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Bitcoin ETFs approved!
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Welcome, Tech enthusiasts.
Is the digital gold rush back on? Bitcoin just gained powerful momentum courtesy of a landmark SEC decision green-lighting the first spot in BTC exchange-traded funds.
The approval removes a colossal adoption roadblock — finally allowing easy mainstream crypto exposure to traditional investors. Let’s dig deeper…
In today’s tech rundown:
SEC clears spot Bitcoin ETFs for public trading
Google bringing Chrome, new apps to automobiles
9 new products
Amazon-owned Twitch slashes workforce
Slack releases new Tinder-style productivity feature
Honda reveals new futuristic EV concepts
Read time: 3 minutes
TODAY’S HEADLINES
CRYPTOCURRENCY
🪙 SEC clears spot Bitcoin ETFs for public trading
Image source: Bloomberg
The Rundown: The SEC just approved the first spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds, allowing mainstream investors to easily trade the cryptocurrency similarly to stocks and mutual funds.
The details:
The move comes after years of rejected ETF applications over fraud and manipulation concerns
This is the first change from the U.S. government’s hostile attitude toward the crypto industry.
The decision will allow buying and selling of BTC itself, unlike existing futures ETFs, with 11 approvals, including major firms like BlackRock, ARK Invest, and Invesco, set to begin trading Thursday morning.
Why it matters: The long-awaited approval removes a key barrier to mainstream BTC adoption — government hostility. Though risks linger with crypto, the green light from the SEC and a more traditional way to hold the volatile asset could bring digital currencies back into the spotlight.
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🚘 Google bringing Chrome, new apps to automobiles
Image source: Google
The Rundown: Google just announced new features coming to vehicles with Android Auto phone mirroring and Google's built-in automotive software, including the Chrome browser, enhanced EV battery integrations, and additional media apps.
The details:
Chrome web browsing will launch in beta on select 2023-24 Volvo and Polestar electric vehicles.
Android Auto will display estimated battery level on arrival, recommend charging stops, and estimate charging times.
Google is adding additional Android Automotive apps for built-in screens, including Crunchyroll anime, PBS Kids shows, and The Weather Channel forecasts.
A new feature includes a one-touch ability to send Google Maps directions from iOS or Android phones directly into compatible vehicles.
Why it matters: Between turning your car into a functioning browser to the recent AI enhancements, our vehicles are about to be glorified computers on wheels. If autonomous driving capabilities can continue to grow, driving is going to be no different than sitting at your desk.
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💡 Mixo- Launch a startup in seconds with AI (link)
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SNIPPETS
Amazon-owned Twitch is set to cut roughly 500 jobs, equating to 35 percent of its workforce, amid financial concerns and company cost-cutting measures.
The US Department of Labor introduced a rule making it harder for companies to label workers as independent contractors, potentially impacting gig economy firms and reverting to pre-Trump era classifications.
A major data leak potentially exposed the personal information of the entire Brazilian population due to an unprotected database found by researchers.
TikTok removed a hashtag tracking feature, hindering researchers' ability to study content trends on the platform.
Slack launched a new Tinder-style mobile feature called Catch Up that lets users quickly review messages by swiping left to mark read or right to leave unread, aiming to simplify the flood of notifications.
Honda revealed two futuristic concept EVs with a new thin and light design ethos, advanced ADAS, and plans for production starting in 2026.
Outflowing galactic winds from exploding stars are causing weird cosmic smoke rings, astronomers think.
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AI takeover at CES 2024
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Welcome, AI enthusiasts.
CES 2024, the world’s largest consumer tech event, has taken over Las Vegas. As expected — AI is dominating the conversation.
Ready for a glimpse at all the coolest announcements from some of the biggest names in tech? Let’s get into it…
In today’s AI rundown:
The best AI announcements from CES 2024 so far
Alexa gets new generative AI experiences
How to try Meta’s AudioBox with your own voice
AI speeds discovery of battery material to cut lithium
11 new AI tools & 4 new AI jobs
More AI & tech news
Read time: 4 minutes
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
CES 2024
The best AI announcements from CES 2024 (so far)
Image source: CES 2024
The Rundown: CES 2024 is currently underway in Las Vegas, featuring countless new AI products and features on display at the world’s largest consumer tech show.
Here are some of our favorite announcements so far through two days:
Holoconnects had its AI-powered Holobox on display, giving a mind-blowing look into the potential future of digital communication.
Baracuda’s smart mirror uses AI and natural language processing to analyze expressions — adapting to a user’s mood with light therapy, guided meditations, and affirmations.
Samsung added AI into its smart robot vacuum, with the ability to detect stains and tell the difference between surfaces.
Rabbit introduced its Tamagotchi-style r1 AI companion device, which uses AI agents to simplify digital tasks.
Samsung also showed off Ballie, a round robot home assistant that can perform tasks around the house, and includes a projector to display videos, calls, and more.
Invoxia unveiled an AI-powered pet wearable called the Minitailz, which monitors vitals and alerts owners of potential health issues.
LG demoed Rosie, a cute new home robot AI agent, a home assistant to help with chores and integrate with LG’s smart home appliances.
Stay tuned for more exciting updates over the next few days of CES 2024!
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AMAZON
Alexa gets new generative AI experiences
Image source: Amazon
The Rundown: Amazon just unveiled several new third-party experiences for its Alexa devices leveraging generative AI, including new AI chatbots, song creation, a "20 Questions" game, and new partnerships.
The details:
Character AI added various conversational personas to the device, like Librarian Linda, Elon Musk, and game characters to chat with.
An experience from Splash taps AI to generate 10-20 second songs of genres/lyrics that users can select by voice.
Volley's "20 Questions" game uses AI to dynamically respond to questions and provide hints.
Amazon also announced a partnership with BMW, pairing Alexa with the carmaker’s driver manuals to access info and perform tasks.
Why it matters: With smart assistants like Alexa lagging behind some of the new, cutting-edge AI capabilities, Amazon is spurring developer creativity to quickly expand its catalog of next-gen experiences.
AI TRAINING
How to try Meta’s AudioBox with your own voice
The Rundown: Meta’s AudioBox allows users to create sound effects, voices, and more straight from text prompts, and now, your voice.
Step-by-step:
Head to the AudioBox demo (for U.S. users, you may need a VPN or VPN-enabled browser like Arc to access) and click on ‘Try demos’.
Click “Your Voice“ to use your own audio sample, or use text descriptions or pre-loaded voices instead.
Click ‘Record your voice’. AudioBox will then prompt you to read a short sentence to upload your vocals to the model.
After recording (or using a sample recording), type the text you’d like to generate. AudioBox will then generate two recordings in your vocal style!
AI RESEARCH
AI speeds discovery of battery material to cut lithium
Image source: Midjourney
The Rundown: Microsoft and scientists from the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory just used AI to discover a promising new battery material in just weeks that could reduce lithium use by up to 70%.
The details:
An initial AI screening narrowed 32M inorganic candidates down to just 18 in under a week, a process that previously would’ve taken years.
Further verification then produced a final list of 23 viable materials, with 5 already known to science.
Researchers highlight that the significance of the testing is the speed — with the AI approach potentially accelerating innovations across scientific fields by decades.
Why it matters: By exponentially accelerating discovery, unleashing AI tools on the science world could unlock solutions to pressing energy, climate, and health challenges faster than ever possible — with the tech’s capabilities only set to improve as computing power increases.
NEW TOOLS & JOBS
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QUICK HITS
Google is facing a multibillion-dollar lawsuit over allegations that its AI technology infringes on patents held by Singular Computing.
Intuition Robotics announced enhancements to its eldercare robot ElliQ 3, with powerful hardware upgrades that elevate conversational capabilities and creative interactions for seniors.
X outlined new ambitious plans for AI integration, peer-to-peer payments, and enhanced user experiences in 2024, aiming to transform into an all-encompassing 'everything app'.
Luma secured $43M in Series B funding to develop advanced AI-driven 3D modeling technology, promising greater realism and overcoming current generative tech limitations.
Sony showed off its electric car on stage at CES, controlling it with a Playstation 5 DualSense controller in a wild demo.
McAfee announced an AI-powered Deepfake Audio Detection tool, reportedly achieving a 90% success rate in identifying fraudulent audio to protect users from sophisticated online scams.
WeHead put a face to ChatGPT with its talking head product designed to visually represent AI while talking conversationally.
THAT’S A WRAP
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A
Ex-Google CEO's secret drone initiative
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Welcome, Tech enthusiasts.
Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt is reportedly working on a stealthy new military drone startup — hoping to provide a U.S. alternative to dominant Chinese manufacturers.
With a deep rolodex of tech connections and deep ties to the Pentagon, will Schmidt have Silicon Valley shaping the future of national defense priorities? Let’s investigate…
In today’s tech rundown:
Ex-Google CEO’s secret military drone initiative
Twitter bans, unbans prominent journalists
8 new products
Hacked SEC Twitter account shares false Bitcoin ETF news
Unity slashes 25% of its workforce
Meta introduces enhanced privacy measures
Read time: 3 minutes
TODAY’S HEADLINES
DEFENSE TECH
💣 Ex-Google CEO’s secret military drone initiative
Image source: Wikimedia Commons
The Rundown: Ex-Google CEO Eric Schmidt is reportedly working on a secretive military drone project, inspired by Ukraine's use of drones in warfare — aiming to provide a U.S. alternative to Chinese drone technology.
The details:
The project hopes to create a U.S. alternative to dominant Chinese drone makers like DJI, which reportedly controls 70% of the market.
The venture comes after Schmidt's personal visits to Ukraine and meetings with officials on tech solutions.
The venture specifics, including timeline, team size, and other collaborators, are still undisclosed.
Why it matters: Schmidt’s reported venture and the trends seen in Ukraine and China reflect the significant shift towards unmanned aerial tech in warfare. The initiative also highlights Silicon Valley’s potential convergence with defense — potentially reshaping national security dynamics.
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TWITTER/X
🚫 Twitter bans, unbans prominent journalists
Image source: Gizmodo
The Rundown: Twitter suspended (and then quickly restored) several prominent accounts belonging to journalists and others who had recently posted criticism of Israel's government, as arguments surrounding free speech on the platform continue to swirl.
The details:
Prominent accounts were banned without notice, including journalists Ken Klippenstein and Steven Monacelli and the TrueAnon podcast.
The bans were quickly reversed, with Elon Musk attributing the removal to X's anti-spam algorithm.
The move comes shortly after Musk's effort to repair relations with Jewish groups over past remarks, while accounts tied to Hamas remain suspended.
X also released some political news of its own, entering the streaming game with new shows set to air exclusively on the platform.
Why it matters: It’s never a dull day on X! Moderating the content of the world’s forum is never going to be a simple task — but as we enter the heat of an election year, issues like this will only be magnified as free speech takes become even more polarizing.
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📈 Slack AI- Analyze unstructured Slack data with AI (link)
👩🎨 Looka- AI-powered platform to design a logo and build a brand in seconds (link)
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SNIPPETS
The SEC's X account was reportedly hacked, falsely claiming approval of spot bitcoin ETFs and sending crypto markets into a frenzy before the tweet was removed.
Apple advises developers to refer to their apps as "spatial computing apps" rather than using AR or VR terminology for its upcoming Vision Pro headset.
Unity is set to reduce its workforce by approximately 25%, letting go of 1,800 employees as part of a restructuring effort to focus on its core business and improve profitability.
HPE is reportedly on the verge of acquiring Juniper Networks for $13 billion to enhance its AI capabilities.
Amazon integrates Matter casting in its Prime Video app, enabling direct streaming to Echo Show 15 and, soon, Fire TVs.
Ariane 6 may face the end of its monopoly as Europe's preferred launcher with the European Space Agency's move to introduce more competition in the market.
Meta introduces enhanced privacy measures to shield teens from harmful content on Instagram and Facebook.
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OpenAI fights back...
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Welcome, AI enthusiasts.
OpenAI came out swinging at the New York Times following its bombshell copyright lawsuit — with a fiery new blog post refuting accusations.
But in addition to fighting the Times — will the AI leader be able to overcome the negative public perception of its controversial training data? Let’s investigate…
In today’s AI rundown:
OpenAI fires back at NYT copyright lawsuit
Volkswagen integrating ChatGPT into cars via voice AI
How to order your groceries with AI
AI uncovers famous painting had other artists
7 new AI tools & 4 new AI jobs
More AI & tech news
Read time: 4 minutes
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
OPENAI
OpenAI fires back at NYT copyright lawsuit
Image source: OpenAI
The Rundown: OpenAI just came out swinging in response to The New York Times' recent lawsuit alleging copyright infringement, publishing a blog post staunchly defending its practices while questioning the Times' motives.
The details:
OpenAI said the NYT adopted the company’s offered content removal option in August, but still sued months later.
The blog also argues the Times cherry-picked prompts intentionally designed to trigger regurgitation, rather than normal customer usage.
In a submission to the UK’s Communications and House Select Committee, OpenAI stated the current copyright law makes creating models like ChatGPT impossible without leveraging such works.
Why it matters: OpenAI is drawing clear battle lines against the landmark Times suit — but regardless of the outcome, the negative public perception of AI’s content usage will be a difficult sentiment to overcome.
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VOLKSWAGEN
Volkswagen integrating ChatGPT into cars via voice AI
Image source: Volkswagen
The Rundown: Volkswagen just revealed it’s bringing ChatGPT into new car models through its IDA voice assistant, allowing drivers to engage the AI chatbot for information and entertainment hands-free.
The details:
The move comes through a new partnership with Cerence, using its Chat Pro software to implement custom ChatGPT vehicle integrations.
ChatGPT responses will be returned through the IDA assistant activated by voice or the steering wheel button.
The rollout will start in Q2 this year across VW's Europe EV models through cloud updates, with the tech still “being considered” for U.S. markets.
Why it matters: Volkswagen is another example of automakers looking to keep pace with the ‘smart’ tech that AI advances are bringing — and with seemingly easy-to-implement cloud updates, more companies will likely follow suit.
AI TRAINING
How to order your groceries with AI
The Rundown: A new AI feature from the delivery platform DoorDash now allows you to conveniently order your groceries just by copying your grocery list.
Thank you to Olivia Moore (@omooretweets) for sharing this tip.
Step-by-step:
Open the DoorDash app.
Click the ‘Grocery’ tab and select the store you’d like to order from.
Click on the ‘Get Started’ button under the ‘Got a grocery list?’ section.
Input your grocery list (using natural language). DoorDash will then create a search page of available options that match your list for easy ordering.
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AI RESEARCH
AI uncovers famous painting had other artists
Image source: Wikimedia Commons
The Rundown: New AI analysis concludes that while most of the renowned Raphael painting "Madonna della Rosa" aligns with his style, the face of Joseph differs and was likely painted by someone else.
The details:
Researchers trained the AI on verified Raphael paintings to assess brushstrokes, colors, and shading in microscopic detail.
Initial testing of the painting was inconclusive — with subsequent testing on individual sections revealing inconsistency in the face.
The researchers had previously used AI to confirm Raphael’s ‘de Brecy Tondo’ based on pigment analysis.
Why it matters: Given the current polarizing commentary surrounding AI and art, there’s some irony in AI being used to verify the authenticity of famous pieces. This research shows the ability of a trained AI to assist in unexpected places.
NEW TOOLS & JOBS
AI tools powered by Supertools
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Gal 01- Personal AI that learns with you (link)
Stripe Your GPTs- Monetize GPT ideas instantly with Stripe (link)
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QUICK HITS
Nvidia unveiled a suite of new AI features at CES 2024, including new GeForce Super GPUs and RTX AI laptops, Getty Images’ iStock service powered by NVIDIA Picasso, new gaming tools for developers and users, and more.
Samsung announced its 2024 TV lineup at CES, featuring heavy use of AI, including upscaling to convert content to 8K, sports tracking, depth enhancement, dialog boosting, and an OLED Glare Free model.
Panasonic developed REAL-AI, a new image recognition AI that leverages appearance differences to categorize objects more accurately.
A new app allows users to run Mistral 7B locally on an iPhone Pro, giving an early taste of the personal, on-device LLM future.
Brainchip and NVISO demonstrated a new system at CES 2024 that perceives facial expressions, emotions, gestures, and more to enable autonomous devices to interact with humans more safely.
Samsung showcased the world’s first transparent MicroLED screen at CES 2024, featuring a futuristic, hologram-looking frameless design.
Niels Rouge released a video tutorial on how to train and deploy your own private LLM at home.
Loom is reportedly working on deepfake technology, allowing users to generate video with audio directly from text.
THAT’S A WRAP
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The Vision Pro is here!
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Welcome, Tech enthusiasts.
After years of speculation and waiting, Apple’s Vision Pro headsets are finally set to hit stores on Feb. 2 — ushering in a new era for the tech giant.
With slumping sales in other categories and lagging behind in the AI race — can Apple’s hyped launch rekindle the company’s magic? Let’s get into it…
In today’s tech rundown:
Apple's Vision Pro headsets hit stores Feb. 2
Neoplants showcases enhanced air-scrubbing houseplants
9 new products
Samsung unveils world’s first transparent MicroLED screen
Moon landing at risk of being aborted
Blackrock, Fidelity compete on Bitcoin ETF fees
Read time: 3 minutes
TODAY’S HEADLINES
APPLE
🥽 Apple's Vision Pro headsets hit stores Feb. 2
Image source: Apple
The Rundown: Apple announced its hotly-anticipated Vision Pro augmented reality headsets will go on sale in the U.S. on Feb. 2 for $3,499 — marking the tech giant’s first new product launch since the Apple Watch in 2015.
The details:
The headset is billed as a breakthrough in "spatial computing", blending AR and VR that aims to transform communication, entertainment, gaming, and work.
The tech runs the all-new VisionOS platform, which extends iOS/iPadOS capabilities into immersive apps and experiences.
Hundreds of retail staffers are already undergoing extensive hands-on product training in preparation for launch day.
Pre-orders open on Jan. 19 at the $3,499 price point.
Why it matters: At a steep price point, this initial launch may be for early adopters and Apple fanboys only. But with sleek new tech and a bold step into a brand new product category, Apple has a chance to alter the retail landscape with another iPod/iPhone/iPad moment.
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NEOPLANTS
🪴 Neoplants showcases enhanced air-scrubbing houseplants
Image source: Neoplants
The Rundown: French startup Neoplants just unveiled its Neo P1 plant at CES 2024, which leverages synthetic biology to scrub indoor air 20x more effectively than regular houseplants by removing volatile pollutants.
The details:
The Neo P1 is created using a bio-engineered version of the Pothos (or devil’s vine), a common, low-maintenance houseplant.
Neoplants hails that one Neo P1 plant is the equivalent of 30 regular houseplants in terms of air purification, and recycles the pollutants instead of storing them.
The Neo P1 starts at $179 per plant, which includes ‘Power Drops’ to enhance soil and a shell container to maximize air exchange.
Why it matters: In a sea of high-tech releases at CES, tapping bio-engineering for super houseplants adds some nice greenery to the mix. And an added bonus — we only have to keep one plant alive instead of 30 to keep the air clean!
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✉️ pipl.ai- Scalable AI-powered cold outreach (link)
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SNIPPETS
Wi-Fi 7 devices are now being officially certified by the Wi-Fi Alliance to ensure compatibility and performance improvements for high-bandwidth and low-latency applications.
Samsung unveiled the world's first transparent MicroLED screen at CES 2024.
Apple's iPhone sales in China are expected to continue their steep decline amidst a resurgence of Huawei, bolstered by its popular Mate 60 series.
The Peregrine spacecraft is at risk of aborting its moon landing due to a malfunction preventing its solar panels from charging its batteries.
Nvidia debuts its RTX 4080 Super and 4070 series GPUs with improved performance and AI features at CES 2024.
BlackRock and Fidelity set competitive fees for their upcoming spot Bitcoin ETFs, aiming to attract investors ahead of U.S. regulatory approval.
Duolingo officially cut 10% of its contracted workforce, citing generative AI upgrades requiring less staffing needs.
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AI robots now learn by watching humans
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Welcome, AI enthusiasts.
AI robotics firm Figure just showed off a significant development — with their humanoid robots now able to learn how to do tasks autonomously by watching humans do it first.
2024 is undoubtedly going to be a crazy year for AI and robotics. Let’s get into it…
In today’s AI rundown:
Figure’s humanoid robot learns by watching humans
Apple ML Research releases MLX for on-device AI
How to generate green screen product mockups with AI
V* enables guided visual search in AI assistants
7 new AI tools & 4 new AI jobs
More AI & tech news
Read time: 4 minutes
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
FIGURE ROBOTICS
Figure’s humanoid robot learns by watching humans
Image source: Figure
The Rundown: AI robotics company Figure just showcased its Figure 01 humanoid robot making a cup of coffee, which it learned after just 10 hours of watching humans complete the task via video training.
The details:
Figure’s demo shows the robot using a Keurig to brew the coffee, showing off impressive dexterity in handling and placing the small pod.
The video also shows a side-by-side of the robot struggling to directly place the pod before eventually succeeding, highlighting its ability to self-correct.
Figure uses an ‘end-to-end’ training approach, with the system observing humans complete the task from start to finish and learning from the data.
Why it matters: The impressive demo showcases the potential versatile future of robotics — and its end-to-end training lends itself to massive scalability and adaptability, allowing for a wide range of real-world jobs and constantly improving performance.
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APPLE
Apple ML Research releases MLX for on-device AI
Image source: Apple
The Rundown: Apple’s Machine Learning Research team quietly introduced MLX, an open-source framework designed to streamline AI model development and deployment on Apple hardware.
The details:
MLX brings advanced AI capabilities to the latest Apple silicon, simplifying and enhancing the tech across Apple products.
The framework offers familiar coding tools like Python so developers can build models easily, with behind-the-scenes optimization for faster, more efficient model training.
MLX allows users to build a ‘mini' data center for LLMs on Apple’s M2 and M3 products — smoothly running advanced, intensive models on local devices.
Apple is also rumored to be preparing a new version of Siri with AI, which can retain conversation information across devices.
Why it matters: With its user-friendly and optimized design for Apple silicon, MLX represents a major step toward on-device AI across Apple's ecosystem. And while many have already counted Apple out of the AI race — the tech leader could seriously shake things up quickly in 2024.
AI TRAINING
How to generate green screen product mockups with AI
Hugo Ventura on Twitter/X
The Rundown: This Midjourney prompt can now create stunningly realistic computer, phone, or product mockups, complete with a green screen to customize for your business or product easily.
Thank you to Hugo Ventura (@hugovntr on X) for sharing this workflow.
Step-by-step:
Open Midjourney and type /imagine.
Prompt to generate an image of someone holding/using a device in front of a solid green background. For example: “Over the shoulder shot of a person in front of an entirely <color> computer screen”
Customize and tweak the prompt as necessary to get the image just right — then export and open in an editing app (Photoshop, Canva, etc.) to replace the colored screen background with your own imagery.
Note — be mindful of reflections, such as green screens bleeding into other aspects of the image.
AI RESEARCH
V* enables guided visual search in AI assistants
Image source: Penghao Wu and Saining Xie
The Rundown: Researchers just introduced V*, an AI-driven visual search technique to efficiently locate objects in complex images by leveraging an AI assistant's world knowledge, enhancing multimodal understanding.
The details:
Integrating V* into a "Show, Search, and Tell" system with visual memory yielded big accuracy boosts over powerful multimodal models like GPT-4V.
In tests, V* matched human visual search efficiency by utilizing similar contextual and target cues.
The technique Improves fixed vision encoders in multimodal models, commonly missing details in high-res images.
Why it matters: By mimicking human-guided search, V* could unlock more precise AI visual capabilities — and likely put an eventual end to the usefulness of traditional CAPTCHA technology.
NEW TOOLS & JOBS
AI tools powered by Supertools
DryRun Security- An automated buddy that adds security context as you go, so you can write code quickly without having to be a security expert (link)*
Bland Turbo- The world’s fastest conversational AI (link)
Boundaries- A GPT to learn to respectively say no (link)
Invstr- Streamlined AI investing hub (link)
Brewed- AI-powered web app creation by typing (link)
Reiki by Web3Go- Comprehensive AI-driven agent development and monetization suite (link)
McAnswers AI- Streamline coding with AI (link)
AI jobs powered by The Rundown Jobs
Shield AI- Sustaining Engineer at (link)
OpenAI- Account Director, ChatGPT Enterprise (link)
C3 AI- Director, Performance Engineering (link)
Anthropic- Policy Communications Lead, Corporate Communications (link)
*Sponsored listing
QUICK HITS
Microsoft exec Dee Templeton was appointed as a non-voting board observer to OpenAI, following an overhaul after Sam Altman's brief ouster as CEO.
Augmental showcased a demo of MouthPad, a smart mouth wear device that uses subtle tongue movements for hands-free phone navigation.
WhiteRabbitNeo opened access to its new 33B parameter AI model for offensive and defensive cybersecurity agents.
Bedrock announced Gal, a web-integrated, AI-augmented personal computer allowing users to own and run their own AI.
Nabla announced a $24M raise for its AI assistant that generates medical notes and reports from doctor-patient consultations, helping physicians save time on documentation.
Midjourney is facing criticism after a database showing a training set of 16,000 artists was leaked online, raising new ethical concerns over the data used for its image synthesis.
AI biotech startup Isomorphic secured deals with pharma giants Eli Lilly and Novartis worth an estimated $3B, using DeepMind’s tech to screen billions of compounds and design new molecules.
THAT’S A WRAP
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Autonomous trucking is coming to USA
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Welcome, Tech enthusiasts.
The era of autonomous trucking lurched closer this week, with self-driving tech company Aurora passing a crucial first milestone for eventual mass production.
With pilotless vehicle testing on Texas roads slated next, the advances inch driverless disruption of the trucking sector closer to reality. Let’s explore…
In today’s tech rundown:
Aurora’s autonomous trucks pass first milestone
AR window tech improves sightseeing experiences
8 new products
Apple begins distributing ‘Batterygate’ payments
Samsung Galaxy S24 images leak ahead of launch event
Researchers develop ‘crumple-recoverable’ electronics
Read time: 3 minutes
TODAY’S HEADLINES
AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES
🚚 Aurora’s autonomous trucks pass first milestone
Image source: Aurora
The Rundown: Aurora and supplier Continental just completed the initial hardware blueprint for mass-producing self-driving systems, a major step toward the eventual implementation of commercial driverless trucks.
The details:
The hardware blueprint is the first phase of the $300M program to develop autonomous tech for commercial trucking.
The company also finalized the design of a secondary computer for redundancy in case the primary system fails.
Aurora plans to launch up to 20 fully driverless trucks for initial testing in Texas this year, utilizing the models for transport between Dallas and Houston.
Why it matters: With so much of commercial transportation still reliant on long-haul trucking, mass production of autonomous semis would completely alter logistics and supply chains — while also potentially upending the job market for truckers across the country.
TOGETHER WITH SUPERHUMAN
📧 Declutter your inbox, for good
The Rundown: Unleash Superhuman-level productivity (pun intended) with the fastest email experience ever made:
Double your email speed with AI-generated responses, tailored to your writing style
Automatically sort important mail and combat overflowing inboxes
Seamless follow-up reminders and snoozes
Experience the new email revolution, and transform your inbox with Superhuman today.
AUGMENTED REALITY TECH
🪟 AR window tech improves sightseeing experiences
Image source: ITRI
The Rundown: New interactive window tech from South Korea’s Industrial Technology Research Institute uses eye-tracking cameras and GPS data to recognize attractions passengers are looking at, displaying info matched to their gaze via augmented reality.
The details:
The tech utilizes a wide-angle gaze detection camera mounted above each window to track rider attention direction continuously.
The display also factors in current GPS-based vehicle speed and location to identify specific sights the rider's eyes are fixed on.
A small image of the attraction appears on a transparent microLED display next to the user's view, with the ability to tap the photo to pull up dynamically positioned text boxes with facts around sights.
Why it matters: The applications for this type of tech are endless — from trains, tour boats, and museum exhibits all standing out as perfect candidates for an interactive boost. And without the need for any equipment or glasses, it’s a simple AR application that could appeal to the masses.
NEW PRODUCTS
🛡️ DryRun Security- An automated buddy that adds security context as you go, so you can write code quickly without having to be a security expert (link)*
📧 Superhuman- The fastest email experience ever made, with AI-powered features (link)
🍔 HackSnack- Customize Hacker News feeds to match personal interests (link)
💨 LangCSS- AI-powered Tailwind CSS code generator (link)
🤝 OpenTaskAI- AI freelancer-business matchmaking platform (link)
🤖 gptengineer.app- English-driven web app prototyping (link)
🎤 Choir- Harness collective intelligence with AI (link)
🦾 Resolve- ChatGPT-powered customer service chatbots (link)
Browse the most popular tools ever featured with our tool database.
* = Sponsored link
SNIPPETS
Apple has started issuing payments to users affected by the intentional slowing down of older iPhone models in response to "Batterygate.”
Astrobotic's Peregrine lunar lander is set to be the first American spacecraft to land on the moon in over 50 years.
The FAA has grounded about 171 Boeing 737 Max 9 planes for inspections following an in-flight cabin panel blowout on an Alaska Airlines flight.
Live images of the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra have been leaked, showcasing its design and color ahead of the official launch event.
Senior AWS dev accuses Amazon of quietly encouraging employees to quit, a tactic called “silent sacking” or “quiet firing.”
China and the US team up to create the world’s first functional semiconductor constructed from graphene, working to replace traditional silicon chips.
Researchers at Ajou University develop “crumple-recoverable” electronics that can recover their original shape after compression.
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THAT’S A WRAP
If you have anything interesting to share, please reach out to us by sending us a DM on Twitter: @rowancheung & @therundowntech
OpenAI's GPT Store plans revealed!
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Welcome, AI enthusiasts.
After a bit of boardroom drama slowed plans, OpenAI’s GPT Store is finally set to launch next week — in a potential App Store moment for the custom bots.
Will newfound discoverability (and potential revenue sharing) unlock a new wave of AI businesses and creators? Let’s get into it…
In today’s AI rundown:
OpenAI’s GPT Store launching next week
Leak: Google developing premium Bard Advanced
How to design realistic room interiors with Midjourney
New AI technique restores faces while preserving identity
10 new AI tools & 4 new AI jobs
More AI & tech news
Read time: 4 minutes
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
OPENAI
OpenAI’s GPT Store launching next week
Image source: OpenAI DevDay
The Rundown: OpenAI plans to launch its previously teased GPT store next week, the company just announced in an email to developers — allowing users to easily share, discover, and profit from custom GPT creations.
The details:
The GPT Store was initially slated for November but was pushed back amidst OpenAI’s leadership chaos.
OpenAI has hinted at a revenue-sharing model based on community usage, allowing creators to profit from their custom GPTs.
A leaderboard will surface the top GPTs in the store, with OpenAI also spotlighting ‘the most useful and delightful’ creations in various categories.
Chats are not shared with the GPT builder, and users also have the option to keep a GPT private and internal.
Why it matters: Is this the App Store moment for GPTs? The discoverability and revenue sharing of a GPT Store will open a brand new distribution platform for creators — enabling a new wave of AI builders (and encouraging others to build on OpenAI’s platform).
P.S. — If you’re interested in building your own custom GPT, check out our tutorial to start creating!
TOGETHER WITH BRAVE
Your AI’s gateway to the internet
The Rundown: Your AI model is nothing without a connection to the worldwide Web - and Brave Search API is the best option to bridge the gap.
Access an expansive index of 20 billion pages in a single call, with millions added daily
Enhance AI chatbots, train LLMs, and inform real-time queries with high-quality, human-interaction data
Enjoy an intuitive data structure at a fraction of Bing's cost
Your AI is nothing without a connection to the web- Click here to unlock its full potential.
Leak: Google launching premium Bard Advanced
Image source: Dylan Roussel (@evowizz) on X
The Rundown: Newly discovered code and screenshots suggest Google is working on a paid "Bard Advanced" option powered by its top-tier AI model Gemini Ultra, along with new customization features.
The details:
The advanced tier will leverage its not yet publicly available Gemini Ultra model, expected to be multimodal and rival GPT-4 in capabilities.
Unlike the basic free Bard, the advanced tier looks to be available via a paid Google One subscription — with the tech giant offering a 3-month free trial.
Also uncovered is a tool codenamed ‘Motoko’, which will reportedly allow users to create custom bots (similar to the GPT Store).
Additional features discovered include prompt "power ups" to enhance responses and "Gallery" to showcase use cases.
Why it matters: With Ultra expected to be Google’s top-of-the-line model, will a premium launch finally vault Bard into the convo for top LLM? With Gemini’s previous drama surrounding its demo and capabilities, Ultra will need to live up to some major hype to entice users to switch from other paid options.
AI TRAINING
How to design realistic room interiors with Midjourney
Image source: Midjourney
The Rundown: Midjourney has become incredibly adept at generating realistic (or terrifying, in Ethan’s examples) interior spaces thanks to its extensive real estate image training. With a simple prompt, you can visualize custom room designs in seconds.
Step-by-step:
Open Midjourney and type /imagine.
Simple prompts work great — include any specific details of the room you’d like to create.
Prompt example above: “a photo of a modern high-end bathroom with luxury marble floors and granite countertops, a double vanity, a jacuzzi tub, toilet, and warm, soothing lighting”
Tweak, remix, and vary the output as needed. If you want to get weird, try some of Ethan’s suggestions (like a modern living room with a bottomless pit)
AI RESEARCH
New AI technique restores faces while preserving identity
Image source: UCLA, Snap
The Rundown: Researchers from UCLA and Snap just introduced a new AI approach called dual-pivot tuning that leverages personal photos to customize image restoration models, better preserving individual facial features.
The details:
The approach addresses the common issue of diffusion restoration models not retaining unique identities well.
It involves fine-tuning the text-to-image model on a few photos to embed the person's features, then tuning a separate guiding encoder without personalization to retain image integrity.
Testing showed strong results for matching identity while improving on general image quality over existing generic techniques.
Why it matters: By balancing identity preservation with output quality, this new approach could significantly improve facial restoration from low-quality images across applications like Metaverse avatars.
NEW TOOLS & JOBS
AI tools powered by Supertools
rabbit r1- Your AI-powered pocket companion. Join the waitlist for the January 9th launch (link)*
Gemini Vs. GPT- Compare side-by-side prompts between Google Gemini and ChatGPT (link)
Fintool- Advanced AI analysis for SEC filings and financial news (link)
AlloBot- Connects a GPT agent to a phone number for sales or customer support (link)
ScribeMD- Chrome extension for doctors to transcribe and summarize conversations (link)
Nesta- Chatbot-driven exploration of 2024 trends (link)
RAGatouille- Simplifies using and training retrieval models for RAG applications (link)
dashy.io- Your unified app for data, alerts, and tools (link)
FTune- Streamlines L creation for OpenAI model tuning (link)
Record Once- AI-enhanced video tutorial creation (link)
AI jobs powered by The Rundown Jobs
Anthropic- Senior Developer Relations (link)
Synthesia- Senior Accounts Receivable Analyst (link)
Anyscale- Solutions Architect (link)
Rad AI- Executive Assistant (link)
*Sponsored listing
QUICK HITS
AI entrepreneur Allie K. Miller revealed her 2023 AI Awards, naming The Rundown AI as the top news feed of the year! 🏆 🥳
OpenAI is reportedly offering news publishers ‘as little as’ $1M to $5M annually to license copyrighted articles for training models like ChatGPT.
AI-powered search engine Perplexity announced a $73.6M Series B raise at a $520M valuation, with new investors including NVIDIA and Jeff Bezos.
Logan Kilpatrick, Developer Relations Lead at OpenAI, shared that the platform’s GPT builder is a GPT itself, providing behind-the-scenes information to help users build custom bots.
A new study polling over 2,700 AI researchers found that 58% estimate a 5% chance of AI causing human extinction.
Elvis Evolution will use AI and holographic projection to bring a digital Elvis Presley to the London stage later this year for AI-generated performances.
Google DeepMind unveiled new robotics research, including AutoRT for data collection, SARA-RT for faster transformers, and RT-Trajectory for better motion generalization.
THAT’S A WRAP
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