Webtagr - Technology News Summarizer

Stanford Students Dive Headfirst into Defense Tech

2025-03-14

A surge in defense tech startups is emerging from Stanford University. Max Susman, a former Navy SEAL, leverages Stanford's resources to secure government contracts. Andrew Fang, after an internship at Anduril and a subsequent startup's closure, sparked renewed interest in the field. Now, more Stanford students are entering the defense tech space, driven by shifts in government policy and Silicon Valley's influence.

(sfstandard.com)

Startup defense tech Stanford University

Salesforce Aims to Dominate the Digital Labor Market with AI Agents

2025-03-01

Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff declared their ambition to become the world's leading provider of digital labor, leveraging AI agents to handle tasks like scheduling meetings, executing trades, and even coding. Unlike chatbots, these proactive AI agents require minimal human oversight. Salesforce's Agentforce, launched last year, allows companies to delegate responsibilities such as customer case handling and marketing campaigns to these AI agents. Benioff highlighted that nearly half of Fortune 100 companies utilize Salesforce's AI and Data Cloud products.

(sfstandard.com)

AI digital labor

The Relentless Cycle of Homelessness: A Two-Year Struggle

2025-02-17

Morrisette, a homeless individual, repeatedly experienced a cycle of setting up camp, having it cleared by authorities, and then rebuilding. For two years, despite the kind assistance of Barrows in applying for housing, he felt despair at failing to qualify for priority placement. This article recounts a poignant story of struggle within the system, highlighting the challenges and intertwined hopes of a homeless person seeking help.

(sfstandard.com)

Misc

SF's New Health Director: McKinsey Background Sparks Debate

2025-02-15

San Francisco's newly appointed Health Director, Mr. Tsai, a McKinsey alum, has sparked debate. Concerns have arisen regarding his past involvement in drug distribution systems, given the city's opioid crisis. While Tsai expressed commitment to data-driven solutions and collaboration to address opioid and homelessness issues, his appointment raises questions about potential conflicts of interest and his ability to effectively tackle these challenges. Some see a potential irony in his past work potentially contributing to the current crisis and now tasked with resolving it.

(sfstandard.com)

Misc San Francisco Health Director

Aaron Swartz Statue Unveiled in San Francisco: A Tribute to the Internet's Own Boy

2025-02-10

A bronze statue honoring Aaron Swartz, a prominent figure in the fight for internet freedom, was unveiled in San Francisco. Crafted from Carrara marble using a blend of AI-driven robotic milling and traditional hand carving, the statue is the culmination of a project spearheaded by artist Ricardo Peniche. Funding came from various donors, including prominent tech CEOs, with Swartz's mother providing photos and approval. The event celebrated Swartz's advocacy for net neutrality, free speech, access to information, and privacy, inspiring attendees to continue fighting for these ideals.

(sfstandard.com)

Tech Internet Freedom Statue Unveiling

Chatham House Rule: The Bay Area's Embrace of Silence

2025-01-11

From healthcare conferences to AI salons and even dinner parties, the archaic Chatham House Rule—prohibiting attribution of information to speakers or disclosure of attendees' identities—is surging in popularity across the San Francisco Bay Area. Fueled by the tech industry's obsession with secrecy, its widespread use is sparking debate. Proponents argue it fosters candid discussion, particularly on sensitive topics. Critics, however, contend it obscures accountability and weakens the impact and authenticity of speech. The article explores the phenomenon of the Chatham House Rule's prevalence in the Bay Area and its complex implications.

(sfstandard.com)

Tech Chatham House Rule Tech Secrecy Bay Area Culture