July 11, 2025
Tech News
Knox has successfully secured $6.5 million in seed funding to enhance its services in the federal compliance sector, aiming to expedite the FedRAMP certification process for software vendors. The funding round was led by Felicis, with contributions from Ridgeline and FirsthandVC.
The company’s founder, Irina Denisenko, previously faced significant challenges in obtaining FedRAMP for another company and decided to create Knox to offer a more efficient solution. Knox aims to reduce compliance time from years to just three months, significantly lowering costs for clients.
On a related note, the expansion of AI technologies has raised concerns in various sectors, including the video game industry. Following a year-long strike, SAG-AFTRA members ratified a new agreement focused on protecting actors from unauthorized AI use in gaming. This deal introduces important ethical standards, such as mandatory consent for AI-generated replicas.
In another significant development, Ukraine is poised to launch Starlink mobile internet services, becoming the first European country to do so. Kyivstar’s Chief Executive announced that messaging services will be available by the end of this year, with broader mobile broadband services expected to roll out in mid-2026.
The partnership with SpaceX’s Starlink includes innovative direct-to-cell technology, which will connect mobile devices directly to satellites without the need for conventional towers. This initiative aims to support Ukraine’s telecommunications infrastructure amid ongoing challenges from the ongoing conflict.
Finally, the resilience of Ukraine’s telecom infrastructure has shown notable improvement, enabling services to operate effectively even during heightened security threats. Meanwhile, U.S. carrier T-Mobile plans to introduce satellite-to-cell services powered by Starlink soon, highlighting growing advancements in mobile communications.
Tech Explained
FedRAMP – The Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP) is a government-wide program designed to ensure that cloud services used by federal agencies meet stringent security standards. This complex certification process typically takes several years and substantial financial investments to complete.
Compliance Management – This refers to the systematic approach organizations use to adhere to laws, regulations, and internal policies. In the context of tech companies, especially those dealing with government contracts, compliance management ensures that their products and services meet required security standards, such as those set by FedRAMP.
SAG-AFTRA – The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) is a labor union representing professionals in the entertainment industry, including actors and performers in video games. The union negotiates contracts and advocates for members’ rights, especially regarding emerging technologies like AI.
Starlink – Starlink is a satellite internet constellation being constructed by SpaceX to provide satellite internet access globally. It utilizes a network of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites to deliver high-speed internet services, particularly in areas lacking robust traditional infrastructure.
Direct-to-Cell – This technology allows mobile devices to connect directly to satellites instead of relying on ground-based cell towers. The service can provide extensive coverage and connectivity, particularly useful in emergency situations or in regions with damaged telecommunications infrastructure.
