From the introduction of the new 'Repair State' feature in the iOS 17.5 beta to Elon Musk launching a new AI-powered stories feature, here's a look at some of the biggest stories from the tech world this week.
1) iOS 17.5 comes with a “Repair State” feature for repairing iPhones:
Apple introduced a new “Repair State” feature in iOS 17.5 that allows users to send their iPhones in for repair without having to disable Find My and Activation Lock. The new repair status reportedly fixes this issue by allowing users to put their iPhones into 'Ready for Repair' mode while keeping Find My active. This means that the device remains traceable and secure while the Activation Lock is enabled during the repair process. Users can also mark the device as lost while it is under repair if necessary.
2) Google's new AI-powered English learning feature:
Google has introduced an innovative AI-powered feature called 'Speaking Practice' on its search platform, which is designed to help users improve their English speaking skills. The new AI feature listens to the user's speech, interprets it, and then responds with a natural-sounding answer or performs a requested action. This interactive exchange allows users to practice conversational English, providing a more engaging way to use new words in context and improve speaking skills.
3) Pixel 8a price leaked ahead of possible May 14 launch:
According to various media reports, the Pixel 8a could start at $499 in the United States, which works out to approx ₹41,000 in India. This price suggests that the new device may be in line with the previous Pixel 7a, which was launched on ₹43,999 for the 128GB storage option.
The leak also reveals that the Pixel 8a will likely have a 256GB storage variant, priced at $599, which translates to approximately ₹50,000. If Google adjusts its pricing, it could increase the popularity of the Pixel A series and provide a more attractive alternative to other mid-range devices.
4) iPhone 16 is likely to see a price increase:
Rumors suggest that Apple's iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max will feature lighter and thinner designs, advanced camera systems, and new A18 chipsets. Additionally, these devices are expected to feature artificial intelligence (AI) technology, which could further contribute to higher production costs. These factors, combined with inflation and a generally higher production rate, are considered the main reasons why the iPhone 16 series may see a price increase.
5) OpenAI signs deal to train its AI model Financial Times content:
The Financial Times announced this week that it has signed a licensing agreement with OpenAI that will allow the Sam Altman-led company to train artificial intelligence (AI) models on FT content.
The agreement will likely enhance OpenAI's generative AI chatbot ChatGPT with attributed FT content, and OpenAI will also work to develop new AI products and features for FT readers.
6) iPad Pro series likely to be powered by new M4 chipsets:
A report from Bloomberg's Mark Gurnman has suggested that the upcoming iPad Pro range could be powered by the latest M4 chipset, a departure from plans to release the latest chipset with the iMacs, MacBook Pros and Mac later this year minis. Notably, the current generation of iPad Pro variants are powered by the M2 chipset, and the addition of the M4 chipset to the new iterations of the Pro series could indicate that Apple is ditching the M3 chipset altogether for Pro -variants.
7) X introduces a new 'Stories' feature:
Elon Musk's social media platform The feature is currently only available to X Premium subscribers on the iOS and web versions and has not yet made its way to the Android application.
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Published: May 4, 2024 3:36 PM IST