Home Blog Page 140

Indian Book Publishers Sue OpenAI For Copyright Violations

0

Highlights

  • Book publishers led by the FIP have filed a copyright lawsuit against OpenAI.
  • The case is against the company using books without permission to train ChatGPT.
  • The lawsuit concerns ChatGPT’s ability to generate book summaries harming book sales.
  • FIP is seeking to stop OpenAI from accessing their copyrighted content or to delete datasets used in AI training and explain compensation.
  • The case aims to join another ongoing case by Indian news agency ANI against OpenAI.
  • The outcome of the hearings in New Delhi is scheduled for January 28.
image
OpenAI faces new copyright lawsuit from Book publishers. (Photo by Jonathan Kemper on Unsplash)

Indian and international book publishers have filed a copyright lawsuit against OpenAI accusing the company of using books without permission to train its AI tool ChatGPT. This lawsuit, led by the Federation of Indian Publishers (FIP), joins a growing list of global legal challenges from authors, news organisations and musicians seeking to protect their intellectual property from unauthorised use by AI systems.

The FIP representing major publishers like Bloomsbury, Penguin Random House, Cambridge University Press, Pan Macmillan, Rupa Publications and S. Chand and Co. filed the case in December in New Delhi. According to the federation’s general secretary Pranav Gupta, “Our ask from the court is that they should stop (OpenAI from) accessing our copyright content.”

He added, “In case they don’t want to do licensing with us, they should delete datasets used in AI training and explain how we will be compensated. This impacts creativity.”

The case specifically concerns ChatGPT’s ability to generate book summaries, which publishers fear could harm book sales. Gupta expressed his concern saying, “This free tool produces book summaries, extracts, why would people buy books then? This will impact our sales, all members are concerned about this.”

OpenAI’s Position and Legal Battles

OpenAI has not commented on the lawsuit, which was filed in December and reported here for the first time. The company has consistently denied allegations of copyright misuse stating that its AI systems make “fair use” of publicly available data.

The lawsuit aims to join an ongoing case filed by Indian news agency ANI against OpenAI, which is seen as the most prominent legal challenge in India on this issue. In response to the ANI case, OpenAI reportedly argued that any order to delete training data would “result in a violation of its U.S. legal obligations,” and that “Indian judges have no right to hear a copyright case against the company as its servers are located abroad.”

However, the FIP has countered this asserting, “OpenAI offers services in India so its activities should fall under Indian laws.”

Protecting Copyrighted Works

One of the FIP’s members Penguin Random House announced in November a global initiative to include a statement on the copyright page of its books that says, “No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner for the purpose of training AI technologies.”

A Reuters test highlighted the issue, where ChatGPT was asked for details about the first volume of Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling, published by Bloomsbury. The tool provided chapter-by-chapter summaries and a list of key events, stopping short of reproducing the actual text.

ChatGPT explained, “I cannot provide the entire text of the book, as it is copyrighted material.”

“These cases represent a pivotal moment and can potentially shape the future legal framework on AI in India,” said Siddharth Chandrashekhar, a Mumbai-based lawyer. “The judgment passed here will test the balance between protecting IP and promoting tech advancement.”

OpenAI, which made its first hire in India last year by appointing former WhatsApp executive Pragya Misra for public policy and partnerships, now faces growing scrutiny in a rapidly expanding digital market. Indian Express reports, “OpenAI made its first India hire last year when it tapped former WhatsApp executive, Pragya Misra, to handle public policy and partnerships in the country of 1.4 billion people, where millions of new users are going online, thanks to cheap mobile data prices.”

The case has so far been listed before a court registrar in New Delhi who on January 10 asked OpenAI to respond. A judge is set to hear the matter on January 28 with the outcome likely to set a major precedent for the use of AI in India.

FAQs

Q1. Who has filed a copyright lawsuit against OpenAI and why?

Answer. Indian and international book publishers, led by the Federation of Indian Publishers (FIP), have filed a copyright lawsuit against OpenAI for using books without permission to train its AI tool, ChatGPT.

Q2. What concerns do the publishers have regarding ChatGPT’s capabilities?

Answer. The lawsuit concerns ChatGPT’s ability to generate book summaries, which publishers fear could harm book sales. They want OpenAI to stop accessing their copyrighted content or delete datasets used in AI training and explain compensation.

Q3. What is the current legal status of the lawsuit against OpenAI in India?

Answer. The case aims to join an ongoing case filed by Indian news agency ANI against OpenAI. A court registrar in New Delhi has asked OpenAI to respond, and a judge is set to hear the matter on January 28, with the outcome likely to set a major precedent for the use of AI in India.

Read More: Who is Suchir Balaji? All about the former OpenAI whistleblower who was found dead in a San Francisco apartment

Read More: ChatGPT search will now be available free for everyone

iPhone SE 4 Leaked Video Reveals Design and Key Features

0

Highlights

  • A leaked video shows the iPhone SE 4 in someone’s hand.
  • The video reveals the front design resembling the iPhone 14 and the back with a single rear camera.
  • It may include Apple’s new in-house cellular modem.
  • Earlier leaks about Pixel-like casings are clarified to be for the iPhone 17 Air and not the iPhone SE 4.
  • The iPhone SE 4 might come with a higher price tag than its predecessors.
image
Screengrab from the iPhone SE 4 leaked video. (Credit – MajinBuOfficial on X)

Apple’s highly anticipated iPhone SE 4 expected to be called the iPhone 16E is soon going to be a reality. A new leaked video has surfaced offering a clear look at the device and confirming several rumours while debunking others. Here’s what we know about the phone after the recent leak.

iPhone SE 4 Leaked Video

Popular tipster MajinBuOfficial recently shared a video on X (formerly Twitter) revealing what the upcoming iPhone SE 4 looks like.

The video shows what appears to be the iPhone 16E in someone’s hands though it’s unclear if the phone is powered on or just a dummy unit. The front design closely resembles the iPhone 14 complete with a notch.

However, the back design is noticeably different featuring a single rear camera instead of the iPhone 14’s dual-camera setup. The single camera is likely a cost-saving measure keeping the phone budget-friendly while still maintaining Apple’s quality standards.

image

image

image
iPhone SE 4 live images leaked online in a video. (Credit – Majin Bu on X)

The iPhone SE 4 is rumoured to include 8GB of RAM, which would be a big upgrade for this line. The extra memory is expected to support Apple’s growing focus on AI features even in its more affordable devices.

The video also addresses earlier leaks about Pixel-like casings clarifying that those cases are not for the iPhone SE 4. Instead, they are believed to be for the iPhone 17 Air expected to launch in late 2025.

One of the standout features of the iPhone 16E could be Apple’s new in-house cellular modem. This technology marks a significant step toward reducing reliance on third-party suppliers and could eventually make its way into other models including the iPhone 17.

While the iPhone SE 4 might come with a slightly higher price tag than its predecessors, it is still expected to be a more affordable option in Apple’s lineup. With the current iPhone SE inventory running low globally, the new model’s release seems imminent.

Many tech enthusiasts believe the iPhone 16E has the potential to stand out in 2025 as a solid budget-friendly option after the mixed reception of the iPhone 16 and Galaxy S25.

FAQs

Q1. What does the leaked video reveal about the design of the iPhone SE 4 (iPhone 16E)?

Answer. The video shows the front design closely resembles the iPhone 14 with a notch and the back design features a single rear camera.

Q2. What are some key features of the iPhone SE 4 mentioned in the leaked video?

Answer. The iPhone SE 4 is rumoured to include 8GB of RAM, Apple’s new in-house cellular modem, and it will likely be a budget-friendly option.

Q3. What rumours were debunked by the leaked video?

Answer. The video clarifies that Pixel-like casings are not for the iPhone SE 4 but are believed to be for the iPhone 17 Air expected to launch in late 2025.

Read More: iPhone SE 4 Dummy Unit Leaked Images Reveal a Classic iPhone 4-Like Design

Read More: iPhone SE 4 Leak Hints at Dynamic Island, Raises Questions on Rumoured iPhone 16e Name

Poco F7 Pro and F7 Ultra May Skip Launch in Indian Market

0

Highlights

  • According to tipster Yogesh Brar, only the base model Poco F7 is expected to launch in India this year.
  • The Pro and Ultra models may not make it to the Indian market.
  • Poco F7 Features – The Poco F7 might feature a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, 4nm Dimensity 8400 Ultra chip, 50MP main camera, 8MP ultrawide lens, 20MP front camera, 6,550mAh battery and 90W fast charging support.
  • Pro and Ultra variants are expected to roll out globally after clearing various certifications.
image
POCO F7 Pro & F7 Ultra reportedly will not launch in India. (Image Credit – Unknown)

Poco is gearing up to launch the Poco F7 series, which includes the Poco F7, Poco F7 Pro and Poco F7 Ultra. These devices have been spotted on various certification websites hinting that an official launch may be around the corner. However, a recent leak shares some key details regarding the India launch plans.

According to popular tipster Yogesh Brar, Indian consumers might not see the Pro and Ultra models this year. Brar’s leak suggests that Poco has ambitious plans though the specifics remain unclear.

If the information is accurate, only the base model Poco F7 will make its way to India.

Poco F7 Series – What We Know So Far?

The Poco F7 has already appeared on India’s BIS and Singapore’s IMDA certification databases. Rumours suggest it will be a rebranded version of the Redmi Turbo 4, which recently launched in China.

If this is true, the Poco F7 could feature a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+ support. Under the hood, it might pack the 4nm Dimensity 8400 Ultra chip, up to 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage.

The camera setup is expected to include a 50MP main sensor and an 8MP ultrawide lens, along with a 20MP front-facing camera for selfies. Additionally, the phone could come with a 6,550mAh battery and 90W fast charging support.

While Indian markets may miss out on the Poco F7 Pro and F7 Ultra, these models are expected to roll out globally. The Poco F7 Pro has cleared several certifications including IMEI, IMDA, TDRA, EMVCo and SDPPI. Similarly, the Poco F7 Ultra has been spotted on IMEI, SDPPI and other certification platforms.

Poco’s decision to withhold the Pro and Ultra variants in India could stem from various reasons such as market saturation, pricing strategies or testing the waters with the base model before committing to a broader release.

FAQs

Q1. Which Poco F7 models might not be launched in India?

Answer. According to popular tipster Yogesh Brar, Indian consumers might not see the Poco F7 Pro and Poco F7 Ultra models this year.

Q2. What are some expected features of the Poco F7?

Answer. The Poco F7 could feature a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, 4nm Dimensity 8400 Ultra chip, 50MP main camera, 8MP ultrawide lens, 20MP front camera, 6,550mAh battery, and 90W fast charging support.

Q3. Where are the Poco F7 Pro and Poco F7 Ultra models expected to be launched?

Answer. While Indian markets may miss out on the Poco F7 Pro and F7 Ultra, these models are expected to roll out globally.

Also Read: Poco F6 5G Gears Up for Global Launch with IMDA Certification, Could Be Rebranded Redmi K70e

Also Read: Redmi K70 series, POCO F6 launch timeframe, model numbers leaked well before launch: Spotted on IMEI Database; Launch Expected Soon

Sony Teams Up with Xiaomi for a Limited Edition PlayStation Fitness Tracker

0

Highlights

  • Sony is collaborating with Xiaomi in China to launch a PlayStation-branded fitness tracker.
  • It is to mark the 10 years of PlayStation in China.
  • Features – PlayStation-themed straps, a 1.74-inch OLED display, water resistance, heart rate and SpO2 monitoring, sleep tracking, 150 sports modes and battery life of up to 21 days.
  • Sony hasn’t been confirmed for release outside China.
image
PlayStation China 10th Anniversary Limited Edition sports bracelet unveiled. (Image credit – PlayStation China on Weibo)

Sony is celebrating 10 years of PlayStation in China with an unexpected PlayStation-branded fitness tracker. The collaboration was recently announced on PlayStation China’s Weibo account. Here’s everything we know about the special edition wearable so far.

The special edition wearable comes packaged in a blue box and appears to be a customised version of the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro. The PlayStation version of the tracker doesn’t feature significant design changes but the strap steals the spotlight.

image
PlayStation China’s post on its official Weibo account.

The strap is adorned with PlayStation’s iconic face button symbols and logo making it a must-have for fans. The package also includes a plain black strap, a commemorative card and a charging cable.

Sony hasn’t confirmed if the tracker will include any software tweaks to enhance the PlayStation branding, so for now, the changes appear to be mostly aesthetic. At its core, this fitness tracker boasts the impressive hardware of the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro.

It includes the following features –

  • A74-inch OLED display with a smooth 60Hz refresh rate and a brightness of 1200 nits.
  • A lightweight aluminium shell that’s water-resistant up to 5 ATM making it swim-proof.
  • A slim profile of just 8mm and a weight of 24.5 grams for maximum comfort.
image
The PlayStation-branded fitness tracker is reportedly a customised version of the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro. (Image credit – PlayStation China on Weibo)

The tracker also offers comprehensive health and fitness features, including heart rate and SpO2 monitoring, sleep tracking, menstrual cycle tracking and GPS. Fitness enthusiasts can enjoy over 150 sports modes and an impressive battery life of up to 21 days.

Sony hasn’t shared details about the availability of this PlayStation-themed fitness tracker outside China.

It is unlikely to see a global release since Sony’s limited-edition PlayStation products are often market-specific. However, this wearable could be a one-of-a-kind collector’s item for die-hard PlayStation fans in China.

FAQS

Q1. What is Sony celebrating with the PlayStation-branded fitness tracker?

Answer. Sony is celebrating 10 years of PlayStation in China with a PlayStation-branded fitness tracker.

Q2. What is the base model for the PlayStation fitness tracker?

Answer. The PlayStation-branded fitness tracker is a customised version of the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro.

Q3. What features does the PlayStation-themed fitness tracker offer?

Answer. It includes a 1.74-inch OLED display with a 60Hz refresh rate, heart rate and SpO2 monitoring, sleep tracking, menstrual cycle tracking, GPS, over 150 sports modes and up to 21 days of battery life.

Q4. Are there any design changes specific to the PlayStation version of the fitness tracker?

Answer. The strap features PlayStation’s iconic face button symbols and logo, and it comes with a commemorative card and a charging cable.

Q5. Will the PlayStation-themed fitness tracker be available outside China?

Answer. Sony hasn’t shared details about availability outside China, and it is unlikely to see a global release since Sony’s limited-edition PlayStation products are often market-specific.

Read More: April Free Titles for Your PlayStation Plus – Grab Your Games Soon

Read More: UAE’s 23-Minute PlayStation Delivery Sparks Buzz on Social Media; Users Draw Comparisons with India’s Blinkit

WhatsApp May Soon Let iOS Users Manage Multiple Accounts on One Device

0

Highlights

  • WhatsApp may soon allow iOS users to manage multiple accounts on one device.
  • The feature will enable iOS users to switch between accounts seamlessly.
  • There is no official release date yet.
image
Soon you will be able to easily switch WhatsApp accounts on one device. (Photo by Christian Wiediger on Unsplash)

WhatsApp is gearing up for more exciting updates and one of the most anticipated features could soon make its way to iOS users. Reports suggest iOS users will soon have the ability to manage multiple accounts on a single device.

Here’s what we know so far.

According to trusted WhatsApp beta source WaBetaInfo, the latest iOS update version 25.2.10.70 includes early support for adding and managing multiple accounts within the app. While this feature was first spotted in testing for Android back in August 2023, it seems WhatsApp is now preparing to bring it to iOS users as well.


As of now, the details on when the feature would roll out on iOS devices is still unclear. The current Android version allows users to set up multiple accounts by either designating one as the primary account or linking a secondary account by scanning a QR code.

image
WhatsApp will allow users to manage multiple accounts within the app starting with iOS. (Image crest – @WABetaInfo on X)

If introduced similarly, iOS users will be able to switch between WhatsApp accounts seamlessly, all on the same device.

Behind the scenes, multi-account functionality requires careful organisation. Chats, notifications, backups and settings will need to stay separate for each account unless users choose to sync certain features. This ensures a smooth and clutter-free experience while managing multiple accounts.

There’s no official word yet on when WhatsApp will roll out multi-account support for iOS. However, the fact that the company is actively working on this feature suggests it could arrive sooner rather than later.

It is clear based on recent updates like new camera effects, self-stickers and quick reactions that WhatsApp is focused on enhancing the user experience. Multi-account support will be another major step forward making it easier for users to manage personal and work accounts without juggling multiple devices.

FAQs

Q1. What new feature may WhatsApp soon introduce for iOS users?

Answer. WhatsApp may soon allow iOS users to manage multiple accounts on one device with early support included in the latest iOS update version 25.2.10.70.

Q2. How will iOS users be able to set up multiple WhatsApp accounts?

Answer. The feature, which was first tested on Android in August 2023 will enable iOS users to switch between accounts seamlessly, potentially by using QR codes for setup.

Q3. Is there an official release date for multi-account support on iOS?

Answer. There is no official release date yet, but WhatsApp’s active development suggests multi-account support for iOS could arrive soon enhancing user experience.

HMD’s First Earbuds Feature a Nokia Lumia-Inspired Charging Case

0

Highlights

  • HMD’s first true wireless earbuds the Ampd Buds spotted in FCC filings.
  • It reportedly features a charging case inspired by the Nokia Lumia design with colours matching the HMD Skyline series.
  • The charging case has built-in magnets for reverse wireless charging.
  • Each earbud has a 35mAh battery offering up to 5 hours of playback.
  • An announcement is expected at the 19th Mobile World Congress (MWC) in 2025.
image
Certification from the FCC reveals HMD is preparing to launch its own audio accessories Ampd Buds. (Image credit – NokiaMob)

HMD is mostly known for launching phones under its own brand with smartphones like the HMD Pulse and Skyline. However, it seems the brand is ready to branch out into other categories as new reports suggest a foray into audio accessories. Recently, the company’s first pair of true wireless earbuds called the Ampd Buds has surfaced in an FCC filing sparking speculations.

Here’s everything we know so far.

HMD Ampd Buds – What We Know?

The earbuds themselves have a familiar flat stem-style design with a driver-housing module but the real standout is the charging case. Inspired by the design of the HMD Skyline smartphone, which itself pays homage to the iconic Nokia Lumia phones, the case features a sleek and vibrant look.

image
FCC Certification details surfaced online revealing HMD Ampd Buds’ colour options and other details. (Image credit – NokiaMob)

The Ampd Buds come in Black, Blue and Pink colour matching the colour palette of the HMD Skyline series.

One of the most exciting features is the built-in magnets in the charging case. These magnets allow the case to attach directly to the HMD Skyline smartphone or any phone with wireless charging capabilities to enable reverse wireless charging.

image
HMD Ampd Buds will reportedly have an HMD Skyline smartphone-inspired design. (Image credit – NokiaMob)

This makes it easy to top up your earbuds on the go even if you’ve forgotten to bring your cables.

The FCC filing reveals that each earbud has a 35mAh battery, offering up to 5 hours of music playback on a single charge. However, details about the battery capacity of the charging case remain undisclosed.

It’s unclear when HMD plans to officially launch the Ampd Buds, but it’s possible the announcement will take place during the 19th Mobile World Congress (MWC) in 2025.

HMD is expected to unveil other gadgets and accessories at the event as well.

FAQs

Q1. What is unique about the design of HMD’s first true wireless earbuds, the Ampd Buds?

Answer. The Ampd Buds feature a charging case inspired by the Nokia Lumia design with colours matching the HMD Skyline series.

Q2. How does the charging case of the Ampd Buds support wireless charging?

Answer. The charging case has built-in magnets for reverse wireless charging, allowing it to attach to the HMD Skyline smartphone or any wireless charging-capable phone.

Q3. What is the battery capacity of each earbud and the expected playback time?

Answer. Each earbud has a 35mAh battery offering up to 5 hours of music playback on a single charge.

Read More: HMD launches mobile care and support services at Maha Kumbh Mela 2025

Read More:HMD Skyline becomes second phone to receive Android 15 update

Report: iPhone 17 Likely to Keep the Same Dynamic Island Size

0

Highlights

  • The size of the Dynamic Island on the iPhone 17 series will reportedly remain largely unchanged.
  • Earlier speculation suggested a smaller Dynamic Island due to metalens technology.
  • Apple aims for a completely edge-to-edge display in the future.
  • This technology is still years away from being ready keeping the Dynamic Island size consistent for now.
image
iPhone 17 rumoured dynamic island change might not happen. (Image credit – Apple)

A rumoured change for the iPhone 17’s Dynamic Island might not happen after all. According to renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the size of the Dynamic Island on the iPhone 17 series will be largely unchanged compared to the iPhone 16 lineup.

Earlier reports from analyst Jeff Pu suggested that the iPhone 17 Pro Max could feature a much narrowed Dynamic Island thanks to a new metalens technology. This advancement would reduce the size of the proximity sensor currently housed within Dynamic Island making room for a smaller Face ID sensor.

However, Kuo’s latest update casts doubt on these claims.

In a short social media post, he wrote, “I expect the Dynamic Island size to remain largely unchanged across the 2H25 iPhone 17 series.”

While Kuo doesn’t provide further details, the phrase “largely unchanged” leaves room for interpretation. It’s possible that some minor size reduction could still happen, but it may not be as dramatic as previously rumoured.


Apple’s ultimate goal is to create a completely edge-to-edge display by embedding the front-facing camera and Face ID components under the screen. However, this technology is still several years away from being ready.

The iPhone 17 lineup is expected to be unveiled this September and more leaks and rumours are likely to surface as the launch date approaches. For now, it seems the Dynamic Island will stay much the same for another generation.

FAQs

Q1. Will the size of the Dynamic Island change in the iPhone 17 series?

Answer. According to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the size of the Dynamic Island on the iPhone 17 series will be “largely unchanged” compared to the iPhone 16 lineup.

Q2. What technology was rumoured to reduce the size of the Dynamic Island in the iPhone 17?

Answer. Earlier reports suggested that a new “metalens” technology would reduce the size of the proximity sensor within Dynamic Island, allowing for a smaller Face ID sensor.

Q3. What is Apple’s ultimate goal for the iPhone display?

Answer. Apple’s ultimate goal is to create a completely edge-to-edge display by embedding the front-facing camera and Face ID components under the screen. However, this technology is still several years away from being ready.

Read More: Samsung Teases Ultra-Slim Galaxy S25 Edge to Take on Rumoured iPhone 17 Air

Read More: iPhone 17 Air Leak Reveals Bold Camera Bar Design

X Rolls Out Vertical Video Feed Globally

0

Highlights

  • X is rolling out its vertical video feed globally starting on iOS.
  • Android release timing is yet to be announced.
  • The feature is accessible via a dedicated tab next to the Grok button.
  • It is designed for both entertainment and monetisation similar to TikTok and Instagram.
  • The rollout aligns with uncertainty around TikTok’s future in the U.S.

image

Elon Musk’s X (formerly Twitter) is expanding its vertical video feed to users worldwide just days after its initial release in the U.S. TechCrunch confirmed with the company that the global rollout is “underway.”

The feature was spotted in several regions outside the U.S. including India, Australia and parts of Europe. An X spokesperson confirmed the news, adding that the feature is currently available only on iOS. However, Android users will have to wait a bit longer as no specific timeline for its release has been provided yet.

The vertical video feed can be accessed through a dedicated tab in the X app, which is prominently placed next to the Grok button. This new feature is not just about entertainment but also a revenue-generating tool.

X plans to show ads after users scroll through a few short videos adopting a monetisation strategy similar to platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

The timing of this release aligns with the current uncertainty around TikTok’s future in the US due to the proposed ban. The situation has created an opportunity for competitors like X to capture more market share even though enforcement of the ban is currently paused.

Video content has been a growing priority for X.

The platform launched a stand-alone TV app to showcase videos from creators and organisations last year. Moreover, X also introduced a feature previously that allows users to tap on videos in their timeline and swipe up to view short-form video content.

With this current vertical video feed rollout, X aims to further engage users and expand its video content while competing with other social media giants.

FAQs

Q1. When and where is the vertical video feed being rolled out by Elon Musk’s X?

Answer. The vertical video feed is being rolled out globally, starting on iOS, with no specific timeline provided for the Android release.

Q2. How can users access the vertical video feed on X?

Answer. Users can access the vertical video feed through a dedicated tab in the X app, placed next to the Grok button.

Q3. What is the monetisation strategy for the vertical video feed on X?

Answer. X plans to show ads after users scroll through a few short videos, adopting a monetisation strategy similar to platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

Also Read: X (Formerly Twitter) Users On Google Pixel Phones Are Reporting App Performance Issues

Also Read: X (Formerly Twitter) Is Seeing Unexplained Disappearance of Photos and Links Posted Before 2014

Apple Takes Up New Leadership to Boost Apple Intelligence and Siri Efforts

0

Highlights

  • Apple has appointed Kim Vorrath to improve Siri and its AI capabilities.
  • The company is moving her to the AI and machine learning division under John Giannandrea.
  • Vorrath has played significant roles in Apple’s past projects including the original iPhone software team and the Apple Vision Pro.
  • The AI-enhanced version of Siri is expected to launch with iOS 18.4.
image
Apple Inc. executive Kim Vorrath will now get artificial intelligence and Siri into shape. (Image credit – Apple)

Apple is taking steps to improve Siri and its AI capabilities, which currently lag behind competitors like OpenAI and Anthropic. Unlike its rivals, Apple doesn’t yet have a chatbot, and its AI features still need significant development. The Cupertino giant has brought in an experienced internal software leader to address this and guide its AI strategy in a better direction.

In his recent report, Bloomerg’s trusted Apple reporter Mark Gurman states, “Apple Inc. executive Kim Vorrath, a company veteran known for fixing troubled products and bringing major projects to market, has a new job: whipping artificial intelligence and Siri into shape.”

Introducing the new leadership, Gurman further added, “Vorrath, a vice president in charge of program management, was moved to Apple’s artificial intelligence and machine learning division this week, according to people with knowledge of the matter. She’ll be a top deputy to AI chief John Giannandrea, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the change hasn’t been announced publicly.”

According to Mark Gurman, this leader played a crucial role in bringing the Apple Vision Pro to market. Before that, they contributed to the original iPhone software team and previously advised the group to report to John Giannandrea, Apple’s head of machine learning and AI strategy.

He adds, “Prior to joining Giannandrea’s organization, Vorrath had spent several weeks advising Kelsey Peterson, the group’s previous head of program management. Peterson will now report to Vorrath — as will two other AI executives, Cindy Lin and Marc Schonbrun. Giannandrea, who joined Apple from Google in 2018, disclosed the changes in a memo sent to staffers.”

One of Apple’s biggest AI challenges is Siri. At its developer conference in June 2024, the company showcased an AI-enhanced version of Siri with iOS 18, but it’s yet to be fully released. The updated Siri is expected to arrive in beta with iOS 18.4, following the public rollout of iOS 18.3 in the coming days.

On what to expect from the new Siri when it gets the Apple Intelligence upgrade, the report highlights, “With onscreen awareness, Siri will be able to understand and take action with users’ content in more apps over time. For example, if a friend texts a user their new address in Messages, the receiver can say, “Add this address to his contact card.”

“With Apple Intelligence, Siri will be able to take hundreds of new actions in and across Apple and third-party apps. For example, a user could say, “Bring up that article about cicadas from my Reading List,” or “Send the photos from the barbecue on Saturday to Malia,” and Siri will take care of it.”

“Siri will be able to deliver intelligence that’s tailored to the user and their on-device information. For example, a user can say, “Play that podcast that Jamie recommended,” and Siri will locate and play the episode, without the user having to remember whether it was mentioned in a text or an email. Or they could ask, “When is Mom’s flight landing?” and Siri will find the flight details and cross-reference them with real-time flight tracking to give an arrival time.”

iOS 18.3 itself highlights some of Apple’s struggles with AI. For example, the company has temporarily disabled notification summaries for news and entertainment alerts due to repeated inaccuracies that misled users. Other summaries will now appear in italicised text to differentiate them from the original notifications.

FAQS

Q1. Who has Apple appointed to improve Siri and its AI capabilities?

Answer. Apple has appointed Kim Vorrath, a company veteran known for fixing troubled products and bringing major projects to market, to improve Siri and its AI capabilities.

Q2. What roles has Kim Vorrath played in Apple’s past projects?

Answer. Kim Vorrath has played significant roles in Apple’s past projects, including the original iPhone software team and the Apple Vision Pro.

Q3. When is the AI-enhanced version of Siri expected to launch?

Answer. The AI-enhanced version of Siri is expected to arrive in beta with iOS 18.4, following the public rollout of iOS 18.3 in the coming days.

Meta Begins Testing Ads on Threads

0

Highlights

  • Meta has begun testing ads on Threads,
  • It started with image-based ads that will appear between posts for some users in the US and Japan.
  • The initial test phase involves collaboration with a few brands.
  • Businesses can extend their Meta ad campaigns to Threads easily.
image
Meta starts monetising Threads with sponsored posts. (Image credit – Engadget)

Threads has always stood out from Meta’s other platforms such as Facebook and Instagram because it didn’t have ads cluttering the user experience. However, a few months ago, the company shared its plans to change that and start monetising the platform. The change is finally here.

Instagram Head Adam Mosseri recently announced that Meta is starting a small test of ads on Threads as the company moves toward monetising the service.

 

View on Threads

 

The test will feature image-based ads appearing between posts in users’ feeds. For now, it will only include “a small percentage of people” in the US and Japan. Meta is collaborating with “a handful of brands” for this initial phase. Mosseri reassured users, saying, “We know there will be plenty of feedback about how we should approach ads, and we are making sure they feel like Threads posts you’d find relevant and interesting.”

He added, “We’ll closely monitor this test before scaling it more broadly, with the goal of getting ads on Threads to a place where they are as interesting as organic content.”

Meta is utilising its existing advertising system to roll out ads on Threads.

According to a company blog post, businesses can “extend their existing Meta ad campaigns to Threads—without the need for bespoke creative or additional resourcing—by simply checking a box in Ads Manager.” The company is also testing an “inventory filter” on Threads. This tool allows advertisers to control the sensitivity of the content of the ads that appear alongside them, which could be crucial as Meta eases its content moderation policies and reintroduces more political content in user recommendations.

While the test is currently small, Meta’s established ad tools could enable rapid scaling to more advertisers and Threads’ 300 million users. CEO Mark Zuckerberg previously emphasised a long-term approach to monetising the platform.

“All these new products, we ship them, and then there’s a multi-year time horizon between scaling them and then scaling them into not just consumer experiences but very large businesses,” he said last year.

For now, users will have to wait and see how ads shape the experience on Threads.

FAQs

Q1. Why has Meta begun testing ads on Threads?

Answer. Meta is starting to test ads on Threads as the company moves toward monetizing the platform.

Q2. Where and how are the ads being tested on Threads?

Answer. The ads are being tested in the US and Japan, featuring image-based ads appearing between posts in users’ feeds.

Q3. How can businesses extend their ad campaigns to Threads?

Answer. Businesses can extend their existing Meta ad campaigns to Threads by simply checking a box in Ads Manager without the need for bespoke creative or additional resourcing.

Read More: Oakley Smart Glasses for Athletes Launches TikTok Creator Incentives

Read More: Meta to Let Users Link WhatsApp to Main Accounts Center with Instagram and Facebook

Read More: Meta Announces 3600 Layoffs at Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp; Zuckerberg Pushes for Performance-Based Cuts