Here’s a glimpse of Gemini in Google Messages

andreasc
-
0
Here’s a glimpse of Gemini in Google Messages
[ad_1]

It’s no little-known fact that Google is set to introduce Gemini into the entire Android ecosystem. One way it plans to do this is by implementing Gemini into core Google Apps, and Google Messages is one of the first apps up. Thanks to some sleuth work by AssembleDebug, we finally got a glimpse of Google’s vision for an AI-integrated messaging service.

Right now, this is still in the developmental stage, so there could be some major changes between now and the official launch. Also, we’re not sure if all of the features showcased will make it to the final product. So, you’re going to want to take this news cautiously.

Here is a glimpse at Gemini integrated into Google Messages

AssembleDebug was able to get a glimpse at several of the features that Gemini will bring to Google Messages. You will be able to access Gemini in a separate conversation. This is similar to Snapchat’s My AI. Using it will be just like using any other chatbot; you will type your query into the text field, press send, and wait for a text message-style response. However, this will differ from a regular chatbot because many of the responses will be tailored to text message conversations.

Maps integration

Looking at the screenshots below, we see Gemini generating several forms of responses. For example, in the first screenshot, we simply see the text “Find something nearby.” Under that, we see that Gemini was able to tap Google Maps to find nearby locations. It showed a list of nearby locations. What’s neat about this is the fact that each entry shows the name, a link to that location (we don’t know if it’s leading to that location’s website or if it’s leading to that location’s Google Maps profile), star rating, and hours of business.

Code generation

In the next screenshot, we see an example of the chatbot generating code. It generated a bash script to list files in Foldee. Under the code, we see an explanation. This shows Google’s commitment to helping AI users with their coding rather than just spitting out the code.

Emoji reactions

For the third screenshot, we see two things. Firstly, we see that it’s able to generate images within chat. So, you will be able to download these images from the conversation. Next, if you look at the top message in the same screenshot, we see Gemini reacting to an emoji with the text “Thanks for the thumbs-up”. That might not be the most useful feature, but it’s still a nice touch.

The last screenshot shows that Gemini in Google Messages will not be able to process uploaded images just yet. So, we are going to have to wait for that functionality.

Other things to note

One important thing to know about this feature is the fact that there’s a possible security risk. Using Gemini in Google Messages means that conversations will not be encrypted. So, there’s a slight chance that the messages you send to Gemini will be vulnerable.

In terms of availability, the news is a little bit disappointing. Currently, Google is testing this in the latest version of Google Messages (version messages.android_20240318_00_RC00.phone.openbeta_dynamic). So, if you’re not signed up for the Google Messages beta, then you will not be able to access the feature. Even if you currently have the beta, it still took tinkering and messing around with the software to activate Gemini in Google Messages.

Google said that it will start rolling out this feature to the beta version of the app, but the list of eligible devices is pretty limited. In order to use this feature, at least initially, you need to have a Pixel 6 or newer, Pixel Fold, Galaxy S22 or newer, or a Galaxy Z Flip/Fold or newer. We don’t know when Google plans on bringing this feature to more devices.


[ad_2]
Source link

Teachers fear that TikTok ban will hurt education in US

andreasc
-
0
Teachers fear that TikTok ban will hurt education in US
[ad_1]

Fearful TikTok creators are concerned about the potential ban of the popular short-content platform. One of the concerns expressed by people is the loss of learning opportunities for children. With the platform deemed a national security threat by the US government, TikTok’s parent company ByteDance, will soon face a ban, unless it chooses to sell the platform to an American entity.

Teachers say that children will lose countless learning opportunities if there’s no TikTok

Several TikTokers have voiced fears about a ban in a Reuters article headlined “Content creators worry about miseducation in a world without TikTok”. One public school teacher from a rural Southern town saw her TikTok following skyrocket as she used the platform to teach grammar lessons to her students. Like so many others, the ban might cripple all her educational endeavors now that they have over 5.8 million followers.

Dr. Youn, who has 8.4 million followers on TikTok, uses his page to educate people and share some insights with them. He underscores how important it is to have access to this social application for news purposes, especially for youngsters. A different user who has up to 1M followers targets issues like Transgenderism and Body Image through Tiktok, teaching kids during their formative years.

However, Karen North from the University of Southern California is worried about privacy hazards on TikTok. Although it is useful as an educational tool, she cautions against voluntarily providing personal information to a platform that may not abide by the United States’ privacy regulations.

The uncertainty about TikTok’s future in the US is making educators anxious

The potential prohibition of TikTok makes one wonder what the future holds for social media and freedom of expression in general. The creators are concerned about the effects of banning TikTok or selling it to a US-based company on educational content and information access. The uncertainty surrounding the future of TikTok raises broader questions about digital platforms and individual freedoms.

As TikTok nears its climax in the US, its worth as an education tool is under discussion by creators and teachers alike. These talks will not only determine what will happen to TikTok but also shape online learning and information flow for years to come.


[ad_2]
Source link

Samsung bags a massive $752 million AI chip order from Naver

andreasc
-
0
Samsung bags a massive $752 million AI chip order from Naver
[ad_1]

Samsung has dominated the AI chip market, securing an order valued at $752M for its Mach-1 AI accelerator chip production. This move shows how ambitious the Korean tech giant is to disrupt NVIDIA’s stronghold on the AI accelerator segment and be a key player in the industry.

Samsung steals $752M order from NVIDIA, producing AI accelerator chips for Naver

Mach-1 is an in-house AI accelerator chip that Samsung has released. It has attracted attention with its superior performance compared to those of NVIDIA. Naver Corp has contracted to buy about $752 million worth of Mach-1 chips from Samsung. In partnering with Samsung, Naver seeks a way to relieve itself of NVIDIA’s dependency as the demand for alternatives continues growing in the semiconductors market.

This decision reflects a wider trend within the industry towards dual sourcing as companies look to avoid risks associated with dependence on only one supplier. Competitive pricing and innovative technology have made Samsung an attractive option compared to NVIDIA for AI accelerator solutions.

According to DigiTimes Asia, the negotiations might finalize with Mach-1 priced at around $3,756 per unit while Naver plans on purchasing between 150,000 and 200,000 units. This partnership will not only solidify Samsung’s presence in the AI-chip market but also open up opportunities for collaborations with other tech giants.

Samsung might also partner with major players in the USA

Samsung is considering expansion into America by talking with major players like Microsoft and Meta. By leveraging the momentum gained from the Mach-1 deal, Samsung intends to secure more partnerships with leading tech organizations, cementing its position as a prominent participant within the AI accelerator space.

NVIDIA’s AI accelerator card suffers from data bottlenecks due to general-purpose processors and high-power DRAM chips. Meanwhile, Mach-1 comes with proprietary processors and low-powered DRAM chips that result in fewer data bottlenecks thus improving power efficiency. Moreover, this chip is much cheaper than NVIDIA’s solution, which makes it attractive for those companies looking for cost-effective AI.

Samsung is seeing more success within the AI chip market and therefore stiff competition between players in this space seems imminent. With its inventive know-how, advanced technology, and strategic partnerships, Samsung can challenge NVIDIA’s supremacy in the segment and reshape the AI accelerator industry.


[ad_2]
Source link

Google backports new Fitbit Workout UI to first-gen Pixel Watch

andreasc
-
0
Google backports new Fitbit Workout UI to first-gen Pixel Watch
[ad_1]

Early adopters of the first-gen Google Pixel Watch are being treated with the March Feature Drop which includes the new Fitbit Workout UI. These new features make it easy for wearers to gain valuable insights about their vitals with just a glance.

The first-generation Pixel Watch will now get access to the same Fitbit Workout UI that Google introduced in the smartwatch’s second generation. The March Feature Drop, announced earlier this month for the Pixel smartphone and smartwatch series, is now being rolled out.

What new features does the March Feature Drop have for Pixel smartwatches?

The March Feature Drop revamps the original Google Pixel smartwatch and brings it in line with the newer models. Simply put, the first-gen Pixel Watch is getting the new Fitbit Workout UI.

The original User Interface (UI) had multiple stats cramped into two rows on the same face. The new UI offers a semi-circular ring for heart rate zones, which is way more visually appealing.

The new UI has key stats in a list that users can access by swiping up or down. Even though four stats appear on the first page and three on the second, this is way more informative at a glance compared to the old UI.

The Fitbit Workout UI now reveals other metrics when users swipe right and to the left like exercise controls. Additionally, Google has changed the shape of the Lock, End, and Pause buttons. While they were circular, the new UI has pill-shaped buttons. As the controls are effectively larger, it is now easier to tap them while working out.

The update includes the much-needed Auto Workout Mode, which promises to detect running, walking, elliptical, spinning, outdoor bike, treadmill, or rowing quickly and reliably. Curiously, the Fitbit Relax app for breathing exercises is missing in the update. Still, Google is offering Pace Training and Heart Zone Training.

Google had already unlocked the ability to obtain public transit directions in Maps on Pixel Watch via a recent Wear OS update.

How to install the latest Google Pixel Watch March Feature Drop update?

Google is rolling out the Fitbit Workout UI through the Fitbit app, which is now on version 3.19. First-gen Pixel Watch owners will have to first update their Fitbit app from the Play Store.

Just got new Fitbit Exercise UI on PW1
byu/Working-March inPixelWatch

There have been some complaints about the new features not working on the original Pixel Watch. Some users have indicated that the latest update demands a full reboot. It is possible that the smartwatch needs a complete power cycle to better synchronize its sensors with the new software.


[ad_2]
Source link

GPT-5 might launch this summer

andreasc
-
0
GPT-5 might launch this summer
[ad_1]

Individuals and businesses alike are enjoying using OpenAI’s GPT-4 Turbo model. However, as powerful as it is, we can’t help but look toward the future, and the future may be upon us sooner than we expected. According to a new report, GPT-5, if the company decides to call it that, may launch this summer.

In a recent interview with Lex Fridman, OpenAI CEO, Sam Altman, said that the company is going to release “an amazing new model” this year. Since GPT-4 is out and about, the logical next step will be GPT-5. However, neither Sam nor any other OpenAI employee officially stated that. So, this is still speculative.

GPT-5 may arrive this summer

Right now, information on GPT-5 is extremely scarce. So, we have no idea how much more powerful than GPT-4 it will be. In fact, we don’t even know if the company is planning on calling it GPT-5. We don’t have a solid idea of the company’s naming scheme for its models just yet. ChatGPT was introduced to the public with GPT-3.5, and that hints that the company could adopt a main and .5 naming scheme. However, with a GPT-4, the company introduced a Turbo version. So, this new model’s name will remain a mystery until the company launches it, most likely.

Since summer is only a few months away, we are certain to get some leaks or rumors as to what GPT-5 will bring to the table. Meanwhile, we can expect improvements in reasoning, contextual understanding, accuracy, speed, etc. That information has not been officially revealed, but those seem like the likely suspects. One source close to the matter said that GPT 5 will be “materially better” than GPT-4. Hopefully, that’s the case, as it’d be rather weird if it was worse.

With the launch of GPT-5, one can only wonder what sort of multimodal capabilities will come with it. GPT-4 is able to tap DALL-E to generate images. Well, with Sora set to hit the public at some point in the near future, we wonder if there’s a chance that GPT-5 will be able to generate videos through Sora integration.

In any case, we will all have to wait for that information to be revealed. If GPT-5 is going to come in the summer, then we’ll be waiting until late September at the very latest. So, those of us who are excited about this will just have to be patient.


[ad_2]
Source link

Here are the best Android 15 DP2 features

andreasc
-
0
Here are the best Android 15 DP2 features
[ad_1]

It’s that time of year again when we start to get a glimpse of the features coming with the latest greatest version of Android. This time around, we’re looking at Android 15. Codenamed “Vanilla Ice Cream,” Android 15 is in the developer preview stage at the moment. Well, the Android 15 DP2 recently launched, and here’s a rundown of some of its best features that we found so far.

Right now, Android 15 is in the very early testing stage called the developer preview. So, it’s not widely available to the public yet. If you want to try out the developer preview, you will have to download the image file and manually flash it to your eligible Pixel device. However, doing so requires some technical know-how. If you’re not quite tech-savvy, then you will just need to wait for it to hit the public.

Also, if you do manage to flash it to your device, just know that it will most likely be very unstable, as it’s still in production. So, it’s recommended that you do not use this on your work device.

Here are the best newly discovered features in the Android 15 DP2

At this point, we are still learning about these features, so there’s a chance that new features will be discovered after this piece was written. So, be sure to check back for further updates.

High-quality mode for the webcam feature

On Android 14, Google released the webcam feature. It allows you to plug your phone into your computer and use it as a webcam. This is a pretty great feature because smartphone cameras are rather high quality. However, the quality of the actual webcam footage is really poor.

However, for any Android 15 DP2, it appears that Google has added a high-quality mode. So, when you’re using your phone as a webcam, your phone will be able to output better footage.

App archiving

This is a feature that Google had for a while, but it wasn’t quite ideal. Users were able to archive apps through the Google Play Store. Archiving an app means that you save the app data to the cloud and delete it from your system. Then, the only thing left on your device is the app icon and a heavily stripped-down version of the app. This is a method of saving space on a phone.

The issue with this method was that app archiving was done through the Google Play Store, which meant that, if you got an app from a third-party store, you would not be able to archive it.

However, the Android 15 DP2 makes app archiving a native Android function. So, you’ll be able to archive your apps no matter what app store you use. We’re not sure if Google is going to restrict app archiving from side-loaded apps, because the company does not like it when people side-load apps. So, we will have to see.

Audio sharing

This is a feature that we wanted for many years, the ability to stream audio between two devices at the same time. Say, if you want to use the same phone to play a song on two pairs of headphones, that’s a possibility.

Android 15 could bring the Audio Sharing feature. According to the reports, the Audio Sharing feature will live in the Connected Devices section in the settings. Right now, we’re not entirely sure how this function is going to work. However, it will allow you to use your phone to transmit audio to several pairs of compatible headphones.

Information for this feature is very scarce at the moment. The only option we see on the settings page is the “Play a test sound” option. This will play a short ringtone across all the connected devices to make sure that the feature is properly working. Other than that, we don’t have much to go on. We don’t know how many pairs of headphones people will be able to cast to when this feature comes out.

Frame rate unlocking

Right now, it’s pretty standard for flagship smartphones to come out with 120Hz displays. Heck, several sub-$300 phones come with 120Hz displays. This is why a handful of games actually run at 120FPS. However, most people don’t know this because Android automatically limits games to 60FPS. So, if you want to experience your games at their full potential, you have to manually go into the game and change the graphic settings.

Well, according to a new report, it appears that this is going to be a possibility. If you’re a gamer, this would be one of your favorite Android 15 DP2 Features. It appears that Android will unlock the 60FPS limit imposed on the games.

There are a few things to note about this feature. Firstly, this is only eliminating the native 60FPS limit that Android puts on games. It will not push your game to a higher frame rate. So, if the game was designed to run at 60FPS, then it will run at 60FPS when the limit is off.

Next, this is a developer function. This means that it’s mostly for developers to test running their games at higher frame rates. So, the feature might not be visible in the regular system settings. When Android 15 officially launches, and it has this feature, then you may have to access it by enabling the developer options.

The Android 15 beta is coming

As of the time of writing this article, Android 15 will not be hitting the beta testing phase until next month. So, if you are excited about trying these features, and you don’t want to risk flashing the image file to your phone, then you may want to wait for the beta to launch.

If you need help signing up for the beta, you can start by going to the official Android beta page.


[ad_2]
Source link

Flawed data, lack of trust hinders AI integration in retail industry

andreasc
-
0
Flawed data, lack of trust hinders AI integration in retail industry
[ad_1]

A new study from Salesforce and Retail AI Council, which involved 1,400 retail industry decision-makers, indicated a significant difference between the enthusiasm for artificial intelligence and its real-world implementation. The report shows less than favoring results for AI in retail, warning about the trust gap and inaccuracy of AI-driven insights.

Flawed data strategies and trust issues are the main reasons for AI’s slow progress in the retail industry

The report also highlights that generative AI will shape the future of retail with an estimated $9.2 trillion impact by 2029. However, there is still skepticism among consumers regarding these technologies. Within the study, just 13% of the decision-makers showed confidence in ethical AI usage while 63% expressed concern about potential biases in AI-generated results.

“The AI revolution is about data, trust, and customer experience. Looking at AI in isolation, without understanding these elements as a package, will hurt a retailer’s ability to build loyalty and improve customer relationships,” Rob Garf said. He further stated “If you look at AI as an individual element without looking at them as all part of one package… it’s very difficult to be a great retailer moving forward.”

Presently, 93% of retailers are leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) technology to personalize their customers’ experiences such as creating personalized emails or recommending products for sale.

Data cleaning, ethical AI usage, and data harmonization challenges are issues that need resolving

However, most companies are still in the nascent stages of preparing data for effective use by AI systems, according to the survey. Only 17% claim to have a complete view of customer data while challenges related to data cleaning (39%) and harmonization (42%) persist.

As such, filling the gap between strong data strategies and transparent AI usage within ethical frameworks becomes crucial for all retailers incorporating artificial intelligence into their operations. If AI service providers manage to resolve these issues, only then will the organizations realize the transformative powers brought about by this technology. Within their respective industries, AI will unlock multitrillion-dollar opportunities across different retail channels.


[ad_2]
Source link

WhatsApp update adds the ability to pin multiple messages

andreasc
-
0
WhatsApp update adds the ability to pin multiple messages
[ad_1]

WhatsApp has been testing lots of new features in the last couple of months. One of these features that was first spotted in a beta version of the app was the ability to pin multiple messages to a chat.

In fact, we reported about this specific feature a week ago, so it’s a bit surprising that it took WhatsApp such a short time to make it available to everyone.

With the latest version of WhatsApp, users can pin up to three messages per chat (groups or individual conversations). Here is how the process of pinning multiple messages looks like:
  • Open a WhatsApp conversation
  • Long press on the message
  • Select “Pin” from the context menu
  • Choose the duration of the pinned message

According to WhatsApp, its users can pin messages for 24 hours, 7 days, or 30 days. Additionally, group chat admins have the ability to choose if all members can pin a message or just admins.It’s important to mention that all pinned messages remain secured thanks to WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption, so you don’t have to worry about privacy. Keep in mind that this update is rolled out in waves, so it might take a few days to pop up for everyone.

[ad_2]
Source link

Unsaflok Vulnerability Lets Hackers Open 3M+ Hotel Doors

andreasc
-
0
Unsaflok Vulnerability Lets Hackers Open 3M+ Hotel Doors
[ad_1]

A group of cybersecurity researchers has uncovered several critical security flaws in the Saflok electronic RFID locks by Dormakaba.

These locks, widely used in hotels and multi-family housing environments across 131 countries, are now known to be susceptible to a vulnerability dubbed “Unsaflok.”

This flaw could allow attackers to gain unauthorized access to over three million hotel rooms worldwide using a pair of forged keycards.

Impact on Hotel Security

The discovery of the Unsaflok vulnerability has raised significant concerns about the security measures at hotels and residential buildings.

Document

Free Webinar : Mitigating Vulnerability & 0-day Threats

Alert Fatigue that helps no one as security teams need to triage 100s of vulnerabilities.:

  • The problem of vulnerability fatigue today
  • Difference between CVSS-specific vulnerability vs risk-based vulnerability
  • Evaluating vulnerabilities based on the business impact/risk
  • Automation to reduce alert fatigue and enhance security posture significantly

AcuRisQ, which helps you to quantify risk accurately:

The affected locks are part of the Saflok system, including popular models like Saflok MT, Quantum Series, RT Series, Saffire Series, and Confidant Series.

These systems are integral to the security infrastructure of over 13,000 properties globally, highlighting the widespread impact of this vulnerability.

Saflok MT and Saflok RT Plus LocksImage: Saflok MT and Saflok RT Plus are the most common models of impacted locks.

Vulnerability Details

Researchers, including Lennert Wouters, Ian Carroll, rqu, BusesCanFly, Sam Curry, sshell, and Will Caruana, identified the vulnerabilities.

Their investigation revealed that by exploiting these weaknesses, an attacker could create a pair of forged keycards that would unlock any room in a hotel, bypassing traditional security measures such as deadbolts, which can be retracted from software.

Upon discovering the vulnerabilities in September 2022, the researchers promptly reported their findings to Dormakaba.

The company began working on a fix and initiated the process of upgrading the affected locks in November 2023. As of March 2024, approximately 36% of the impacted locks have been updated or replaced.

However, the upgrade process is extensive, requiring software updates or replacements for all locks, re-issuance of all keycards, and upgrades to front desk software, card encoders, and third-party integrations.

The ease with which an attacker can exploit the Unsaflok vulnerability is particularly alarming.

With just one keycard from the property, which could even be an expired keycard from the express checkout collection box, an attacker can create forged keycards capable of opening any door in the property.

Tools such as the Proxmark3, Flipper Zero, or an NFC-capable Android phone can read, write, or emulate MIFARE Classic cards, facilitating the attack.

Disclosure Timeline

The timeline of the disclosure process underscores the complexity and sensitivity of addressing such a widespread security issue.

From the initial discovery in August 2022 to the coordinated disclosure of the vulnerability’s high-level details in March 2024, the researchers and dormakaba engaged in at least 13 meetings to discuss and address the vulnerabilities.

Stay updated on Cybersecurity news, Whitepapers, and Infographics. Follow us on LinkedIn & Twitter.


[ad_2]
Source link

Instagram and Threads users are automatically getting logged out of their accounts

andreasc
-
0
Instagram and Threads users are automatically getting logged out of their accounts
[ad_1]

Logging into social media accounts repeatedly can be a pain, which is why every social media application and website gives users the option to stay logged in. However, according to recent reports, several Instagram users and the ever-increasing number of Threads users are automatically getting logged out of their accounts.

Interestingly, these reports surfaced hours after Instagram went down for many users. The timing indicates that the problem might be related to the previous outage. Meta owns Instagram and Threads, so users wonder if there are ongoing internal problems within the company.

Instagram and Threads logging users out

According to several reports, Instagram and Threads users are automatically finding themselves logged out of their accounts. While some can get back in by simply entering their login credentials, others reportedly get the “logged in on another device” error. Thanks to this issue, users who use the direct messaging function to communicate with others, especially while abroad, are struggling to do so.

Interestingly, this isn’t the only issue users are facing. One user stated that his Instagram account got disabled “for community guidelines.” The kicker is that the user apparently hadn’t posted anything for two weeks. Additionally, all of the account’s content was about cars. Therefore, the account disabling might be an error on Instagram’s part due to ongoing internal issues.

Unfortunately, Meta has yet to comment on or even acknowledge the bug. So many users utilize Instagram and Threads daily. Therefore, the unannounced and seemingly randomly emerging issues might push some people to seek alternatives.

A constant trend of outages

March 2024 has been full of internal issues for Meta and its social media platforms. Earlier in the month, all Meta services faced a simultaneous outage, resulting in Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and Threads being offline for hours. However, Meta quickly made a statement on its newest social media platform, Threads, saying the following.

“Earlier today, a technical issue caused people to have difficulty accessing some of our services. We resolved the issue as quickly as possible and we apologise for any inconvenience.”

The technical issue isn’t exclusive to Meta, as Google services reportedly faced outages shortly after. Services like Gmail and YouTube were down due to the outage, resulting in global unrest.

Instagram experienced downtime just hours before the issue of Instagram and Threads users getting logged out of their accounts automatically started. Users worldwide reported that the social media platform was inaccessible. Of course, this was before those affected started making memes out of the situation on rival platform X.


[ad_2]
Source link
1...293294295...1,480Page 294 of 1,480