IBM CEO backs open-source small models to cut AI inference costs

The low-cost open-source AI model from Chinese startup DeepSeek has ignited widespread debate, drawing responses from major American tech giants. IBM, which has recently prioritized hybrid cloud and AI, underscores the growing momentum behind open-source, smaller-scale models, and the democratization of AI—trends that are impossible to ignore. However, the company also cautions against AI development being controlled by a select few, particularly those who may overlook data privacy and transparency.

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DeepSeek fuels affordable AI, sparking cloud price wars in China and beyond

China’s cloud service providers (CSPs) have been engaged in fierce price competition since 2024, deploying aggressive cost-cutting strategies to expand market share. This battle is set to intensify in 2025 as major CSPs integrate the low-cost DeepSeek AI model, which blends artificial intelligence (AI) with open-source frameworks on cloud computing platforms. The ongoing price war is expected to drive service fees even lower.

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Samsung reportedly advancing glass substrate supply chain to secure AI chip clients

Amid intensifying competition in advanced semiconductor packaging, Samsung Electronics is reportedly taking direct control of glass substrate supply chain development, a critical enabler for next-generation AI chips and high-performance computing. Industry analysts suggest this strategic move aims to strengthen Samsung Foundry’s competitiveness by offering integrated solutions combining cutting-edge packaging, high-bandwidth memory (HBM), and novel substrate technologies.

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DRAM inventory woes persist, Taiwan memory faces slow January

The memory industry continues to face seasonal headwinds in early 2025, with persistent price declines. The Lunar New Year holiday has further impacted revenue, reducing working days and dampening sales across memory manufacturers in January. Analysts expect the DRAM market to bottom out in the first half of 2025, though ongoing sluggish inventory clearance suggests performance may remain on par with late 2024.

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