchers have developed an innovative thermal control technology that addresses the difficulty of assembling increasingly larger package substrates that combine different types of processors, memory, and specialized chiplets into compact, high-performance systems essential for artificial intelligence (AI) workloads. Presented in a research paper at the IEEE Electronic Components and Technology Conference (ECTC 2025), Intel Foundry’s novel low thermal gradient thermal compression bonding (TCB) process overcomes the limitations of conventional chip assembly methods by dramatically reducing temperature differences during manufacturing, including die to substrate thermal expansion mismatch, fluxing activity, and yield challenges faced by conventional TCB processes. This new process helps reduce die and substrate warpage during the bonding process, enabling the precise connection of multiple chip components while maintaining high production yields and reliability. - Presented at ECTC, Intel Foundry's low thermal gradient thermal compression bonding technology enables the assembly of complex AI chips by reducing temperature differences during manufacturing, improving both production yields and chip reliability. - This innovative approach allows manufacturers to pack more computing power into smaller spaces by connecting different types of memory and processor chips with greater precision in advanced packages with larger form factors. - Capitalizing on this type of research, Intel Foundry offers innovative advanced packaging with EMIB for very large form factors. #semiconductor #manufacturing #technology #innovation #chips  #semiconductormanufacturing #advancedtechnology #engineering #lithography #nanometer #research #development #AI #EUV #DUV #mobileprocessors #semiconductorindustry #semiconductormarket

The DoD just dropped its FY26 RDT&E budget—and it’s a $179B North Star for anyone building the future of national defense. Here’s what’s hot (and heavily funded): 🤖 Unmanned Systems & Physical AI – The budget is stacked with programs for launched effects, ground robotics, SUAS, TITAN, and AI-enabled C2. This is the golden hour for anyone working in cyber-physical systems, autonomous platforms, and real-world AI at the tactical edge. 🧠 AI/ML & Autonomy – From soldier lethality to ISR and C3I, embedded AI is showing up everywhere. Physical + digital fusion isn’t hype—it’s a requirement. 🚁 Future Vertical Lift & Next-Gen Combat Vehicles – Army and Navy are doubling down on transformational platforms, from long-range assault aircraft to hybrid-electric tracked systems. ⚔️ Hypersonics, Precision Fires & EW – Rapid, smart kill chains are in. Big money flows to hypersonic weapons, integrated fires, and resilient spectrum ops. 🧬 Biotech & Materials Science – Quietly accelerating: synthetic biology, survivability-enhancing materials, and warfighter performance R&D. Big implications for dual-use founders. 🛰️ Tactical Space & Multi-Domain Sensing – LEO, PNT, ISR nodes—space is tactical now, and the budget reflects it. 💻 Digital Pilots & Agile RDT&E – Software-defined everything. Over $1B in funding for digital pilot programs and agile prototyping. If you’re building fast, the DoD wants in. This isn’t just a spending plan—it’s a mission set for innovators. If you’re in unmanned systems, autonomy, biotech, robotics, or defense software… the signal is clear: let’s go. #DoDBudget #RDTandE #DefenseTech #UnmannedSystems #PhysicalAI #Robotics #Biotech #FutureVerticalLift #Hypersonics #DualUse #AgileRDTandE #ISR #GovTech #NationalSecurity

What can unite a world-famous historian, inventor-engineers, and ministers of economy and digitalization? Humanitarian demining. Just a few days ago, the first fully Ukrainian-made demining machine was certified. Together with the Minister of Digital Transformation of Ukraine Mykhailo Fedorov, and a great friend of Ukraine, American historian Timothy Snyder had the chance to see it in action. Timothy Snyder and Mark Hamill, ambassadors of UNITED24, jointly launched a fundraising campaign for 30 demining robots for Ukraine. "Zmiiy" is a lightweight, innovative, and highly efficient machine capable of adapting to various working conditions. It quickly locates and neutralizes explosive devices, and can even withstand FPV drone explosions. This is a unique development that is not only important for Ukraine but also a global product that will significantly speed up demining efforts. This small, portable machine has proven to be just as effective as larger, heavier demining machines. Six months ago, one of the inventors of "Zmiiy," Borys D., wrote to me on social media: "We are working on a unique product. Give us a little time and we will be doing better than imports." And I am very grateful to Borys for keeping his word. Rovertech LLC is developing a technology that will drastically speed up demining efforts. They promise: "With a little more time, this product will enable us to clear up to 10 hectares of land daily." Unfortunately, Ukraine has become a vast testing ground for new technologies and innovations. The development of the "Zmiiy" proves that our engineers have the skills and ability to create products that can change the world. And the world, in turn, is ready to help us make our land safe. Timothy Snyder's support for humanitarian demining is the best proof of this.

EU commission president Ursula von der Leyen has announced €800 billion in defence spending under the #ReArm #Europe plan. This is where security, resilience and technology policy converge. At Institute for Innovation and Technology (iit), we combine our expertise on this topic under the name #GeoTechPolitics. As the war in Ukraine shows, the means of warfare and defence have changed dramatically.  ⛓️ If deterrence is to be credible, we need not only sufficient defence budgets but also resilient #supplychains. Batteries are an increasingly important technology for military applications. However, the value chains are heavily dominated by China, and this is no coincidence. 💪 #China is currently making political use of its dominant position by introducing trade permits for key technologies such as lithium and LF(M)P production technology and graphite products. 🏭 Meanwhile, European #gigafactory projects are struggling to ramp up while Chinese companies such as CATL and, most recently, CALB are announcing plans to expand their capacities here. 🔋 With this in mind, let us have a look at the essential role batteries play in a wide range of #militaryequipment:  * Communication & information systems (radios, satellite phones, internet access points, computers, tablets, etc.): high energy density, extended temperature and impact tolerances. * Autonomous systems (unmanned aerial, ground and water vehicles): high energy density, fast charging speed * Vehicles and propulsion systems (ships & submarines, infantry carriers, light vehicles): high robustness & safety, battery/capacitor hybrid systems * Weapon & guidance systems (guided missiles and precision weapons, active protection systems): high power, compact design, high safety * Surveillance & reconnaissance (night vision devices, mobile radar systems, cameras, jammers, drone defense): long service life, extended temperature, vibration and shock tolerances. * Satellite and space systems (satellites, uplink systems, navigation systems): security, extended temperature, vibration and shock tolerances. 💥 To put this into perspective: Ukraine has ramped up its own #drone production capacity to 2.5 million per year. Commercial drones like the Mavic 3 from DJI have a battery capacity of 77 Wh. This results in a battery demand of almost 200 MWh/a for Ukraine's drones alone. 📄 The #visualization of equipping soldiers with battery technology comes from the NATO STO Technical Report TR-SET-173-Part-I. The document is from 2014, which makes it clear that we need new and more up-to-date analysis on the subject. 👉 More information: * ReArm Europe: https://lnkd.in/eBvKB5A3 * Drone manufacturing in Ukraine: https://lnkd.in/eKb2WeAx * NATO STO Technical Report: https://t1p.de/c2bew

This year, India’s defense sector unveiled advancements in AI that are reshaping military strategies & boosting national security. Here’s what the data tells us: --> AI is now central to defense modernization. --> Collaboration across sectors is driving innovation. Let’s explore these in detail. 1️⃣ AI-Powered Technologies Transforming Defense India’s armed forces are deploying AI across critical areas: ➤ Autonomy in operations: AI-enabled systems like swarm drones & autonomous intercept boats enhance mission precision, reduce human risk, & improve tactical outcomes. ➤ Intelligence, Surveillance, & Reconnaissance (ISR): AI-based motion detection & target identification systems provide real-time alerts for better situational awareness along borders. ➤ Advanced robotics: Silent Sentry, a 3D-printed AI rail-mounted robot, supports automated perimeter security & intrusion detection. Example: Swarm drones use distributed AI algorithms for dynamic collision avoidance, target identification, & coordinated aerial maneuvers, providing versatility in both offensive & defensive tasks. 2️⃣ Collaboration as the Catalyst for Innovation India’s AI advancements are the result of partnerships between the government, private industries, & research institutions. ➤ Indigenous solutions: 100% indigenously developed systems like the Sapper Scout UGV for mine detection. ➤ Startups and SMEs: Innovative contributions from tech firms and startups have fueled projects like AI-enabled predictive maintenance for naval ships and drones. ➤ Global export potential: Systems like Project Drone Feed Analysis and maritime anomaly detection tools are export-ready, positioning India as a major global defense tech player. 3️⃣ The Data-Driven Case for AI ➤ Efficiency: AI-driven systems exponentially improve surveillance coverage and reduce operational time. For example, the Drone Feed Analysis system decreases mission costs while expanding surveillance areas. ➤ Safety: Predictive AI systems in vehicles and maritime platforms enhance safety by identifying potential risks before failures occur. ➤ Economic impact: AI-powered predictive maintenance for critical assets like naval ships and aircraft maximizes uptime while minimizing costs. Real Impact ➤ Swarm drones: Affordable, scalable, and capable of BVLOS operations, offering precision in combat. ➤ AI-enabled maritime systems: Detect anomalies in vessel traffic, securing trade routes and protecting economic interests. ➤ AI-driven mine detection: Enhances soldier safety while automating high-risk tasks. What does this mean for defense organizations? AI isn’t just modernizing defense; it’s placing it firmly in the global defense innovation market. With bold policies, dedicated budgets, and a growing ecosystem of public and private sector players, this will help lead the next wave of AI-driven defense technologies. But the question remains: How do we ensure these technologies are deployed ethically and responsibly? Agree?