Technology

Meta has backtracked on its previous announcement to shut down the VR version of its metaverse, Horizon Worlds. CTO Andrew Bosworth stated that the company will continue to support Horizon Worlds in VR for the foreseeable future, allowing existing users to access and download the app. This decision comes after Meta’s shift away from its metaverse ambitions towards AI development, despite recent layoffs in its metaverse division.

Food-tracking apps incorporating AI and computer vision technologies are becoming increasingly popular for helping users meet their caloric and nutrition intake goals. While these apps offer valuable benefits, such as personalized guidance, they also bring about concerns related to anxiety and mental health, as reported by users like Jaclyn Greenberg.

Amazon’s recent acquisition of Rivr, a startup specializing in autonomous robotics, is set to enhance the efficiency and safety of package deliveries. Rivr’s advanced robots with four legs and wheels can navigate stairs and uneven surfaces, paving the way for improved delivery experiences for consumers. The move reflects Amazon’s commitment to investing in research to enhance the overall delivery process for its service partners and associates.

NVIDIA’s unveiling of DLSS 5 at its GTC conference has stirred up a heated debate in the gaming community. The new AI upscaling technology promises ‘photorealistic’ graphics, but gamers are expressing dissatisfaction with the changes from previous versions. This development could have significant implications for NVIDIA’s market position and future sales.

Senator Marsha Blackburn has introduced a discussion draft for a national policy framework for artificial intelligence, aiming to protect children, creators, conservatives, and communities. The bill includes provisions for AI safety, copyright infringement, online platform safeguards for minors, transparency guidelines for AI-generated content, and reporting on AI-related job effects. The proposal also targets ending Section 230, which could impact liability for AI companies. The framework is subject to negotiation and may undergo changes before becoming law.

Google announced that Fitbit’s AI health coach will soon have the capability to read users’ medical records, following in the footsteps of competitors like Amazon, OpenAI, and Microsoft. This move raises questions about privacy and data security as users may be asked to share sensitive information with a virtual trainer.

Amazon’s Alexa+ has entered its Early Access program in the UK, providing users with a smarter and more conversational voice assistant that understands British slang and cultural nuances. With enhanced agentic capabilities and partnerships with UK-based services, Alexa+ aims to offer a tailored experience for British customers, setting it apart as the most popular voice assistant in the UK.

Sony’s latest firmware update for the PlayStation Portal handheld brings a new quality option that allows users to stream games at a higher bitrate. With the 1080p High Quality mode, players can enjoy improved graphics and smoother gameplay, enhancing their overall gaming experience. Additionally, the update includes refinements to the Cloud Streaming feature and streamlines the search screen for easier navigation.

Apple and Nike join forces once again to introduce a new color option for Beats’ fitness-oriented earphones, the Powerbeats Pro 2 – Nike Special Edition. This collaboration showcases a trend in the industry of tech companies partnering with fitness brands to create innovative products that combine performance, culture, and sports attributes. The new colorway features Nike’s signature ‘Volt’ palette and includes heart-rate tracking, ANC, and Spatial Audio, offering a unique blend of style and functionality for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. The limited-edition variant will be available for purchase on Apple’s and Nike’s websites starting March 20.

A new iPhone-hacking tool named DarkSword, utilized by Russian hackers, has been found to exploit a critical vulnerability in iOS 18. This powerful technique can compromise devices through infected websites, posing a significant security concern for iPhone users worldwide.