Bloomberg Tech at CES, Day 2 - bloomberg-technology Recap

Podcast: bloomberg-technology

Published: 2026-01-07

Duration: 43 minutes

Guests: Jim Johnson, Cristiano Amon, Amnon Shashua

Summary

Intel is revamping its processors to regain its competitive edge, while Mobileye acquires Mentee Robotics to enhance its robotics capabilities. Warner Brothers rejects Paramount's takeover bid amid shifting dynamics in the media landscape.

What Happened

Jim Johnson from Intel's Client Computing Group discusses how Intel is striving to make its products more competitive with new computer designs and redesigned processors. Intel recently launched the Core Ultra Series 3 mobile processor, which boasts 40% lower power usage and uses a process called Note 18A, combining power efficiency with performance. Johnson also claims the new processor leads in mobile gaming performance.

Amnon Shashua, CEO of Mobileye, elaborates on the company's recent acquisition of Israeli startup Mentee Robotics for $900 million in cash and stock. Mobileye aims to leverage Mentee's expertise to enhance its robotic offerings, particularly in humanoid robots. Shashua expresses confidence in humanoid robotics becoming a significant growth area and sees the acquisition as a step towards establishing a new growth engine with robotaxis.

The episode also covers Warner Brothers' decision to reject an amended takeover offer from Paramount. Warner Brothers is navigating a complex media landscape with Paramount interested in acquiring the entire company, while Netflix eyes its streaming business and studios. This reflects a broader shift from traditional broadcasting to streaming and the creator economy.

Jensen Huang, CEO of Nvidia, has been active at CES, with Nvidia's stock rising nearly 1.5% during the week. He anticipates increased demand for Nvidia's products, coupled with rising hardware prices in the cloud. Nvidia is collaborating with Siemens to integrate AI technology into their systems, highlighting the growing interconnection between AI and industrial applications.

The episode touches on the memory chip industry's current 'famine,' leading to significant price increases. Sandisk's stock has seen a dramatic rise, up 1000% from its lows, reflecting the volatile dynamics in the chip market.

Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon identifies robotics as the next significant opportunity in AI, particularly in industrial applications. Robotics emerges as a major theme at CES, with various humanoid robots showcased, indicating the expanding role of AI in automating and enhancing industrial and consumer experiences.

Volkswagen's ambitious plan to deploy 100,000 robotaxis over the next eight years is highlighted, showcasing the automotive industry's shift towards autonomous and AI-driven technologies. Mobileye's sensor set, which costs significantly less than competitors', is pivotal in advancing these technologies, with deals already struck for nine million cars with a US automaker.

Finally, the episode mentions Discord's confidential filing for an IPO, indicating a growing pipeline of tech IPOs as businesses capitalize on recent advancements in AI and digital platforms.

Key Insights