Breaking news

AI and Antitrust: Could Google’s Search Monopoly Face a New Challenge?

by News Editor

April 22, 2025

The antitrust trial against Alphabet’s Google has commenced, highlighting significant concerns about its potential to leverage two-faced intelligence to maintain its stronghold over online search. Initiated by the U.S. Department of Justice, the case could redefine how we interact with the internet, reminiscent of past landmark judgments against corporate giants like AT&T and Standard Oil.

David Dahlquist, representing the DOJ, expressed the necessity for measures to prevent AI from further entrenching Google’s dominance.

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Key witnesses from Perplexity AI and OpenAI are set to present firsthand accounts of the challenges posed by Google’s overwhelming market presence. Meanwhile, Google’s defense underscores that imposing remedies may stifle innovation at a critical technological crossroads.

Beyond the immediate issues of search engines, the trial also raises broader questions about future technological advancements and market fairness as digital ecosystems evolve. While the DOJ seeks to dismantle exclusive agreements where Google pays billions for default status on various devices, Google contends that these moves might inadvertently increase technical costs while deterring entrepreneurial growth in allied domains.

In essence, both sides align on a pivotal question: How to balance innovation with fair competition in an AI-driven future?

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RIF Unveils €16.2 Million Support for Cyprus’ Startups and Established Enterprises

by News Editor

May 22, 2025

RIF Unveils €16.2 Million Support for Cyprus’ Innovators

The Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF) has announced substantial funding of €16.2 million aimed at propelling Cyprus’s established and emerging businesses into the competitive global market. This funding initiative, targeting both seasoned enterprises and budding startups, is designed to cultivate the swift production of innovative products and services.

Upcoming Funding Calls

The funding will be distributed across three programs: INNOVATE and SEED, with a combined budget of €6.2 million, and the STEP programme, commanding a distinct budget of €10 million for expanding facilities and production lines. These programs collectively aim to supercharge competitive advantage on the international stage.

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Focus Areas and Participation

The INNOVATE program welcomes applications from companies in the pilot or market-testing stages, offering up to €1 million per project to enhance commercial production and worldwide distribution capabilities. Simultaneously, the SEED program directs its €3 million budget toward nurturing dynamic, startup ventures, each eligible for up to €500,000 to fast-track their competitive edge internationally.

A notable requirement for INNOVATE program applicants includes submitting audited financial statements and employer obligation documents from the Social Insurance Services.

STEP Program: Shaping Cyprus’ Innovation Future

The STEP program aligns with EU regulations, supporting Cyprus enterprises in developing advanced technologies, efficient green technologies, and biotechnologies. This initiative is anticipated to broaden Cyprus’s production infrastructure significantly.

Getting Ready

Potential participants should promptly prepare their proposals and gather necessary documentation to ensure their submissions upon the open call. Discover how enterprises are leveraging AI innovations to enhance their competitive stance.

Funded by the Republic of Cyprus and the European Regional Development Fund under Thalia 2021–2027, these initiatives promise a well-rounded boost to local innovation.