Engadget News + Next

The show dives into Anthropic's new Claude Cowork, designed to simplify tasks for everyday users by automating file organization and more. Listeners learn how it can convert receipts to spreadsheets and navigate websites efficiently. The discussion also highlights the privacy considerations and limits of the AI's capabilities, ensuring users understand the risks. Additionally, details on claiming a $20 credit from Verizon for a recent service outage provide practical tips for listeners.

Microsoft has rolled out an emergency fix to address critical bugs in Windows 11, resolving shutdown issues. Meanwhile, Washington state is considering a controversial ID requirement for accessing adult websites, stirring privacy concerns. In a surprising turn, plans for an Atari-themed hotel in Las Vegas have dissolved, leaving only the Phoenix location moving forward after six years of development.

Discover the world of budget fitness trackers that won't strain your wallet! Trackers now come with impressive features like GPS and sleep analysis. Check out the Xiaomi SmartBand 9 for its amazing battery life and user-friendly interface. The Amazfit Band 7 offers unique metrics, though it has a slower interface. Finally, the Fitbit Inspire 3 is a simple option but lacks some advanced features. Perfect for sticking to your fitness goals without the hefty price tag!

Taiwan is set to invest at least $250 billion in US semiconductor production, strengthening tech ties between the two nations. Bluesky introduces its 'Live Now' badge for streamers, along with cashtags to track discussions around public companies. Netflix expands its partnership with Sony, gaining exclusive rights to stream upcoming films globally, including the anticipated The Legend of Zelda. This deal marks a significant shift in the streaming landscape, aimed at enhancing content availability for viewers.

The AI can search through your photos, Gmail and Search and YouTube history. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

-X says it is changing its policies around Grok’s image-editing abilities following a multi-week outcry over the chatbot repeatedly being accused of generating sexualized images of children and nonconsensual nudity. -OpenAI has debuted a dedicated ChatGPT-powered translation tool. While folks have been using the main chatbot for translation for some time, Android Authority spotted that you can now find ChatGPT Translate on its own webpage. -Spotify is raising the prices for its premium subscriptions by $1 to $2 across the board, starting this February. Those are similar figures to the company’s last price hike in 2024. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Claude Cowork is a file-managing AI agent for the rest of us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

-Tesla CEO Elon Musk announced on his X platform that the company will stop selling its $8,000 Full Self-Driving option and make it strictly a monthly subscription service after February 14. -The DEFIANCE Act lets the subjects of nonconsensual, sexually explicit deepfakes take civil action against the people who create and host them. Deepfakes are a known issue online, but without the proper protections, easy access to AI-powered image and video generation tools has made it possible for anyone to create compromising content using another person's likeness. -The UK government has backtracked on a plan to require all workers to have a digital ID following a backlash. It will no longer be mandatory to register with the digital ID program to prove one has the right to work in the country. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Claude Cowork is the computer agent for the rest of us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A wave of suspicious password reset requests has Instagram claiming that user accounts are secure. Malwarebytes reports a significant data leak of 17.5 million users' information, sparking concerns and scrutiny. Meanwhile, Elon Musk announces plans to open-source X's recommendation algorithm, raising questions about content moderation. The discussion emphasizes the importance of two-factor authentication and regular account reviews to keep your digital presence safe.