Welcome to Week in Review! This week was filled with exciting announcements and controversial moments in the tech world. Let’s dive into the biggest news and analyze what it means for the industry.
Apple made headlines with its Let Loose event, where they unveiled new iPad models. The iPad Air now features a 13-inch display, while the iPad Pro comes with Tandem OLED and a new M4 chip. However, it was Apple’s ad for the new iPad Pro that caused a stir. The ad, which crushed analog creative tools into an iPad Pro, received backlash for missing the mark. Apple later apologized and canceled plans to televise it. This incident raises questions about the effectiveness of Apple’s marketing strategies and the disconnect between the company and its audience.
In the world of electric vehicles (EVs), Fisker Ocean faced another federal safety probe. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened its fourth investigation into the SUV due to claims of “inadvertent Automatic Emergency Braking.” This further adds to the challenges faced by Fisker Ocean, highlighting the importance of thorough safety testing in the EV industry.
AI deepfakes took center stage at this year’s Met Gala, with AI-generated images of Katy Perry and Rihanna going viral online. This serves as a reminder that we can’t believe everything we see on the internet. The rise of AI-generated content raises concerns about the spread of misinformation and the need for critical thinking when consuming online media.
Moving on to the news section, OpenAI made headlines with new updates. The company is set to demo new features for both ChatGPT and GPT-4, showcasing their advancements in artificial intelligence. CEO Sam Altman denied rumors of a rival search engine product, dispelling speculations about OpenAI’s competition with Google. This development highlights the ongoing progress in AI technology and its potential applications across various industries.
Another noteworthy news item is the introduction of a video portal by Portals.org. This innovative project allows people in New York City and Dublin to interact in real-time, aiming to break down borders and prejudices. The initiative demonstrates the power of technology in fostering human connection and promoting inclusivity.
OpenAI also sparked a conversation with its new NSFW policy, which explores the possibility of allowing explicit content in its AI products. This raises ethical considerations regarding the responsible use of generative AI and the need for safeguards to prevent misuse or harm.
In the realm of facial recognition technology, Microsoft reaffirmed its ban on U.S. police departments from using generative AI through its Azure OpenAI Service. This decision reflects growing concerns about the potential misuse of AI surveillance tools and the importance of establishing ethical guidelines for their deployment.
Jack Dorsey, former CEO of Twitter, announced his departure from Bluesky’s board. The company expressed gratitude for Dorsey’s contributions and expressed their intention to find a suitable replacement. This development raises questions about the future of Bluesky and its efforts to decentralize social media platforms.
Moving on to analysis, Devin Coldewey criticized Apple’s “Crush” ad, which depicts analog creative tools being crushed into an iPad Pro. Coldewey argues that the ad missed the mark and received rightful backlash. Apple’s subsequent apology and cancellation of the ad highlight the importance of understanding consumer sentiment and avoiding insensitive marketing campaigns.
Mary Ann Azevedo and Christine Hall delved into the bankruptcy of startup accelerator Newchip and its impact on thousands of startups. The fall from grace of Newchip raises concerns about the stability and transparency of accelerator programs and their potential risks for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Devin also provided an analysis of rabbit’s R1 AI assistant, which has faced criticism for not living up to its promises. Despite potential shortcomings, Devin considers devices like the R1 as a glimpse into the future and an opportunity for experimentation in AI technology.
In conclusion, this week in tech news was filled with significant announcements and thought-provoking moments. From Apple’s new iPad models to AI deepfakes and advancements in AI technology, the industry continues to evolve rapidly. However, it is crucial for companies to understand their audience, prioritize safety, and navigate ethical considerations to build trust and drive meaningful innovation.