
The pulse of technology
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The World Bank Group's latest World Development Report 2026 reveals that artificial intelligence offers developing countries an unprecedented opportunity for rapid progress, potentially achieving a century's worth of development in a decade. However, this hinges on governments proactively addressing critical deficits in power, internet access, skills, and institutional frameworks to prevent a widening digital divide.
The World Economic Forum's annual report for 2026 has spotlighted ten emerging technologies on the cusp of commercial maturity, including advancements in AI, sustainable energy systems, and novel material science, poised to address pressing global challenges. These innovations signify a crucial shift from laboratory research to practical, industry-transforming applications.
Qualcomm's AI Program for Innovators 2026 – APAC has announced the selection of 15 startups from Japan, Singapore, and South Korea, focusing on developing next-generation edge AI solutions with a notable emphasis on agritech. These companies will receive comprehensive support to commercialize scalable AI applications on Qualcomm platforms.
Cyber security agencies from the Five Eyes alliance (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, UK, and US) have issued a stark warning that advanced AI models will rapidly transform offensive and defensive cyber operations, requiring immediate action from leaders to strengthen cyber resilience.