The tech world has been buzzing with news of the late Apple founder Steve Jobs’ son, Reed Jobs, launching a fund to invest in technology and green energy companies, NASA’s debut of a streaming service to the public, and the ongoing protest against a proposed surveillance law from writers and civil rights groups.
Reed Jobs, the son of pioneering entrepreneur Steve Jobs and current CEO of his own venture firm, Jobs Family Investment Group, announced the launch of his new fund aimed at financing tech and green energy ventures. Jobs said he was inspired by his father’s legacy and looks forward to making a positive impact on the world through technology and sustainability. With a focus on breakthrough technologies, impactful products and services, the Jobs’ family fund is set to invest in cutting-edge startups, particularly in the areas of artificial intelligence, sustainability, and advanced materials.
Meanwhile, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) debut a new streaming service that looks to take visitors on a virtual tour of space. Called NASA TV, the online service will allow anyone to experience the thrill of space exploration from their home. It will feature live video feeds from the International Space Station, giant Hubble Space Telescope images, and special series showcasing human spaceflight. The goal of the service according to NASA is to provide an “enduring and expanding education resource for the world” by democratizing space exploration.
Separately, writers and civil rights groups have been protesting for months a proposed surveillance law in India that would create a system of government-sanctioned surveillance. According to the proposed law, all data on Indian citizens would be collected and stored in a central repository and then monitored for any activity the government deems suspicious. Critics have argued that this system of surveillance not only violates privacy rights of individuals, but also the right to freedom of speech and expression. The Indian government has responded by saying that the proposed law is meant to “enhance the safety and security of citizens in India”.¬ It’s yet to be seen how the protesters’ voice will be heard in this situation but most agree that something needs to be done to protect the rights of individuals and ensure that their privacy is not violated.
In all, these three stories reflect the dynamism and innovation of the tech world and demonstrate how, even as the world faces uncertainty, technology is continuing to push boundaries and make the world a better place.
