Boston Dynamics' Robots Learn New Skills Through AI, Marking Major Leap in Autonomous Robotics
Boston Dynamics is revolutionizing robotics by enabling their machines to learn independently through AI and reinforcement learning, rather than relying on pre-programmed movements. Their robots Spot and Atlas are achieving breakthrough performance in speed and stability, while facing new competition in the evolving robotics landscape.
Meta Increases Executive Bonuses While Cutting Employee Stock Awards
Meta approves doubling of executive bonus potential to 200% of base salary while reducing employee stock compensation by 10%. The changes come amid ongoing layoffs targeting 4,000 positions, though the company plans to later backfill roles focused on AI development.
Apple Unveils iPhone 16e: AI Features Meet Affordability
Apple's new iPhone 16e brings advanced AI capabilities like Visual Intelligence and enhanced Siri at a $599 price point, replacing the SE line. The device features Apple's C1 modem chip, facial recognition, and improved battery life while making AI tools more accessible.
Nvidia's AI-Powered 'Signs' Platform Revolutionizes American Sign Language Learning
Nvidia partners with the American Society for Deaf Children to launch 'Signs', an innovative AI platform using 3D avatars and webcam analysis to teach American Sign Language. The technology aims to bridge communication gaps by providing interactive instruction and real-time feedback while building a comprehensive open-source dataset.
HP Acquires Humane's AI Pin Assets for $116M, Marking End of Ambitious Wearable
HP has purchased Humane's assets for $116 million, effectively ending the innovative but troubled AI Pin wearable device. The acquisition integrates Humane's team into HP's new AI division while existing AI Pin devices will cease functioning by February 2025.
Microsoft Warns of AI Tools Eroding Critical Thinking Skills in the Workplace
Microsoft raises alarm over employees' growing dependency on AI assistants like Copilot and ChatGPT, noting a decline in independent problem-solving abilities. The tech giant's findings prompt discussions about establishing guidelines for balanced AI implementation that preserves human cognitive capabilities.
X Doubles Premium+ Subscription Cost Following Grok 3 AI Launch
X has dramatically increased its Premium+ subscription to $50 monthly following the release of xAI's Grok 3 AI model. The price hike coincides with expanded AI features for Premium+ users, though some advanced functions will require an additional SuperGrok subscription.
Google's Growing Influence Over Reddit: A Complex Digital Relationship
Recent data reveals Reddit's increasing dependence on Google for traffic growth, with logged-out visitors surging 70% compared to just 27% for logged-in users. This dynamic raises questions about Reddit's autonomy as Google experiments with integrating the platform's content into AI-powered search results.
iOS 18.5 Testing Begins as Apple's Siri AI Features Face Potential Delays
Apple's ambitious AI enhancements for Siri may be postponed due to ongoing technical challenges, despite iOS 18.5 already undergoing internal testing. The highly anticipated Apple Intelligence features, which promise advanced functionalities, are reportedly struggling with consistency issues.
Microsoft Bolsters AI Infrastructure with Massive Solar Power Investment
Microsoft expands its renewable energy portfolio with a 389-megawatt solar power purchase to support growing AI operations. The strategic investment includes three solar projects across Illinois and Texas, advancing the company's goal of becoming carbon negative by 2030.