Google Meet for Android is introducing AI-generated meeting backgrounds using Google Gemini technology. Users can create custom backgrounds in various styles, including a new Christmas theme. The feature requires a Gemini for Google Workspace add-on or Google One AI Premium subscription and is expected to be widely available soon.
Apple is developing a feature to prevent voice assistants from responding to unintended triggers in adverts. Using the Shazam API, it matches audio from device microphones against downloaded fingerprints. When matched, the Siri trigger is disabled. Currently in the HomePod's software, it may expand to other Apple devices.
OpenAI has added a feature to ChatGPT Advanced Voice allowing users to share short clips of conversations on desktop and mobile. Users can select, save, and share portions of voice chats, except on the web version. This update highlights OpenAI's focus on voice-based interaction with ChatGPT.
Microsoft is adding an AI-powered 'Rewrite' feature to Notepad, using their GPT model to help users refine their writing. It can rephrase, adjust tone, and modify text length. Currently available to some Windows Insiders, it requires a Microsoft account and credits, with wider rollout expected later.
Duolingo showcased its AI integration by using a chatbot to present Q3 earnings results. The company has partnered with OpenAI since 2022, incorporating GPT-4 into its premium service. Duolingo's CEO believes AI features enhance engagement and effectiveness for language learners.
Amazon has introduced AI-generated recaps for some Prime Video original series. Called X-Ray Recaps, the feature uses Amazon Bedrock to analyse video content and create spoiler-free summaries. Viewers can access episode, season-so-far, and previous season recaps for select Amazon MGM Studios shows.
Google faces challenges to its search dominance, including an antitrust ruling and competition from ChatGPT. Its 'Helpful Content Update' has negatively impacted small websites. A recent Web Creator Conference was perceived as an image improvement attempt rather than addressing concerns, revealing a potential disconnect between Google's engineers and typical users. OpenAI's ChatGPT-powered search may benefit previously affected small, independent sites.
Google has launched Illuminate, an experimental AI tool that converts academic research papers into AI-generated audio conversations. Currently optimised for computer science papers from arxiv.org, it aims to make complex research more accessible. Users with Google accounts can generate up to five audio discussions per day, which are automatically deleted after 30 days unless saved.
