FTC Probes Google, Meta, OpenAI, and Others on AI Chatbots; Apple Launches iPhone 17 Series
Key Takeaways
- FTC investigates Google, Meta, OpenAI, Snap, xAI, and Character Technologies over AI chatbot safety.
- Apple launched iPhone 17 series, AirPods Pro 3, and iOS 26; preorders started September 12.
- OpenAI's nonprofit parent to own equity stake of over $100 billion after $500B valuation.
- Alibaba and Baidu use their own AI chips to train AI models, reducing Nvidia reliance.
- OpenAI and Nvidia to invest billions in UK data centers, announcement scheduled for 2025-09-19.
Top Stories
FTC probes Google, Meta, OpenAI, Snap, xAI, Character Technologies on AI chatbots.
On September 11, 2025, the FTC ordered Google, OpenAI, Meta, Snap, xAI, and Character Technologies to provide information about their AI chatbots' impact on children under 13. The FTC is investigating potential violations of child data privacy laws and the safety of AI chatbots, following Senator Josh Hawley's investigation into Meta.
Apple launches iPhone 17 series, AirPods Pro 3, iOS 26, and new features.
On September 9 and 10, 2025, Apple announced the iPhone 17 series (including the Air, 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max), AirPods Pro 3, and iOS 26, with preorders starting September 12. The iPhone 17 features the A19 chip, faster charging, and enhanced security, while the AirPods Pro 3 include improvements to battery life and health features.
OpenAI's nonprofit parent to own equity stake.
On September 11, 2025, OpenAI announced its nonprofit parent will own an equity stake of more than $100 billion, following a $500 billion valuation. This move aims to ensure safety decisions remain guided by the mission to benefit all of humanity.
Alibaba and Baidu use their own AI chips.
On September 11, 2025, Alibaba and Baidu began using their own designed chips to train AI models, aiming to reduce reliance on Nvidia chips due to U.S. export restrictions. Alibaba has been using its chips for smaller AI models since early 2025, while Baidu is testing new versions of its Ernie model with the Kunlun B800 chip.
OpenAI and Nvidia to invest in UK data centers.
OpenAI and Nvidia leaders plan to announce a multi‑billion‑dollar investment in UK data centers next week, partnering with Nscale Global Holdings Ltd. The announcement is scheduled for 2025‑09‑19 and aims to boost AI and high‑performance computing infrastructure.
Big Tech Insights
Replit raises $250M, valuing the company at $3B.
On September 10, 2025, Replit announced a $250 million funding round, valuing the company at $3 billion. The funding, led by Prysm Capital, will support operational scaling, product development, and global expansion, with the company experiencing rapid revenue growth.
Oracle's shares surge due to cloud revenue.
On September 10, 2025, Oracle's shares surged by 31% in Frankfurt after the company announced it anticipates booked revenue at its Oracle Cloud Infrastructure business to exceed $500 billion. Larry Ellison overtook Elon Musk as the world's richest person due to the surge in Oracle's value.
OpenAI and Microsoft sign MOU.
On September 11, 2025, OpenAI and Microsoft signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MOU) to mark the next phase of their partnership. The focus is on delivering the best AI tools while maintaining a shared commitment to safety.
Figure Technology IPO.
On September 10, 2025, blockchain lender Figure Technology and its investors raised $787.5 million in a U.S. IPO, selling 31.5 million shares at $25 each. Figure, which uses blockchain for faster home loans, will trade on Nasdaq as "FIGR".
Culture Decode
Amazon Prime Video's Thursday Night Football.
On September 10, 2025, Amazon Prime Video began its fourth year of exclusively streaming the $1 billion annual “Thursday Night Football” (TNF) package. Last season, TNF ratings rose 13% to 13.2 million viewers per game.
Klarna implements AI CEO.
On September 10, 2025, Bloomberg reported that Klarna has implemented an AI CEO to handle its customer hotline. Separately, Oracle announced a large jump in bookings after securing a major deal with OpenAI.
Tech Today
Apple Watch hypertension detection system.
Apple's hypertension detection system for the Apple Watch will be available around September 15, 2025, after receiving FDA clearance. The feature will be available in 150 countries and regions, including the US and the European Union.
Mastercard's AI-powered payments tools.
On September 10, 2025, Mastercard announced new tools and collaborations to advance AI-powered payments, including Agent Pay program for all U.S. cardholders by the holiday season. Mastercard is also collaborating with the FIDO Alliance to develop a verifiable credential standard for payments.
iPhone Air preorders begin.
On September 12, 2025, preorders began for the iPhone Air, Apple's thinnest phone at 5.6mm thick, featuring a 6.5-inch OLED display, A19 Pro chip, and a 48-megapixel camera, with prices starting at $999.
Zoox launches robotaxi service in Las Vegas.
On September 10, 2025, Amazon's robotaxi unit, Zoox, launched its autonomous ride-hailing service in Las Vegas, offering free rides. The service uses custom-built electric vehicles without traditional controls and competes with Waymo.
iPhone 17 Pro vs. iPhone 16 Pro comparison.
On September 10, 2025, ZDNET published a comparison between the Apple iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro. The iPhone 17 Pro features a more durable design, brighter display, improved performance with the A19 Pro chip, and an 18MP front camera.
Tesla gets approval for driverless car testing.
Tesla has received approval from the Nevada DMV to begin testing its driverless cars on public roads, having submitted its application on September 3. This allows for sanctioned tests, but a further self-certification step is required for commercial ride-hailing services.