This week's podcast covers topics such as the termination of Google Podcasts, Spotify using AI to translate podcasts, iPhone 15 overheating issues, Microsoft and Meta events, and the announcement of Oculus Quest 3 and the use of AI in Meta apps. They also discuss photo manipulation, editing techniques, pixel leaks, and the future of wearable technology.
Microsoft's deep integration of AI Copilot across their ecosystem showcases their focus on AI advancements in their product lineup.
The lackluster release of the Surface Laptop Go 3 and the absence of a new Surface Laptop 6 announcement left users anticipating future hardware updates.
The decision to hold a private event instead of live streaming it limited the reach and visibility of Microsoft's announcements, leaving many people unaware of the event itself.
Meta's introduction of AI-powered chatbots using the likenesses and personalities of popular celebrities offers users personalized and engaging interactions while maintaining privacy and legal boundaries.
Deep dives
Microsoft Announces Integration of AI Copilot Across Ecosystem
Microsoft announced at their recent event the deep integration of AI Copilot across their ecosystem. This AI assistant can now communicate with voice and has access to files and apps on Windows 11. It aims to assist users with tasks across Microsoft 365 apps, Edge, Bing Chat, and more. The AI Copilot can even access information on a user's phone, providing a more comprehensive assistance experience. While the details of privacy and reliability remain to be seen, this integration showcases Microsoft's focus on AI advancements in their product lineup.
Hardwares Updates from Microsoft Fall Short
Alongside their AI announcements, Microsoft also introduced some hardware updates. The Surface Laptop Go 3, a 2-in-1 laptop, was a lackluster release with few notable features or improvements. Surprisingly, there was no announcement for the Surface Laptop 6, leaving users to anticipate a future release. The event mainly focused on showcasing the AI capabilities and integration rather than unveiling new and exciting hardware updates.
Mixed Reactions to Microsoft's Private Event Format
The decision to hold a private event rather than live streaming it raised questions and resulted in mixed reactions. Not streaming the event on platforms like YouTube limited the reach and visibility of the announcements, leaving many people unaware of the event itself. While live blogs and tweets provided some glimpses of the event, the lack of a proper live stream left many enthusiasts and potential customers in the dark.
Microsoft Flexes OpenAI Partnership with Dolly 4 and Chat GPT 4
During the event, Microsoft showcased their close partnership with OpenAI by announcing the integration of Dolly 4 and Chat GPT 4. These AI models provide advanced image and chat capabilities, enabling the creation of images and conversational interactions with AI. Microsoft's focus on integrating OpenAI models into their ecosystem highlights the potential for AI-driven enhancements and improvements across their platforms and products.
Quest 3: The new VR headset with improved features and mixed reality capabilities
The Quest 3 is a new VR headset with enhanced graphics, better hand tracking, and improved comfort. It also introduces mixed reality, allowing users to see their real-world environment while incorporating virtual elements. The headset features a new design, upgraded processors, and the ability to use hands or new controllers. It is set to release in October.
Meta AI: The integration of AI in Meta's apps and platforms
Meta AI aims to enhance user experiences across different Meta platforms such as WhatsApp, Messenger, and Instagram. The introduction of AI capabilities allows for improved chatbot interactions, image generation, and personalized AI assistance. Meta AI is built on their large language models and image generation technology. The company plans to continue expanding and refining these AI features in the future.
Ray-Ban Stories Version 2: Smart glasses with limited screen capabilities
Ray-Ban Stories Version 2 is the latest iteration of smart glasses developed by Meta. These glasses allow users to capture photos and videos, stream on social media platforms, and make video calls. However, there is no built-in screen for viewing content. The glasses are designed to be adaptable with different frames and lenses, catering to various style preferences. Future updates are expected to introduce AI integration for real-time information and guidance.
Meta's Celebrity Chatbots: AI-powered chatbots with celebrity likenesses
Meta introduced AI-powered chatbots that users can interact with using the likenesses and personalities of popular celebrities. The chatbots incorporate the knowledge and characteristics associated with these celebrities, offering users unique and personalized interactions. This features aim to provide an engaging and novel communication experience, leveraging the familiarity and appeal of these celebrities while maintaining privacy and legal boundaries.
This week was a long one! Not only did Marques, Andrew, and David discuss the killing of Google Podcasts (shocker), Spotify using AI to translate podcasts, and iPhone 15 overheating issues, but they also go over everything from last weeks Microsoft event and the Meta event. Techtember is ending with a bang and the busy season rolls right through into Techtober with no break! The gadgets just keeping coming. Hope you enjoy!
Links:
Google kills Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/ripgooglepodcasts
