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Samsung and MIT have made significant strides in developing 2D semiconductors, by identifying promising channel materials like molybdenum disulfide, addressing metal contact challenges with bismuth, and creating compatible gate dielectrics like amorphous boron nitride, researchers are paving the way for more efficient, compact, and powerful electronic devices. These advancements, combined with efficient manufacturing processes, bring the potential for 3D integrated circuits closer to reality, promising a new era of miniaturization and performance enhancement in the semiconductor industry.

India needs to strengthen its manufacturing sector to create jobs and drive economic growth, according to Fitch Ratings. Although India's manufacturing sector has potential, its contribution to GDP has remained stagnant at around 15%. Key areas of focus include improving infrastructure, simplifying regulatory procedures, investing in education and vocational training, embracing advanced technologies, and enhancing export competitiveness. Government initiatives like 'Make in India' and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme are steps in the right direction, but sustained efforts are required. Strengthening manufacturing can significantly impact job creation, especially for India's young workforce, and position India as a global manufacturing leader. 

India is working hard to catch up with China and the US in quantum computing. The US leads with significant achievements from companies like Google, which claimed quantum supremacy in 2019. China has made notable advances backed by substantial government support. India launched the National Mission on Quantum Technologies and Applications in 2020, involving top institutions like IISc and IITs. Despite challenges like limited investment and a need for more skilled workers, India is making progress through international collaborations and quantum startups. Sustained efforts could help India become a key player in the global quantum computing race.

Qatari telecom giant Ooredoo has partnered with NVIDIA to establish cutting-edge AI data centers across the Middle East. By deploying thousands of NVIDIA Tensor Core GPUs, Ooredoo aims to accelerate AI innovation, support local AI ecosystems, and drive economic growth in the region. This strategic collaboration positions Ooredoo as a leading digital infrastructure provider, capable of meeting the growing demand for accelerated computing and empowering businesses and governments with advanced AI capabilities.

Foxconn is investing $263.7 million to build a smart entertainment manufacturing plant in Quang Ninh, Vietnam, focusing primarily on producing Nintendo Switch consoles and UAV components. The facility, located in the Song Khoai Industrial Park, will cover 21.5 hectares and is expected to employ around 1,200 workers. The project aims to start full operations in January 2027. 

Honda is significantly cutting gasoline vehicle production in China as it shifts focus to electric vehicles. Faced with declining sales amidst stiff competition from domestic Chinese automakers, particularly in the rapidly growing electric vehicle market, Honda is closing and suspending production at two of its Chinese factories. This strategic move reflects the broader industry shift towards electrification and Honda's adaptation to the changing landscape of the world's largest auto market. 

Unisoc has achieved a significant milestone by successfully passing Telcel's technical tests for its 5G mobile communication chip. The Mexican telecommunications giant's approval validates Unisoc's chip performance across 5G, 4G, and 3G networks. This breakthrough expands Unisoc's global footprint, as the company continues to penetrate overseas markets with its comprehensive 5G product lineup, supporting a growing number of smart devices worldwide. 

Accellera Systems Initiative has established the Federated Simulation Standard (FSS) Working Group to foster interoperability among simulation tools and models across various industries. Chaired by Martin Barnasconi of NXP, the FSS Working Group will collaborate with industry leaders to develop a unified framework that supports industries like avionics, space, semiconductors, automotive, and mechatronics, ultimately accelerating product development and innovation.

South Korea and Israel have established an investment fund of $80 million to foster innovation and collaboration between their startup ecosystems. The NH-OC Global Open Innovation Fund, a joint venture with OurCrowd, aims to invest in 25-30 promising startups in semiconductors, robotics, automotive, quantum computing, cybersecurity, and digital health.

The latest market research agency data report pointed out that in the second quarter of 2024, Apple ranked second in the world's smartphones with a market share of 16%. Samsung ranked first with a market share of 20%. Xiaomi (14%), vivo (8%), and OPPO (8%) followed.