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Alphabet

Alphabet is a holding company that wholly owns internet giant Google. The California-based company derives slightly less than 90% of its revenue from Google services, the vast majority of which is advertising sales. Alongside online ads, Google services houses sales stemming from Google's subscription services (YouTube TV, YouTube Music among others), platforms (sales and in-app purchases on Play Store), and devices (Chromebooks, Pixel smartphones, and smart home products such as Chromecast). Google's cloud computing platform, or GCP, accounts for roughly 10% of Alphabet's revenue with the firm's investments in up-and-coming technologies such as self-driving cars (Waymo), health (Verily), and internet access (Google Fiber) making up the rest.

Alphabet Inc

Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) reportedly stands to gain significantly if TikTok, a popular social media platform, is <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/43070367/kevin-oleary-warns-that-shutting-down-tiktok-would-hurt-6-million-small-businesses-in-america-that-rely-on-it-to-make-a-living">banned from U.S. app stores</a> this Sunday.
 What Happened: TikTok&#8217;s legal team warned that the app could &#8220;go dark,&#8221; cutting off access for existing users to view videos. Such a ban would significantly affect one of the largest social media platforms in the U.S., potentially freeing up billions in ad revenue and user engagement, according to an analysis by eMarketer on Friday, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/tiktok-us-ban-how-meta-benefits-google-instagram-youtube-ad-2025-1">reported</a>&nbsp;Business Insider.
According to the analysis, TikTok raked in $12.34 billion in U.S. ad revenue in 2024. If the app faces a ban, an estimated $6.17 billion to $8.64 billion in ad spending could be redirected. Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, stands to capture a significant share, potentially gaining between $2.46 billion and $3.38 billion in ad revenue.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/01/43051084/mrbeast-unveils-mystery-box-giveaway-to-celebrate-beast-games-episode-6-release-on-amazon-prime-video">MrBeast Unveils Mystery Box Giveaway To Celebrate Beast Games Episode 6 Release On Amazon Prime Video</a>
Morgan Stanley analysts also predict that Mark Zuckerberg&#8217;s company would emerge as the &#8220;largest fundamental winner of any TikTok ban,&#8221; leveraging its extensive user base and robust data capabilities. They estimate such a ban could boost Meta&#8217;s earnings per share by 5% to 9% in the 2026 fiscal year.
Instagram is projected to absorb a significant portion of the time U.S. users currently spend on TikTok. In 2024, TikTok users in the U.S. averaged nearly an hour daily on the app, with almost 75% also active on Instagram, according to EMARKETER.
While Meta is poised to gain the most, Alphabet Inc.&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) Google&#8217;s YouTube and Snap Inc.&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SNAP#NYSE">SNAP</a>) Snapchat could also benefit from TikTok&#8217;s absence.
Why It Matters: The U.S. Supreme Court upheld&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/01/43060894/supreme-court-upholds-tiktok-ban-ahead-of-trumps-inauguration" target="_blank" rel="noopener">a ruling on Friday that TikTok would be banned&nbsp;</a>in the country unless the parent company&nbsp;ByteDance&nbsp;sold off the American portion of the business. This decision is based on &#8220;well-supported national security concerns&#8221; regarding TikTok&#8217;s data collection practices and its relationship with a foreign adversary,
Ross Gerber, CEO of&nbsp;Gerber Kawasaki Wealth and Investment Management, also <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/01/43050469/tesla-bull-ross-gerber-demands-tiktok-ban-calling-it-a-national-security-risk-amid-reports-that-elon-musk-may-buy-it">demanded a ban on TikTok</a>, calling it a &#8220;national security risk&#8221; amid reports that&nbsp;Elon Musk&nbsp;may buy it.
Despite the uncertainty, the looming ban has already had an impact. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/01/43049496/as-tiktok-faces-us-ban-vpn-searches-skyrocket-800-will-workarounds-work-experts-weigh-in">VPN searches have skyrocketed by 800%</a> as users seek workarounds, and TikTok has announced plans to cease operations in the U.S., although users can still download their personal data.
Check out more of Benzinga&#8217;s Consumer Tech coverage by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following this link</a>.
<ul>
<li>Read Next:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/25/01/43021026/apple-stock-has-moved-up-4-2-since-iphone-16-launched-analyst-says-it-has-another-8-upside-as-manufacturing-cost-decline-bolsters-cupertinos-margins" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apple Stock Has Moved Up 4.2% Since iPhone 16 Launched, Analyst Says It Has Another 8% Upside As Manufacturing Cost Decline Bolsters Cupertino's Margins</a></li>
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Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a>&nbsp;and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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Mark Zuckerberg Stands To Gain The Most From TikTok's US Ban: Meta Could Reap Billions In Ad Revenue

The U.S. Supreme Court has upheld a ruling that TikTok will be banned in the country unless parent company ByteDance sells off the American<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/01/43047973/tiktok-ban-decision-left-to-trump-by-biden-administration-what-this-means-for-170-million-us-users-and-big-tech"> portion of the business.</a>
What Happened: In a unanimous decision, the Supreme Court issued its ruling that TikTok is<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42654769/tiktok-ban-under-trump-president-elect-wants-to-keep-months-after-pelosi-said-follow-the-money"> set to be banned</a> on Jan. 19, ending access to updates for the app for 170 million monthly American users.
"There is no doubt that, for more than 170 million Americans, TikTok offers a distinctive and expansive outlet for expression, means of engagement, and source of community. But Congress has determined that divestiture is necessary to address its well-supported national security concerns regarding TikTok's data collection practices and relationship with a foreign adversary," the written <a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/24pdf/24-656_ca7d.pdf">ruling </a>said.
The Supreme Court ruled TikTok's argument that the ban would violate First Amendment rights was not valid.
The written ruling cites incoming President Donald Trump, who previously issued an Executive Order in August 2020 to have TikTok banned, "the spread in the United States on mobile applications developed and owned by companies in (China) continues to threaten the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States."
Under the Supreme Court's ruling, the pending ban of TikTok will see Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>)(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) and Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) forced to stop offering the TikTok app in its mobile app stores to American users or face fines.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/sports/25/01/43032864/mark-cuban-says-tiktok-ban-wont-hurt-sports">Mark Cuban Says TikTok Ban Won&#8217;t Hurt Sports: Fans Can &#8216;Find the Same League Content Elsewhere&#8217;</a>
Why It's Important: The TikTok ban is set to happen on Sunday, one day before Trump will be inaugurated as president.
Trump, who previously supported a ban on TikTok, has since changed his tune and now supports keeping the app or delaying the ban. Trump is considering an executive order that could delay the ban, according to reports.
On Friday, Trump said he spoke to Chinese President Xi Jinping and TikTok was among the topics discussed.
"It is my expectation that we will solve many problems together, and starting immediately. We discussed balancing Trade, Fentanyl, TikTok, and many other subjects," Trump <a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/113844165549788304">said </a>in a post that was published before the Supreme Court announced its ruling.
The exiting Joe Biden administration is leaving the decision to ban TikTok up to Trump.
"Our position on this has been clear: TikTok should continue to operate under American ownership. Given the timing of when it goes into effect over a holiday weekend a day before the inauguration, it will be up to the next administration to implement," a White House spokesperson&nbsp;<a href="https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/biden-administration-leave-trump-implement-tiktok-ban/story?id=117753133" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">told</a>&nbsp;ABC News.
Trump has met with TikTok CEO Shou Chew at Mar-A-Lago and a report said Chew will<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/01/43047509/tiktok-ceo-shou-chew-to-join-trumps-inauguration-alongside-musk-bezos-and-zuckerberg-amid-looming-us-ban-report"> attend Trump's inauguration</a> on Monday.
Trump's meeting with Chew and talks with President Jinping could be among the reasons he has changed his mind about a TikTok ban.
Another reason for the potential reversal of his stance on TikTok&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42654769/tiktok-ban-under-trump-president-elect-wants-to-keep-months-after-pelosi-said-follow-the-money" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">could be the support</a>&nbsp;of Republican megadonor&nbsp;Jeff Yass, who owns 15% of ByteDance.
A report from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2024/03/14/trump-tiktok-billionaire-donors-00146892" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Politico&nbsp;</a>featured the potential of Trump looking for a way to benefit from opposing the TikTok ban.
"It's a mirror image of 2020," former technology company spokesperson&nbsp;Nu Wexler&nbsp;previously told Politico. "He tried to ban TikTok and then figured out that there was an out — that he could take care of a donor — and flipped on it."
&#8220;When it comes to Trump, follow the money," Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) told Politico of Trump's TikTok reversal.
Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/03/37594839/enemy-of-the-people-trump-slams-meta-stock-as-tiktok-ban-faces-scrutiny" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">acknowledged in an interview</a>&nbsp;with CNBC he met with Yass but the two did not talk about TikTok or ByteDance.
While there have been several interested parties in buying the American TikTok division from ByteDance, the parent company has not indicated they will sell the division. ByteDance has also not indicated if they will end access to the app in America.
TikTok users who have already downloaded and use the app may continue to have access to the app, but will no longer get updates or receive security fixes if ByteDance keeps access to the app open.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/01/42957741/tiktok-ban-deadline-ahead-what-will-happen-to-app-on-your-phone">TikTok Ban Deadline Ahead: What Will Happen To App On Your Phone?</a></li>
</ul>
Photos: Shutterstock

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Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban Ahead Of Trump's Inauguration: Necessary For 'Well-Supported National Security Concerns'

The Magnificent Seven <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/earnings">earnings season is here</a>, and while JPMorgan's Doug Anmuth expects strong results, the real test lies in 2025 outlooks.
With tougher comps, FX headwinds, and slowing growth, investors will be watching closely to see if these tech giants can sustain momentum.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">AI Capex: Bet Big Or Go Home</h2>
The AI spending spree isn't slowing down. JPMorgan raised 2025 capex estimates for the big three &#8211; Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) at $97 billion, Alphabet Inc&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) Google at $62 billion, and Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) at $64 billion &#8211; all exceeding consensus.
While these investments weigh on margins and free cash flow, Anmuth still anticipates margin expansion for Amazon and Google, while Meta&#8217;s growth appears more limited.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42349552/is-the-mag-7s-ai-boom-supercharging-a-natural-gas-revolution">Mag 7&#8217;s AI Boom Will Supercharge Natural Gas Sector As Power Demands Become Insatiable: Analyst</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Amazon: AWS Takes Center Stage</h2>
With AWS accelerating and GenAI becoming a bigger revenue driver, Amazon&#8217;s North American operating margins could expand by 6.6% in 2025, thanks to regionalization and automation, the analyst says.
Investors are looking for AWS growth of over 20% and operating income between $19 and $20 billion &#8211; key numbers that could drive stock movement.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Meta &amp; Google: Monetization Is Key</h2>
Meta is leaning on AI-driven ad tools, Reels, and MetaAI to sustain 19-20% revenue growth (FX-adjusted), though FX could shave off around 100 basis points. Llama 4 is set to boost monetization, but expect higher capex and slight margin compression. 
Meanwhile, Google&#8217;s YouTube ads, Search, and Cloud are expected to perform well in Q4, particularly post-holiday. While regulatory risks persist, investor sentiment appears to be improving.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Verdict</h2>
Anmuth's top picks remain Amazon, Meta and Alphabet. Strong earnings may not be enough—investors need proof that AI investments will deliver actual returns. 
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/11/42224850/2025-stock-playbook-tap-into-ais-1-trillion-potential-us-growth-opportunities">2025 Stock Playbook: Tap Into AI&#8217;s $1 Trillion Potential, US Growth Opportunities</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

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Magnificent 7 Earnings Hinge On AI Payoff: Analyst Flags Top Risks

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/semiconductors" rel="noreferrer noopener">Contract chipmaker</a> Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>) chief C.C. Wei opted to maintain a low profile by skipping President-elect&nbsp;Donald Trump&#8217;s inauguration, including donations to the Trump camp, Bloomberg reports.
The inaugural committee raised over <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/01/42938119/lockheed-martin-donates-1m-to-trumps-inaugural-committee-as-speculation-grows-over-elon-musk-led-doge-crackdown-on-traditional-defense-contracts" rel="noreferrer noopener">$170 million for January events</a>, thanks to donors including&nbsp;Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>),&nbsp;Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>),&nbsp;Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>),&nbsp;Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) Google, and&nbsp;Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>).
Big Tech giant leaders, including Apple&#8217;s Tim Cook, Amazon&#8217;s Jeff Bezos, and Tesla Inc&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) Elon Musk will attend the inauguration on January 20.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/price-target/25/01/43038644/citi-cheap-valuation-investment-banking-and-trading-outlook-paired-with-accelerating-buybacks-sparks-optimism-analyst" rel="noreferrer noopener">Citi Outperforms Analyst Expectations With 12% Revenue Growth, Confirms $20 Billion Buyback Plan</a>
Reuters reports that Wei blamed the crisis of skilled workers, supply chain gaps, and inadequate chip plant construction regulations for delaying the construction of its Arizona project.
Wei added that Taiwan Semiconductor&#8217;s U.S. plant is unlikely to procure the most advanced chip technology before factories in Taiwan due to compliance issues, construction, and other regulations.
Wei told Reuters that building the new Arizona factory took at least twice as long as in Taiwan due to the complex regulations that made it challenging to employ the chipmaker&#8217;s latest technology in the U.S. before Taiwan.
Previously, Taiwan Semiconductor stated most of its chip manufacturing would remain in Taiwan, especially for the most advanced chips.
Trump had called out Taiwan during <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/10/41604100/trump-goes-after-taiwan-semiconductor-on-joe-rogan-podcast" rel="noreferrer noopener">his presidential campaigns</a> for allegedly&nbsp;sabotaging America&#8217;s chip industry. He verbally attacked the U.S. CHIPS Act and pledged to slap tariffs on Taiwanese chips. He had also flagged the lack of a formal defense treaty between the U.S. and Taiwan.
Additionally, before handing over the charge to the Trump government, the Biden administration launched another round of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/42897081/nvidia-and-ai-chip-stocks-brace-for-impact-as-biden-administration-considers-new-china-export-ban-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial intelligence technology sanctions</a> on countries, including China and Russia, to restrict their warfare capabilities.
China has been a key semiconductor market for companies like Taiwan Semiconductor. Washington aims to maintain its semiconductor position dominance and share control with its allies, including Taiwan, the Netherlands (home to ASML Holding (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/asml#NASDAQ">ASML</a>)), and South Korea (home to Samsung Electronics (OTC: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ssnlf#OTC">SSNLF</a>)).
Wei told Bloomberg that he found the semiconductor sanctions &#8220;manageable&#8221; and does not expect them to affect chips for non-AI sectors such as cars and crypto-mining.
On Thursday, Taiwan Semiconductor reported <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/01/43022654/taiwan-semiconductor-q4-earnings-3nm-and-5nm-nodes-lead-topline-growth-expands-margins-issues-strong-q1-outlook" rel="noreferrer noopener">fourth-quarter revenue</a> of $26.88 billion (NT$868.46 billion), up 38.8%, topping the consensus estimate of $26.28 billion.
As its 3-nm and 5-nm technologies gained traction, the chipmaker&#8217;s gross margins expanded by 600 bps to 59%.
It expects first-quarter 2025 revenue of $25.0 billion—$25.8 billion versus the&nbsp;$24.97 billion consensus. It projects a gross margin of 57%—59%. Taiwan Semiconductor committed $38 billion—$42 billion to fiscal 2025 capex versus actual capex of $29.8 billion a year ago.&nbsp;
During the earnings call, Wei expressed conviction in producing chips of the same quality in Arizona as in Taiwan with a smooth ramp-up process.
Taiwan Semiconductor stock surged 109% in the last 12 months.
Investors can gain exposure to companies engaged in the manufacturing of semiconductors through VanEck Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMH#NASDAQ">SMH</a>)
and iShares Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOXX#NASDAQ">SOXX</a>).
Price Action:&nbsp;TSM stock traded higher by 0.20% to $215.21 premarket at the last check on Friday.
Also Read:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/01/43026092/bank-of-america-q4-earnings-6-7-billion-profit-1-7-billion-in-investment-banking-fees-forecasts-higher-nii-in-2025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bank of America Q4 Earnings: $6.7 Billion Profit, $1.7 Billion In Investment Banking Fees</a></li>
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Taiwan Semi Chief To Skip Trump Inauguration, Calls US Semiconductor Sanctions 'Manageable'

The widely-used social media platform, TikTok, owned by China&#8217;s ByteDance, is teetering on the edge of a ban in the United States. The ban can only be averted if a last-minute deal is reached with a U.S. investor or if the Supreme Court intervenes.
What Happened: In anticipation of the ban, TikTok plans to cease operations in the U.S., although users can still download their personal data. App stores managed by Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) and Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) will remove TikTok, preventing updates and disrupting the app&#8217;s new video content. 
Additionally, Oracle Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ORCL#NYSE">ORCL</a>) might stop hosting TikTok data.
Users have been exploring potential workarounds, such as using virtual private networks (VPNs) to conceal their location. According to Google Trends data, searches for &#8220;VPN for TikTok&#8221; have risen by almost 800% in the past week. 
However, TikTok has other ways to determine user locations, including accessing geolocation data from devices, according to Jason Kelley, director of activism at the Electronic Frontier Foundation, Reuters reported.
Some users have considered using a web-based version of TikTok through a browser with a VPN. However, the web version lacks many app features and may fail to deliver a personalized experience, especially if creating a new account is required. &#8220;It won&#8217;t be a good service for you, and it won&#8217;t be a profitable service for them,&#8221; Kelley said.
Experts have suggested using a VPN or changing phone settings to another country such as Canada as possible solutions, but these methods are not straightforward. Kelley pointed out that TikTok can still identify user locations. 
Joseph Lorenzo Hall of the Internet Society humorously mentioned that influencers might need two phones due to the ban.
Why It Matters: The impending TikTok ban has significant implications for its 170 million U.S. users. The Biden administration has decided not to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/01/43047973/tiktok-ban-decision-left-to-trump-by-biden-administration-what-this-means-for-170-million-us-users-and-big-tech">enforce the ban</a>, leaving the decision to the incoming Donald Trump administration. This decision could impact the app&#8217;s future operations in the U.S. and its users.
Meanwhile,&nbsp;Jimmy Donaldson, known as MrBeast, is in discussions with several billionaires about<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/01/42994923/mrbeast-discussing-buying-tiktok-with-billionaires-to-prevent-us-shutdown-lets-see-if-we-can-pull-this-off"> potentially acquiring TikTok </a>to prevent its shutdown. This move highlights the app&#8217;s popularity and the lengths to which individuals are willing to go to keep it operational in the U.S.
Read Also: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/43041207/5-things-investors-need-to-know-about-scott-bessents-economic-policies-as-he-faces-senate-grilling-for-treasury-job">5 Things Investors Need To Know About Scott Bessent&#8217;s Economic Policies As He Faces Senate Grilling For Treasury Job</a></li>
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a>&nbsp;and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image via Shutterstock

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As TikTok Faces US Ban, VPN Searches Skyrocket 800%: Will Workarounds Work? Experts Weigh In

The Biden administration has decided not to enforce the impending TikTok ban, leaving the decision to the incoming Donald Trump administration.
What Happened: Despite the ban set to take effect on Sunday, the Biden administration will not force TikTok to shut down for U.S. users. However, the popular social media app could choose to do so voluntarily, impacting its 170 million monthly users.
&#8220;Our position on this has been clear: TikTok should continue to operate under American ownership. Given the timing of when it goes into effect over a holiday weekend a day before the inauguration, it will be up to the next administration to implement,&#8221; a White House spokesperson <a href="https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/biden-administration-leave-trump-implement-tiktok-ban/story?id=117753133">told</a> ABC News.
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/25/01/43021026/apple-stock-has-moved-up-4-2-since-iphone-16-launched-analyst-says-it-has-another-8-upside-as-manufacturing-cost-decline-bolsters-cupertinos-margins" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apple Stock Has Moved Up 4.2% Since iPhone 16 Launched, Analyst Says It Has Another 8% Upside As Manufacturing Cost Decline Bolsters Cupertino's Margins</a>
The law, which comes into effect a day before President Joe Biden leaves office, states that app stores and internet hosting services could face fines of up to $5,000 per user if they continue to provide services to TikTok.
This puts tech companies like Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>), and Oracle Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ORCL#NYSE">ORCL</a>) in a precarious position.
Why It Matters: While both President Biden and President-elect Trump have limited options to delay the ban, the law does allow for a one-time extension of up to 90 days under specific conditions.
However, there is currently no indication that these conditions have been met.
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Despite attempts by Democrats to extend the deadline for TikTok&#8217;s parent company, ByteDance, to divest, Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR) objected on the grounds of national security concerns, the report noted.
Trump&#8217;s pick for national security adviser, Florida Rep. Mike Waltz, confirmed that the incoming administration is exploring options to keep TikTok available, including a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/01/43018125/trump-considers-executive-order-to-save-tiktok-from-being-banned-in-4-days">possible executive order</a>.
Earlier it was also reported that TikTok CEO Shou Chew is <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/01/43047509/tiktok-ceo-shou-chew-to-join-trumps-inauguration-alongside-musk-bezos-and-zuckerberg-amid-looming-us-ban-report">set to attend Trump&#8217;s inauguration</a>.
As the ban looms, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43035577/nio-ceo-welcomes-tiktok-users-to-rednote-amid-us-ban-concerns">users are seeking alternatives</a>. A growing number of users are turning to RedNote, a widely used Chinese social media app, known as Xiaohongshu in China.
Photo Courtesy: Shutterstock.com
Check out more of Benzinga&#8217;s Consumer Tech coverage by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following this link</a>.
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Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a>&nbsp;and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

TikTok Ban Decision Left To Trump By Biden Administration: What This Means For 170 Million US Users And Big Tech

TikTok CEO Shou Chew is reportedly set to attend President-elect Donald Trump&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/42995328/trump-inauguration-from-elon-musk-jeff-bezos-to-barack-obama-george-bush-and-bill-clinton-who-all-will-attend">inauguration, joining other</a> tech leaders like Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, and Jeff Bezos.
What Happened: The Trump Vance Inaugural Committee extended an invitation to TikTok&#8217;s CEO, <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/15/us/politics/tiktok-ceo-trump-inauguration.html">reported</a> the New York Times, citing two people familiar with the plans on Wednesday.
Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) CEO Sundar Pichai is also expected to attend the event, <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/16/tiktok-ceo-expected-to-attend-trumps-inauguration-nbc-reports.html?__source=twitter%7Ctech&amp;taid=678928f67adf43000148d6cc&amp;utm_campaign=trueanthem&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=twitter">reported</a> NBC News, citing a Trump transition official.
TikTok and Alphabet did not immediately respond to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga's</a> request for comments.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42961753/analyst-sees-broadening-rally-in-semis-coming-in-2025-2-top-stock-picks-and-2-to-avoid">Analyst Sees ‘Broadening Rally' In Semiconductors In 2025: 2 Top Stock Picks, 2 To Avoid</a>
The inauguration ceremony for Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance is scheduled for Monday, with festivities beginning on Saturday at Trump&#8217;s Virginia golf club.
Why It Matters: TikTok CEO&#8217;s invitation to the Trump inauguration comes just days before a potential U.S. ban on the app.
The ban could lead to its removal from platforms like Google Play and the Apple App Store unless its parent company, ByteDance, divests its U.S. operations.
Subscribe to the <a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a> to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
Already reports of Tesla CEO Musk and other potential buyers <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/01/42965533/elon-musk-emerges-as-potential-tiktok-us-buyer-as-ban-deadline-looms-company-terms-it-pure-fiction">making a bid are making</a> rounds.&nbsp;
ByteDance has so far resisted selling, and the Supreme Court has yet to make a definitive ruling after hearing arguments last Friday. Trump has filed an amicus brief urging the court to block the ban, seeking a political resolution instead.
On Thursday, TikTok&#8217;s prospects improved as an increasing number of U.S. officials advocated for giving ByteDance additional time to sell the app, reported Reuters.
Photo Courtesy: Shutterstock.com
Check out more of Benzinga's Consumer Tech coverage by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech">following this link</a>.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

TikTok CEO Shou Chew To Join Trump's Inauguration Alongside Musk, Bezos And Zuckerberg Amid Looming US Ban: Report

Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) confirmed Monday <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/renewable-energy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">that it&#8217;s procuring 200 megawatts</a> of solar energy from electric utility firm Engie. 
What Happened: Engie will supply the Menlo Park, California-based tech giant with renewable energy from its Anson 2 solar project in <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/engie-and-meta-announce-new-200-mw-renewable-energy-agreement-expanding-existing-relationship-to-meet-growing-power-demand-302348660.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jones County, Texas</a>. 
The Anson 2 project will likely employ over 300 skilled workers during construction and support Microsoft&#8217;s data center needs.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43026092/bank-of-america-q4-earnings-67-billion-profit-revenue-jumps-15-investment-banking-and-deposit-growth" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bank of America Q4 Earnings: $6.7 Billion Profit, $1.7 Billion In Investment banking fees, Forecasts Higher NII In 2025</a>
Meta and Louisiana Economic Development (LED) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42337936/meta-unveils-10-billion-ai-data-center-in-louisiana-a-game-changer-for-tech-and-jobs" rel="noreferrer noopener">disclosed plans for</a> a $10 billion AI data center in northeast Louisiana in December. Meta shared plans to tap Entergy to add 1,500 MW of renewable energy to the grid.
Other tech companies also inked collaborations with energy startups to address data center power needs:
<ul>
<li>Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) Google and Kairos collaborated to&nbsp;deploy 500 megawatts&nbsp;of small modular nuclear reactors.</li>
<li>Amazon.com Inc&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) Amazon Web Services tapped Dominion Energy, Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/D#NYSE">D</a>) to develop a small modular reactor. In October, Amazon committed over $500 million in nuclear power across three projects from Virginia to Washington state.</li>
<li>Microsoft Inc&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) collaborated with Constellation Energy Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CEG#NASDAQ">CEG</a>)&nbsp;to reopen Pennsylvania&#8217;s Three Mile Island nuclear plant.</li>
<li>Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) chief Jensen Huang <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/24/10/41119184/nvidia-ceo-jensen-huang-backs-nuclear-energy-to-power-ais-future-3-stocks-to-watch" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">endorsed nuclear energy</a> to meet AI&#8217;s growing electricity demands.</li>
</ul>
Price Action: Meta stock is down 0.86% at $611.61 at last check Thursday. It surged over 66% in the last 12 months.
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Image: Shutterstock

NVDA

Meta Boosts Green Energy With New Solar Deal, Supports AI Data Center Growth

<a href="https://www.axios.com/2025/01/16/google-fact-check-eu">https://www.axios.com/2025/01/16/google-fact-check-eu</a>
&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.axios.com/2025/01/16/google-carbon-removal-charm-industrial-biochar">Google</a> has told the EU it will not add fact checks to search results and YouTube videos or use them in ranking or removing content, despite the requirements of a new EU law, according to a copy of a letter obtained by Axios.
The big picture: Google has never included fact-checking as part of its content moderation practices. The company had signaled privately to EU lawmakers that it didn't plan to change its practices, but it's reaffirming its stance ahead of a voluntary code becoming law in the near future.
Zoom in: In a letter written to Renate Nikolay, the deputy director general under the content and technology arm at the European Commission, Google's global affairs president Kent Walker said the fact-checking integration required by the Commission's new <a href="https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/policies/code-practice-disinformation">Disinformation Code of Practice</a> "simply isn't appropriate or effective for our services" and said Google won't commit to it.
<ul>
<li>The code would require Google to incorporate fact-check results alongside Google's search results and YouTube videos. It would also force Google to build fact-checking into its ranking systems and algorithms.</li>
<li>Walker said Google's current approach to content moderation works and pointed to successful content moderation during last year's "unprecedented cycle of global elections" as proof.</li>
<li>He said a new feature added to YouTube last year that enables some users to <a href="https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/14925346?hl=en#:~:text=Note%20writing%20is%20only%20available,you%20find%20inaccurate%20or%20unclear.">add contextual notes</a> to videos "has significant potential." (That program is similar to X's Community Notes feature, as well as new program <a href="https://www.axios.com/2025/01/07/meta-ends-fact-checking-zuckerberg-trump">announced</a> by Meta last week.)</li>
</ul>
Catch up quick: The EU's Code of Practice on Disinformation, introduced in 2022, includes several voluntary commitments that tech firms and private companies, including fact-checking organizations, are expected to deliver on.
<ul>
<li>The Code, originally created in 2018, predates the EU's new content moderation law, the Digital Services Act (DSA), which went into effect in 2022.</li>
</ul>
State of play: The Commission has held private discussions over the past year with tech companies, urging them to convert the voluntary measures into an official code of conduct under the DSA.
&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Walker said in his letter Thursday that Google had already told the Commission that it didn't plan to comply.</li>
<li>Google will "pull out of all fact-checking commitments in the Code before it becomes a DSA Code of Conduct," he wrote.</li>
<li>He said Google will continue to invest in improvements to its current content moderation practices, which focus on providing people with more information about their search results through features like Synth ID watermarking and AI disclosures on YouTube.</li>
</ul>
Zoom out: The news comes amid a global reckoning about the role tech platforms should play in fact-checking and policing speech.
<ul>
<li>Last week, Meta said it would <a href="https://www.axios.com/2025/01/09/meta-moderation-transgender-women-hate">end efforts to fact check and reduce policing of speech</a> across Facebook, Instagram, and Threads.</li>
<li>Elon Musk has significantly reduced content moderation efforts at X since he took over the platform in 2022.</li>
</ul>

'Google Won't Add Fact Checks Despite New EU Law' - Axios

Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) on Wednesday launched 365 Copilot Chat, its AI-powered chat service with AI agents and a new pay-as-you-go plan.
What Happened: The company has rebranded its AI chat service, formerly known as Bing Chat Enterprise, under a new plan named Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat.
The service is tailored for businesses and offers features centered on workflow automation.
The Copilot Chat is built on OpenAI&#8217;s GPT-4 AI model and can be used for tasks such as conducting market research, preparing for meetings, creating key takeaways in Word documents, and even generating AI-powered images for social media posts and campaigns using Copilot Pages.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43019833/elon-musk-buying-tiktok-could-hurt-tesla-warns-gary-black-but-dan-ives-thinks-it-makes-sense">Elon Musk Buying TikTok Could Hurt Tesla Stock, Warns Gary Black — But Wedbush's Dan Ives Thinks It Makes Sense</a>
Earlier, AI agents were only accessible with the full Microsoft Copilot subscription, which costs $30 per user per month. However, with the new Copilot Chat plan, businesses can access Copilot AI agents directly within the chat experience and pay based on usage.
While the exact cost for Copilot Chat will vary depending on usage, it&#8217;s a significant move towards flexible pricing, particularly beneficial for businesses with fluctuating needs or smaller teams that may not require constant access to AI agents.
Copilot Chat is available in the Microsoft 365 Copilot app for Windows, Android, or iPhone app stores or via Microsoft 365 Copilot&#8217;s official website.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Announcing Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat. Making AI more accessible to every employee in every business. <a href="https://t.co/cHD89JuxHz">pic.twitter.com/cHD89JuxHz</a>
&mdash; Satya Nadella (@satyanadella) <a href="https://twitter.com/satyanadella/status/1879530451716776062?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
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Why It Matters: The introduction of AI agents in Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat is part of a broader trend in the tech industry towards integrating AI into everyday business operations.
Startups like OpenAI or established players like Alphabet Inc.'s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) Google have already rolled out or are <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42446686/google-introduces-ai-agent-prototype-that-can-browse-the-web">preparing to introduce</a> comparable AI agent tools.
Meta Platforms Inc. (META) CEO Mark Zuckerberg has also addressed the transition from chatbots to AI agents capable of handling more complex tasks and goals.
Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) CEO Jensen Huang has likewise forecasted that AI-powered employees will soon become a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/41869577/nvidias-huang-sees-ai-employees-on-the-horizon">vital component of the corporate</a> workforce.
Moreover, Microsoft also faces mounting pressure to deliver returns on its significant AI investments, with the software giant planning to allocate <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42801720/microsoft-to-invest-80-billion-in-ai-data-centers-for-fiscal-2025">about $80 billion this fiscal</a> year toward data centers and AI infrastructure.
In November last year, Microsoft started enabling customers to develop autonomous agents that need little human involvement. Some analysts suggest that this approach could provide tech companies with an easier route to monetization, noted Reuters.
Price Action: Microsoft&#8217;s stock increased by 2.56% on Wednesday, finishing at $426.31. In pre-market trading on Friday, it gained another 0.74%, reaching $429.48, as per <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro data</a>.
Check out more of Benzinga&#8217;s Consumer Tech coverage by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech">following this link</a>.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Microsoft Launches 365 Copilot Chat For Business With Pay-As-You-Go Plan

French AI startup Mistral has signed a multi-million-euro agreement with Agence France-Presse or AFP.
What Happened: The deal, announced on Thursday, will see over 2,000 AFP articles in six languages incorporated into Mistral&#8217;s chatbot, Le Chat, daily.
Arthur Mensch, co-founder and CEO of Mistral, stressed the importance of such agreements for delivering well-grounded information.
Fabrice Fries, CEO of AFP, underscored the deal as a testament to Mistral&#8217;s dedication to independent, fact-based journalism.
He <a href="https://www.ft.com/content/9200122d-bb4d-4f13-b9db-4991815026b4">told</a> the Financial Times that, unlike similar agreements that companies like OpenAI have struck with other media groups, this is not a one-off settlement for data.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43019833/elon-musk-buying-tiktok-could-hurt-tesla-warns-gary-black-but-dan-ives-thinks-it-makes-sense">Elon Musk Buying TikTok Could Hurt Tesla Stock, Warns Gary Black — But Wedbush&#8217;s Dan Ives Thinks It Makes Sense</a>
&#8220;&#8216;Free speech' is being weaponized against Europe to a great extent and there is this offensive by Big Tech on European regulation,&#8221; he said, adding, &#8220;Precisely this kind of deal, in the current context, shows that an AI player has bet on independent, fact-based professional journalism.&#8221;
Why It Matters: AFP&#8217;s collaboration with Mistral also aims to offset revenue losses as its fact-checking contract with Meta winds down, the report noted.
AFP generated about €20 million (approximately $20.57 million) in 2024 from tech platforms, including fact-checking and content licensing deals.
Subscribe to the&nbsp;<a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a>&nbsp;to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
The partnership comes as Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) and Elon Musk&#8217;s X, formerly Twitter, have <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42960291/metas-content-moderation-changes-alarm-advertisers-as-zuckerberg-aligns-with-trump-and-musk">reduced content moderation</a> in favor of &#8220;free speech.&#8221;
Earlier this week, Alphabet Inc.'s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) Google also <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/01/43014233/google-expands-collaboration-with-associated-press-to-deliver-up-to-date-information-in-gemini-ai-app">expanded its collaboration</a> with the Associated Press to improve its Gemini app.
Last year, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39293436/microsoft-backed-mistral-ai-sees-valuation-spike-to-6b-after-securing-645m-funding">Mistral secured $645 million</a> in funding, achieving a valuation of $6 billion. This positioned it as Europe&#8217;s leading AI company and the sole start-up on the continent developing large language models to compete with industry giants like OpenAI, Anthropic, and xAI.
Mistral AI was established in April 2023 by ex-engineers from Google DeepMind and Meta. Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) also has a minor stake in the company.
Photo Courtesy: Shutterstock.com
Check out more of Benzinga's Consumer Tech coverage by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following this link</a>.
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Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a>&nbsp;and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

French AI Startup, Founded By Google And Meta Veterans, Signs Million-Dollar Content Moderation Deal With AFP To Counter Big Tech's Pullback

Google announced in a blog <a href="https://blog.google/products/news/associated-press-gemini-app/">post</a> on Wednesday that it&#8217;s broadening its collaboration with The Associated Press (AP) to further enhance <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/gemini">its Gemini app</a>.
What Happened: Under the new collaboration, the Associated Press will provide Google with a feed of real-time information that the company will use to improve the usefulness of Gemini results.
&#8220;We believe AI is a transformative technology and we look forward to partnering with the news ecosystem to explore the benefits of AI and empower journalists,&#8221; the Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>)(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) subsidiary said.
Gemini is Google&#8217;s flagship AI chatbot, previously known as Bard. Google rebranded the conversational AI app in February 2024.
Check This Out: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42993561/is-openais-chatgpt-about-to-make-amazons-alexa-apples-siri-and-google-assistant-a-thing-of-the-past">Siri, Alexa And Google Assistant May Become A Thing Of The Past Thanks To ChatGPT Tasks — Here&#8217;s How To Use The New Feature</a>
Why It Matters: Google said the expanded collaboration is specifically aimed at users looking for up-to-date information. A lack of real-time information was one of the main complaints from early AI adopters using early-stage AI chatbots.
"AP and Google's longstanding relationship is based on working together to provide timely, accurate news and information to global audiences," said Kristin Heitmann, senior vice president and chief revenue officer of The Associated Press.
"We are pleased Google recognizes the value of AP&#8217;s journalism as well as our commitment to nonpartisan reporting, in the development of its generative AI products,&#8221; she added.
Price Action: <a href="http://benzinga.com/quote/goog">Alphabet shares</a> were up 3.3% at $197.36 at the time of publication Wednesday, according to <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga Pro</a>.
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Photo: courtesy of Google.

Google Expands Collaboration With Associated Press To Deliver Up-To-Date Information In Gemini AI App

<a href="https://techcrunch.com/2025/01/15/google-inks-deal-with-the-associated-press-to-bring-more-real-time-info-to-gemini/?guccounter=1">https://techcrunch.com/2025/01/15/google-inks-deal-with-the-associated-press-to-bring-more-real-time-info-to-gemini/?guccounter=1</a>
&nbsp;

Reported Earlier, 'Google Inks Deal With The Associated Press To Bring More Real-Time Info To Gemini' - TechCrunch

LRE (Leeward Renewable Energy), a leading American renewable energy company, today announced over 700-megawatt alternating current (MWac) of renewable energy projects in Oklahoma that are supported in part by long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs) with Google.
These projects are strategically sited to support Google's data center operations and leadership in artificial intelligence (AI). They will bolster the reliability of Oklahoma's electric grid by adding renewable capacity that improves stability and diversifies the energy mix, while also supporting national energy independence. This collaboration reinforces LRE's commitment to delivering innovative solutions that address the evolving energy needs of its partners and the communities where its projects are based.
Construction has begun on the 372-MWac Mayes County Solar Portfolio, located just within one mile from Google's data center in Pryor, Oklahoma. Together with the Twelvemile Solar Project 1 &amp; 2 (152.5 MWac) and the Twelvemile 3 Solar Project (200 MWac), located in Southern Oklahoma, these projects total 724 MWac of solar capacity in Oklahoma.
LRE purchased the Mayes County Solar Portfolio earlier this year from Red River Renewable Energy, LLC ("Red River"), a joint venture between SunChase Power, LLC ("SunChase") and Eolian, L.P. The energy generated by the solar portfolio is delivered under firm transmission service to the Grand River Dam Authority ("GRDA"). GRDA plans to utilize the clean energy produced by the projects to support operations at Google's data center.
The Mayes County Solar Portfolio consists of three solar projects: Salt Branch Solar (145 MWac), Huckleberry Solar (125 MWac), and Mayes Solar (102 MWac). The projects will generate substantial economic investment in the community, creating over 300 construction jobs and contributing an estimated $76 million in tax revenue to Mayes County over their lifespan. This funding will support vital county initiatives and schools. Additionally, over $60,000 has been donated to the local Red Cross, the Chamber of Commerce, and other essential services, further strengthening community resources.
The power purchase agreements were facilitated through LEAP&#x2122; (<a href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.leveltenenergy.com%2Fpost%2Flevelten-energys-accelerated-process-tm-leap-tm-now-widely-available%23%3A%7E%3Atext%3DBy%2520combining%2520the%2520RFP%2520and%2Ca%2520wide%2520range%2520of%2520technologies.&amp;esheet=54180385&amp;newsitemid=20250115123798&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=LevelTen+Energy%26%238217%3Bs+Accelerated+Process%29&amp;index=1&amp;md5=8bc1a1af5423f333a40c37f70a9e0a24">LevelTen Energy's Accelerated Process)</a>, which was <a href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fcloud.google.com%2Fblog%2Ftopics%2Fsustainability%2Fa-new-approach-to-clean-energy-power-purchasing-agreements%3Fe%3D0&amp;esheet=54180385&amp;newsitemid=20250115123798&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=co-developed&amp;index=2&amp;md5=3b7e548b91177da6b178bb0fc08e8a34">co-developed</a> by Google and LevelTen Energy to make sourcing and executing clean energy PPAs more efficient, and contribute to Google's ambitious 2030 <a href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fsustainability.google%2Fprogress%2Fenergy%2F&amp;esheet=54180385&amp;newsitemid=20250115123798&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=goal&amp;index=3&amp;md5=bd9e05a205bfee14edba006b9403cac0">goal</a> to run on 24/7 carbon-free energy (CFE) on every grid where it operates.

LRE Announces Over 700 MWac Of New Solar Projects In Oklahoma Supported By Long-Term Agreements With Google

Microsoft&nbsp;Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) could <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/01/42890164/microsoft-plans-to-slash-jobs-again-when-people-are-not-performing-we-take-the-appropriate-action" rel="noreferrer noopener">pause hiring in</a> part of its consulting business in the US, CNBC <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/14/microsoft-pauses-hiring-in-us-consulting-unit-memo-says.html" rel="noreferrer noopener">cites</a> from an internal memo.&nbsp;
The company expects the cuts to affect less than 1% of its workforce.
Rival tech companies — Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) Google, Amazon.Com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) — have slashed workforces, citing cost cuts to tackle the pandemic-induced slowdown, efficiency drive, artificial intelligence expansion drive, and more.
The memo also urged employees to swap travel for internal meetings and remote sessions. Additionally, executives must authorize trips to customers&#8217; sites to justify the spending. The group looks to slash its marketing and nonbillable external resource spending by 35%.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/42974632/us-listed-chinese-stocks-rally-on-strong-trade-data-central-bank-support-goldman-forecasts-20-growth" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">US Listed Chinese Stocks Rally on Strong Trade Data, Central Bank Support, Goldman Forecasts 20% Growth</a>
The consulting division&#8217;s growth lagged behind Microsoft&#8217;s productivity software subscriptions and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/10/41636770/microsoft-q1-earnings-highlights-ai-driven-transformation-is-changing-work-company-beats-revenue-ep" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Azure cloud computing businesses</a>.
Reportedly, in fiscal 2025, Microsoft&nbsp;committed <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42980720/microsoft-taps-meta-veteran-to-lead-new-coreai-division-plans-shift-from-openai-dependence">$80 billion&nbsp;to</a> its AI ambitions including developing data centers to train&nbsp;AI models. Also, this week, the company launched the CoreAI division to streamline AI tools and build AI apps.
The Redmond, Washington-based company laid off 10,000 employees in early 2023, implying 4%-5% of its workforce. In January 2024, after <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/01/36783057/microsofts-major-gaming-shake-up-1-900-layoffs-and-leadership-changes-in-post-acquisition-strategy">completing the Activision Blizzard acquisition</a>, Microsoft&#8217;s gaming unit cut 1,900 jobs.
In 2023, Google <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/11/36020949/big-tech-prioritize-cost-control-and-ai-scaling-back-workforce-despite-business-growth" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">slashed 12,000 jobs</a>, affecting ~6% of its workforce. Since November 2022, Meta has claimed to have laid off 21,000 employees, implying 25% of its workforce. 
Amazon cut 27,000 roles in 2023. The sector let go of 141,516 employees in the first half of 2023 compared with about 6,000 a year ago, according to Challenger, Gray &amp; Christmas.
Microsoft stock gained close to 7% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain exposure to the stock through Vanguard Information Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VGT#NYSE">VGT</a>) and SPDR Select Sector Fund &#8211; Technology (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLK#NYSE">XLK</a>).
Price Action: Microsoft stock is up 0.04% at $415.84 premarket at last check Wednesday.
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Image: Shutterstock

Microsoft To Cut Costs, Pause Hiring In US Consulting, Tighten Spending

An internal memo from Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) has unveiled a strategy to implement <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/01/42994485/mark-zuckerbergs-jiu-jitsu-training-has-transformed-metas-leadership-strategy-says-gene-munster">performance-based job cuts</a>.
What Happened: The memo, authored by Hillary Champion, Meta&#8217;s director of people development growth programs, instructs managers to classify employees into performance tiers based on their contributions over the past year, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/meta-tells-managers-how-performance-based-job-cuts-will-work-2025-1">reported</a> Business Insider.
Champion&#8217;s memo indicates that Meta aims to achieve a 10% &#8220;non-regrettable attrition&#8221; rate by the end of the current performance cycle. This target combines last year&#8217;s 5% with an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/01/42986509/meta-platforms-announces-performance-based-job-cuts-whats-going-on">additional 5% this year</a>.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/25/01/42906243/netflixs-wwe-monday-night-raw-premiere-more-than-doubles-2024-usa-network-audience">Netflix's ‘WWE Monday Night Raw' Premiere More Than Doubles 2024 USA Network Audience</a>
The company is increasing pressure on underperformers to swiftly determine who will remain and who will be let go.
Meta plans to cut about 5% of its lowest-performing staffers as part of an effort to &#8220;raise the bar.&#8221; The company intends to backfill these roles in 2025.
The internal performance guidance document, obtained by the publication, categorizes employees into ratings such as &#8220;met most expectations,&#8221; &#8220;met some,&#8221; and &#8220;did not meet.&#8221;
Employees rated as &#8220;Met Some&#8221; or &#8220;Did Not Meet&#8221; will be automatically added to the performance termination list.
Subscribe to the <a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a> to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
&#8220;We have really ambitious goals, so we need to manage our workforce in a way that ensures we have the strongest talent working here and can move faster in managing out low performers so that we can bring new people in,&#8221; Champion stated.
Why It Matters: The decision to implement performance-based job cuts at Meta aligns with a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42865109/sony-co-founder-akio-morita-once-said-that-management-should-treat-companies-like-families-not-commodities-recession-comes-management-fire-people-but-stays-to-keep-its-profit">broader trend in the tech industry</a>.
In December 2024, Alphabet Inc.&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) Google revealed plans to reduce top management <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42635813/google-announces-major-layoffs-as-pichai-stresses-efficiency">roles by 10% as part</a> of its efforts to streamline operations.
Likewise, Elon Musk&#8217;s X reportedly experienced major layoffs in November 2024, with the engineering department being notably impacted.
Meta is scheduled to release its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/01/42991174/meta-platforms-analyst-expects-strong-momentum-in-q4-to-continue-in-2025">fourth-quarter earnings</a> on Jan. 29. Last year in October, the company reported $40.59 billion in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/10/41637326/meta-platforms-q3-earnings-revenue-beat-eps-beat-daily-actives-up-5-strong-momentum-in-ai">third-quarter revenue</a>, exceeding analysts&#8217; projections of $40.29 billion.
Price Action: Meta&#8217;s shares fell by 2.31% on Tuesday but recovered slightly in pre-market trading on Wednesday, gaining 0.46% to close at $597, as per <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro data</a>.
Check out more of Benzinga&#8217;s Consumer Tech coverage by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech">following this link</a>.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Meta Plans To Cut 5% Of Staff, Backfill Roles In 2025, Says Internal Memo

Gene Munster, managing partner at Deepwater Asset Management, has said that Mark Zuckerberg&#8217;s leadership approach at Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) has changed since he started learning jiu-jitsu.
What Happened: On Tuesday, Munster pointed out that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/01/42986509/meta-platforms-announces-performance-based-job-cuts-whats-going-on">Meta&#8217;s 5% workforce reduction</a> is a reflection of this strategic shift.
This follows previous reductions of 5% in 2024, 11% in 2023, and 13% in 2022. Despite these cuts, Zuckerberg plans to refill the positions, ensuring that severance costs do not impact Meta&#8217;s operating margin, he stated.
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/25/01/42906243/netflixs-wwe-monday-night-raw-premiere-more-than-doubles-2024-usa-network-audience">Netflix&#8217;s &#8216;WWE Monday Night Raw&#8217; Premiere More Than Doubles 2024 USA Network Audience</a>
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">I believe Zuckerberg&#39;s devotion to jiu jitsu has reshaped how he thinks about running <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24META&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$META</a>. Today&#39;s 5% workforce cuts are the latest example. This follows cuts of 5% in 2024, 11% in 2023, and 13% in 2022. If you&#39;re curious, he began his training in 2020. Since he is planning…
&mdash; Gene Munster (@munster_gene) <a href="https://twitter.com/munster_gene/status/1879277095207211046?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Why It Matters: At its core, Jiu Jitsu teaches principles of gentleness, mutual welfare, and maximum efficiency, according to Zenyo Jiu Jitsu, a website about the martial art. In 2023, Zuckerberg labeled the year as the company&#8217;s &#8220;year of efficiency&#8221; and announced plans to cut 10,000 jobs.
At the time, he said, &#8220;Change is never easy, but I know we'll get through this and come out an even stronger company that can build better products faster&nbsp;and enable you to do the best work of your careers.&#8221;
In a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/06/32807615/how-mark-zuckerberg-harnesses-jiu-jitsu-to-run-meta-better-your-ability-to-keep-doing-interesting-th">June 2023 interview</a> with Lex Fridman, Zuckerberg underscored the importance of embracing embarrassment as a catalyst for growth.
He explained that his commitment to Jiu-Jitsu embodied this philosophy, as the physically challenging discipline humbled him during his early stages, teaching him valuable lessons through moments of being "kicked" and feeling "stupid."
Meta&#8217;s workforce reductions are part of a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42865109/sony-co-founder-akio-morita-once-said-that-management-should-treat-companies-like-families-not-commodities-recession-comes-management-fire-people-but-stays-to-keep-its-profit">broader trend in the tech</a> industry. In December 2024, Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) announced a 10% <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42635813/google-announces-major-layoffs-as-pichai-stresses-efficiency">reduction in top management</a> roles to streamline operations.
Similarly, Elon Musk&#8217;s X, formerly Twitter, also reportedly faced <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/41698648/elon-musks-x-reportedly-hit-with-new-wave-of-layoffs-engineering-department-faces-major-cuts-amid-un">significant layoffs</a> in November 2024, particularly affecting the engineering department.
Meta is set to announce its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/01/42991174/meta-platforms-analyst-expects-strong-momentum-in-q4-to-continue-in-2025">fourth-quarter earnings</a> on Jan. 29. In October last year, Meta reported <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/10/41637326/meta-platforms-q3-earnings-revenue-beat-eps-beat-daily-actives-up-5-strong-momentum-in-ai">third-quarter revenue</a> of $40.59 billion, surpassing analyst expectations of $40.29 billion.
Price Action: Meta&#8217;s stock dropped 2.31% on Tuesday, but saw a 0.21% gain in after-hours trading, closing at $592.52, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">data from Benzinga Pro</a>.
Check out more of Benzinga's Consumer Tech coverage by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech">following this link</a>.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Mark Zuckerberg's Jiu-Jitsu Training Has Transformed Meta's Leadership Strategy, Says Gene Munster

On Tuesday, OpenAI announced the introduction of a beta feature named "Tasks" for ChatGPT.
What Happened: The move marks OpenAI&#8217;s entry into the virtual assistant market, positioning itself against established players like Alphabet Inc.'s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) Google Assistant, Apple Inc.'s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) Siri and Amazon.com Inc.'s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) Alexa.
The "Tasks" feature allows ChatGPT users to schedule future tasks, such as setting reminders for events or arranging regular updates like daily weather forecasts.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/01/42893958/after-apple-halts-hardware-subscription-plans-samsung-unveils-similar-strategy-for-ai-powered-galaxy-smartphones">After Apple Halts ‘Hardware' Subscription Plans, Samsung Unveils Similar Strategy For AI-Powered Galaxy Smartphones</a>
How To Use The &#8216;Tasks&#8217; Feature
Step I: Select &#8220;GPT-4o with scheduled tasks&#8221; from the model picker.
Step II: Once selected, provide ChatGPT with a message specifying the task and its timing.
Scheduled tasks can be managed directly within the chat or through the &#8220;Tasks&#8221; section in the profile menu. ChatGPT may also suggest tasks based on user interactions, giving users the option to accept or decline as needed.
While scheduling tasks is supported across all platforms using natural language prompts, managing tasks is currently limited to the task manager on the web version. Notifications for scheduled tasks will be delivered via web, desktop, and mobile once set up.
Availability: The Tasks beta is being rolled out globally over the next few days, exclusive to premium users—including Plus, Team, and Pro subscribers. The rollout begins with web access.
Subscribe to the <a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a> to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
Why It Matters: The introduction of OpenAI&#8217;s &#8216;Tasks&#8217; feature comes at a time when major tech companies are intensifying their efforts in the AI-driven virtual assistant market.
For example, Apple also decided to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/11/42129847/apple-prepares-to-take-on-openais-chatgpt-google-gemini-live-with-llm-siri-in-2025-report">incorporate its &#8220;Apple Intelligence&#8221;</a> into Siri, leveraging ChatGPT&#8217;s capabilities.
Amazon also previously said that it is upgrading Alexa with generative AI capabilities to stay competitive. Last year, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy revealed plans for a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/11/42055771/amazons-ai-powered-alexa-upgrade-faces-latency-compatibility-concerns-report">new version of Alexa</a> that will autonomously perform tasks, expected to launch soon.
In 2023, Google Assistant, the personal assistant integrated into Android and iOS devices, was <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/10/35094259/google-unveils-assistant-with-bard-powered-by-generative-ai-for-android-ios">boosted with the capabilities</a> of Bard, now called Gemini.
Check out more of Benzinga&#8217;s Consumer Tech coverage by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech">following this link</a>.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Siri, Alexa And Google Assistant May Become A Thing Of The Past Thanks To ChatGPT Tasks — Here's How To Use The New Feature

Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) shares are treading water Tuesday amid reports Google has come under investigation by U.K. officials <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/42105079/googles-unlawful-behavior-stifles-market-entry-for-rivals-doj-says-alphabet-must-sell-chrome-to-end-search-monopoly">related to Search dominance</a>.
What Happened: According to a Wall Street Journal <a href="https://www.wsj.com/tech/google-comes-under-u-k-investigation-over-search-services-56669488?mod=latest_headlines">report</a>, the Competition and Markets Authority&nbsp;has said it&#8217;s probing Google over how its Search position could impact competition in the U.K.
The investigation would reportedly look into the extent of control Google has in Search and search advertising services and assess how Google&#8217;s influence might affect consumers and businesses using the services.
The report indicates the current Competition and Markets Authority regime came into force less than two weeks ago. The U.K. has new rules that allow antitrust officials to identify companies with strategic digital market status and impose conduct requirements related to fair competition.
The Competition and Markets Authority will reportedly determine whether Google has strategic market status and then set new requirements for the company based on its findings, if appropriate. 
"It's our job to ensure people get the full benefit of choice and innovation in search services and get a fair deal—for example in how their data is collected and stored," said Sarah Cardell, chief executive of the Competition and Markets Authority.
"And for businesses, whether you are a rival search engine, an advertiser or a news organization, we want to ensure there is a level playing field for all businesses, large and small, to succeed."
Check This Out: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/01/42967007/eu-reconsiders-apple-meta-and-google-investigations-ahead-of-trumps-potential-white-house-return-its-going-to-be-a-whole-new-ballgame">EU Reconsiders Apple, Meta And Google Investigations Ahead Of Trump&#8217;s Potential White House Return: &#8216;It&#8217;s Going To Be A Whole New Ballgame&#8217;</a>
In a blog <a href="https://blog.google/around-the-globe/google-europe/united-kingdom/the-cmas-assessment-of-google-search/">post</a> published Tuesday, Google said it&#8217;s looking forward to &#8220;engaging constructively&#8221; with U.K. officials. The company said its products helped to provide an estimated 118 billion pounds ($144 billion) in economic activity in the U.K. in 2023.
The Competition and Markets Authority investigation comes after the U.S. Department of Justice made a push for Google to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/42105079/googles-unlawful-behavior-stifles-market-entry-for-rivals-doj-says-alphabet-must-sell-chrome-to-end-search-monopoly">divest its Chrome browser</a> in an effort to restore competition in the Search market. Judge Amit Mehta <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/08/40169996/alphabet-loses-antitrust-suit-over-google-search-dominance-report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ruled in August</a> that Alphabet's payments to make its search engine the default option on smartphone web browsers violated U.S. antitrust law by effectively blocking competition in the space. 
&#8220;A pro-innovation, evidence-based regime will help UK consumers and businesses by expanding options, reducing prices, and opening new markets. The alternative of overly prescriptive digital competition rules would end up stifling&nbsp;choice and opportunity&nbsp;for consumers and businesses,&#8221; Google said on Tuesday.
&#8220;We will do our best to advocate for new rules that benefit every business and let people in the UK benefit from helpful, cutting-edge services.&#8221;
GOOG Price Action: <a href="http://benzinga.com/quote/goog">Alphabet Class C shares</a> were down 0.72% at $190.91 at the time of publication, according to <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Photo via Shutterstock.

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Google Faces UK Investigation Over Search Dominance: 'We Want To Ensure There Is A Level Playing Field'

Bank Of America Securities analyst Justin Post maintained a Buy rating on Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) Google with a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/GOOGL/earnings" rel="noreferrer noopener">price target of $225, up from $210</a>.
In 2024, Alphabet stock (up 35%) outperformed the S&amp;P 500 (up 23%) and benefited from new product launches offsetting Al concerns (OpenAI traction), strong cost discipline, improving Cloud growth and positive estimates revisions.
However, the threat of disruption from emerging Generative-Al search platforms and adverse judgment in the DOJ search case weighed on multiple versus FANG peers.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/guidance/25/01/42874446/samsungs-outlook-dims-amid-hbm-supply-struggles-for-nvidia-and-sluggish-consumer-chip-sales" rel="noreferrer noopener">Samsung&#8217;s Outlook Dims Amid HBM Supply Struggles for Nvidia and Sluggish Consumer Chip Sales</a>
With search still far outpacing the value of other businesses, Post noted 2025 as a pivotal year, which could help establish Google as either an Al leader (via AI Overview traction) or elevate search disruption risk.
Google&#8217;s potential positives include growing usage of AI overviews and new ad opportunities around informational queries, greater appreciation of AI assets and AI-driven performance driving multiple expansion, potential for change (or settlement) in Search case trajectory under new administration, increasing value contribution from cloud business, and new disclosures or cost cuts under new CFO.
However, Post lowered estimates for recent US dollar appreciation and lowered 2025 EPS to below-Street $8.78 (from $8.96). The price target boost reflects 2026 GAAP EPS of $10.06 (versus $10.31 previously) and a lower 21x multiple (versus 22x previously), plus cash.
Price Action: GOOGL stock is up 0.04% at $191.16 at last check Tuesday.
Also Read:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42872581/microns-7-billion-bet-on-ai-driven-memory-singapore-facility-set-to-boost-innovation-and-jobs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Micron&#8217;s $7 Billion Bet on AI-Driven Memory In Singapore Facility Set to Boost Innovation</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

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