Author: akshay rahalkar
In an ambitious move to bolster the open social web, Bridgy Fed, a project aimed at connecting the social network Bluesky with the broader fediverse—which includes platforms like Mastodon and Meta’s Threads—has become the first initiative to be incubated within a newly launched nonprofit, A New Social. This marks a pivotal step in the effort to create interconnected, decentralized social networks that operate outside the confines of tech giants’ walled gardens. Here’s what this development means for the future of social networking. A New Social: Uniting Decentralized Platforms A New Social, announced on December 17, 2024, was co-founded by CTO…
The Department of Justice (DOJ) is ramping up its efforts in the landmark antitrust case against Google, seeking testimony from Dmitry Shevelenko, the Chief Business Officer of Perplexity, an AI search provider valued at $9 billion. This development comes amidst ongoing deliberations over potential penalties against Google, including the possibility of separating its Chrome browser from the rest of its business. As the DOJ sharpens its focus on Google’s alleged search monopoly, Perplexity’s role in the evolving AI-driven search landscape has made it a critical piece of the puzzle. Here’s a breakdown of the case and Perplexity’s unique position. The…
Meta is taking wearable technology to the next level with its latest update to the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses. These stylish yet cutting-edge devices now come equipped with live AI functionality, real-time language translation, and the popular music recognition app Shazam, enhancing their utility and appeal to both tech enthusiasts and everyday users alike. However, these features come with varying levels of accessibility, with some reserved for members of Meta’s Early Access Program. This development underscores Meta’s ambition to make smart glasses more than just a fashion statement—they’re becoming interactive, AI-powered tools designed to integrate seamlessly into our daily lives.…
The tech and AI communities were recently rocked by the tragic news of Suchir Balaji, a 26-year-old former OpenAI researcher, found dead in his San Francisco apartment. Balaji’s death, determined to be a suicide by the San Francisco Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, has drawn attention not only for its heartbreaking nature but also for the issues he raised about the ethical use of AI and copyright concerns. His untimely demise marks a somber moment for the ongoing discourse on the responsibilities of AI development. The Whistleblower’s Journey Suchir Balaji spent nearly four years at OpenAI, contributing significantly to…
In a world where streaming services have become a household staple, YouTube TV has consistently stood out as one of the most popular options for live television. Offering a comprehensive array of channels, unlimited DVR storage, and ease of use, it has garnered a loyal customer base. However, this loyalty is being tested once again as YouTube TV’s monthly subscription cost surges to $82.99. For many, this price hike raises a crucial question: is YouTube TV still worth it? Let’s break down what this increase means, why it’s happening, and how it affects current and potential subscribers. The Price Evolution…
Apple is reportedly preparing to debut new versions of its Apple TV and HomePod Mini in 2025, which will feature a next-generation Wi-Fi and Bluetooth combo chip, according to industry insider Mark Gurman from Bloomberg. This new hardware is expected to mark a significant technological shift, improving device performance while reducing Apple’s dependence on its current Bluetooth and Wi-Fi supplier, Broadcom. Introducing the Proxima Chip The rumored new chip, codenamed “Proxima”, will combine Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities into a single, unified chip. Sources close to the matter suggest that this chip will be a major technological milestone for Apple, streamlining…
Microsoft is taking a significant step toward establishing the Xbox app as the central hub for PC gaming. With hundreds of new titles added and an updated home interface, the tech giant is working to integrate a broader array of PC games into its ecosystem, regardless of their affiliation with PC Game Pass. Hundreds of New Titles Now Available The latest update to the Xbox app introduces nearly 400 new PC games that weren’t previously accessible. These additions include games from prominent Japanese developers like Kemco and Kairosoft, as well as standout titles such as The Invincible by Double 11.…
Character.AI has recently rolled out significant safety updates in response to growing concerns about the potential risks its chatbot platform poses for young users. The changes come amidst mounting scrutiny, including two high-profile lawsuits accusing the service of contributing to mental health struggles, such as self-harm and suicidal ideation. In a bid to ensure user safety, Character.AI has developed specialized models and implemented parental controls, targeting both risky behaviors and sensitive content. Enhanced Safety with Dedicated Teen LLMs One of the most notable changes is the introduction of a distinct Large Language Model (LLM) tailored exclusively for users under the…
The smartphone market is evolving rapidly, and foldable technology is leading the way. With companies like Samsung and Google advancing foldable designs, all eyes are now on Apple. Reports suggest Apple is actively developing its first foldable iPhone, a device that could reshape the smartphone market by combining innovation, design, and practicality. Here’s everything we know so far about Apple’s upcoming foldable phone. The Rise of Foldable Phones in the Market Foldable phones are no longer just futuristic concepts—they’re becoming mainstream. According to research, global foldable phone shipments grew by 49% year-over-year in the first quarter alone, marking the fastest…
Microsoft is redefining how its AI-powered assistant, Copilot, operates within the Windows ecosystem. Over the years, Copilot has undergone significant changes, from its initial introduction as an ambitious feature to a scaled-back Progressive Web App (PWA). Now, Microsoft has reimagined Copilot once again, introducing a “native” experience with a streamlined taskbar interface and a new keyboard shortcut to enhance usability. This latest update marks a renewed focus on making Copilot a more functional and intuitive tool for Windows users—a move that reflects Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to infusing artificial intelligence into daily computing tasks. The Evolution of Copilot To understand the…