The first air taxi and AI film at Cannes: the main tech events of May

Kazakhstan Conducted the First Launch of the Soyuz 5 Rocket from the Baikonur Complex

The first test launch of the Soyuz 5 "Sunkar" rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome took place. The first and second stages operated normally, and the full-scale mass model followed the calculated trajectory. The rocket is capable of delivering up to 17 tons of payload to low Earth orbit and operates on kerosene and liquid oxygen.

Four Countries of the Organization of Turkic States Will Create a Joint Scientific Satellite

At the informal summit of the OTS in Turkistan, it was announced that Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkey, and Azerbaijan are jointly developing a CubeSat scientific satellite, with its launch scheduled for next year. Additionally, the countries discussed the development of an AI ecosystem, a sovereign cloud, and the digitalization of the region's transport and logistics industry.

Google Unveiled the 24/7 Personal AI Agent Gemini Spark

At the I/O 2026 conference, Google introduced Gemini Spark, a personal AI agent based on the Gemini 3.5 model, operating around the clock. It is integrated with Gmail, Google Docs, and Google Slides and can automatically analyze statements, create to-do lists, and prepare reports. At launch, it also supports external platforms such as Canva, OpenTable, and Instacart.

EABR Opens Representative Office in Uzbekistan

The Eurasian Development Bank officially opened its representative office in Tashkent, following Uzbekistan's accession to the EABR in 2025. By 2031, the bank plans to invest up to $1.5 billion in the country's economy, with approximately $800 million allocated to projects with high integration potential.

First Demonstration Flight of an eVTOL Air Taxi Held in Alatau City

Kazakhstan has become the first in the region to present a full-fledged urban air mobility ecosystem. A demonstration flight of the AutoFlight Prosperity electric air taxi took place at the Alatau City site. The aircraft, equipped with 13 electric motors, is designed for five passengers and has a top speed of 200 km/h. Total private investments in the development of air mobility in the region are estimated at $300 million.

Modern School of Digital Professions Opened in Dushanbe

"School 21," a free digital technology school for citizens over 18, has opened in Dushanbe, established to mark the 35th anniversary of Tajikistan's independence. The educational facility accommodates 200 students in a round-the-clock format, with a curriculum covering 20 IT specialties. The duration of study ranges from nine months to two years, depending on the chosen specialization.

SpaceX Launches the Largest Rocket in the World

SpaceX conducted the 12th test launch of Starship, marking the first flight of the V3 version in the past seven months. During the mission, Starlink satellite mockups were successfully deployed, and external video footage of the spacecraft in space was captured for the first time. Despite some partial issues with the booster, the launch was deemed partially successful.

Higgsfield AI Premiered a Full-Length Film Created by Artificial Intelligence in Cannes

A 95-minute film titled "Hell Grind," entirely created on the Higgsfield AI platform, premiered at the Cannes Film Market. The film was directed by Kazakh director Aitor Zholdaskali. The production budget was less than $500,000, compared to $50 million for a traditional production. Following the screening, Higgsfield announced a partnership with Hollywood director Chuck Russell.

National Agency for Virtual Assets and Blockchain Created in Kyrgyzstan

President Sadyr Japarov signed a decree establishing the National Agency for Virtual Assets and Blockchain Technologies (NAVA) under the President of the Kyrgyz Republic. The new body is tasked with separating the functions of development, regulation, and control in the field of virtual assets. Some powers are being transferred from the Financial Market Regulation Service.