Global Tech Erupts: AI Regulation Tightens, Chip Wars Escalate, Startups Hit Record Valuations

The technology world is buzzing today, December 5, 2025, as **AI Regulation Tightens** globally. Semiconductor tensions are escalating, and while AI regulation tightens, startup funding shows remarkable momentum. This is trending technology news.

AI Regulation Tightens: Global Developments

EU Probes Meta’s WhatsApp AI Policies Amidst Tightening AI Regulation

The European Commission launched a major investigation targeting Meta’s AI policies on WhatsApp. Regulators worry about fair competition, questioning if Meta unfairly blocks rival AI assistants. Meta’s new rules, fully applicable in 2026, are under scrutiny as **AI Regulation Tightens**. The probe aims to ensure fair access and prevent dominant companies from stifling innovation, although Meta states the claims are baseless. This highlights the increasing scrutiny as **AI Regulation Tightens**.

Google Defends AI Search Expansion as AI Regulation Tightens

Google is championing its AI search overhaul, calling it an “expansionary moment” for technology. New AI features are boosting user engagement, with AI Mode alone boasting 75 million daily active users. Google sees this as a positive step, enhancing user experience and commerce, even as **AI Regulation Tightens** in other areas. The expansion of **Google AI search** capabilities is a key focus.

US China Tech War and Chip Export Controls

US Tightens Chip Export Controls, Fueling the US China Tech War

US senators are pushing new legislation, the SAFE Chips Act, aiming to block advanced AI chip exports to China. This bill would prevent the Trump administration from easing current restrictions, a critical move in the **US China tech war**. Senators argue this is vital for national security and maintaining US technological leadership, with **AI Regulation Tightens** impacting these decisions. The bill would deny license applications for advanced chips for at least 30 months.

AMD Agrees to Export Tax Amidst Chip Export Controls

AMD’s CEO confirmed a willingness to pay a 15% export tax to the US government, allowing AMD to resume selling certain AI chips like the MI308 to China. This is part of a controversial deal struck with the Trump administration, illustrating the complexities of **chip export controls**. Legal experts question the tax’s constitutionality, even as **AI Regulation Tightens**. China remains a crucial market for chipmakers.

China Boosts Domestic Chip Production Amidst US China Tech War

China is actively pursuing semiconductor independence, with Baidu’s AI chip unit, Kunlunxin, planning a Hong Kong IPO and achieving a valuation near $3 billion after new funding. This move supports China’s goal of domestic alternatives amid US curbs. **China chip production** is a strategic priority. Chinese chipmaker Moore Threads also made a splash, its stock surging 425% in its $1.1 billion Shanghai IPO debut, highlighting China’s commitment to self-sufficiency in AI chips amidst the **US China tech war**.

AI Startups Reach New Valuations Amidst Evolving Market

AI Startups Reach New Valuations

The AI startup scene is booming, with **startup valuations** reaching new heights. Legal AI firm Harvey confirmed an $8 billion valuation, raising $160 million in its latest funding round. This marks its third major round of 2025, showcasing rapid growth as **AI Regulation Tightens**. Harvey now serves over 235 clients and has surpassed $100 million in annual recurring revenue (ARR).

Micro1, an AI infrastructure startup, also hit a major milestone, crossing $100 million in ARR. This represents significant growth from early 2025. Micro1 helps labs create essential AI training data and is seen as a key competitor in the data training market, a sector increasingly influenced as **AI Regulation Tightens**.

Cybersecurity Concerns Persist

New cybersecurity threats are emerging, with a Chinese-linked malware campaign, “Brickstorm,” detected in networks. Even AI-native security firms face market pressures, with SentinelOne issuing a softer revenue outlook.

Today’s news paints a picture of intense activity. AI continues to reshape industries, with competition fierce across regulation, hardware, and software. As **AI Regulation Tightens**, the landscape for companies like Meta, Google, and those involved in the **chip export controls** and **China chip production** is rapidly evolving, influencing **startup valuations** and the broader **US China tech war**. This is the latest technology news.

Author

  • Sierra Ellis

    Sierra Ellis is a journalist who dives into the worlds of music, movies, and fashion with a curiosity that keeps her one step ahead of the next big trend. Her bylines have appeared in leading lifestyle and entertainment outlets, where she unpacks the cultural meaning behind iconic looks, emerging artists, and those must-see films on everyone’s watchlist. Beyond the red carpets and runway lights, Sierra’s a dedicated food lover who’s constantly exploring new culinary scenes—because good taste doesn’t stop at what you wear or listen to. Whether she’s front row at a festival or sampling a neighborhood fusion spot, Sierra’s unique lens helps readers connect with the creativity around them.

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