Tech Bytes of the Week — 23rd Nov
Welcome to this week’s roundup of emerging trends in consumer technology, with a spotlight on the pivotal role of AI. Here are my top five picks:
- Perplexity Enters the AI Shopping Race:
Perplexity AI has introduced new shopping features, including product recommendation cards and a “Snap to Shop” visual search tool integrated with Shopify for relevant global product data. The startup, supported by Jeff Bezos and Nvidia, also launched a Merchant Program for retailers to share product details. These tools aim to compete with Google’s dominance and OpenAI’s recent expansion into search features. Currently valued at $9 billion, Perplexity’s enhancements focus on improving user shopping experiences and driving e-commerce growth.
2. Microsoft’s AI Evolution, Enhancing Productivity with Copilot and Custom Infrastructure:
Microsoft is enhancing its Copilot AI features across applications like PowerPoint and Outlook to improve productivity. The updates allow Copilot to suggest design options in PowerPoint by analyzing content and design trends, while in Outlook, it streamlines email composition and management. These enhancements aim to accelerate everyday tasks and strengthen collaboration, reflecting Microsoft’s commitment to integrating AI into its Office suite for better user support.
In addition, Microsoft has introduced two custom infrastructure chips, “Aquila” and “Cobalt,” to boost AI application performance in data centers. These chips are designed to optimize workloads and reduce dependency on third-party hardware, aligning with the tech industry’s shift towards specialized hardware for AI and machine learning. However, concerns arise about Copilot fostering an AI-driven work environment that could undermine human creativity and collaboration, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to technology integration in corporate workflows.
3. Nvidia is helping Google in quantum computing:
Nvidia is partnering with Google’s Quantum AI team to enhance the design of quantum processors through advanced simulations. Utilizing Nvidia’s Eos supercomputer, they aim to simulate the physical properties of quantum devices, which is crucial for developing more efficient and scalable quantum computing solutions. The collaboration addresses the complex challenges posed by quantum noise, which hinders the extraction of useful information from quantum computations. By leveraging Nvidia’s computational power, the project seeks to streamline the design process and hasten advancements in quantum technology, moving closer to practical applications.
4. AI Innovative Coca-Cola’s Ad Drives Controversies:
Coca-Cola’s innovative use of AI to reimagine its iconic holiday commercial featuring the “Coca-Cola Polar Bears.” Coca-Cola collaborated with animation and AI technology experts to modernize the beloved classic while retaining its nostalgic elements. The company employed generative AI to enhance storytelling, enabling the characters to interact in new ways and engage a younger audience. This approach not only revitalizes the brand’s holiday messaging but also reflects broader trends in marketing. On the other hand, it’s getting a lot of backlash — viewers criticized the ad for lacking authenticity and warmth, questioning the use of artificial intelligence in a context traditionally associated with human emotion and connection. I liked the AD; it’s not a Masterpiece, but what’s wrong if they want to use AI to save on advertising costs? Are we in a different era of productivity and efficiency?
5. Google may have to sell off Chrome — but who could buy it?
DOJ is urging a federal court to separate Google Chrome from Google, arguing that Chrome’s integration with Google’s ecosystem stifles competition in the web browser market. The DOJ claims this separation is crucial for fostering a more competitive landscape, while the agency does not believe Android requires a similar split. The concerns center around how Chrome leverages Google’s vast resources and influence, potentially undermining rival browser options. This legal push reflects ongoing scrutiny of Google’s practices and their impact on market competition. If Google has to sell Chrome, who should be the right buyer — OpenAI, Perplexity, or anyone else?
