Amazon deploys 1 millionth robot as automation transforms warehouse jobs

Amazon has recently reached a milestone in warehouse automation, deploying its one-millionth robot across its global operations network. The company announced the achievement alongside a new AI system designed to enhance the efficiency of its robotic workforce.

Saudi launches skill-based work permit for expats

Saudi Arabia has introduced a new classification system for expatriate work permits, according to a recent report by Gulf news.

Next Step / Jobs of the week

Here are our picks for jobs of the week. Check out the article for more details.

Microsoft to cut 9,000 jobs; continues focus on AI

Microsoft has recently confirmed plans to lay off up to 9,000 employees—just under 4% of its global workforce—as the company shifts its focus further toward artificial intelligence and streamlines internal operations.

Tiger New Energy and EDOTCO signs MoU for renewable energy solutions

EDOTCO Bangladesh, a subsidiary of Malaysia’s EDOTCO Group, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Tiger New Energy Ltd to develop and deploy renewable energy solutions aimed at powering telecommunications infrastructure and expanding clean energy access across Bangladesh.

Phone ban in school boosted student focus: Dutch government study

A nationwide ban on mobile phones and other electronic devices in Dutch schools has led to noticeable improvements in student focus and classroom dynamics, according to a recent Dutch government-commissioned study.

Automated speeding case system begins on the Dhaka elevated expressway

An automated case system targeting speeding violations has been introduced on the Dhaka Elevated Expressway, with video-based enforcement quietly underway for about a week, an official has confirmed.

Louis Vuitton Korea’s customer list just got a little too public

Louis Vuitton Korea has confirmed that a systems breach in June resulted in the leak of customer data, including contact information, though financial details were not compromised.

#hireajournalist – A LinkedIn movement uplifting the heroes of the newsroom

Let's face it – you're more likely to consume news from social media than a reputed news outlet, simply because of how firmly social media is embedded in most people's daily lives. While the unreliability of news adrift on social media is dangerous for the consumer, the steady decline of traditional news media is also career-threatening for journalists.

Denmark wants to give copyright to faces. Here’s why

Denmark is moving to redefine copyright law by giving individuals legal control over their own facial features, body and voice to combat the risks of AI-generated deepfakes, according to a recent report by The Guardian.

Unilever acquires company that sold Sydney Sweeney’s bathwater soap

Unilever has recently announced its acquisition of Dr. Squatch, a men’s personal care brand known for its viral marketing and natural grooming products, including a soap line once made famous by a collaboration involving actress Sydney Sweeney.

LATEST

LATEST

Press Release / 53% of companies negotiated for lower ransom: Sophos report

More than half of companies that paid ransoms following cyberattacks succeeded in negotiating the demand down, according to a new global report from cybersecurity firm Sophos. 

Press Release / Salesforce launches Agentforce 3

Salesforce has launched Agentforce 3, the latest version of its digital labour platform, designed to help enterprises scale artificial intelligence (AI) agents with greater visibility, performance, and control. 

Next Step / Time management essentials for new employees

Starting a new job brings excitement and nerves in equal measure, often accompanied by that nagging question: "How will I get everything done?" Effective time management isn't about working harder - it's about working smarter.

Next Step / Supply chain revolution expanding Bangladesh’s access to global retail markets

With fertile lands and a rich agricultural heritage, Bangladesh produces food products like rice, lentils, oil seeds, spices, tropical fruits, and ready-to-consume snacks. Historically, much of this produce has been consumed domestically, with limited processed exports. The biggest setback Bangladeshi producers and exporters have faced is the same old supply chain issue.

Who, how, and under what rules gets a firearm license?

A gun magazine was found in Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuiyan's bag during a recent search at the airport.

"Even simple tasks are hard": India's first ISS astronaut on space life

Indian Air Force officer Shubhanshu Shukla, the country’s first astronaut to enter the International Space Station (ISS), has shared his first-hand experience that even simple tasks like sleeping, walking, and drinking water become very challenging in microgravity conditions.

STARTUPS

STARTUPS

Press Release / BIDA launches redesigned investor-centric website

The Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) launched a redesigned version of its official website on June 28, aiming to enhance investor experience and strengthen the country’s investment narrative. 

Shikho partners with Meta to launch AI literacy course in Bangladesh

Shikho, the edtech platform, has recently announced a partnership with Meta to develop and deliver a new AI literacy course aimed at broadening public understanding of artificial intelligence (AI). 

Former OpenAI CTO's new startup now valued at $10 billion: report

OpenAI's former chief technology officer Mira Murati has secured $2 billion in seed funding for her new AI startup, Thinking Machines Lab, valuing the six-month-old company at $10 billion, according to a recent report by Financial Times.

AI cheating tool startup raises $15 million in funding

AI startup Cluely has secured $15 million in seed funding led by Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), about two months after closing a $5.3 million seed round. Founded by suspended Columbia University students Chungin "Roy" Lee and Neel Shanmugam, the startup has drawn attention for its AI cheating tools and unconventional marketing campaigns.

This company introduced a hotline for calling its CEO’s AI clone

Klarna, a Swedish fintech company, has recently launched an artificial intelligence-powered hotline allowing users to provide feedback directly to a virtual version of its CEO and co-founder, Sebastian Siemiatkowski.

Meta invests $14.8 bln in Scale AI, hires its 28-year-old CEO

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, has invested $14.8 billion in Scale AI, a data-labeling startup, in a deal that values the company at $29 billion. As part of the agreement, Scale AI’s 28-year-old CEO, Alexandr Wang, will step down to join Meta’s artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives.

Self-driving delivery vehicles company backed by OpenAI CEO raises $80 mln

Coco Robotics, a Los Angeles-based startup developing self-driving delivery vehicles, has raised $80 million in new funding, the company announced on June 11.

APPS

APPS

Trump says buyer found for TikTok

US President Donald Trump in a Fox News interview on Sunday said that a deal to buy the popular short-video app TikTok is underway and involves “very wealthy people”, whose identities he plans to reveal in about two weeks.

US House bans WhatsApp service from staff devices

Meta Platforms' WhatsApp messaging service has been banned from all US House of Representatives devices, according to a memo sent to all House staff on Monday.

WhatsApp will now have ads

Meta has announced it will begin showing advertisements in WhatsApp's Status feature, marking a significant shift for the messaging platform that has remained largely ad-free since its acquisition by Facebook in 2014. 

X rolls out new encrypted messaging feature, XChat

X has begun rolling out a beta version of XChat, a redesigned messaging system for its paid subscribers, according to a recent post by X owner Elon Musk. The new feature includes end-to-end encryption, file sharing, and audio-video calling capabilities without requiring phone numbers, as per official statements.

WhatsApp status is becoming similar to Facebook story

WhatsApp has announced a series of updates to its Status feature on May 29, bringing it closer in style and function to Facebook Stories.

DeepSeek quietly updates its R1 reasoning model

Chinese AI startup DeepSeek has released an update to its R1 reasoning model. The new version, named R1-0528, was published on developer platform Hugging Face on May 29, although the company has not yet issued an official announcement.

Vietnam plans Telegram block; app says it’s “surprised”

Vietnam’s Ministry of Information and Communications has instructed domestic telecommunication service providers to block access to the messaging platform Telegram, citing the app’s alleged failure to cooperate with authorities in addressing criminal activities, according to a recent report by Reuters. 

GADGETS

GADGETS

Nvidia announces GeForce RTX 5050 gaming GPU, starts from $249

Nvidia has unveiled its latest entry-level gaming GPU, the GeForce RTX 5050, bringing its new Blackwell architecture to a wider audience. The GPU will be available in desktop and laptop variants, priced from $249 and $999 respectively.

Meta and Oakley introduces AI-integrated smart glasses with camera

Meta has partnered with sports eyewear brand Oakley to unveil a new line of AI-integrated smart glasses called Oakley Meta HSTN glasses, designed to blend wearable technology with performance sportswear on June 20. 

Press Release / Tecno launches SPARK Go 2 in Bangladesh

Tecno has officially launched its new smartphone, the SPARK Go 2, in Bangladesh.

The Trumps are entering telco

Trump Mobile, a new wireless provider affiliated with the Trump Organisation, has recently launched a national mobile service and announced its own Android-based smartphone, marking the company’s entry into the telecommunications market.

Ditch the mug. Dad deserves a cool gadget this Father's Day

Finding the perfect gift for Dad isn’t always easy - especially when he’s not big on gadgets. But the right piece of tech can still make his life easier, more enjoyable, and even a little more fun. Here are our top picks for tech gifts to consider this Father’s Day.

Snap announces new AR glasses for 2026 release

Snap Inc., the company behind the social media app Snapchat, has revealed plans to launch its newest augmented reality (AR) glasses, called Specs, in 2026. The announcement was made at the Augmented World Expo 2025, marking the company's latest attempt to establish itself in the wearable AR market after mixed results with previous iterations of its 'Spectacles' line.

GUIDES

GUIDES

How to use Google Pay

Google has streamlined its mobile payments service, merging Google Pay into the Google Wallet app. For users across regions, this rebrand simplifies how people store cards, pay contactlessly, and organise digital passes - all within one app.

How to use tap to pay with Google Wallet

Google Wallet, formerly known as Google Pay, includes a 'tap to pay' function, allowing users to complete transactions by unlocking their device and holding it near a compatible point-of-sale terminal. This system is designed to facilitate payments without the need for physical cards. Here's how to use it.

You can get up to $100,000 for hacking Starlink's network

Want to get paid big bucks for hacking satellites? Elon Musk's Starlink is offering security researchers and ethical hackers up to $100,000 if they can crack its global satellite internet network - legally. As of February 11, 2025, the company's bug bounty program on Bugcrowd has already paid out for 118 vulnerabilities, with an average reward of $1,466.66 per bug over the last three months.

10 prompt engineering tips to get better AI responses

Ever wondered why some people get brilliant results from AI tools like Gemini, while others receive gibberish? The secret lies in prompt engineering, the craft of designing clear, practical instructions for AI systems. Here are 10 essential prompt engineering tips to dramatically improve your AI interactions.  

Five essential gears to begin your astrophotography journey

From capturing stunning shots of the Milky Way to photographing rare cosmic events, Bangladesh’s astrophotography community is growing, fuelled by curiosity and creativity. Here are five essential pieces of gear to help you embark on your own astrophotography journey.

How to save your Facebook Live videos before they are deleted

Starting February 19, Facebook will automatically delete live broadcast videos from Pages and profiles after 30 days, according to a recent announcement by the popular social media platform. Users who want to keep their live videos must download or transfer them before they expire. Here's how you do so.

How to save space on your phone

Running out of space on your phone can be frustrating, especially when you want to take a photo or download something important. Whether you're using an Android or iPhone, here are seven practical tips to help you reclaim storage and keep your phone running smoothly.

Videos and Podcasts

Videos and Podcasts

Starlink: Yunus asks Musk to come over, launch it within 90 days

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has extended an invitation to billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk to visit Bangladesh and oversee the launch of SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet service in the country within the next 90 working days.

4m ago

Will DeepSeek become a major competitor to OpenAI?

The competition in the world of artificial intelligence, or AI, is getting more intense day by day. Along with powerful models like OpenAI's ChatGPT, China's DeepSeeK AI is also gaining popularity. How is this new AI startup surprising the whole world? Let's find out in today's Star Explains.

5m ago

Apple Intelligence on iPhone in 5 minutes

After months of speculation, Apple officially introduced its Apple Intelligence platform during the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2024 in June.

10m ago

Introducing iPhone 16

Apple has officially unveiled the iPhone 16, the latest version of its flagship smartphone.

10m ago

Youngsters who showed the world what our robots can do

Competing against 451 teams from 77 countries, the Bangladeshi robotics team "Robonium Bangladesh" clinched the 5th position in the World Robot Olympiad 2023 in the "Future Innovators (Senior)" category, held in Panama

1y ago

Apple iphone Event in 12 Minutes

The essentials from tonight's Apple Event

1y ago

Developing Games in Bangladesh

Game development in Asia has largely been taking place in East Asia since the creation of video games. Is this about to change ? We talked to Mehnaz Irtika from The Daily Star, who told us about the challenges Bangladesh's game industry faces if it wants to compete with the big dogs.

1y ago

Augmenting Schools - AR Learning

We explore the use of Augmented Reality in education. With us to discuss how deployment of AR could affect Bangladesh's education and consumer sector is Md. Ridwan Sakib Anjum, an in-house contributor for the Tech and Startup section of The Daily Star.

1y ago

The ultimate guide to acing business competitions

Business competitions are among the most rewarding experiences a BBA student can have. Participating in these competitions provides exposure to real corporate problems often presented by leading companies.

3m ago

Bangladesh has significant investment potential: experts

Bangladesh has significant potential for investment but poor infrastructure, lack of access to finance and regulatory hurdles in the country remain concerns, according to businesspeople at Bangladesh Startup Connect 2025.

3m ago

Bangladesh Bank announces Tk 800 crore equity fund for startups

Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr Ahsan H. Mansur today announced two major funds to support the country’s startup ecosystem during the ongoing Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025.

3m ago

Japan develops 3D-printed train station

West Japan Railway (JR West) has recently unveiled what they claim to be the world’s first 3D-printed train station, a sleek, curved-roof structure that took just two and a half hours to assemble on-site—a fraction of the time required for traditional construction.

3m ago

Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025 kicks off

Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025 has begun at Intercontinental Dhaka on April 7, 2025. 

3m ago

Govt to launch modern ‘Land Service Gateway’

The Government of Bangladesh has announced plans to launch a unified digital platform titled the ‘Land Service Gateway’ as part of its ongoing initiative to accelerate land service digitisation following instructions from Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, according to a recent press statement on April 6, 2025.

3m ago

US tariffs will not affect investments in Bangladesh: BIDA Chairman

The recently enacted decisions by the US government regarding tariffs will not affect the upcoming Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025, according to Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Executive Chairman Ashik Chowdhury.

3m ago

Apple may expand iPhone production to Brazil to avoid US tariffs: report

Apple is considering increasing iPhone assembly in Brazil to reduce the impact of new US tariffs on Chinese imports, according to a recent report by Apple-centric news platform 9to5Mac. US President Donald Trump recently announced steep tariffs on goods from several countries, including a 34% levy on Chinese products—a major concern for Apple, which manufactures most of its devices in China.

3m ago

Meta releases latest multimodal AI models, Llama 4

Meta has just released Llama 4, its newest set of artificial intelligence models, designed to process and generate text, images, audio, and video. The first two publicly available versions—Llama 4 Scout and Llama 4 Maverick—are now open for download, while a more advanced model, Llama 4 Behemoth, remains in development.

3m ago

“Stop using AI for genocide,” says Microsoft employee to AI CEO in solidarity with Palestine

Microsoft’s 50th anniversary celebration in Redmond, Washington, was disrupted on Friday when two employees staged pro-Palestinian protests, voicing opposition to the company’s ties to the Israeli military and its use of artificial intelligence in conflict zones.

3m ago