Disclaimer: This episode was generated using Artificial Intelligence powered by Google NotebookLM. Dive into this week's comprehensive tech insights at https://techfocus.news.

Welcome to the first episode of 2025 on Tech Focus News! This week, we kick off the year with a deep dive into the latest AI advancements, including insights from DeepSeek CEO Leang Wenfeng on the potential of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and the groundbreaking Coconut method enhancing large language models. We also explore the ethical implications of AI and its growing role in reshaping industries.

Privacy remains a hot topic as Serbia faces backlash for using Pegasus and domestically produced Novosmai spyware to target activists and journalists. Meanwhile, Google’s shift to allow fingerprinting for advertising raises concerns about online privacy, and Apple’s $95 million Siri settlement highlights the ongoing debate over data collection and consent.

Cybersecurity takes center stage with reports of over 3 million vulnerable email servers, a phishing campaign targeting Chrome developers, and a US Army soldier arrested for leaking sensitive call records. We also discuss Volkswagen’s massive data leak affecting 800,000 electric vehicles and the geopolitical tensions surrounding state-sponsored hacking, including China’s breach of the US Treasury Department.

On the innovation front, we cover API Parrot, a new tool simplifying API reverse engineering, and Russia’s ambitious plans to develop its own video game console. Plus, we touch on the EU’s enforcement of a single charging standard and the latest in drone technology with DJI’s Flip drone.

As always, we reflect on the societal impact of technology, from the role of algorithms in rising obesity rates to the staggering number of times Americans check their phones daily. Join us as we navigate the exciting and complex world of tech in 2025!