What is Deep Tech?

 

What Is Deep Tech?

Deep tech, or deep technology, refers to the work of companies that develop groundbreaking innovations capable of surpassing existing technological benchmarks and pushing the boundaries of current capabilities. However, the definition of what qualifies as "deep tech" is continually evolving. As scientific and technological advancements accelerate, the criteria for what is considered cutting-edge and revolutionary also shift.

Deep tech companies are often associated with fields like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and quantum computing, but the category extends to industries such as agriculture, aerospace, green energy, and mobility. Some deep tech companies, like Moderna, Tesla, and Impossible Foods, have become household names. Others are turning science fiction into reality—examples include SpaceX’s Starlink internet satellites and Boston Dynamics’ humanoid robots.

Regardless of the industry, deep tech companies focus on creating solutions to address some of the most urgent challenges facing humanity and the planet, such as climate change, disease, and food insecurity. Investors have taken note: according to a VC Lab report, deep tech received the highest amount of venture capital funding in 2024 and is projected to remain a top-funded sector in 2025, second only to AI and machine learning.

Deep Tech differentiators from other companies

Research and Development

R & D is the key differentiator between other technology companies and Deep tech companies. Deep tech demands substantial investments in research and development, along with a longer timeline for ROI. Additionally, some projects may turn out to be commercially or scientifically unviable. In contrast, traditional tech companies leverage established engineering methods to meet existing market demands, using ready-made software frameworks for quicker commercialization.

 Pioneering Solutions

Deep tech companies enjoy a significant competitive prowess and protection. They are well ahead of the market and face virtually no or little competition. However, these companies require a significant amount of funding and prolonged development cycles Ex: Space X and Tesla.  Because they work for innovation and breakthrough in technology.

 In contrast, the other sectors work for current market gain, and their innovation doesn’t remain unique and give rise to the new companies to follow the suite. For example, Uber the largest taxi company, has given rise to so many companies across the world.

 Creative Problem-Solving

Deep tech companies require highly skilled people with very specific areas of expertise, which is difficult to get. For example, one of the company's deep tech investors, WNT Ventures, is trying to hire electrochemists with a particular set of skills that fewer than a dozen people around the world actually possess.

Game-Changing Milestones

Conventional tech companies focus on early progress through market response and key performance indicators like customer acquisition and retention rates and revenue generation. They operate on subscription models and the user base. On the other hand, deep tech companies monitor their growth based on technological advancements and innovations they have achieved. One of the milestones for them is the number of patents they have achieved and their intellectual property. In certain sectors, achieving regulatory approvals and ensuring compliance with industry standards are also crucial markers of success.

Ultimately, the most defining metric for deep tech is its ability to propel humanity forward. The core mission of deep tech is to develop transformative innovations that unlock new possibilities and drive societal progress, reshaping the future in ways once deemed unimaginable.

Domains Deep tech companies

Deep tech companies operate in advanced technological domains that push the boundaries of innovation. These include Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Quantum Computing, Robotics, Biotechnology, Nanotechnology, Blockchain, Aerospace, and Autonomous Systems. Industries such as healthcare, finance, defense, manufacturing, and energy benefit significantly from deep tech advancements. Here is the explanation of each of the domains.

Artificial Intelligence

 Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a field of computer science focused on creating smart systems that can execute tasks typically demanding human intelligence. These systems can mimic or even exceed specific cognitive functions of the human brain. With breakthroughs in semiconductor technology, along with advancements in machine learning and neural networks, AI is revolutionizing industries across the globe.

Machine Learning

Machine learning (ML) is a subset of artificial intelligence (AI) that enables computers to learn from data and improve performance without explicit programming. It uses algorithms and statistical models to identify patterns, make predictions, and automate decision-making. ML is widely used in healthcare, finance, e-commerce, cybersecurity, and autonomous systems. Techniques like supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning power applications such as chatbots, recommendation engines, fraud detection, and self-driving cars. Advances in deep learning and neural networks have significantly enhanced ML capabilities, making it a key driver of innovation across industries and enabling smarter, data-driven solutions for complex problems.

Biotechnology

Biotechnology is the use of living organisms, such as cells and microorganisms, as well as biological processes, to develop new products. Breakthroughs in genomics and synthetic biology — a subset of biotech that involves altering the genetic material of organisms like plant and animal cells — are being used by many deep tech companies to extend the limits of what is possible in all kinds of areas.

Nanotechnology

Nanotechnology is the science of manipulating matter at the atomic and molecular scale, typically below 100 nanometers, to create innovative materials and devices. It has transformative applications in medicine, electronics, energy, environmental science, and manufacturing. In healthcare, it enables targeted drug delivery, nanosensors, and advanced diagnostics. In electronics, it drives the development of smaller, faster, and more efficient semiconductors. Nanotech also enhances renewable energy, water purification, and materials engineering. By leveraging quantum and molecular properties, nanotechnology is revolutionizing industries, leading to stronger materials, improved medical treatments, and more sustainable solutions, making it a cornerstone of future technological advancements.

Aerospace

Aerospace is a field that focuses on the design, development, and production of aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems. It encompasses both aeronautics (flight within Earth’s atmosphere) and astronautics (space exploration). Aerospace technology drives innovations in commercial aviation, defense, satellite communications, and space missions. Advancements in materials science, propulsion systems, and artificial intelligence are making air and space travel more efficient and sustainable. Companies like SpaceX, Boeing, and NASA are pushing boundaries with reusable rockets, hypersonic travel, and deep-space exploration. The industry plays a critical role in global connectivity, defense, and scientific discovery, shaping the future of transportation and space exploration

Autonomous Robots

Robotics uses a combination of science and engineering to design, construct and use mechanical robots. Using artificial intelligence, these machines can operate autonomously, and often perform tasks with greater precision, accuracy and speed than any human, making them a transformative tool across a variety of industries.

Quantum Computing

Quantum computers use quantum mechanics to solve problems that are too large or complex for traditional computers. They essentially upend the fundamental principles of computer science, relying on qubits instead of traditional bits to process information at a much faster rate. This industry is still very much in the early stages of development and utilization. But, once quantum computers reach “quantum advantage” — where they provide some time or cost advantage over classical computers — they will have a variety of commercial applications.

 Blockchain

Blockchain is a decentralized digital ledger that records transactions across a network of computers. Instead of relying on a central authority, it uses a distributed system where each node validates and updates records. Smart contracts enable automated agreement execution, while consensus protocols establish validation rules, ensuring data integrity. Once recorded, transactions become tamper-proof, fostering transparency and trust. Blockchain technology is widely used in cryptocurrency, supply chain management, finance, and secure data sharing, revolutionizing how information is stored and exchanged by enhancing security, reducing fraud, and eliminating the need for intermediaries in digital transactions.

Conclusion

Deep tech is shaping the future by pushing the boundaries of innovation and plays a vital role in society. It is also leading society to the future of technology, but it comes with unique challenges. Unlike traditional tech, which focuses on applying existing solutions to market needs, deep tech requires large investments in research and development (R&D) and a longer time horizon for a return on investment (ROI). Many projects may even prove scientifically or commercially unviable.

 The long development cycle of deep tech is evident in industries like space exploration, quantum computing, and biotech. While a mobile app can be developed and launched in months, a low-Earth-orbit satellite or an advanced AI model demands years of R&D before reaching the market. Companies investing in deep tech must navigate significant risks but also stand to redefine industries and create breakthrough innovations that shape the future.

Microsoft shutting down Skype

 

 

Microsoft has planned to shut down the SKYPE on 5th May 2025, which is the last day. RIP SKYPE one of the most popular and easy-to-use video calling software of its times. Skype connected people for the past 23 years around the world.

History

Skype was developed in 2003 by Janus Friis from Denmark and Niklas Zennström from Sweden, with its headquarters established in Luxembourg. The software was initially created by Estonian engineers Ahti Heinla, Priit Kasesalu, and Jaan Tallinn, who, along with Friis and Zennström, had also contributed to developing the peer-to-peer file-sharing platform Kazaa.

The domain names Skype.com and Skype.net were registered in April 2003, and by August, the first public beta version was released. Initially called "Sky peer-to-peer," the project was later shortened to "Skyper." However, since related domain names were already taken, the final "r" was dropped, resulting in the name "Skype."In 2005, eBay acquired Skype for $2.6 billion. It was later sold to Silver Lake Partners, a private equity firm, in 2009. Microsoft acquired Skype for USD 8.5 billion in 2011

Microsoft Acquired Skype

In 2011, the primary reason for acquiring Skype was to compete with rivals. Google was offering Google Voice and Hangouts, and Apple has Time, Microsoft needed a robust communication platform to stay competitive, other factors that influenced the decision were:

Enhancing Communication Services – Microsoft aimed to bolster its presence in voice and video communication by integrating Skype with its products like Windows, Office, and Xbox.

Enterprise Solutions – Skype’s integration with Microsoft Teams and Office 365 would improve business communication tools for enterprise customers.

Expanding User Reach – At the time, Skype had approximately 300 million users, providing Microsoft with access to a large and established network.

Cloud and AI Alignment – Skype’s voice and video infrastructure complemented Microsoft’s Azure cloud services and advancements in artificial intelligence.

Though Microsoft acquired Skype it wasn’t a smooth sail in the beginning. They were facing a challenge in monetising Skype. There were new and faster communication tools were launched. On the technological front Microsoft faces quite a challenge to transfer Peer-to-Peer communication to Cloud-based architecture. However, Microsoft overcame these challenges in the due course of time and eventually moved in the right direction with Skype technology.

In the long run, this acquisition proved to be worthwhile: Microsoft integrated Skype’s technology into Teams, which became a huge success during the remote work boom. Skype’s core technology helped enhance AI-driven voice and video features in Microsoft’s ecosystem. Eventually, Skype itself declined, and Microsoft leveraged its acquisition to become a major player in enterprise communication.

Microsoft was able to compete with the competitors and become a dominant player in enterprise communication, not with Skype but with MS Teams. Microsoft pivoted from Skype to Teams, launching it in 2017 as an enterprise collaboration tool. By 2020, Teams had over 250 million monthly active users, surpassing Slack and competing directly with Google Meet and Zoom in the business world. MS Teams did the deep integration with Office 365, One Drive, and Outlook giving Microsoft an edge over Google Workspace.

Here are the best Skype alternatives:

Google Meet

A key advantage of using Google Meet is its availability for free with a Google account. Since many people already use Google and have existing accounts, switching to this platform is relatively seamless. Google Meet enables users to host meetings with up to 100 participants, record sessions, share screens, and more. However, a limitation of the free plan is that meetings with more than three participants are restricted to 60 minutes. For larger organizations, upgrading to a Google Workspace plan may be beneficial. Paid plans offer features such as support for up to 25 co-hosts, breakout rooms for dividing participants into smaller groups, polling, Q&A sessions, live streaming to YouTube, and more. Google Workspace—with pricing tiers starting at $7/month, $14/month, $22/month, and higher—also includes AI-powered tools through its Gemini assistant, which helps Meet users take notes and generate custom background images.

Zoom

Zoom is a widely used web-conferencing platform that offers a range of useful features, such as hosting 100 participants, enabling private and group chat, and taking notes, providing equipment such as a virtual whiteboard and screen sharing. Users can also record meetings and access tapes for reviews. A limit, however, is a restriction of 40 minutes for meetings on the free plan. To avoid interruptions, users can opt for a payment subscription, priced to prices USD 13 to USD 18 per month. Subscribers gain access to Zoom's AI partner, which provides facilities such as the meeting summary and the ability to ask questions about tape.

WebEx

WebEx, a video conferencing tool owned by Cisco, provides a plan similar to that of its rivals. For example, it has features such as screen sharing, recording ability, a whiteboard capacity and more. The free plan includes an unfortunate 40-minute time limit along with 100 attendees per meeting. The WebEx also offers a plan of $ 12/month, $ 22/month and above, depending on the size of the team. Paid Tier comes with an AI Assistant, and Live Polling facility.

Discord

Originally designed as a chat platform for gamers, Discord has evolved to also serve as a versatile tool for personal use or small teams. However, it may not be the best fit for large businesses, as it limits group calls to 25 participants. On the plus side, Discord offers a range of useful features, including unlimited meeting durations, screen sharing, call recording, and breakout rooms. The platform provides a free plan, along with two paid options priced at USD 5/monthand10/month, making it one of the more affordable solutions available, depending on user needs.

Slack

Slack is good for informal team chats, but may not be ideal for formally scheduled meetings with large groups. The Huddle feature helps users quickly move from chat to informal audio-video calls. On the free plan, Huddles can accommodate only two people, whereas paid plans (priced at $7/month or $12/month) allow for up to 50.

Signal

Signal, the encrypted messaging app, introduced group video-calling functionality in 2020, supporting up to 50 participants in a single call. While it isn’t a direct competitor to Skype, it offers a convenient feature for sharing call links, allowing users to invite others without the need to manually create a similar to platforms like Google Meet, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams. A standout advantage is that Signal is completely free to use. For mobile users seeking video-calling solutions for smaller groups, other popular options include WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Apple FaceTime.

 Conclusion

Microsoft's phasing out of Skype signifies the end of an era for the pioneering communication tool. While Skype severed and paved the way for modern video calling, its limitations and the rise of more advanced platforms have led to its gradual decline. Microsoft Teams now stands as the company's primary focus, offering a more comprehensive solution for both personal and professional communication needs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Top Drivers of the Economy in 2025: Key Trends and Growth Sectors

 

The world is battling with a lot of challenges post-pandemic Russia- Ukraine war, political uncertainties and internal conflict with nations, despite those challenges the global economy is in continuous growth, driven by technological advancements, geopolitical events, market dynamics, and societal changes. The global economy showed strength with the prediction of 2.8% growth last year and the same will continue in 2025 and hopefully next year too.

We are going to explore the various drivers (Technology, Geo politics, Finance and demographics) of the global economy in the year 2025.

1. Technology & Digital Drivers

Technology will be one of the key drivers of the global economy this year, rapid technological innovations will shape the different sectors of the economy and will leave a lasting impact. Key tech innovations are

 Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Automation: Artificial Intelligence is going to change the whole economic scenario of the countries and will be one the main drivers. AI along with automation is creating a huge impact on different industries such as healthcare, finance, manufacturing, distribution and communication. With evolution in AI programming, machine learning and advancement in NLP, will impact businesses in providing better service and experiences to their customers.

5G Connectivity: As countries adopt adapting the 5G network, this will amplify digital communication and will ease the data transfer faster and more securely. The 5G network will help in faster connectivity will give a boost to IOT and will help in automation and robotics.

Quantum Computing: Various countries are doing a lot of research in quantum computing to solve complex problems, this is an area where we would love to see progress in solving complex problems and be able to support industries.

2. Geopolitical scenarios

The global geopolitical scenario is under a transformation with the Russia-Ukraine war on one hand and the rise of India’s presence in a globalised world new groups are forming. These new partnerships between countries will impact the geopolitical scenarios in the coming years.  How are these countries going to manage their relations and trade that will impact the global economy in 2025?

US-China Relations: On a global scale, the ongoing economic rivalry between the US and China will impact trade policies, technology regulations, and global supply chains. Countries will need to navigate between these two economic powers.

The Russia-Ukraine Conflict: The geopolitical crisis in Eastern Europe will continue to impact global energy markets, supply chains and defence spending.

3. Global trade

Global trade in 2025 is shaped by Regional Trade Agreements (RTAs), which play a vital role in enhancing economic cooperation among countries by lowering trade barriers and fostering integration. Agreements like the European Union (EU), North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) help streamline trade flows, reduce tariffs, and attract investment within member nations. RTAs also boost competitiveness, optimize supply chains, and strengthen diplomatic ties.

 These trade agreements will harness the power of the regions and promote trade integrations.  Agreements such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) will reshape global trade by promoting regional economic integration. RCEP covers 15 Asia Pacific countries and it is one of the largest trade blocs. Countries like China, Japan, South Korea, ASEAN nations, Australia and New Zealand are part of this bloc. Cooperation among these countries enhances the supply chain and strengthens economic ties.

However, trade imbalances, political disputes, and regulatory challenges can affect their efficiency. Despite these hurdles, RTAs continue to be key drivers of global trade, supporting regional economic development and ensuring long-term stability.

• ·There will be less impact of the USA on global trade.
• Global players are moving production facilities to RCEP blocs to reduce production costs.

The growth rate for world trade is projected at 3.2 per cent for 2025 which is moderate. However, there will be uncertainty in global trade due to geopolitical issues and tariffs countries going to impose on each other. Equally uncertain are the ramifications of such tariffs, which could be determined by a range of factors including responses by consumers and businesses as well as possible retaliatory measures.

4. Energy Transition and Sustainability

With the rising demand in the energy sector in that demand for sustainable energy solutions will be a major economic driver in 2025. Key trends include:

Renewable Energy: Governments and corporations will continue to invest heavily in solar, wind, and hydrogen energy sources to reduce carbon emissions and meet consumer demands.

Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Infrastructure: The automotive industry is already witnessing high demand for EVs, and this trend will stay because increase in the EV charging infrastructure and there is continuous research going on to increase the battery performance this will improve the performance of the EV’s and will give a 360-degree boost to the industry.

Climate Change Adaptation: Rising global temperatures and extreme weather events will drive investments in climate resilience infrastructure and green technologies. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards will shape corporate policies, influencing investment decisions and market valuations.

5. Financial Policies and Central Bank Strategies

Global financial institutions and central banks will enact measures to stabilize economic growth and manage inflation. Key focus areas include:

 Interest Rate Adjustments: Central banks, such as the US Federal Reserve, the European Central Bank (ECB), and the People's Bank of China, will fine-tune interest rates to strike a balance between curbing inflation and supporting economic expansion.

Digital Currency Adoption: Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) will see increased adoption as governments seek modern alternatives to traditional cash-based systems.

Public Debt Management: Governments will prioritize addressing rising public debt through fiscal reforms, updated taxation policies, and coordinated international lending approaches.

 Stock Market Dynamics: Equity markets will be shaped by factors such as economic growth outlooks, corporate performance, and the impact of global financial policies

5. Workforce and Demographic Trends

Shifts in demographics and evolving workforce dynamics will have a profound impact on economic growth. Key trends include:

Ageing Populations: Nations like Japan, Germany, and China will encounter economic challenges as ageing populations and declining workforce numbers strain resources.

Rise of Remote Work and the Gig Economy: The growing prevalence of remote work and freelance opportunities will transform labour markets, pushing companies to adopt more flexible work arrangements.

Addressing Skill Gaps: As technological advancements accelerate, reskilling and upskilling initiatives will become critical to equip workers with the skills needed for emerging job roles.

Migration and Labor Mobility: Governments will adjust immigration policies to tackle labour shortages, particularly in essential sectors such as healthcare and technology. 

6. Consumer Behavior and Market Dynamics

Consumer spending patterns and market trends will play a pivotal role in shaping the global economy in 2025. Key developments to watch include:

E-commerce Expansion: The online retail sector and direct-to-consumer (DTC) business models will continue to grow rapidly, fueled by advancements in digital payment systems, AI-powered marketing, and seamless logistics.

Health and Wellness Boom: A heightened consumer focus on health, fitness, and well-being will drive growth in sectors such as organic food, personalized medicine, mental health services, and wellness technologies. 

Shift to Experience-Based Consumption: Consumers will increasingly prioritize experiences—such as travel, entertainment, and luxury services—over material goods, reshaping spending trends in the hospitality, tourism, and leisure industries.

Emerging Market Opportunities: Rapid economic growth in regions like Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Africa will unlock new consumer demand, creating lucrative opportunities for investment and market expansion.·

Conclusion

The global economy in 2025 will be shaped by a confluence of factors, including technological innovation, geopolitical developments, sustainability initiatives, financial policies, demographic shifts, and evolving consumer preferences. To thrive in this dynamic environment, businesses, investors, and policymakers must remain agile, embracing innovation, sustainability, and strategic foresight. By proactively adapting to these trends, stakeholders can navigate uncertainties, capitalize on emerging opportunities, and build a foundation for long-term economic resilience and prosperity.