Danish startup PhaseTree says its combined use of multi-scale modelling techniques means it can create new materials for clean energy technologies in just 2 years (instead of the usual 20), i.e., a speed 10 times faster than traditional methods.

Who is PhaseTree and What Do They Do?

Copenhagen-based startup, PhaseTree, was founded in 2021 as a spin-off from the Technical University of Denmark (DTU). Their mission is to reinvent the material discovery process, using a unique combination of computer simulations, lab automation, and artificial intelligence (AI) to drastically shorten the time it takes to find and develop new materials.

Slow, Up Until Now

At the moment, creating new materials for clean energy technologies is an incredibly slow and expensive process. For example, the industry norm can take up to 20 years due to time-consuming lab testing and trial-and-error experiments. However, PhaseTree’s solution (based on advanced multi-scale modelling techniques) reduces this to just two years, thereby transforming the way sustainable materials are discovered.

Could Help the Move Away From Fossil Fuels

This speed-up could have major implications for (mostly clean energy) technology industries that rely on scarce or expensive raw materials, such as the battery, automobile, and steel sectors. By identifying alternative materials that are cheaper, more sustainable, and easier to produce, PhaseTree aims to help companies move away from their reliance on rare earth metals and fossil fuels.

How Does PhaseTree’s Technology Work?

Unlike many AI-driven material discovery tools that rely purely on data correlations, PhaseTree takes a different approach, i.e. a “physics-first, AI-on-top” approach. Their platform starts with well-established scientific principles, then layers AI on top to refine predictions. This ensures that the materials they identify are not only promising on paper but actually viable in the real world.

PhaseTree’s three-pronged approach includes:

– Physics-based modelling. This involves analysing fundamental material properties like composition, atomic structure, defects, and microstructures.

– AI refinement. Once strong candidates are identified using scientific principles, AI is applied to optimise their properties and manufacturing potential.

– Lab automation. Cutting down on manual testing time by integrating automated lab experiments that validate material performance faster than traditional methods.

As Jin Hyun Chang, co-founder and CTO of PhaseTree, explains: “Our approach accelerates discovery by combining physics-based modelling with AI, allowing us to rapidly identify and refine promising candidates that would traditionally take decades to develop.”

This “physics-first, AI-on-top” method is what makes PhaseTree stand out in an increasingly crowded sector. In 2024 alone, AI-powered material discovery startups raised over $260 million, with 10 out of 17 funding rounds going to European companies, including ExoMatter, Dunia, and Orbital. However, while many of these companies depend heavily on AI-driven correlations, PhaseTree tries to focus more on real-world scientific accuracy.

Why PhaseTree’s Work Could Be More Important Than Ever

The race to discover new materials is not just about efficiency and innovation. It’s about economic and environmental survival. Therefore, some of the key reasons why PhaseTree’s work could be of particular importance now include:

– The rare earth crisis. With China controlling the majority of the rare earth supply chain, industries are facing soaring costs, limited access, and increasing geopolitical risks.

– Environmental impact. Many existing materials, such as those used in lithium-ion batteries and steel production, have significant environmental drawbacks, including heavy reliance on fossil fuels and high CO₂ emissions.

– Manufacturing challenges. A material may work in a research lab, but that doesn’t mean it can be produced at scale.

PhaseTree’s CEO, Amit Luthra, has highlighted how its work directly addresses these challenges, saying: “From the outset, we design materials with manufacturability in mind, ensuring they can be synthesised at scale rather than remaining a theoretical concept or lab-scale prototype.”

Also, as Christian Lindegaard Jepsen, Partner at Heartcore Capital (a source of PhaseTree’s funding), explains: “Materials play a crucial role in developing clean energy and sustainable technologies. PhaseTree makes it easier and faster to find better alternatives that can help reduce environmental impact and improve efficiency.”

By focusing on low-cost, abundant materials with straightforward synthesis routes, PhaseTree is hoping to maximise the likelihood of real-world adoption by major industrial players.

€3 Million Funding to Drive Expansion

To take their work to the next level, PhaseTree has just secured €3 million from Denmark-based venture capital firm Heartcore Capital. It’s understood that this funding will be used to:

– Expand R&D efforts, enhancing their material discovery platform.

– Grow the PhaseTree team, bringing in more scientists, engineers, and AI specialists.

– Scale up collaborations with some of the world’s largest battery, automotive, and steel manufacturers.

What This Could Mean for the Future

If PhaseTree succeeds in scaling up its technology, it could change the way industries develop materials for the better by reducing their dependence on scarce, expensive, and environmentally damaging resources.

– Some of the potential impacts include:

– Cheaper, more efficient batteries that rely on readily available materials rather than rare earth metals.

– Stronger, lighter alloys for the automotive and aerospace industries, reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

– Faster breakthroughs in renewable energy technology, making solar panels and wind turbines more efficient and cost-effective.

With the clean energy sector desperate for innovation, and supply chain disruptions making material discovery more urgent than ever, PhaseTree may well be in the right place at the right time.

What Does This Mean for Your Organisation?

By combining the accuracy of scientific modelling with the speed and efficiency of AI, they are setting a precedent for how next-generation materials can be developed. The fact that PhaseTree’s approach can significantly reduce development timelines and costs could reshape entire supply chains. This could make sustainable materials more accessible for businesses that have historically struggled with long and expensive R&D cycles. With global demand for cleaner, more efficient materials growing rapidly, this innovation could arrive at a crucial turning point for industries that are under mounting pressure to reduce their environmental impact.

For UK businesses, this development could open up significant opportunities. For example, as industries face increasing regulation on carbon emissions and sustainability, the ability to source materials that are not only greener but also cost-effective could provide a real competitive advantage. British manufacturers, particularly in sectors such as automotive, aerospace, and energy, could benefit from greater access to advanced materials that reduce reliance on imports and offer more stable supply chains. With the UK aiming to become a leader in green technology and advanced manufacturing, partnerships with companies like PhaseTree could support efforts to drive innovation domestically while reducing exposure to global market volatility.

Beyond the business world, the impact of faster, more sustainable material discovery could help society as a whole. For example, the widespread availability of new, more efficient materials could lower the cost of renewable energy infrastructure, making technologies like solar power and wind energy more affordable for consumers. Also, the battery industry, which is crucial to the success of electric vehicles and energy storage, could see faster progress towards alternatives that reduce reliance on scarce or ethically problematic resources. In turn, this could help accelerate the transition to low-carbon transport and cleaner energy grids, benefiting both the environment and consumers.

That said, while PhaseTree’s approach is promising, it remains to be seen how quickly industries can actually integrate these materials into large-scale production. The challenge isn’t only about discovery but also ensuring that new materials can be manufactured at scale, meet regulatory requirements, and gain industry-wide adoption. Although PhaseTree’s focus on manufacturability from the outset is a positive step, real-world implementation will be the true test of its success.

ChatGPT has a ‘memory’ feature which you should know about because you might wish to amend what is known about you (for security if nothing else) and also because you can add and delete ‘memories’ and thereby change the outputs you get.

[Note – To Watch This Video without glitches/interruptions, It may be best to download it first]

Ditching the plastic SIM? eSIMs make switching networks seamless, but not all phones support them. Here’s how to check if your phone does.

How to Check if Your Phone is eSIM-Compatible

For iPhones:

– Go to Settings > General > About.

– Scroll down to find EID (Embedded Identity Document).

– If an EID is listed, your iPhone supports eSIM.

– iPhones from the iPhone 11 series onwards generally support eSIM, but check for your specific model.

For Android Phones:

– Open the phone app and dial *#06#.

– If you see an EID number in the results, your phone supports eSIM.

– Alternatively, check Settings > About phone for eSIM-related information.

– Most Samsung Galaxy S20 series and newer, Google Pixel 3 and later, and other flagship Android devices include eSIM support.

Bonus – Other Things to Check

Is Your Phone Unlocked?

An unlocked phone can use eSIMs from different networks.

– On iPhone, go to Settings > General > About > Carrier Lock – it should say “No SIM restrictions” if unlocked.

– On Android, the process varies, so check your device manual or ask your network provider.

Does Your Network Support eSIM?

– Not all carriers offer eSIM support. Before switching, confirm with your provider that they support eSIM for your device.

– eSIMs are becoming more common, with growing adoption in mid-range and budget devices. If your phone doesn’t support eSIM now, it may well be a feature in your next upgrade.

OpenAI has launched Sora, its AI-powered video generation tool, and GPT-4.5, its latest and most advanced language model, in the UK, marking a major leap in artificial intelligence technology and sparking debate across creative and technological industries.

What is Sora and Why Has It Only Just Arrived in the UK?

Sora is OpenAI’s revolutionary text-to-video generator that can create up to 20-second-long, 1080p resolution videos from simple text prompts. It can also work with existing footage to extend, remix, or blend clips into new creations. The tool has been available in other regions since December 2024 but was withheld from the UK and Europe due to regulatory concerns around AI-generated content, data privacy, and intellectual property rights. Now, after adjustments to comply with local laws, OpenAI has finally made Sora available to UK users from 28 February 2025.

Who is Sora Aimed At and How Can You Get It?

Sora is aimed at digital creators, filmmakers, advertisers, and even casual users looking to experiment with AI-generated video content. It is currently available exclusively to ChatGPT Plus and Pro users. The Plus plan, at $20 per month, allows limited video generation, while the Pro plan, at $200 per month, provides significantly higher resolution and longer-duration videos. OpenAI has also promised future pricing plans for different levels of users.

Sora’s Features and Capabilities

Sora offers a range of tools that make AI-powered video creation both intuitive and highly customisable. These include:

Remix – Remove or reimagine specific elements in an existing video.

Re-cut – Extend frames to complete a scene.

Storyboard – Arrange and edit video sequences on a timeline.

Loop – Trim and create seamlessly repeating videos.

Blend – Merge two videos into one smooth clip.

Style Presets – Apply distinctive styles like ‘film noir’ or ‘papercraft’ to generated videos.

Sora says that these and other features mean that creators can develop unique video content quickly, without the need for complex editing software or extensive production teams.

Sora’s Impact on the Film, TV, and Advertising Industries

Sora appears to be poised to disrupt traditional content production. For example, by reducing the need for physical sets, location shoots, and expensive post-production work, the tool presents a more cost-effective and accessible alternative. Tyler Perry, a leading figure in the US film industry, has already expressed concerns about AI’s impact on traditional filmmaking, citing Sora’s potential to replace entire studio sets with AI-generated scenes.

It’s no surprise, therefore, that advertising agencies have been quick to adopt AI-generated content, with major brands such as Coca-Cola using AI to create full advertisements. David Jones, CEO of Brandtech Group, has described the shift as a “tectonic disruption” in marketing, comparing it to the digital photography revolution that made companies like Kodak obsolete.

Criticism and Ethical Concerns

Despite its impressive capabilities, Sora has drawn some criticism, particularly around copyright issues. For example, many artists and filmmakers fear their work may have been used to train the AI without permission. The UK creative industry has pushed back against government plans to allow AI firms to use copyrighted material without consent, with high-profile figures like Sir Paul McCartney and Dua Lipa signing an open letter opposing these policies.

Also, while OpenAI has included safeguards such as metadata tags and visible watermarks to distinguish AI-generated content, there are still concerns about potential misuse, including deepfakes and misinformation.

OpenAI Also Introduces GPT-4.5, Its Most Advanced Language Model Yet

In addition to releasing Sora in the UK, OpenAI has also just announced the introduction of GPT-4.5, codenamed ‘Orion,’ its latest language model. GPT-4.5 is designed to be more powerful, accurate, and emotionally intelligent than its predecessors. Unlike previous models, OpenAI says GPT-4.5 is better at recognising patterns, responding naturally to user prompts, and producing more reliable and nuanced answers. OpenAI claims it has significantly reduced “hallucinations”, the AI’s tendency to generate incorrect information, making it more dependable for research, writing, and business applications.

Who is GPT-4.5 Best For?

The model is particularly well-suited for creative writing, programming, education, and customer service applications. It demonstrates improved reasoning capabilities, making it more effective at problem-solving and strategic decision-making. Businesses can use it for automated customer interactions, while students and professionals can leverage it for research and content creation.

How to Access GPT-4.5 and What It Costs

GPT-4.5 is currently available to ChatGPT Pro users at $200 per month. OpenAI plans to roll it out to Plus and Team subscribers next week, with further availability for Enterprise and Edu users to follow.

Developers can access GPT-4.5 through OpenAI’s API at a premium rate. The model’s increased computing power makes it more expensive to run than previous versions, leading to speculation about whether OpenAI will continue offering it long-term.

Strengths and Limitations

OpenAI says GPT-4.5 excels in areas requiring creative thinking, emotional intelligence, and complex reasoning. It also claims that GPT-4.5 outperforms many rival models in factual accuracy tests, responding with fewer errors than previous GPT iterations.

However, it seems that GPT-4.5 falls short in AI “reasoning” benchmarks compared to competitors such as Anthropic’s Claude 3.7 and DeepSeek’s R1, which are designed to think through complex problems more methodically. Also, the model’s high operational cost has raised concerns about accessibility, with some questioning whether OpenAI will maintain support for GPT-4.5 in its API or shift focus to newer models in development.

Ethical Concerns and Controversy

A major point of debate surrounding GPT-4.5 is its ability to persuade and manipulate. For example, OpenAI’s internal tests found that the model was particularly good at convincing other AI models to donate virtual money or reveal hidden codewords. While OpenAI has stated that GPT-4.5 does not pose a “high” risk in this area, the findings have raised concerns about AI’s potential use in social engineering scams or misinformation campaigns.

Also, OpenAI has faced scrutiny over its transparency, after it quietly removed a statement from GPT-4.5’s white paper that said the model was “not a frontier AI model.” This has led to speculation that the company is downplaying the risks associated with GPT-4.5’s capabilities.

What Does This Mean For Your Business?

OpenAI’s decision to bring these tools to the UK offers new opportunities for content creators, businesses, and researchers. However, their arrival may also reignite ongoing debates about AI’s ethical implications, its impact on traditional industries, and the risks of misinformation.

Sora, with its ability to generate high-quality video from simple text prompts, is undoubtedly a real game-changer for filmmakers, advertisers, and digital artists. It democratises video production, making it more accessible to those without extensive technical expertise or large budgets. However, this democratisation comes at a price, as concerns over copyright infringement, job displacement, and AI-generated misinformation continue to loom large. While OpenAI has implemented some safeguards, the potential for misuse remains, especially in a world where distinguishing between real and AI-generated content is becoming increasingly difficult.

Similarly, GPT-4.5 appears to offer another step forward in AI’s reasoning, creativity, and problem-solving capabilities. For example, with enhanced accuracy and more nuanced responses, it is a valuable tool for businesses, educators, and writers. However, questions persist about its long-term accessibility due to its high cost, as well as its ethical implications. The model’s ability to influence and persuade, coupled with OpenAI’s lack of transparency regarding its full capabilities, raises concerns about the risks of AI-driven manipulation.

Both Sora and GPT-4.5, therefore, appear to highlight the double-edged nature of AI progress. While they offer incredible potential to revolutionise industries and improve productivity, they also introduce complex challenges that society must address. Regulation, ethical oversight, and clear transparency from AI developers will be essential in ensuring that these tools are used responsibly.

In this article, we look at the key actions to take if your mobile phone is stolen, how to protect your data, and ways to reduce the risk of theft in the first place.

Phone Theft on the Rise

Mobile phone theft is an increasing concern in the UK, with incidents on the rise, particularly in urban areas. For example, in the 12 months leading up to March 2024, approximately 78,000 individuals reported having their phones or bags stolen, marking a dramatic increase compared to previous years. London alone accounts for a significant portion of these incidents, with hotspot areas including train stations, busy high streets, and public transport hubs.

A Guide

Given the personal and financial information stored on modern smartphones, losing one to theft can be more than just an inconvenience because it can also lead to significant security risks. This guide outlines the essential steps to take if your phone is stolen, how to prevent such incidents, and the importance of mobile phone insurance.

Immediate Steps to Take If Your Phone Is Stolen

Perhaps the most important steps you can take if your phone is stolen are:

1. Attempt to Locate and Secure Your Device Remotely

Most smartphones come equipped with tracking features that allow users to locate, lock, or erase their device remotely:

– iPhone users: Use ‘Find My iPhone’ (https://www.icloud.com/find) via iCloud or the Find My app on another Apple device.

– Android users: Visit Find My Device to track, lock, or erase your phone remotely. You can use the Find My Device app or go to android.com/find on a browser. You can also use the app on a friend’s phone or tablet.

– Samsung users: Use ‘Find My Mobile’ (https://smartthingsfind.samsung.com/login) to locate or secure your device.

– If tracking is enabled, you can share your phone’s location with the police, which may help in recovery efforts.

2. Report the Theft to the Police

Call 101 or visit your nearest police station to report the theft. Provide them with your phone’s IMEI number, which can help track the device. You’ll also receive a crime reference number, which is necessary for insurance claims. Obviously, it helps to keep a note of your IMEI number somewhere separately in case of this eventuality. You can find your IMEI number by dialing *#06# on your phone’s keypad (see below) or checking your device’s settings. You can also find it on the original packaging or in your purchase documents.

Even if you believe the chances of recovering your phone are low, reporting the theft helps authorities identify crime patterns and hotspot areas.

3. Notify Your Network Provider

Contact your mobile network provider immediately to block your SIM card and, if possible, blacklist the phone’s IMEI number to prevent it from being used on UK networks.

This step also prevents thieves from making costly calls or accessing data services on your plan. Some providers cap unauthorised charges at £100, but only if you report the theft within 24 hours.

4. Inform Your Bank and Other Financial Institutions

If you use mobile banking or payment apps like Apple Pay or Google Wallet, contact your bank to suspend these services. This prevents unauthorised transactions and potential financial loss.

Some victims of phone theft have lost thousands of pounds when thieves accessed banking apps before security measures were implemented.

5. Change Passwords for Important Accounts

Using another device, update passwords for:

– Email accounts (Gmail, Outlook, etc.)

– Social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter)

– Banking apps

– Subscription services (Netflix, Spotify, Amazon)

This ensures that even if a thief attempts to access your data, they won’t be able to log in.

Understanding Mobile Phone Theft in the UK

The rise in mobile phone thefts is a growing concern, with government figures showing a massive 150 per cent increase in snatch thefts over the past year! Organised gangs often target high-value smartphones due to their resale value, both in the UK and overseas.

Common Methods of Mobile Phone Theft

– Snatch thefts. Thieves on bikes or mopeds grab phones from unsuspecting victims using them in public.

– Distraction techniques. Criminals use diversions, such as asking for directions, while an accomplice steals the phone.

– Pickpocketing. Crowded areas like public transport hubs are hotspots where thieves discreetly remove phones from pockets or bags.

Proactive Measures to Prevent Mobile Phone Theft

To reduce the risk of mobile phone theft, some proactive measures you can take include:

1. Staying Vigilant in Public Spaces

– Avoid using your phone while walking on busy streets or near roadsides.

– Be aware of your surroundings and hold your phone securely.

– Stand against a wall or in a safer location if you need to use your phone in public.

2. Securing Your Device with Strong Passwords

– Use a strong PIN, password, or biometric authentication (fingerprint or facial recognition).

– Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on important accounts for added security.

3. Registering Your Phone’s IMEI Number

– Dial ** *#06# ** on your phone to display its IMEI number. Keep a record of this number in case of theft, as it will help your network provider block the device.

4. Installing a Tracking App

– Ensure tracking features like “Find My iPhone” or “Find My Device” are enabled before an incident occurs. These tools provide the best chance of recovering your phone.

5. Disabling Message Previews on Lock Screen

– To prevent thieves from accessing authentication codes or personal messages, disable message previews on the lock screen. This setting can be found in your phone’s privacy settings.

The Importance of Mobile Phone Insurance

Investing in mobile phone insurance can help mitigate the financial impact of theft. For example, many policies cover things like:

– The cost of a replacement device.

– Unauthorised usage charges.

– Loss or accidental damage.

If you don’t have standalone phone insurance, check whether your home insurance policy includes mobile phone cover.

What More Could Be Done to Help Tackle the Problem of Mobile Phone Theft?

To further combat mobile phone theft, additional measures that key stakeholders could take may include:

– Mobile phone companies strengthening anti-theft features, such as theft detection locks and offline device locking, to make stolen phones unusable.

– Police enhancing tracking and retrieval efforts, conducting targeted operations in theft hotspots, and improving cooperation with tech firms.

– Insurers offering incentives for users who enable security features and register IMEI numbers.

– Regulatory bodies mandating IMEI registration and enforcing stricter penalties for handling stolen phones.

– The launching of public awareness campaigns, educating users on security best practices and theft prevention.

By working together, these measures may also help deter theft and protect users from financial and personal data loss.

Checklist – Steps to Take If Your Mobile Phone Is Stolen

Here’s a handy checklist of essential steps to take if your mobile phone is stolen, ensuring you act quickly to protect your device and personal data.

Attempt to Locate and Secure Your Device Remotely: Use Find My iPhone/Find My Device to track, lock, or erase your phone.

Report the Theft to the Police: Call 101 and obtain a crime reference number for insurance purposes.

Notify Your Network Provider: Request to block your SIM and blacklist the IMEI number.

Inform Your Bank: Suspend Apple Pay, Google Wallet, and mobile banking apps.

Change Passwords for Important Accounts: Secure email, banking, and social media accounts.

Register Your IMEI Number: If you haven’t already, find your IMEI by dialling ** *#06# ** and store it safely.

Consider Getting Mobile Phone Insurance: Check if your phone is covered under an insurance policy to reduce financial loss.

Print this checklist and keep it in a safe place in case your phone is stolen.

Taking proactive steps to secure your phone and knowing what to do in case of theft can protect your personal data and finances. Stay alert, stay informed, and stay safe.

What Does This Mean for Your Business?

Losing a mobile phone to theft is more than just a frustration, as it can lead to serious security risks, financial loss, and personal inconvenience. With phone theft becoming more common, particularly in busy urban areas, knowing how to respond effectively is essential. Acting quickly by locking the device remotely, reporting the theft to the police and network provider, and securing financial accounts can significantly reduce the potential damage.

However, the best way to stay protected is through prevention. Taking simple precautions, such as keeping your phone out of sight in high-risk areas, using biometric security features, and ensuring remote tracking is enabled, can make all the difference. While no measure can guarantee complete safety, being proactive about security can lower the risk of falling victim to opportunistic thieves.

Mobile phones have become central to daily life, storing vast amounts of personal, financial, and business data and information. By taking steps to secure your device before it is stolen and knowing exactly what to do if the worst happens, you can stay in control even when faced with a crime that is becoming increasingly common.

Microsoft has confirmed that it will retire Skype in May 2025, marking the end of an era for the once-revolutionary internet calling service.

Teams Instead

The company plans to shift its focus entirely to Microsoft Teams, which it describes as a modern communication and collaboration platform better suited to today’s needs.

Years of Declining Relevance

The decision to finally phase out Skype comes after years of declining relevance, as competitors like Zoom, WhatsApp, and FaceTime gained popularity and Microsoft’s own Teams platform became the default communication tool for businesses and personal users alike. The move is expected to streamline Microsoft’s communication offerings and consolidate its efforts around a single, more integrated platform.

What Happened To Skype?

Skype was first launched in 2003 and quickly became a household name for voice and video calls over the internet. Microsoft acquired Skype in 2011 for $8.5 billion, integrating it into its product ecosystem, including Xbox and Windows devices. However, despite its early dominance, Skype struggled to adapt to changing user expectations, particularly as mobile-first competitors emerged.

Microsoft Teams was introduced in 2017, initially targeting business users but later expanding to personal communication. The platform experienced explosive growth during the COVID-19 pandemic, as remote work and virtual meetings became the norm. According to Microsoft, Teams’ consumer meeting minutes increased fourfold in just the past two years, highlighting the shift in user behaviour.

Jeff Teper, Microsoft’s President of Collaborative Apps and Platforms, has explained the reasoning behind the transition, saying: “In order to streamline our free consumer communications offerings so we can more easily adapt to customer needs, we will be retiring Skype in May 2025 to focus on Microsoft Teams (free), our modern communications and collaboration hub.”

What This Means for Skype Users

Skype will remain available until 5 May 2025, giving users time to migrate to Teams or export their data. Microsoft has outlined two primary options for Skype users, which are:

1. Move to Microsoft Teams for free. Skype users can log in to Teams using their existing Skype credentials. All chats and contacts will automatically be transferred, allowing for a seamless transition. Microsoft has assured users that Teams offers many of the same features as Skype, including one-on-one and group calls, messaging, and file sharing, alongside additional capabilities such as calendar management and community-building tools.

2. Export Skype data. For users who do not wish to migrate to Teams, Microsoft is providing an option to export all Skype data, including chat history, contacts, and call logs.

During the transition period, Skype and Teams will remain interoperable, meaning users on one platform will still be able to communicate with those on the other. Microsoft has also promised step-by-step guidance to assist users in making the move.

The End of Skype’s Paid Features

As part of the transition, Microsoft will also discontinue Skype’s paid services. New customers will no longer be able to purchase Skype Credit or subscriptions for international and domestic calls. Existing paid users will be able to use their remaining Skype Credit and subscriptions until their next renewal period. After the shutdown date, Skype’s dial pad will only be available to remaining paid users via the Skype web portal and within Microsoft Teams.

What This Means for Microsoft and Its Competitors

The decision to retire Skype and focus on Teams reflects Microsoft’s strategy to consolidate its communication tools into a single, modernised cloud-based platform. The company is betting on Teams to remain competitive against other video conferencing and messaging services such as Zoom, Slack, and Google Meet.

While Skype had a strong user base in its prime, its influence has waned over the years. For example, a report from 2023 estimated that Skype had around 36 million daily active users, a fraction of the hundreds of millions once recorded in its heyday. In contrast, Microsoft Teams now boasts over 320 million monthly active users, demonstrating its rapid adoption and continued growth.

Microsoft’s move is also likely to put pressure on competitors and by streamlining its offerings, Microsoft can focus on further improving Teams, making it a more attractive alternative to business and personal users alike. The integration of Skype users into Teams could further boost the platform’s adoption, giving Microsoft an edge in the crowded communication software market.

A Nostalgic Farewell

In the early days of internet calling, Skype was nothing short of revolutionary, enabling people to connect with friends and family across the world for free. For many, it was their first experience of video calling, making long-distance relationships and remote work more feasible long before today’s alternatives existed.

In response to the announcement, many long-time users took to social media to share their memories of Skype. For example, one user wrote, “Skype was such an exciting invention at the time—before smartphones and WhatsApp calls. It’s easy to forget how groundbreaking it was.” Another reminisced about using Skype for international calls with family, saying, “Back then, it felt like magic.”

One Year To Prepare for the Transition

Despite its legacy, the writing has been on the wall for Skype for some time. Microsoft’s prioritisation of Teams over the past few years made it clear that Skype’s days were numbered. With the formal retirement date now set, users have just a short while to prepare for the transition to Microsoft’s next-generation communication platform.

What Does This Mean For Your Business?

While nostalgia surrounds its departure, this transition is ultimately a strategic move by Microsoft to consolidate its offerings and focus on the more modern, integrated capabilities of Teams. Given the rapid evolution of communication technology, Skype’s decline was perhaps inevitable, as competitors emerged with mobile-first designs and feature-rich ecosystems that better catered to today’s users.

For UK businesses, this shift highlights the growing importance of streamlined digital collaboration. With Microsoft funnelling its resources into Teams, organisations will need to ensure they are prepared for the change, particularly those still relying on Skype for day-to-day operations. The move presents both opportunities and challenges—on one hand, Teams offers a more sophisticated suite of tools designed to enhance productivity; on the other, businesses must manage the transition effectively to avoid disruption. Ensuring employees are comfortable with Teams and its expanded capabilities will be key to making the most of Microsoft’s new direction.

By consolidating its user base under a single platform, Microsoft strengthens Teams’ position against rivals such as Zoom, Google Meet, and Slack. This will likely drive further innovation, benefitting users who demand more seamless, feature-rich solutions for remote and hybrid working.

While Skype may soon be a relic of the past, its influence on digital communication paved the way for the tools we now take for granted, and its legacy will endure in the very platforms that have replaced it. As Microsoft moves forward with Teams, users (both personal and professional) must adapt to the changing landscape.

Over 1,000 musicians have released a silent album, Is This What We Want?, in protest against UK copyright law changes that would allow AI companies to use copyrighted material without creators’ permission.

A Symbolic Protest

The album, comprising 12 tracks of ambient studio sounds, symbolises the artists’ concerns about the potential erosion of their rights and livelihoods in the face of advancing AI technologies.

Released on 25 February 2025, Is This What We Want? features contributions from a diverse array of artists, including luminaries such as Kate Bush, Damon Albarn, Annie Lennox, and Hans Zimmer. The album’s tracks are recordings of empty studios and performance spaces, capturing subtle ambient noises but devoid of musical content. The deliberate absence of music is designed to be a representation of the artists’ fears that their creative voices may be silenced if the proposed copyright reforms are enacted.

Also, the track titles on the ‘silent’ album collectively spell out the message: “The British Government Must Not Legalise Music Theft To Benefit AI Companies.” This is intended to highlight the unified stance of the artists against the legislative changes they believe could undermine their control over their own work.

Proposed Copyright Reforms

The impetus for this silent protest stems from the UK government’s proposal to amend copyright laws to facilitate AI development. For example, the suggested changes would allow AI companies to use copyrighted material for training models without obtaining prior consent from creators, provided the content is lawfully accessible. Creators would have the option to “opt out,” but many argue that this system places an unreasonable burden on individual artists to protect their work.

Exploitation?

Critics contend that such reforms to copyright laws could lead to widespread exploitation of creative content, effectively enabling AI firms to appropriate artists’ work without fair compensation. This concern is particularly acute in the music industry, where AI technologies are increasingly capable of generating compositions that closely mimic human-created music.

A United Front of Artists

The protest album brings together a coalition of well-known artists from various genres and backgrounds. In addition to the aforementioned contributors, the project also includes co-writing credits from hundreds more, such as Billy Ocean, The Clash, Mystery Jets, Yusuf / Cat Stevens, Riz Ahmed, Tori Amos, and Imogen Heap. This extensive participation reflects a broad consensus within the creative community about the potential threats posed by the proposed copyright changes.

Composer Max Richter, known for his contemporary classical works, has been quoted as saying that the plans not only impact musicians but also “impoverish creators” across the board, from writers to visual artists and beyond. This sentiment may resonate with many who fear that the reforms could set a precedent affecting all creative industries.

The Timing of the Release

The album’s release coincided with the closing of a public consultation on the proposed legal changes, aiming to draw attention to the potential impact on livelihoods and the UK music industry. By launching the album at this critical juncture, the artists sought to influence public opinion and encourage policymakers to reconsider the ramifications of the proposed reforms.

Reception and Impact

The silent album has garnered significant media attention and sparked public discourse on the intersection of AI and intellectual property rights. While some have praised the initiative as a powerful statement against the commodification of creative works, others question its efficacy in effecting legislative change.

All Profits To Charity

Financially, the album is directing all profits to the charity ‘Help Musicians’, supporting artists who may be adversely affected by the evolving landscape of the music industry. This charitable aspect adds a layer of altruism to the protest, highlighting the community’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare of its members.

Future Implications for Artists and the Music Industry

The protest movement and album raise critical questions about the future relationship between AI technologies and creative industries. The artists hope that their collective action will prompt the government to implement more robust protections for creators, ensuring that they retain control over how their work is used in AI training.

However, the feasibility of such protections remains uncertain. For example, the vast scale of data required to train AI models makes it challenging to monitor and control the use of individual works. Also, the global nature of the internet means that content accessible in one jurisdiction can be utilised elsewhere, complicating enforcement efforts.

All this means that artists may need to explore alternative strategies to protect their interests, such as developing new licensing frameworks that accommodate AI’s unique requirements or leveraging technology to track and manage the use of their work. Collaboration between creators, policymakers, and tech companies is also likely to be essential to establish fair and effective solutions.

Engage With the Creative Community

The controversy surrounding the proposed copyright reforms highlights the need for a balanced approach that considers the interests of all stakeholders. While fostering AI innovation is crucial for economic growth and technological advancement, it should not come at the expense of creators’ rights and livelihoods.

For large tech companies, the debate highlights the importance of engaging with the creative community to develop ethical practices that respect intellectual property. Failure to do so could lead to reputational damage and potential legal challenges.

Policymakers face the complex task of crafting legislation that supports technological progress while safeguarding the rights of creators. This requires nuanced understanding and collaboration across sectors to ensure that the benefits of AI are realised without undermining the foundations of creative industries.

What Does This Mean For Your Business?

The silent protest led by musicians highlights the deep concerns within the creative community about the potential consequences of AI-driven copyright reforms. It seems that their fears are not unfounded since AI has already demonstrated its ability to replicate and remix artistic works with increasing sophistication, thereby raising urgent questions about ownership, consent, and fair compensation. The proposed changes to UK copyright law, which would allow AI firms to use creative material without prior permission, actually represent a seismic shift in how intellectual property is protected.

At the heart of this debate lies the challenge of balancing technological progress with the rights of those who create the content AI systems rely on. Advocates for reform argue that relaxing copyright restrictions will accelerate innovation and unlock new possibilities in music and the arts. However, for many artists, this approach risks devaluing human creativity and diminishing their ability to control how their work is used. The ‘opt-out’ model, while positioned as a safeguard, places the burden on individuals rather than the companies seeking to benefit from their labour.

The collective action taken by musicians through Is This What We Want? has already been a success in terms of drawing public and media attention to the issue, demonstrating the strength of opposition to the proposed changes. While it remains to be seen whether this protest will actually influence policy decisions, it has undoubtedly reinforced the argument that AI should not be granted unrestricted access to creative works without proper safeguards.

With AI pretty much being a genie that’s out of the bottle and racing ahead of regulation, many believe that a truly constructive path forward will require cooperation between artists, policymakers, and technology companies to establish fair regulations that protect creative industries while allowing AI to develop in an ethical and sustainable manner. Licensing frameworks, transparency in data usage, and technological solutions for tracking content could all form part of a more equitable system. If AI is to be integrated into the creative world, it must be done in a way that respects the fundamental rights of those who give it the material to learn from.

Munich-based startup Bliro has developed a new AI-powered tool that transcribes conversations in real time while ensuring privacy and compliance.

No Recordings or Video

The tool is designed for businesses that require accurate meeting notes while maintaining strict privacy and compliance standards, such as GDPR. For example, the AI assistant extracts key details from conversations (whether in person or virtual) and automatically generates structured summaries and follow-up tasks.

Unlike services such as Otter and Fireflies, Bliro does not store any recordings, thereby eliminating the risk of sensitive information being compromised.

No Consent Required

By removing audio and video storage from the process, Bliro minimises privacy concerns and simplifies compliance requirements, thereby allowing businesses to use the tool without requiring explicit consent from meeting participants.

Also, all processed data is encrypted and stored on servers in Frankfurt, ensuring that no third parties, including Bliro employees, have access without user permission.

Useful for Customer-Facing Work

The AI tool is particularly suited for customer-facing teams, automating manual tasks such as meeting notes, follow-ups, and CRM updates. Bliro also provides AI coaching features, offering insights that help businesses improve sales performance and decision-making based on conversation data.

Integrates with Popular Platforms

Supporting 15 languages, the platform integrates seamlessly with tools like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Salesforce, and HubSpot.

Funding

Backed by €2.8 million in funding, Bliro has already gained traction, with over 1,000 companies (including major German brands) adopting the platform. With its privacy-first approach and automation capabilities, Bliro positions itself as a valuable alternative to traditional transcription services for security-conscious businesses.

What Does This Mean for Your Business?

Bliro’s AI note-taking tool could be of real help to businesses that want to save time and effort with transcription and meeting documentation. Also, by eliminating the need for audio or video storage, it directly addresses privacy and compliance concerns, making it particularly attractive to companies operating in highly regulated industries. Its ability to generate structured meeting summaries and action points without requiring explicit consent removes a common barrier to AI-powered transcription, streamlining processes without compromising security.

For businesses, Bliro’s approach could mean improved efficiency and peace of mind. For example, automating meeting notes and CRM updates can free up valuable time, allowing teams to focus on higher-value tasks while ensuring that key insights are captured accurately. The integration with widely used platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Salesforce looks set to further enhance its usability, making it easy to incorporate into existing workflows. Also, its AI-driven coaching features could provide businesses with a competitive edge, offering strategic insights based on conversation analysis.

However, while Bliro’s privacy-first model presents an advantage, it may not suit every organisation. For example, some businesses may still prefer solutions that offer full recordings for future reference, particularly in cases where verbatim transcripts are required for legal or training purposes. Also, competitors (such as Otter and Fireflies) which provide comprehensive recording and transcription services, may continue to appeal to companies that prioritise detailed archival over privacy concerns.

For Bliro’s rivals, the emergence of this privacy-centric tool highlights the growing demand for secure, compliance-friendly AI solutions. While established transcription services may offer greater flexibility in terms of storage and retrieval, they may now face increasing pressure to enhance their privacy protections or provide alternative solutions for businesses with stringent security requirements.

Bliro’s AI-powered note-taking tool, therefore, could be highlighting a growing shift in the market, where automation and security are no longer seen as competing priorities but as complementary needs. As more businesses look to harness AI while safeguarding sensitive information, Bliro’s model could set a new standard i.e., one that challenges competitors to rethink their approach and pushes the industry towards a more privacy-conscious future.

A new report has revealed that 89 per cent of enterprise Generative AI (GenAI) usage happens without IT oversight, thereby exposing organisations to data leaks and unauthorised access.

Many employees use GenAI tools through personal accounts, making security enforcement nearly impossible.

The Enterprise GenAI Data Security Report 2025 by LayerX highlights that while GenAI adoption is growing, most usage remains invisible. The report highlights how nearly 72 per cent of employees access these tools outside corporate controls, and only 12 per cent of corporate users authenticate via Single Sign-On (SSO).

The main concern with these findings is data exposure. For example, employees frequently paste sensitive business information, customer data, and proprietary code into GenAI tools, with an average of four pastes per day. Without security measures, organisations risk losing control over critical data.

To mitigate these risks, businesses should implement browser-based security solutions that provide visibility, integrate Data Loss Prevention (DLP) measures, and enforce authentication policies. Without action, GenAI is likely to continue as a growing security blind spot.

German startup Proxima Fusion has revealed a new fusion reactor design, ‘Stellaris’, which it claims is the fastest route to commercially viable fusion power.

What Is Fusion Energy?

Nuclear fusion, the reaction that powers the sun, occurs when two atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing vast amounts of energy. Unlike nuclear fission (the process currently used in our nuclear power stations) which splits atoms and produces long-lived radioactive waste, fusion generates minimal radiation, no carbon emissions, and uses abundant fuel sources like hydrogen isotopes. Scientists have pursued fusion energy for decades due to its potential to provide safe, sustainable, and virtually limitless power.

Who Is Proxima Fusion?

Proxima Fusion, founded in 2023, is the first spin-out from the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics (IPP) in Germany. The company has assembled a team of engineers from MIT, Google, SpaceX, and McLaren, all dedicated to overcoming the long-standing technical barriers of fusion power. Their goal is to develop the world’s first commercial fusion power plant, using an innovative stellarator design that builds on decades of plasma physics research.

What Makes the Stellaris Reactor Different?

The new reactor from Proxima Fusion, dubbed ‘Stellaris’, is a quasi-isodynamic (QI) stellarator that utilises high-temperature superconducting (HTS) magnets to create twisted magnetic fields capable of confining hot plasma, a critical step for achieving fusion. Unlike the more widely used tokamak design (such as the one being developed by the ITER project in France), stellarators are inherently stable and can operate continuously. While traditional stellarators have been extremely complex to design and build, advances in AI and computational modelling have allowed Proxima to optimise its approach, making the construction process faster and more cost-effective.

The concept is based on the Wendelstein 7-X, the world’s most advanced stellarator experiment, built at IPP. While Wendelstein 7-X was designed purely for research, Stellaris is engineered to deliver electricity to the grid. Proxima’s first demonstrator, called Alpha, aims to prove net energy production is possible in a steady state and is expected to be completed within six years.

Why This Could Be a Game-Changer

Stellarators have long been overlooked in favour of tokamaks, primarily due to their complexity. However, Proxima Fusion’s approach leverages modern computing power to refine their design, solving problems that were previously insurmountable. AI-driven optimisation allows the company to create reactors that generate more power per unit volume, reduce operational costs, and minimise reliance on scarce materials.

According to Proxima Fusion CEO Francesco Sciortino, “Stellaris is designed to operate in continuous mode and be intrinsically stable. No other fusion power plant design has yet been demonstrated to be capable of that.”

The use of HTS magnets is another key breakthrough. These allow for much stronger magnetic fields than conventional superconductors, meaning the reactor can be significantly smaller and built faster while still achieving the necessary conditions for fusion. Also, Stellaris only relies on materials that are already available in today’s supply chains, making its construction more feasible than previous designs.

The Road to Commercial Fusion

Proxima Fusion has set an ambitious timeline, with the construction of Alpha planned for completion by 2031. If all goes to plan, Stellaris will be the first stellarator to demonstrate sustained net energy production, a milestone never before achieved in fusion research. If successful, the company aims to develop a full-scale 1GW fusion power plant in the 2030s, potentially providing clean, continuous energy to the grid.

Investment

The company’s approach has already attracted significant investment, securing €20 million in funding to accelerate development.

How It Could Change The Energy Sector

If Stellaris lives up to its promise, it could reshape the energy market. Fusion power offers a carbon-free alternative to fossil fuels without the intermittency of renewables like wind and solar. For businesses, this could mean access to a reliable, cost-effective, and sustainable energy source, reducing dependence on volatile energy markets and fossil fuel imports.

From an environmental perspective, widespread adoption of fusion power would mark a major step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change. As global energy demand continues to rise, scalable fusion technology could be the key to long-term energy security.

The Challenges Ahead

Despite all the excitement surrounding Stellaris, it’s worth noting that significant hurdles remain. For example, building a real, commercial fusion reactor requires overcoming immense engineering challenges, including handling the extreme temperatures of the plasma and maintaining precise control of the magnetic fields. Also, while stellarators are more stable than tokamaks, they remain complex machines that require further refinement before they can be deployed at scale.

The Model Coil Next Step

It’s understood that Proxima Fusion’s next step is the development of its Stellarator Model Coil (SMC) by 2027, which will validate the HTS magnet technology before Alpha’s construction begins. If these milestones are achieved, Stellaris could mark the beginning of a new era in clean energy, bringing fusion power out of the laboratory and into the real world.

What Does This Mean For Your Organisation?

The development of the Stellaris reactor could be the next (sooner than expected) step towards the long-sought goal of commercially viable fusion energy. Proxima Fusion’s innovative stellarator design, enabled by modern computational power and high-temperature superconducting magnets, offers a promising alternative to the dominant tokamak approach. By overcoming traditional limitations associated with stellarators, such as complexity and construction feasibility, the company has positioned itself at the forefront of the fusion race.

However, while the technological advances underpinning Stellaris are impressive, the path to commercial deployment remains fraught with challenges. The physics of sustaining controlled fusion at an energy-positive level is well understood, but engineering a reactor that can reliably operate over long periods while remaining economically viable is another matter entirely. The development of the Stellarator Model Coil by 2027 will be a crucial test of Proxima Fusion’s approach, and its success will determine whether the company can proceed with constructing its Alpha prototype as planned.

If Proxima Fusion succeeds in delivering on its ambitious timeline, Stellaris could be a transformative force in the energy sector. A working fusion reactor that can continuously produce clean energy would mark a monumental shift away from fossil fuels and intermittent renewables, offering a sustainable solution to the world’s growing energy needs. However, the history of fusion research is already littered with promising breakthroughs that have struggled to translate into commercial reality. While Proxima Fusion’s advancements are significant, it remains to be seen whether they will be sufficient to surmount the remaining engineering and financial obstacles.

Stellaris, therefore, appears to embody both the potential and the uncertainty of fusion power. For example, if successful, it could usher in a new era of limitless, carbon-free energy. However, like all fusion endeavours, it must first prove that it can move beyond the laboratory and into the real world, which is a major challenge that has eluded every fusion project to date.