Decoder.ca

Canadian Tech in 100 Words

TikTok Appeals National Security Shutdown in Federal Court

by

TikTok Canada is appealing a federal order to shut its Canadian offices, arguing Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne’s decision was both procedurally unfair and unsupported by evidence. The November directive, citing unspecified national security concerns, came without dialogue despite TikTok’s offers to address issues, the company claimed in a Federal Court filing.

If upheld, the closure will affect hundreds of employees, cancel over 250,000 ad deals, and harm Canadian creators, TikTok warned. While Champagne has declined to disclose specific security concerns, TikTok is seeking judicial review to prevent the shutdown.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on The Logic.

Canadian Employers Aim to Boost Hiring in 2025

by

Robert Half’s State of Canadian Hiring Survey reveals 46% of companies plan to add new permanent roles in early 2025, while 49% will focus on filling vacancies. Additionally, 54% aim to increase contract hiring for projects.

Growth (47%), turnover (44%), and new projects (41%) are driving hiring. Koula Vasilopoulos of Robert Half emphasizes strong hiring strategies and retention plans to combat delays, burnout, and decreased productivity caused by unfilled roles. The survey highlights risks of delayed hiring, including reduced productivity (40%) and stretched staff bandwidth (39%). Employers must act to meet business goals efficiently.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on Newswire.ca.

IBM Unveils Breakthrough Optics for AI Data Centers

by

IBM has revealed groundbreaking co-packaged optics (CPO) research, enabling optical communication inside data centers for faster AI processing. By using polymer optical waveguides (PWG), IBM’s innovation could deliver 80x faster bandwidth than current chip connections.

    CPO technology promises to reduce energy consumption by over 5x, cut AI model training times from three months to three weeks, and save energy equivalent to 5,000 U.S. homes annually. The innovation boosts chip interconnect density and ensures reliability under extreme conditions. “This breakthrough will future-proof data centers for AI demands,” said Dario Gil, IBM’s SVP of Research.

    Want to know more? Check out the source code on Newswire.ca.

    Canada’s AI Battleground: Innovation vs. Litigation

    by

    The recent lawsuit by Canadian media groups against OpenAI for allegedly scraping copyrighted content highlights a growing tension between AI innovation and intellectual property concerns. Critics argue this litigation risks stifling AI advancements crucial for Canada’s global competitiveness.

    AI systems use publicly available data, akin to indexing by Google or Bing, to enhance industries like journalism and law. Entrepreneurs warn that such lawsuits send negative signals, pushing AI startups toward jurisdictions with innovation-friendly policies. Clearer laws and licensing agreements could foster collaboration, ensuring both fair compensation and technological progress for Canada’s AI future.

    Want to know more? Check out the source code on Techcouver.

    $6 Billion Boost for BC’s Wind Energy Future

    by

    BC Hydro has signed 30-year electricity purchase agreements with nine new wind energy projects, expected to generate 5,000 gigawatt hours annually—enough to power 500,000 homes. These projects will attract $5-$6 billion in private investment.

    Premier David Eby praised the initiative, contrasting Alberta’s restrictive renewable policies. “We’ll see what the U.S. decides on clean energy,” he noted, as Alberta focuses on agriculture-first regulations while collaborating with the U.S. on energy security. The move underscores B.C.’s commitment to clean energy leadership and stability amid shifting North American energy policies.

    Want to know more? Check out the source code on CleanEnergy.ca.

    Google Expands AI Capabilities with Gemini Update

    by

    Google has launched a new version of its Gemini AI model, enabling advanced “agents” to perform tasks in digital and real-world environments. Project Mariner, a browser-based assistant, navigates websites and handles actions like filling shopping carts. Project Astra, initially embedded in smart glasses, offers conversational AI capable of retrieving and remembering user data.

    Sundar Pichai, Google’s CEO, highlights Gemini’s improved task execution and external tool usage. However, Google promises human oversight for significant actions. As competitors like Amazon and Cohere also develop AI agents, Google aims to set benchmarks for responsible use.

    Want to know more? Check out the source code on The Logic.

    Rogers Launches Canada’s First Storm-Ready WiFi

    by

    Rogers has unveiled Storm-Ready WiFi, a Canadian-first home internet backup solution. This innovative device integrates advanced Rogers technology with automatic cellular network switching during power or network outages.

    The system includes a rechargeable battery offering up to four hours of connectivity and doubles as a WiFi extender for enhanced everyday coverage. Customers can monitor status via the Rogers Xfinity app. “Reliable connectivity is essential,” said Tony Staffieri, Rogers CEO. Initially available in British Columbia, Storm-Ready WiFi will roll out nationwide in February.

    Want to know more? Check out the source code here.

    Beacon Partners with BMO to Aid Immigrants

    by

    Toronto-based fintech Beacon has partnered with BMO to simplify financial services for immigrants. Leveraging BMO’s corporate Money Services Business (MSB) accounts, Beacon’s tools enable fast, affordable cross-border money transfers. Beacon’s digital platform, Beacon Remit, streamlines remittances from countries like India, ensuring compliance with FINTRAC standards.

    CEO Stuart Szabo emphasized their mission to empower users with secure financial solutions. Bhavna Gounder, Director of BMO Commercial Bank, highlighted the initiative’s importance for newcomers managing finances across borders. “We’re thrilled to support Beacon’s mission,” she said. This partnership aims to address key challenges faced by immigrants in Canada.

    Want to know more? Check out the source code on Fintech.ca.

    Alberta Defines Zones Limiting Wind and Solar Developments

    by

    The Alberta government has delineated 82,000 square kilometres as “visual impact assessment zones,” requiring renewable energy developers to demonstrate that projects do not obstruct scenic views. Additionally, approximately 60,000 square kilometres are designated as “agriculture first” lands, mandating proof that renewable projects can coexist with agricultural activities.

    A 70,000-square-kilometre buffer zone prohibits wind development in the Rocky Mountains. These measures follow Premier Danielle Smith’s commitment to regulate wind and solar expansion and address growing rural opposition to renewable energy installations.

    Want to know more? Check out the source code on The Logic.

    New Fund Boosts Alberta’s Early-Stage Tech Startups

    by

    Alberta Enterprise Corporation (AEC) has launched Accelerate Fund IV, a $15 million early-stage angel co-investment fund targeting Alberta’s technology startups. The fund aims to raise $25 million to support pre-seed and seed-stage companies in life sciences, AI, digital transformation, and more.

    Since 2012, Accelerate Funds have aided 46 startups, including Helcim and DrugBank, driving $10 in private investment for every $1 contributed. “This fund strengthens Alberta’s tech ecosystem,” said Kristina Williams, AEC CEO. Minister Nate Glubish highlighted its role in job creation and tech innovation. Yaletown Partners manages the fund, continuing its legacy of fostering Alberta’s tech leaders.

    Want to know more? Check out the source code on Calgary.tech.