Week in Review: Tech Highlights
This week, significant news unfolded across the tech landscape, including HP’s acquisition of AI Pin maker Humane, the launch of a new iPhone SE, and changes in popular apps. Let’s break down the major stories.
HP Acquires Humane for $116 Million
HP has made headlines by acquiring Humane, a hardware startup known for its AI Pin products, for $116 million. This sale represents a dramatic decline for Humane, which had previously raised $240 million in venture capital. As a result of the acquisition, Humane will immediately stop selling its AI Pins, which were priced at $499 each.
Key Details:
- End of AI Pin Sales: Sales for the AI Pins will cease right away, and connection to Humane’s servers will be terminated after February 28. After this date, the devices will lose their ability to make calls, send messages, and access AI features.
- Refund Policy: Customers who purchased an AI Pin in the last 90 days can request a refund, while previous buyers will not receive any compensation.
Employee Changes:
Following the acquisition announcement, many Humane employees received job offers from HP with substantial pay raises between 30% to 70%. However, others, especially those closely associated with the AI Pin project, were informed that their positions were being eliminated.
Apple Unveils Updated iPhone SE
Apple has launched its new iPhone SE model, named the iPhone 16e, marking the first major update in three years.
Notable Features:
- A18 Processor: The iPhone 16e boasts the powerful A18 chip, allowing it to support the latest Apple Intelligence features.
- Design Changes: The new model replaces the traditional Touch ID home button with Face ID and swaps the Lightning port for a USB-C port.
- Pricing and Availability: The starting price for the iPhone 16e is $599, with shipments set to commence on February 28.
Duolingo’s Marketing Stunt
Duolingo has made a splash by “killing” its beloved owl mascot, known as Duo, in a humorous marketing campaign linked to a Cybertruck. The campaign aims to motivate users to complete more lessons with the tagline “Duo or die.”
OpenAI’s Policy Change
In a recent update, OpenAI has modified its approach to content moderation within ChatGPT. The company will now allow the AI to present varied perspectives on sensitive topics rather than taking a specific editorial stance. This change aims to promote neutrality, even in discussions that some might find controversial.
Uber Sues DoorDash
Uber has filed a lawsuit against DoorDash, alleging that its competitor has engaged in unfair practices, pressuring restaurant owners into exclusive agreements. This lawsuit marks a significant development in the ongoing rivalry between the two food delivery giants.
New AI Startup from Mira Murati
Mira Murati, the former CTO of OpenAI, has launched a new AI startup called Thinking Machines Lab. Alongside co-founder John Schulman and former OpenAI chief research officer Barret Zoph, the company aims to focus on creating collaborative multimodal systems that integrate various forms of media and data.
Elon Musk’s Grok 3 AI
Elon Musk’s xAI has introduced Grok 3, its latest AI model, along with new capabilities for its iOS and web applications. Musk describes this model as a “maximally truth-seeking AI,” which sometimes challenges established norms and perspectives.
Malware Alert on Steam
In a concerning development, Valve removed a video game from its Steam platform that was found to be purposely spreading malware. Investigators discovered that hackers had modified an existing game to trick players into downloading malicious software.
Amazon Shuts Down Android App Store
Amazon has announced the closure of its Android app store, effective August, to prioritize its focus on its own devices. Developers have been informed that they will no longer be able to submit new applications for the platform.
Changing Sentiments Towards Tech Leaders
Research indicates that public opinion of tech leaders like Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg has shifted negatively. A significant portion of Americans—54% for Musk and 67% for Zuckerberg—express unfavorable views toward these influential figures in the tech industry.
Concerns Over Noise-Canceling Headphones
A recent report raises questions about the impact of noise-canceling headphones on the brain. It posits that regularly using these devices to block out background noise might impair the brain’s ability to filter sounds naturally.
Conclusion
This week’s technology news showcases a range of updates and challenges faced by major players in the industry. From acquisitions and new product launches to shifts in public sentiment, the landscape continues to evolve rapidly. Stay tuned for more updates in next week’s review!