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This week, Apple introduced support for Rich Communication Services (RCS) in Messages as part of the second developer beta of iOS 18. This new feature allows iPhone users to send high-quality images, receive read receipts, and typing indicators when messaging with Android users. Previously, iPhone users could only send SMS or MMS messages to those without an Apple device. However, the classic green text bubbles remain.
OpenAI has postponed the release of its new Voice Mode. Originally planned for a late June alpha release to a select group of ChatGPT Plus users, the launch has been delayed to sometime in July due to unresolved issues. Advanced Voice Mode may not be available to all users until the fall as it undergoes internal safety and reliability checks, according to the company.
The FCC has proposed a new rule that would make it easier for consumers to unlock their phones from carriers. The proposal suggests that all devices should be unlockable just 60 days after purchase, allowing users to switch to different mobile networks. However, this rule may face challenges given the current phone and wireless market landscape.
News
OpenAI releases ChatGPT for Mac: ChatGPT is now accessible to all macOS users via a new app. Mac users can activate ChatGPT by using the keyboard shortcut Option + Space after installing the app. Read more
Apple reportedly won’t integrate Meta’s AI models after all: Contradicting previous reports, Apple has decided against integrating Meta’s AI models due to privacy concerns. Read more
Waymo ditches its waitlist in San Francisco: Waymo has eliminated the waitlist for its robotaxi service in San Francisco, allowing customers to immediately use the self-driving technology through the app. Read more
Zuckerberg criticizes “closed” AI: In a recent interview, Meta’s CEO expressed his belief in open source AI and cautioned against closed-source AI competitors attempting to create omnipotent systems. Read more
Andrew Ng’s AI Fund seeks substantial funding: Andrew Ng’s AI Fund aims to raise over $120 million for its second initiative, supporting teams leveraging AI to solve significant challenges. Read more
Gemini AI introduced in Gmail: Google has rolled out a Gemini AI side panel in Gmail to assist users in drafting emails and retrieving information from their inbox. The Gemini side panel will also be available in Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Drive. Read more
OpenAI expands with acquisition of Multi: OpenAI has acquired Multi, a startup focusing on video-first collaboration platforms tailored for enterprises. Following the acquisition, most of Multi’s team will join OpenAI. Read more
Researchers develop eerie smiling robot with living skin: Researchers from the University of Tokyo and Harvard have investigated the concept of robots with lifelike human skin, presenting some unsettling findings. Read more
Meta’s AI chatbots extend to India: Meta is making its Llama 3-powered AI chatbot available to all users in India following successful testing during the general elections, though it currently only supports English. Read more
Prosus writes off stake in Byju’s: Investment firm Prosus has declared its once-$2.1 billion stake in Indian edtech startup Byju’s as worthless. Despite this, Prosus remains optimistic about Byju’s potential. Read more
Analysis
Silicon Valley faces controversy over DEI: The conversation around diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) has sparked intense debate, exemplified by the discussion initiated by Scale AI founder Alexandr Wang proposing a shift towards “MEI” (merit, excellence, intelligence) over DEI. However, data suggests that a supposed “meritocracy” is not superior to DEI. Read more
Implications of Ayana Parsons’ resignation: Ayana Parsons, co-founder of Fearless Fund, is resigning amidst legal issues and the growing anti-DEI sentiment in the tech industry. This development sheds light on the challenges faced by Black women in the VC world. Read more
