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Tech wrap Aug 9: Apple Mac mini M4, Google Pixel 9 series, Instagram, more

Tech wrap Aug 9: Apple Mac mini M4, Google Pixel 9 series, Instagram, more

by | Aug 9, 2024 | Technology


5 min read Last Updated : Aug 09 2024 | 8:02 PM IST


Instagram has announced an update that allows users to include up to 20 pictures or videos in a single carousel post. This doubles the previous limit, which was capped at 10. Since its introduction in 2017, the carousel post feature has undergone several enhancements, such as the addition of songs to posts and the option to collaborate with other users. However, this marks the first instance where the number of content items that can be included in a carousel has been increased.


OpenAI has announced that it is making the DALL-E 3 image generation AI model accessible to free-tier users of its ChatGPT service. This initiative allows users to generate up to two images per day by prompting the ChatGPT chatbot with their input. This move marks an expansion in access to advanced AI-driven creative tools for image generation, previously available primarily to paid users.


Apple is reportedly preparing a significant redesign of its Mac mini, according to a recent Bloomberg report. The forthcoming Mac mini model, expected to be released later this year, is anticipated to be the smallest desktop computer ever produced by the US-based technology company. The report also suggests that Apple plans to update its entire line of Mac devices with the M4-series chip, which will power the suite of artificial intelligence features branded as Apple Intelligence.


Google may launch two models from the Pixel 9 series in India on August 14, and not the entire lineup. The US-based technology company has updated its India-centric online store where it has listed only the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro Fold models. For context, Google is anticipated to launch four models in the Pixel 9 series at a global event on August 13. These may encompass the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Of these, only the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro Fold models are mentioned on the Google India online store. Moreover, the preview image shared by Google India on social media platform X shows only two smartphones.


Clamshell-style foldable smartphones are inherently fun to use, and the Galaxy Z Flip 6 enhances this experience with software improvements that span communication, imaging, and productivity. These enhancements prove useful at work, during vacations, and in everyday situations. Although the Galaxy Z Flip 6 is on the expensive side, starting at Rs 109,999, it is worthy of consideration if the novel use cases enabled by its form factor fit your needs.


On Thursday (August 8), OpenAI cautioned that the newly introduced Voice Mode for ChatGPT could lead users to form emotional connections with the AI model. This warning was included in the company’s System Card for GPT-4o, which offers an in-depth examination of the model’s potential risks and the safeguards considered during its development.


Apple on Thursday changed its policy in the European Union to allow developers to communicate with their customers outside its App Store after the commission charged the iPhone maker in June for breaching the bloc’s tech rules.


After delaying the availability of the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro due to quality concerns, Samsung has commenced the sale of the wireless earbuds in select regions, including India. The delay was caused by allegations from early users that the included silicone eartips were prone to tearing when removed from the earbuds, prompting Samsung to suspend deliveries to distribution channels.


Iran is ramping up online activity that appears intended to influence the upcoming US election, in one case targeting a presidential campaign with an email phishing attack, Microsoft said Friday.


President Nicolas Maduro said he has ordered a 10-day block on access to X in Venezuela, accusing the owner Elon Musk of using the social network to promote hatred after the country’s disputed presidential election.


The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has issued a warning about several security flaws identified in Android devices. These vulnerabilities could allow attackers to access confidential data, gain higher system privileges, or execute arbitrary code remotely. Devices powered by Qualcomm and MediaTek processors, including Android phones and tablets, are among those affected.

First Published: Aug 09 2024 | 8:02 PM IST



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Humans may foster emotional ties with ChatGPT's Voice Mode, cautions OpenAI

Humans may foster emotional ties with ChatGPT's Voice Mode, cautions OpenAI

by | Aug 9, 2024 | Technology


3 min read Last Updated : Aug 09 2024 | 4:25 PM IST


Imagine having a conversation with an AI chatbot that not only understands your words but can also respond with a human-like tone and emotion. It sounds convenient, even futuristic — but what happens when people start to rely on these AI interactions more than those with humans?


On Thursday (August 8), OpenAI cautioned that the newly introduced Voice Mode for ChatGPT could lead users to form emotional connections with the AI model.


This warning was included in the company’s System Card for GPT-4o, which offers an in-depth examination of the model’s potential risks and the safeguards considered during its development. 


Among the various concerns, the Sam Altman-led AI firm highlighted the possibility of users ‘anthropomorphising’ the chatbot, essentially attributing human traits to it, and forming attachments as a result. This concern arose after the company observed early signs of such behaviour during initial testing phases.


‘Anthropomorphisation’ of ChatGPT


In its detailed technical documentation, OpenAI outlined the societal implications associated with GPT-4o and its newly launched features. It specifically addressed the issue of ‘anthropomorphisation’, where human characteristics are ascribed to non-human entities.


OpenAI expressed concern that the Voice Mode, which can mimic human-like speech and emotional expression, might encourage users to develop emotional bonds with the AI. These concerns are based on observations from early testing, which involved red-teaming (ethical hacking to identify vulnerabilities) and internal user trials. 


The company said that during these tests, some users were found to be forming social connections with the AI, with one instance involving a user expressing a sense of shared experience with the model, saying, “This is our last day together.” OpenAI said that it is important to investigate whether such interactions could evolve into more significant attachments over extended periods of use.


Anthropomorphising AI: What is the solution?


Floating solutions to the anthropomorphisation of ChatGPT’s Voice Mode, OpenAI said that it has not identified a solution to these issues yet but plans to continue monitoring the situation. “We intend to further study the potential for emotional reliance, and ways in which deeper integration of our model’s and systems’ many features with the audio modality may drive behaviour,” the company stated.


Furthermore, the AI firm said that a more diverse user population and data of varied needs as well as desires from the model will help in defining the risk area. It also said that independent academic and internal studies will help OpenAI limit the risks.


Potential impacts of long-term AI-human interaction


A significant concern, should these fears be validated, is the potential impact on human relationships, as people may start to prioritise interactions with the chatbot over those with other humans. While this might offer some comfort to lonely individuals, it could also harm healthy human relationships, said OpenAI.


Additionally, prolonged interactions between AI and humans could influence social norms. For example, OpenAI pointed out that with ChatGPT, users can interrupt the AI at any time, an action that is considered impolite in human interactions.


Moreover, there are broader implications of users developing bonds with AI, one of which is the risk of persuasion. Although OpenAI found that the current models do not have a high enough persuasion score to cause concern, this could change if users develop a deeper trust in the AI.

First Published: Aug 09 2024 | 4:25 PM IST



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Pixel 9 series: Of four, Google may launch just 2 models in India on Aug 14

Pixel 9 series: Of four, Google may launch just 2 models in India on Aug 14

by | Aug 9, 2024 | Technology


Google Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro Fold

3 min read Last Updated : Aug 09 2024 | 4:04 PM IST


Google may launch two models from the Pixel 9 series in India on August 14, and not the entire lineup. The US-based technology company has updated its India-centric online store where it has listed only the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro Fold models. For context, Google is anticipated to launch four models in the Pixel 9 series at a global event on August 13. These may encompass the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Of these, only the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro Fold models are mentioned on the Google India online store. Moreover, the preview image shared by Google India on social media platform X shows only two smartphones.


Historically, Google has pulled back the release of some Pixel devices in India. Last year, Google at its annual developers conference, Google I/O, launched its maiden foldable smartphone, the Pixel Fold, alongside the Pixel 7a smartphone. While the latter made its way to the Indian market, the Pixel Fold never launched in the region.


Google is expected to launch all the models in the Pixel 9 series in India, starting with Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. The other two models could launch later in the country.


Google Pixel 9 series: What to expect


Google has already revealed the first look of the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. The Pixel 9 Pro will feature a flat frame design and a floating island-style camera module, which is detached from the frame, unlike the camera visor design on the Pixel 8 series. The standard Pixel 9 and the anticipated Pixel 9 Pro XL are expected to adopt a similar design. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold will feature an isolated square-shaped camera island on the top left side of the device. It will also have a flat frame design similar to the Pixel 9 Pro.


The Pixel 9 series is expected to bring significant upgrades in the camera department. The standard Pixel 9 will likely feature a new Sony IMX858 ultra-wide-angle camera sensor with a larger aperture, replacing the existing Sony IMX386. Additionally, it is expected to have autofocus for the front-facing camera. Both the Pixel 9 Pro and the anticipated Pixel 9 Pro XL are expected to include the new Sony IMX858 sensor for the ultra-wide and telephoto cameras. They may also feature a 50MP IMX858 sensor for the front-facing camera, marking a significant upgrade.


The Pixel 9 series devices are also expected to feature brighter display panels. According to media reports, the standard Pixel 9 smartphone will achieve 1,800 nits of peak HDR brightness, while the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL panels will reach up to 2,050 nits. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is expected to feature a taller display, with the inner foldable panel achieving up to 1,600 nits and the outer cover display up to 1,800 nits of peak HDR brightness.


Google will also likely bring new Pixel exclusive artificial intelligence features. The Pixel 9 series would likely get a new “Add Me” feature, which is anticipated to be an enhanced version of the “Best Take” feature. A new “Studio” app, an all-in-one AI image generator and editor, is also expected. However, the most notable feature would likely be the “Pixel Screenshots” feature, which is expected to function similarly to Microsoft’s Recall feature for the Copilot+ PC platform but with more focus on privacy.

First Published: Aug 09 2024 | 4:04 PM IST



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Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 review: Fun to use and AI features keep you hooked

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 review: Fun to use and AI features keep you hooked

by | Aug 9, 2024 | Technology


4 min read Last Updated : Aug 09 2024 | 2:30 PM IST


The Galaxy Z Flip 6 is a 2024 clamshell-style foldable smartphone from South Korean electronics maker Samsung. It introduces incremental upgrades over its predecessor, but most importantly, it brings new capabilities through software powered by artificial intelligence (AI). These enhancements allow users to leverage the unique form factor of the foldable device to their advantage in daily use.


AI features and functionalities


AI covers a broad spectrum of features on the Galaxy Z Flip 6. Basic functions include suggested replies on the cover display, which analyse the context of previous messages to suggest tailored responses. More advanced functions include translating and summarising PDF documents, composing e-mails and social media captions using simple text prompts, and sketching on images to add objects not originally part of them. Additionally, there are AI tools specifically designed to leverage the clamshell-style foldable form factor. The Galaxy AI-powered Interpreter tool on the Galaxy Z Flip 6 supports conversation mode, allowing both speakers to view translations on the screen in front of them, whether on the main or cover display.


While many AI features on the Galaxy Z Flip 6 are useful in specific environments, some simply add fun to the experience. For example, the Photos app features a new portrait studio that uses an AI editor to generate different portrait styles such as 3D cartoon, watercolour, sketch, and comic from base portraits. Another fun feature is instant slow-mo, which allows users to touch and hold a video as it plays to see it in slow motion.


Design and Display


The Galaxy Z Flip 6 showcases some design improvements, including flat edges for a better in-hand experience. The hinge holding the two equal sides of the smartphone has been enhanced to reduce the appearance of creases on the main display. The device is IP48 rated, making it the only foldable device with resistance against dust ingress and industry-leading water resistance.


The displays are slightly brighter but retain the sizes and resolutions of the previous model. The interface on the cover display has been tweaked to make it more useful, though there is still no native support for all apps; it is driven by widgets and gestures.


Camera system


The Galaxy Z Flip 6 continues with a dual-camera setup on the cover display, featuring a new 50-megapixel main sensor with support for 2x in-sensor zoom. This sensor delivers consistent performance in all lighting conditions, similar to the baseline model in the Galaxy S24 series. The image quality is good but not flagship grade. 


Portrait photography is a strong area for this sensor, enhancing the overall camera performance. The 2x in-sensor zoom quality is comparable to optical image quality in well-lit conditions but falls short in low-light conditions. The ultra-wide-angle camera sensor is adequate but not quite on par with the main sensor. The 10MP in-display camera sensor, though not as impressive, does not detract from the overall imaging performance because the main dual-camera system can be used for front-facing shots. The 10MP sensor is more than capable for video conferencing and calls when necessary.


Performance and battery life


The Galaxy Z Flip 6 offers top-tier performance, a smooth interface, and a full day of battery life. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy system-on-chip, the phone excels in performance, thermals, and power efficiency. It is generally snappy to use, regardless of the task. Importantly, it delivers a daylong battery life, thanks to a 4,000 mAh battery. However, charging the battery is still time-consuming and remains one of the phone’s weaker aspects. Like other Samsung smartphones, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 does not come with a charging adaptor, but it ships with a two-sided USB Type-C cable.


Verdict


Clamshell-style foldable smartphones are inherently fun to use, and the Galaxy Z Flip 6 enhances this experience with software improvements that span communication, imaging, and productivity. These enhancements prove useful at work, during vacations, and in everyday situations. Although the Galaxy Z Flip 6 is on the expensive side, starting at Rs 109,999, it is worthy of consideration if the novel use cases enabled by its form factor fit your needs.


Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6: Specifications


  • Cover display: 3.4-inch, super AMOLED, 60Hz refresh rate, 720 X 748 resolution


  • Main Display: 6.7-inch FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz adaptive refresh rate (1 to 120Hz)


  • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy


  • RAM: 12GB


  • Storage: 256GB and 512GB


  • Rear camera: 50MP primary camera with OIS + 12MP ultra-wide


  • Front camera: 10MP selfie camera


  • Battery: 4,000mAh


  • Protection: IP48, Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2


Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6: Unboxing

First Published: Aug 09 2024 | 2:30 PM IST



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Now, Instagram lets you post a media carousel of up to 20 images and videos

Now, Instagram lets you post a media carousel of up to 20 images and videos

by | Aug 9, 2024 | Technology


2 min read Last Updated : Aug 09 2024 | 1:18 PM IST


Instagram has announced that a carousel post on the platform can now feature up to 20 pictures or videos. “Level up your photo dump game,” Meta-owned social media platform Instagram announced on its official channel. “Now you can add up to 20 pics or videos to a carousel,” the company said.


Previously, the social media platform only allowed for a maximum of 10 pictures or videos in a carousel. The carousel post function has received several new features since its introduction in 2017, including the ability to add songs to posts and posting in collaboration with other Instagram users. However, this is the first time the number of posts that can be added to it has increased.


The feature is currently rolling-out gradually to all users globally on both Android and iOS apps.


Last month, Instagram announced a new Multi-audio Tracks feature on Reels, which allowed users to add multiple audio tracks to their reels. With this feature, Instagram lets users add up to 20 tracks to a single reel and match audio with elements like text, stickers and clips while editing in the app. Once a user adds multiple tracks, they will also be creating a unique audio mix that will be attributed to them. This audio mix can be saved and reused by others on Instagram.


To add a new track to the reel, tap on the “Add to mix” option in the Reel editor. After adding the tracks, you can trim them to keep only the portion of audio that you require.

First Published: Aug 09 2024 | 1:18 PM IST



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Apple changes app store policy in EU after commission probe: Details here

Apple changes app store policy in EU after commission probe: Details here

by | Aug 9, 2024 | Technology


2 min read Last Updated : Aug 09 2024 | 12:36 PM IST


Apple on Thursday changed its policy in the European Union to allow developers to communicate with their customers outside its App Store after the commission charged the iPhone maker in June for breaching the bloc’s tech rules.


The Commission had said that under most of the business terms, Apple allows steering only through “link-outs”, meaning that app developers can include a link in their app that redirects the customer to a web page where the customer can conclude a contract.


Apple said developers will now be able to communicate and promote offers that are available anywhere, not just on their own website, from within their app.


However, Apple will introduce two new fees – an initial five per cent acquisition fee for new users and a 10 per cent store services fee for any sales made by app users on any platform within the 12 months of the app installation.


Currently, Apple charges three types of fees: a core technology fee for the less than one per cent of apps, a reduced commission for all digital goods and services sold through the App Store, and an optional fee for the payments and commerce services.


The two new fees will replace the reduced commission for all digital goods and services sold through the App Store.


Spotify, which has been at loggerheads with Apple over in-app links, said it was assessing Apple’s proposal.


“At first glance, by demanding as much as a 25 per cent fee for basic communication with users, Apple once again blatantly disregards the fundamental requirements of the Digital Markets Act,” a Spotify spokesperson said.


The Commission had earlier criticised the fees charged by Apple for facilitating via the App Store the initial acquisition of a new customer by developers, saying they went beyond what was strictly necessary for such remuneration.


“We will assess Apple’s eventual changes to the compliance measures, also taking into account any feedback from the market, notably developers,” a Commission official said.


The charge against Apple is the first by the Commission under its landmark Digital Markets Act which seeks to rein in the power of Big Tech and DMA violations could result in a fine of as much as 10% of a company’s global annual turnover.

First Published: Aug 09 2024 | 12:36 PM IST



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