Explore curated top tech news just for you! Uncover the latest breakthroughs in AI chat translation, captivating NFT digital artworks, and the innovative strategies of major corporations. Stay informed, all at your fingertips.
1. Roblox releases real-time AI chat translator
Roblox introduces an AI chat translator supporting 16 languages, seamlessly translating text chats to enhance user interaction. Other tech giants like Meta and Google are also advancing in AI translation models. (The Verge)
2. Microsoft partners with Semafor for AI-assisted news content
Microsoft collaborates with media platform Semafor and other news entities to integrate generative AI into journalism, fostering responsible use. Together, they aim to establish procedures and policies for ethical AI utilisation in news production. (Reuters)
3. Bitcoin NFT project Taproot Wizards sells out first collection, raking in $13M
Bitcoin Ordinals project Taproot Wizards sold out its “Quantum Cats” digital arts. The inaugural event saw robust uptake, with all 3,000 NFT-like collectibles selling out for a total revenue of nearly $13 million. (CoinDesk)
4. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen warns of crypto risks
U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen emphasises the potential threats posed by the crypto industry, highlighting risks associated with stablecoins, platform runs, and price volatility. (CoinDesk)
5. Bitcoin slips towards $42K as interest rates soar; Chainlink’s LINK defies crypto slump
Crypto market faced a downturn as U.S. interest rates rose, with bitcoin slipping to $42,200. The broader crypto market, experienced a 1.3% decline. The slump correlated with a 14 basis point increase in the 10-year U.S. Treasury bond yield. (CoinDesk)
6. Microsoft to share details on bringing Xbox games to PlayStation next week
Microsoft is set to address plans for bringing Xbox exclusives like Hi-Fi Rush to PS5 and Nintendo Switch in a business update event next week. The update will also shed light on Microsoft’s strategy post the Activision Blizzard acquisition. (The Verge)
7. Huawei just retasked a factory to prioritise AI over its bestselling phone
Huawei shifts its focus from Mate 60 phone production to prioritise the manufacturing of its Ascend 910B AI chip due to low production levels. Huawei’s strategic move underscores the increasing importance of AI technology to the company’s future success. (The Verge)
8. Apple’s latest AirPods have fallen to some of their best prices to date
Apple’s Airpods, renowned wireless earbuds, make a compelling product with discounted prices. The third-gen model, featuring enhanced audio quality, water resistance, and spatial audio is available at $139.99. (The Verge)
9. Hertz will stop buying EVs from Polestar, too
Hertz reversed its ambitious EV fleet expansion plans, pausing its intention to acquire 65,000 Polestar electric vehicles (EVs) after previously committing to being a global EV leader. The shift is attributed to substantial value losses in its existing EV fleet due to price cuts and escalating repair costs. (The Verge)
10. Google to face US antitrust trial over digital ads in September
A U.S. federal judge schedules the start of a jury trial for the Justice Department’s lawsuit against Google, accusing the tech giant of monopolising the digital advertising market. The trial is set for September 9, 2024. (Reuters)
11. US expects to make chips funding awards in coming eight weeks – Raimondo
U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo announces plans to make funding awards within two months from the $39 billion semiconductor manufacturing program. The awards aim to support chip production and supply chain investments. (Reuters)
12. LinkedIn’s removing its ‘Creator Mode’ option
LinkedIn is discontinuing its “Creator Mode” option as part of a broader shift away from hashtags for connection purposes. The move aligns with LinkedIn’s shift toward topic and keyword-based content discovery and increased use of AI, focusing on providing all users with more creation options. (SocialMediaToday)
13. Facebook continues to add users after 20 years of existence
Despite predictions of its decline, Facebook celebrates its 20th anniversary and maintains its global influence, boasting over 3 billion monthly active users. Facebook, positioning it as a vital connector and evolving into both an entertainment source and a connective tool. The platform’s enduring significance makes it a valuable marketing tool. (SocialMediaToday)
14. YouTube tests alternate color feeds for premium users
YouTube is testing a color-based video sorting feature, allowing users to create feeds of videos based on their chosen color. Currently available to select YouTube Premium users, the experiment aims to gauge user preferences and improve content discovery. (SocialMediaToday)
