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Tech Companies Expand AI Features and Face Scrutiny Over Data Privacy
Several tech companies are making advancements in artificial intelligence and user experience, while also facing challenges related to data privacy and subscription models. Google agreed to pay $68 million to settle claims that its voice assistant illegally spied on users, according to Reuters, as reported by TechCrunch. Meanwhile, Google Photos is rolling out an update that allows users to describe how to transform images into video using text prompts, The Verge reported. In other news, Microsoft is testing a redesigned web experience for Xbox Cloud Gaming, and Meta is planning to trial premium subscriptions for Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, potentially putting some AI capabilities behind a paywall, according to The Verge. Additionally, Strava and Komoot are now offering offline maps on Apple Watch, The Verge also reported.
The Google settlement, which did not admit wrongdoing, addressed a class-action lawsuit accusing the company of "unlawful and intentional interception and recording of individuals confidential communications without their consent," TechCrunch reported. The suit alleged that Google Assistant activated and recorded users' communications even without intentional prompts, and that information from these recordings was wrongly transmitted to third parties for targeted advertising, according to Reuters.
On the innovation front, Google Photos users now have more control over the app's generative AI photo-to-video feature. "Google Photos now supports text prompts for video generation," The Verge stated, allowing users to describe the specific video transformation they desire. This update expands beyond the previously limited preset editing suggestions.
Microsoft's refreshed web experience for Xbox Cloud Gaming, currently available to Xbox Insiders, includes updated navigation features, new animations, and a redesigned interface. According to The Verge, Microsoft says the new Xbox Cloud UI is the foundation for new Xbox experiences and "feels like a teaser of whats to come for Xbox consoles in the years ahead."
Meta is preparing to test premium subscriptions for Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp in the coming months. These subscriptions will grant users access to expanded AI capabilities and additional features. According to The Verge, "Some new and existing AI capabilities may be put behind a paywall." Instagram's premium subscription may include unlimited audience lists and the ability to see which accounts you follow that aren't following you back.
Finally, Strava and Komoot, popular apps for cyclists, hikers, and runners, have introduced offline maps to Apple Watch. This update addresses a long-standing frustration for users. Komoot's app provides turn-by-turn navigation and doesn't require a subscription, The Verge reported.
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