Explore the fallout from Cruise's struggles and GM's shift in self-driving tech. Discover innovative features of Gemini 2.0 Flash, including advanced spatial reasoning. Dive into the enhancements of the Vision Pro, which might finally have a standout app. Learn about Xiaohongshu, a rising e-commerce app from China achieving impressive profits. Plus, insights on emerging trends in AI data accessibility and the implications of the CHIPS Act on U.S. manufacturing.
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Quick takeaways
Cruise's substantial financial losses have led to the dissolution of its partnership with GM, intensifying competition in the robotaxi market.
Gemini 2.0's innovative real-time interaction features signal a potential shift towards augmented reality applications, highlighting advancements in multi-modal technologies.
Deep dives
The Downfall of Cruise and the Future of Robo-Taxis
Cruise's significant financial losses have prompted Honda to dissolve its self-driving vehicle partnership with GM as GM exits the robo-taxi business. The competition in the robotaxi space has intensified, especially with Waymo's higher investment capability and technological advantages. Despite pushing for profitability, Cruise's losses reached $3.48 billion in 2023, leading to increased pressure on its CEO to develop the service. As GM pivots towards personally-owned autonomous vehicles, the industry grapples with the reality that robo-taxis may not yield the desired profits for automobile manufacturers.
Gemini 2.0 and Its Innovative Features
Gemini 2.0 introduces groundbreaking features, notably a new streaming API that allows real-time audio and video interactions with users. This innovative approach makes it possible for users to engage in conversations with the model while utilizing their camera, creating a more immersive and interactive experience. The technology not only enhances spatial reasoning performance but also boasts capabilities for advanced image editing and native audio output. As competitors also rush to develop similar multi-modal technologies, Gemini 2.0's functionalities signal a potential shift toward smart glasses and augmented reality applications.
The Surge of Chinese App Zhao Hongshu
Zhao Hongshu, a rising Chinese app likened to Instagram, is gaining traction among younger audiences and is projected to double its profits ahead of a potential IPO. Originally a platform for sharing travel and dining experiences, the app has evolved into a significant e-commerce player, leveraging influencer partnerships to drive sales. This growth comes amidst a broader trend of declining online commerce in China, showcasing Zhao Hongshu's resilience in a challenging market. Backed by notable investors, it stands out as one of the few major privately held Chinese internet companies, reflecting a shift in consumer behavior and preferences.
More fallout from the whole Cruise wind-down. What it’s like to use some of the new Gemini 2.0 features. Has Apple, quite belatedly, finally done a feature update that provides the Vision Pro with a “killer app?” An Instagram-like app from China I had never heard of. And one singular, eye-popping datapoint from the CHIPS Act.