OpenAI and Google were the highlights of this week’s tech news. OpenAI introduced its latest model, GPT-4o, during its spring update event. This new model boasts voice and vision capabilities, allowing it to serve as a virtual assistant similar to the AI character “Her.” On the other hand, Google’s I/O conference showcased various announcements and integrations for its flagship model, Gemini.
However, there were significant shake-ups at AWS and OpenAI this week. AWS CEO Adam Selipsky announced his departure, with AWS sales chief Matt Garman taking over. Additionally, OpenAI co-founder Ilya Sutskever and Jan Leike also left the company. Jakub Pachocki, OpenAI’s director of research, will replace Sutskever as chief scientist.
In other news, Meta made headlines as it shut down its enterprise communications business, Workplace. This move raises questions about Meta’s commitment to its enterprise ambitions.
The prominence of AI was evident at Google’s I/O keynote, where it was mentioned extensively throughout the event. Meanwhile, OpenAI’s GPT-4o model garnered attention for its ability to hold conversations, change tones, and perform real-time language translation. Some even noted that it sounded like Scarlett Johansson.
Sony Music Group sent letters to over 700 tech companies and music streaming services, warning them against using its music to train AI without permission. The company expressed concerns that unauthorized use of its content may have already occurred.
Furthermore, a technique called Estate enabled SIM swap attacks that tricked victims into revealing one-time passcodes, granting attackers access to their bank accounts.
Google’s Project IDX, an AI-centric browser-based development environment, entered open beta after being announced at Google I/O. Over 100,000 developers have already tried the service.
In the renewable energy sector, a startup called Spoor is utilizing AI to help wind farms mitigate the impact of wind turbines on bird populations.
Apple is expanding accessibility features for iPads and iPhones, including eye-tracking device control, custom voice shortcuts, and haptic engine-powered music experiences.
Instagram Threads is testing pinned columns on the web, potentially offering a replacement for the paywalled TweetDeck.
Moving on to analysis, Meta’s decision to shut down its enterprise product, Workplace, raises questions about the company’s seriousness in entering the enterprise market. It seems that Meta may not have fully committed to its enterprise ambitions.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s recent change in personal style has attracted attention. Previously known for his simple attire of gray shirts and jeans, Zuckerberg now sports gold chains and graphic tees. Some speculate that this shift in style is part of a carefully crafted rebranding effort.
Tesla’s Supercharger division, despite being profitable and dominating EV fast charging, was unexpectedly axed by CEO Elon Musk. This decision has left the future of the Supercharger network uncertain.
Overall, this week’s tech news showcased advancements in AI, major industry shake-ups, and intriguing developments in various sectors, from music to renewable energy. The decisions made by companies like Meta and Tesla have sparked discussions about their strategies and future directions.
