• CoreWeave set to begin trading
    www.cnbc.com
    CoreWeave received the most proceeds from a U.S. technology IPO since automation software maker UiPath went public in 2021.
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  • Stanford University and University of California schools now in DOJs crosshairs over affirmative action
    www.fastcompany.com
    The U.S. Department of Justice on Thursday launched investigations into Stanford University and three University of California schools to ensure they comply with a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that struck down race-conscious admissions.The 2023 ruling effectively prohibited affirmative action policies that were long used to raise the number of Black, Hispanic, and other underrepresented minority students on American campuses.U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi directed the departments civil rights division to investigate to ensure that the schools comply with a Supreme Court decision that prevents colleges and universities from discriminating when choosing students for admission, the department said in a news release.In addition to Stanford, the review will cover the University of California, Berkeley, University of California, Los Angeles, and University of California, Irvine.Since taking office for his second term, President Donald Trumps administration has attempted to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion programs within the government and the private sector. He has also taken aim at academic institutions and universities, launching dozens of investigations and threatening to cut off funding to schools that promote DEI.President Trump and I are dedicated to ending illegal discrimination and restoring merit-based opportunity across the country, Bondi said in the release. Every student in America deserves to be judged solely based on their hard work, intellect, and character, not the color of their skin.The investigations were just the beginning of the Justice Departments attempt to eradicate DEI programs, the media release said.Stanford University said in a statement it began taking steps to comply with the Supreme Court decision immediately after it was issued.We continue to be committed to fulfilling our obligations under the law. We do not have details about todays announcement, but we look forward to learning more about their concerns and responding to the departments questions, Stanford spokesperson Dee Mostofi said in an email.The University of California said it has adhered to a ban on affirmative action in admissions since California voters approved one in the ballot initiative Proposition 209 in 1996.At the same time, we remain committed to expanding access for all qualified students, the statewide university system said in a statement. The UC undergraduate admissions application collects students race and ethnicity for statistical purposes only. This information is not shared with application reviewers and is not used for admissions.Ryan Patrick Jones and Daniel Trotta, Reuters
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  • A Nvidia chip shortage is coming, warns major Chinese server maker
    www.fastcompany.com
    One of Chinas largest server makers, H3C, has flagged potential shortages of Nvidias H20 chip, the most advanced AI processor legally available domestically under U.S. export controls, in a client notice seen by Reuters. The potential supply crunch could create obstacles for Chinas artificial intelligence ambitions at a time when its tech firms are aggressively expanding their investments in AI.H20s international supply chain faces significant uncertainties, the company said in Tuesdays notice, adding that current inventory was nearly depleted.Geopolitical tension that is roiling global trade and supply of key materials was responsible for the uncertainty, it added, saying new shipments were expected by mid-April this year.After publication, a Nvidia spokesperson said the company declined to comment. In a statement to Reuters following publication, H3C said after verification, neither the company nor any of its departments have issued this notice or its related content.Demand for H20 chips has surged in recent months as companies rush to adopt Chinese AI startup DeepSeeks cost-effective AI models.Tencent, Alibaba, and ByteDance have significantly increased orders of the H20 since the Chinese AI startup burst into the global public consciousness since January, Reuters reported last month.The Chinese server maker said supply plans beyond April 20 also face uncertainties from raw material policy changes, shipping disruptions, and production challenges. In the notice, H3C said it would distribute incoming H20 chips on the basis of a profit-first principle, prioritizing stable, long-term customers with higher profit margins on their orders.H20 processors are currently scarce in the Chinese market, said an industry source, who distributes AI servers including those that make use of H20 chips.We were told the chips would be available, but when it came time to actually purchase them, we were informed they had already been sold at higher prices, added the source, who sought anonymity given the information is private. U.S. officials were considering curbs on sales of H20 chips to China, Reuters reported in January.H3C is a major OEM partner for Nvidias AI chips in China, alongside others such as Inspur, Lenovo, and Huaweis spin-off x86 server unit, xFusion. The primary chip Nvidia is legally permitted to sell in China, the H20 was launched after the latest round of U.S. export restrictions took effect in October 2023.Washington has banned exports of Nvidias most advanced chips to China since 2022, concerned that its rival could use advanced technologies to build up its military capabilities. Analysts estimate Nvidia shipped about one million H20 units in 2024, generating revenue of more than $12 billion for the company.Huawei and Cambricon offer domestic alternatives to the H20.Liam Mo, Che Pan, Fanny Potkin and Brenda Goh, Reuters
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  • Core77 Weekly Roundup (3-24-25 to 3-28-25)
    www.core77.com
    Here's what we looked at this week:The Columbus, Italdesign's wild 1990s minivan concept.Form follows bizarre: Maybe the strangest EDC object we've seen. Product Designer Vicki Tan's "Ask This Book a Question" is a book on improving the decision-making process.A fantastic piece of industrial design: The Kodak Smile Camera, by ID firm Branch Creative.Industrial Design student work: A measuring system for Festool. We have some constructive criticism.From Japan, the Bathtope is a space-saving bathtub that can be tucked away when not needed.1980s Postmodern furniture: Heinz Landes' Solid Chair, made of concrete and ten pieces of rebar.The Rorra, a designey stainless steel water filtration unit, looks better than the competition. Will the company stick around?With their Zyklop Speed ratchet wrenches, Wera improves upon a 160-year-old design.Engineering for its own sake: Hancept's Zero Mk2 is a pen that folds into a credit card.Concept Sketching for Industrial Design, an online course.Japan's "Swap Reefer" trucks with freestanding detachable cargo containers.Within the odd product category of remedial design, add-on drawers for desks evolve.This Multi Auto Spray, by Japanese industrial design consultancy Lont, is a designey water spray gun attachment for bottles.Form evolution: Nebo's Slim line of rectangular flashlights with perpendicular lenses.Industrial design case study: Fresco comes up with a better-looking brain-computer interface.
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  • Rectangular-Form Flashlights with Perpendicular Lenses
    www.core77.com
    For manufactured objects, the cylinder is a powerful shape. They distribute pressure evenly, which is why airplane fuselages, soda cans, oxygen canisters and disposable batteries are cylindrical.The shape of a disposable battery has long dictated the shape of another object: Flashlights, which have traditionally been little more than a battery sleeve with a light source at the end. But now that battery technology has evolved, flashlight designers are free to imagine fresh forms that are better-shaped for certain user activities. Like this USB-rechargeable Slim+ model from Texas-based manufacturer Nebo. The rectangular form and perpendicular lens means you hold it differently than a cylindrical flashlight; this is less for illuminating dark paths, and more for examining engine bays and the like. The slim form fits easily in a pocket and doesn't roll when you set it down. Furthermore, it features both a magnetic base and a hanging hook for hands-free use. It's made of aluminum, is water- and dust-resistant, and puts out 700 lumens.A slightly larger Slim+ 1200 model puts out more lumens (you can guess the number). Both models above also feature laser pointers and can be used as powerbanks. Moving in the other direction, size-wise, the Slim Mini puts out just 250 lumens. It's way more compact but you lose the pointer and the power bank function. They also offer a Slim Mini UV, for those doing inspections. The Slim+ runs $45; the Slim+ 1200 is $60; and the Mini versions go for $20.
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  • iFi iDSD Valkyrie amp unleashes high-end audio on the go
    www.yankodesign.com
    Sometimes what youre looking for is an affordable audio device that can just do the basic things that you need it to do and will not put a dent in your wallet. But sometimes, what you want (not necessarily need) is something that has all the bells and whistles to satisfy your aural cravings. Of course youll expect that things like this will definitely cost more than the average but if you can afford to, why not?Designer: iFi AudioThe iFi iDSD Valkyrie is a high-end, transportable DAC/Amp designed for audiophiles seeking exceptional sound quality and versatile features. With a price tag of $1,699, it positions itself as a premium device, packed with cutting-edge technology and designed to deliver a powerful and customizable listening experience. The Valkyrie boasts a striking design, drawing inspiration from its namesake with subtle wing-like edges. Its machined aluminum construction gives it a robust and premium feel, described as built like an absolute tank. The light gold finish and blacked-out control area create a visually appealing contrast. While its weight (882 grams) makes it more transportable than truly portable, its included travel case ensures safe and stylish transport.One of the reasons why the price tag is pretty steep but probably worth it is utilizes four Burr-Brown DACs in a hybrid multi-bit configuration that aims to capture the magic of classic multi-bit sound and retrieve the superior detail that is sometimes lost in the compression of audio files. The DSD remastering feature is able to transform audio files It is also capable of delivering up to 5,700mW of peak output and can drive a wide range of headphones, from sentitive IEMs to power-hungry full-sized models. The K2HD Technology meanwhile is able to restore the warmth and harmonics that are sometimes lost in digital recordings. he Valkyrie offers a comprehensive range of inputs and outputs, including USB-C, balanced 4.4mm, single-ended 3.5mm, and S/PDIF. It also supports Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive, and LDAC for high-quality wireless streaming. It also has six digital filters to provide you with a personalized listening experience by tailoring the audio signature. If you dont care much about the technical details, the bottom line is that this device will be able to provide you with excellent detail retrieval and precise transients. It gives you a deep and controlled bass, clear and airy treble, and lets vocals and instruments shine. The iFi iDSD Valkyrie is a flagship portable DAC/Amp that delivers desktop-level performance in a transportable form factor. Its extensive features, powerful amplification, and customizable sound make it a worthy investment for audiophiles seeking a versatile and high-performing audio solution.The post iFi iDSD Valkyrie amp unleashes high-end audio on the go first appeared on Yanko Design.
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  • Futuristic-looking Electric Skateboard Brings Speed, Style, and Sustainability
    www.yankodesign.com
    Electric skateboards have revolutionized urban transportation, but most boards on the market struggle to balance performance with portability. Enter the Parsec Aero Pro, a cutting-edge electric skateboard thats turning heads with its futuristic design and exceptional engineering. Combining aerospace-grade materials with innovative technology, this lightweight powerhouse delivers thrilling speeds, impressive range, and unmatched durability for riders who demand the best from their boards.The heart of the Aero Pros extraordinary performance lies in its thoughtful design choices that prioritize the real needs of everyday riders. Unlike bulky competitors that sacrifice portability for power, this sleek board weighs just 15.5 pounds in its standard configuration, making it genuinely portable for commuters navigating public transit, office buildings, and urban environments. Despite its featherweight construction, the Aero Pro doesnt compromise on performance, offering riders a truly premium experience from the moment they step on the deck.Designer: ParsecBuilt around a T800 carbon fiber deck, the Aero Pro showcases materials typically reserved for high-performance aircraft and supercars. This premium carbon fiber isnt just lightweight its incredibly strong, capable of withstanding nearly 1,750 pounds of force without breaking. The low deck height of just 3.35 inches creates a stable platform that feels secure underfoot while maintaining the responsive handling that experienced riders crave when carving through city streets or cruising along beachfront paths.Dual Hobbywing 5250 motors mounted at the rear wheels deliver impressive acceleration and a top speed of 27 mph, providing plenty of power for conquering hills and keeping pace with urban traffic. The custom-designed aluminum trucks complement this power with precise handling characteristics, striking the perfect balance between stability at speed and maneuverability in tight spaces. This combination makes the Aero Pro equally comfortable bombing down straightaways and navigating crowded sidewalks with confidence.Battery options provide flexibility based on your typical riding needs, with the Aero Pro S featuring a 222-Wh Molicel P45B battery delivering a respectable 14-mile range for shorter commutes. For riders needing extended range, the Aero Pro X doubles the capacity with a 444-Wh battery that stretches the riding distance to an impressive 32 miles, enough for a full day of adventures without recharging. Both models benefit from regenerative braking that recaptures energy when slowing down, maximizing efficiency during stop-and-go urban riding.The innovative EPIC belt-drive system represents a significant advancement over traditional electric skateboard drivetrains. This system ensures smooth acceleration while also allowing for easy coasting when you want to ride unpowered. Perhaps most impressively, the belts can be replaced in just 15 seconds without tools a game-changer for riders whove struggled with maintenance on other electric boards. This hybrid approach gives riders the freedom to switch between powered and manual riding depending on their mood or battery status.Thoughtful design touches enhance the everyday usability of the Aero Pro beyond its core performance specs. The integrated handle makes carrying the board effortless, while the easy-access charging port simplifies the recharging process. The motor mount even helps prop up the board when you need to set it down temporarily. These small but significant features demonstrate the designers understanding of how people actually use their boards in real-world situations, not just during perfect riding conditions.The Parsec Aero Pro represents a quantum leap in electric skateboard evolution, fusing aerospace-grade materials with street-smart design. Its unmatched strength-to-weight ratio, customizable performance, and rider-focused features create an experience that feels revolutionary with every ride. Whether carving through urban landscapes or commuting across campus, this board delivers exceptional performance without sacrificing portability. The Aero Pro isnt just pushing boundaries, its completely redrawing the map for what electric skateboards can achieve.The post Futuristic-looking Electric Skateboard Brings Speed, Style, and Sustainability first appeared on Yanko Design.
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  • Don't miss out on these mega Cricut deals with up to 50% off
    www.creativebloq.com
    Crafters, have you seen these impressive Cricut deals?
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  • I've used the powerful new Gigabyte Aorus Master 16 gaming laptop for creative work this week, and now I wish I was rich
    www.creativebloq.com
    The big and powerful Gigabyte Aorus Master 16 offers graphic oomph and lots of processing power for power-hungry creatives, but at a price...
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  • This Crazy Instrument Lets Us Hear How Dinosaurs Might Have Sounded
    www.wired.com
    Using 3D models of ancient skulls, Dinosaur Choir gets us closer than ever to understanding the noises that dinosaurs made.
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