Big Data refers to extremely large and complex datasets that are difficult to manage, process, and analyze using traditional data tools. It encompasses information collected from diverse sources such as social media, sensors, mobile devices, and online transactions, often generated in real time. In artificial intelligence, Big Data serves as the foundation for training machine learning models, improving accuracy, and uncovering insights that drive smarter decisions. The concept is typically defined by the “three Vs”: volume, velocity, and variety – representing the size, speed, and diversity of data. Modern AI systems rely on Big Data technologies and frameworks like Hadoop and Spark to store, process, and interpret this vast information efficiently.
OpenAI is developing an early-stage social network designed to limit bots by verifying real users, potentially using biometric identity tools such as Face ID or iris scanning.
Amazon announced plans to cut roughly 16,000 corporate roles, the second major reduction since October, as it invests heavily in artificial intelligence and organizational efficiency.
Google’s lower-cost AI Plus subscription, priced at $7.99 in the U.S., is now available in all markets offering Google AI plans, providing access to Gemini 3 Pro, AI filmmaking tools, and more.
A new assessment by Common Sense Media finds xAI’s Grok chatbot exposes minors to sexual, violent, and unsafe content, with weak age verification and ineffective safety controls.
Climate tech startup Rainbow Weather has raised $5.5 million in seed funding to scale its AI-driven platform for hyper-local, real-time weather forecasting and environmental intelligence.
Microsoft has introduced Maia 200, a new AI chip built with TSMC and designed to power GPT-5.2 and Microsoft 365 Copilot, promising faster, more efficient AI performance.
Apple plans to debut a Gemini-based Siri in February, offering more natural conversations, complex tasks, and integration across iOS, iPadOS, and macOS.
Utah launches an AI pilot for prescription renewals, letting algorithms handle routine medication management without physicians, highlighting regulatory and safety challenges.
OpenAI’s latest ChatGPT model has cited Elon Musk-backed Grokipedia across multiple topics, prompting concerns among researchers about how low-credibility sources can influence AI-generated answers.
Analysts warn 2026 could be a pivotal year for OpenAI and other private AI companies as investors focus on profitability amid rising compute costs and IPO speculation.