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Credit must go to Samsung for pioneering and popularizing foldable smartphones. Initially, many were skeptical about the design – including me – when the first Galaxy Fold launched in 2019. It was the Galaxy Flip, which came out a year later, that truly made me appreciate foldable devices. When Google released the Pixel Fold in 2023, it quickly became my top choice among foldables. Google showed how minor adjustments to the aspect ratio could make the device more practical. Despite the advanced technology, I found it also served as an excellent e-reader. The Pixel Fold was a strong competitor, rivaled only by the OnePlus Open, in my view. The introduction of these devices, along with those from companies like Oppo, has enhanced competition in the foldable market. This competition has driven innovation and ensured Samsung doesn’t become complacent. By the time Google announced the Fold’s successor, they were confident enough to incorporate it into their flagship lineup. Instead of intro...

WordPress.org has temporarily lifted its ban on hosting provider WP Engine until October 1. Earlier this week, the platform had blocked WP Engine, which prevented several websites from updating their plugins and themes, leaving them vulnerable to security risks. Matt Mullenweg, co-founder of WordPress, has been involved in a conflict with WP Engine for over a week. He attributed the issue to WP Engine's private equity backer, Silver Lake. In a statement on the WordPress.org blog, Mullenweg expressed that WP Engine customers were frustrated with their inability to update plugins, themes, and use Openverse on their sites. He voiced his regret that Silver Lake’s business decisions have had a negative impact on customers. Mullenweg also noted that WP Engine was fully aware that their access to WordPress.org resources could be revoked if they ignored attempts to resolve the dispute and refused to enter a commercial licensing agreement. He stated that WP Engine's leadership knowingly...

Virtual Reality (VR) has gained significant attention in recent years, especially in the gaming world. However, its applications extend far beyond entertainment, impacting various industries in profound ways. From education to healthcare, real estate to design, VR has proven itself as a transformative technology. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top virtual reality applications beyond gaming. 1. Education and Training One of the most significant applications of VR is in education and training. VR offers immersive learning experiences that enable students and professionals to practice skills in a simulated environment. In medical schools, for example, students can use VR to simulate surgeries and procedures, allowing them to practice in a risk-free environment. Similarly, pilots, firefighters, and military personnel use VR-based simulators to train for high-risk scenarios without real-world dangers. In classrooms, VR is being used to take students on virtual field trips to his...

Several key leaders have recently left OpenAI, including chief research officer Bob McGrew and research VP Barret Zoph, following an earlier announcement by CTO Mira Murati of her own departure. CEO Sam Altman shared the news on Wednesday, revealing that these exits were independent and amicable, but their timing made sense to coordinate. Altman also announced leadership changes, with Mark Chen stepping in as SVP of research and Jakub Pachocki becoming chief scientist. Other promotions include Matt Knight as the new chief information security officer and Josh Achiam as head of mission alignment. Altman acknowledged that leadership transitions are common in fast-growing companies but admitted that the abrupt nature of these departures was unusual. McGrew, who had been with OpenAI since 2017, said it was time for him to take a break, while Zoph explained that he was ready to explore new opportunities. Both expressed confidence in OpenAI's future leadership. This wave of exits follows...

Meta Connect 2024 kicks off this Wednesday at 10 a.m. PT, featuring a keynote speech by CEO Mark Zuckerberg. The event will spotlight Meta’s XR platforms (covering both VR and AR), the metaverse, and the company's open-source AI platform, Llama. Attendees might also catch a glimpse of new hardware such as the Meta Quest 4, updates to Meta Ray-Bans, and possibly a preview of the new “Orion” AR headset. There are several options to watch the event live. You can bookmark the Meta Connect website to register for free, or tune in via Meta’s developer Facebook page. For an immersive experience, you can join through Horizon Worlds using your Meta Quest headset. Like last year, Meta will also stream the event on YouTube, with links to be added once available. Additional developer panels will be streamed on YouTube and Facebook throughout the event, which runs until Thursday. The complete schedule for Meta Connect 2024 is accessible here.

The podcasting community was captivated by the Rodecaster Pro when it debuted in late 2018. Now, after six years, Rode, known for its microphones, is expanding its accessible product line into the video production market. The new Rodecaster Video faces tougher competition compared to the original Pro board. In the current era where video content is prioritized, numerous similar devices have been launched. Additionally, its price is steep, coming in at $1,119, almost double the Pro's initial $600. Rode aims to appeal to the same beginner audience it attracted with the original Pro: those who want to enhance their video production skills without investing in a fully professional setup. Unlike the Pro, which was exclusively designed for in-person audio podcasts, the Video model has a broader scope, catering to solo Twitch streamers as well as multi-person studio video productions. It’s also more compact, designed to be positioned in front of a computer instead of a large podcasting ta...

Flink, a rapid-delivery startup based in Berlin that was previously a takeover target for Gorillas, Getir, Amazon, and Gopuff, has outlined its independent growth strategy. According to exclusive information from TechCrunch, the company has secured $150 million in funding, which it plans to use to expand its operations in Germany and the Netherlands, in collaboration with Just Eat Takeaway. The funding comprises $115 million in equity and $35 million in debt, contributed by a mix of new and existing investors, including BOND, Mubadala, Northzone, and German supermarket chain REWE, along with two undisclosed backers. While Flink did not confirm whether Just Eat Takeaway is one of these anonymous investors, the Dutch company had previously shown interest in a merger with Flink. They are now partnering under what Flink describes as a “preferred partnership.” REWE, a long-standing partner of Flink, remains involved. “This investment will enable us to further expand our footprint, improve o...

In the previous year, the United States classified magnesium as a crucial mineral, part of the “electric 18” essential for the energy transition. This lightweight metal is widely used in electronics and, being lighter than aluminum, is a favorable option for car manufacturers. However, like many other minerals, China has established dominance in the magnesium market. This isn’t due to scarcity—magnesium is the eighth most common element in the Earth's crust and the third most abundant dissolved mineral in the oceans. In the U.S., though, only one company produces new magnesium metal; the rest is either imported or recycled from scrap. “The key question is whether you can compete with the 90% of production coming from China today,” said Howard Yuh, co-founder and CEO of Tidal Metals. Yuh believes his startup can. Initially known as GreenBlu, the company was focused on desalination technology but pivoted to magnesium production in late 2023 after recognizing the value of the leftover...

Alan, the French insurtech unicorn, has entered a strategic agreement with Belfius, one of Belgium’s major banks. This deal involves both a distribution collaboration and a substantial financial investment in Alan. Belfius is spearheading Alan’s Series F funding round, raising €173 million (approximately $193 million). Existing investors such as Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan (through Teachers’ Venture Growth), Temasek, Coatue, and Lakestar are also participating. For those unfamiliar with Alan, it initially launched a health insurance product designed to complement France's national healthcare system, providing mandatory health coverage for employees. Alan has focused on optimizing its core product to offer a superior user experience compared to traditional insurance providers, automating many aspects of claim processing. In some instances, users can receive reimbursements within minutes of leaving a doctor’s office. Over time, Alan has expanded its offerings to include additional...

The question of whether we've reached the peak of social media is worth considering, especially in light of the launch of SocialAI, an iOS app that offers a unique, AI-driven social media experience for a single user. Unlike traditional platforms, SocialAI has no human users. Instead, it replicates the feel of a social network using AI-powered bots. In essence, SocialAI allows users to share their thoughts with an infinite number of bots, ensuring that any post will receive engagement. The app eliminates the possibility of being ignored or "ghosted," as the bots are programmed to provide constant interaction, even offering sarcastic or snarky replies. What's unique is that there are no human participants, making it a judgment-free zone. While we've seen some AI-human hybrid platforms before, this one stands out for being entirely bot-driven, with the user becoming the main character in this private digital world. Though SocialAI may remind some of Elon Musk's ...

Just one day after third-party app stores became officially available on the iPad in the European Union, Epic Games announced via X that the Epic Games Store is now installable on iPadOS. However, only residents of EU countries with an Apple account registered in one of those countries can install it. This development follows the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which introduces rules promoting market fairness and competition. Over the past year, the EU Commission has labeled certain entities as "gatekeepers" that manage essential platform services. iPadOS, the operating system of the iPad, was recently added to this list of regulated platforms. As a result of this classification, Apple had a six-month window to modify iPadOS, enabling users in the EU to install alternative app stores. Last Friday, Apple confirmed that this would be possible with the release of iPadOS 18. It seems Epic Games was ready for this opportunity, as it launched its game store for the iPad...

Snapchat is testing a streamlined version of its app called “Simple Snapchat,” which aims to make the platform more user-friendly. This was revealed by the company during the Snap Partner Summit on Tuesday. The update simplifies the home screen by removing the Snap Map and Stories tabs and focusing on three main icons: chat on the left, the camera in the middle, and Spotlight, Snapchat’s TikTok-like feature, on the right. Though Snap Map and Stories are not being removed, they are relocated within the app. Stories will now be displayed at the top of the chat section, while Snap Map moves to the bottom. Additionally, Stories will also be accessible in the Spotlight section, thanks to a new algorithm designed to recommend content. In this version, Spotlight closely mimics TikTok, blending short-form videos from creators, brands, and friends into one continuous feed. Interestingly, the Discover section, which launched in 2015 to allow brands to showcase short-form videos, does not seem to...

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) is transforming the way we live, work, and interact with urban environments. These technologies are playing a pivotal role in the development of smart cities, where data-driven solutions create more efficient, sustainable, and connected urban spaces. Smart cities use AI and IoT to manage infrastructure, optimize resource use, and improve the quality of life for residents, all while fostering innovation beyond urban centers. IoT: The Backbone of Smart Cities IoT forms the foundation of smart cities by connecting physical objects, sensors, and devices to a central network. These IoT devices continuously collect and transmit data on everything from traffic patterns and energy consumption to air quality and waste management. This real-time data allows city planners and administrators to monitor urban activity and make informed decisions that enhance city management and efficiency. For instance, smart streetlig...

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the educational landscape, enabling personalized learning experiences that cater to the unique needs of each student. This shift from traditional, one-size-fits-all education to tailored approaches has the potential to enhance student engagement, improve learning outcomes, and address individual challenges. By leveraging AI technologies, educators can create a more adaptive and effective learning environment. Tailored Learning Experiences One of the primary advantages of AI in education is its ability to analyze vast amounts of data on student performance, preferences, and learning styles. AI-powered platforms can assess individual strengths and weaknesses, enabling the development of customized learning paths. For instance, adaptive learning systems can modify content in real time, providing students with resources and exercises that align with their current understanding. This approach ensures that students are neither bored by content tha...

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping the workforce across various sectors, leading to significant changes in employment dynamics. While AI promises increased efficiency and innovation, it also poses challenges by automating certain jobs, prompting discussions about the future of work and the skills needed in an AI-driven economy. Understanding which jobs are likely to be automated and the broader implications of this shift is essential for navigating the changing employment landscape. Jobs Likely to be Automated AI and automation are particularly adept at handling repetitive, predictable tasks that require little human judgment. This makes jobs in sectors such as manufacturing, retail, and administrative support particularly susceptible to automation. For example, assembly line workers in manufacturing may be replaced by robots capable of performing tasks with greater speed and accuracy. Similarly, AI-powered chatbots can handle customer service inquiries, potentially redu...

Predictive analytics has emerged as a crucial tool for businesses looking to gain insights and make informed decisions based on data. At the heart of this revolution is Artificial Intelligence (AI), which enhances predictive capabilities by processing vast amounts of data, identifying patterns, and making accurate forecasts. From finance to marketing, AI-driven predictive analytics is transforming how organizations operate and strategize, enabling them to anticipate trends and respond proactively. AI in Finance In the financial sector, predictive analytics powered by AI is reshaping how institutions manage risk, detect fraud, and optimize investment strategies. AI algorithms analyze historical market data, economic indicators, and even social media sentiment to forecast stock prices and market trends. By employing machine learning techniques, financial institutions can create models that adapt to changing market conditions, improving their accuracy over time. Additionally, AI enhances ...

Generative AI has emerged as a groundbreaking field within artificial intelligence, enabling machines to create original content across various mediums, including art, writing, and music. Tools like OpenAI's GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) and DALL·E have captivated the public's imagination by demonstrating the potential of AI to generate human-like text and visually stunning images. These advancements are reshaping creative industries and expanding the possibilities of artistic expression. GPT: Revolutionizing Text Generation GPT is a powerful language model designed to understand and generate human-like text. Its capabilities range from crafting poetry and stories to generating essays and articles. By analyzing vast amounts of text data, GPT learns the intricacies of language, including grammar, context, and style. This allows it to produce coherent and contextually relevant content in response to user prompts. One of the standout features of GPT is its versatility. ...

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Natural Language Processing (NLP) have revolutionized how humans interact with technology, making communication with machines more intuitive and efficient. NLP, a branch of AI, focuses on enabling computers to understand, interpret, and generate human language. Through NLP, chatbots, voice assistants, and language translation tools have become powerful technologies that streamline everyday tasks, enhance user experiences, and bridge language barriers. NLP and Chatbots Chatbots are one of the most prominent applications of NLP. These AI-driven programs are designed to simulate conversations with users, offering instant responses and assistance. Whether it’s customer service inquiries, online shopping help, or healthcare guidance, chatbots powered by NLP are transforming how businesses interact with customers. NLP allows chatbots to analyze and understand the context and intent behind users’ queries. This enables them to provide more accurate and relevant...

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is at the forefront of the autonomous vehicle revolution, promising to transform transportation by making self-driving cars a reality. From reducing traffic accidents to increasing efficiency in logistics, AI-powered vehicles hold the potential to reshape urban mobility. However, while advancements in AI have brought us closer to fully autonomous vehicles, significant challenges remain before these cars can become a mainstream mode of transportation. Advancements in AI for Autonomous Vehicles AI plays a crucial role in enabling vehicles to perceive and navigate their surroundings safely. Advanced machine learning algorithms and neural networks allow autonomous vehicles to analyze data from sensors such as cameras, radar, lidar, and GPS in real time. This sensory input enables vehicles to detect obstacles, interpret road signs, and recognize pedestrians, all while adapting to changing road conditions. One of the key breakthroughs in autonomous driving has be...

As the digital world continues to expand, so does the complexity and frequency of cyberattacks. Cybercriminals are employing increasingly sophisticated tactics to breach systems and steal sensitive information. In response, organizations are turning to Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a powerful tool in cybersecurity. AI is transforming how we detect threats, mitigate risks, and protect sensitive data from malicious actors. By analyzing large datasets and identifying patterns, AI enables faster, more accurate threat detection and response. Here's how AI is reshaping cybersecurity efforts. 1. Enhanced Threat Detection One of the key roles of AI in cybersecurity is its ability to detect potential threats in real time. Traditional cybersecurity methods rely heavily on predefined rules and signatures to identify malware or suspicious activities. However, these methods are often too slow or ineffective against evolving threats such as zero-day exploits, where new vulnerabilities are expl...

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized industries and reshaped how we live, work, and communicate. From healthcare to finance, AI-powered tools are enhancing efficiencies, predicting outcomes, and enabling technological breakthroughs. However, alongside its transformative potential, AI also presents significant ethical challenges. These challenges revolve around issues of privacy, biases, data security, and overall societal implications. Understanding and addressing these ethical concerns is crucial to ensuring that AI is used responsibly and for the benefit of all. 1. Privacy Concerns One of the primary ethical challenges associated with AI is its impact on privacy. AI systems rely heavily on data—collected from individuals, organizations, and various public sources—to function effectively. This data often includes personal information such as browsing history, purchasing habits, social media activities, and even biometric data like facial recognition or fingerprints. AI'...