PBS launched two major new content offerings -- NerdTV, an entirely downloadable weekly series focused on technology, and an array of downloadable podcasts from some of the network's signature programs. NerdTV, featuring technology columnist Robert X. Cringely's interviews with tech sector personalities, will be distributed under a Creative Commons license, allowing viewers to redistribute the one-hour shows or edit their own non-commercial versions. PBS also has formally launched an array of portable podcasts, which allow subscribers to automatically download audio content from the Internet and listen to it either on their computers or through MP3 players. PBS will initially make six shows available, including such staples as "NOVA" and "Newshour with Jim Lehrer." All of the new offerings are available through the PBS.org web site.
Technology is a compelling catalyst for economic growth across the globe. Artificial intelligence (AI) rides a seismic wave of transformation in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region — a market bolstered by bold government initiatives, swelling pools of capital, and vibrant tech ambition. The latest IDC analysis sheds light on this dynamic market. Despite a contraction in deal volumes through 2024, total AI venture funding surged to an impressive $15.4 billion — a signal of the region’s resilience and the maturation of its digital-native businesses (DNBs). Asia-Pacific AI Market Development The APAC AI sector’s funding story is not just about headline numbers but also about how and where investments are shifting. Even as the number of deals slowed, the aggregate value of investments climbed, reflecting a preference among investors for fewer but larger, high-potential bets on mature or highly scalable AI enterprises. The information technology sector led the AI investment charge. Top area...