Last Week in AI
Hey everyone, it’s been a bit of a slow week in AI, but there’s still some cool stuff to talk about. One highlight is the Midjourney version 6 update, which is really pushing the boundaries of AI in image generation. Let’s dive into some key developments, from Apple’s iPhone AI innovations to Google Pixel’s ‘Hold for Me’, H&R Block’s AI chatbot, and of course, the Midjourney update. Each of these shows how AI is becoming an even bigger part of our daily lives.
Apple
Alright, let’s dive into Apple’s latest AI move with “LLM in a Flash.” They’re bringing big AI models, known as LLMs, straight to iPhones, which is a pretty big deal in the AI and tech world.
Here are the three key takeaways:
- AI Goes Mobile: Apple’s integrating large AI models into iPhones, making smart tech even smarter.
- Privacy and Speed: This approach means your data stays on your phone, offering quick AI responses without relying on the internet.
- Setting Trends: Apple’s strategy could start a new trend in smartphone tech, with AI becoming a core feature.
Why’s this important? Well, it means we get faster, on-device AI help without compromising privacy. Plus, Apple’s move might just reshape how we all use our smartphones in the future. Here is more AI stuff Apple’s working on for 2024! 🍏✨
Google Pixel’s “Hold for Me” feature is a game-changer for handling phone calls, especially those lengthy hold times on toll-free numbers. Available in the US, Australia, and Canada for Pixel 3 and newer models, it’s an AI-driven assistant that waits on hold for you.
Key points:
- Smart Call Handling: The AI listens to your call and notifies you when a real person returns to the line.
- Easy to Use: Just activate it in the Phone by Google app. Plus, it offers live captions so you can see updates like queue status.
- Part of a Bigger Picture: It’s part of Google Pixel’s suite of call assist features, adding extra value to your Pixel experience.
The significance? “Hold for Me” frees you from being stuck to your phone while waiting. It’s an exclusive Pixel feature, making it a standout reason to choose or love Google’s phones. It’s like having a personal assistant who handles the waiting, so you can focus on other things. Here’s how it works. 📱✨
For more Google AI related updates, check out Google’s Bard Meets Gemini.
H&R Block
H&R Block has introduced AI Tax Assist, a smart AI chatbot, to their paid DIY tax software. It’s designed to make tax filing simpler and more efficient.
Key Points:
- Tax Help at Your Fingertips: The chatbot answers tax-related questions, functioning like a digital tax expert.
- Human Expert Backup: It connects users to human tax experts for more personalized advice, blending AI convenience with human expertise.
- Reliable and Safe: Trained on H&R Block’s extensive tax law library, it offers trusted advice, with a team monitoring its accuracy.
The significance? This launch signifies a big move in digital tax prep, offering a blend of AI efficiency and human accuracy. It’s part of a growing trend, as seen with Intuit’s TurboTax also adopting AI. With such innovations, managing taxes could become much less daunting for many. 🤖💼📈
Midjourney
Midjourney’s release of version 6 marks a notable advancement in AI-powered image generation. This new version brings enhanced realism and the ability to generate legible text within images, alongside a fresh prompting method.
Key Points:
- Improved Realism: V6 steps up the game in creating more lifelike and high-quality images.
- Text Generation: A standout feature is its capacity to include readable text in images, expanding its creative possibilities.
- New Prompting Method: Users can explore different styles and approaches with an innovative way to guide the AI’s image creation.
While currently in the alpha stage and requiring specific commands to activate, V6’s release is significant in the AI art world. Despite missing some features from its predecessor (which will be added in future updates), it’s seen as a major leap forward, even amidst growing competition and legal challenges in the AI art space. 🎨🤖💻
Final Thoughts
In wrapping up, remember, even in a slow week, AI continues to evolve and surprise us, like with the impressive Midjourney V6. I hope this roundup gives you a good glimpse into the exciting world of AI. Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and happy holidays! Stay tuned for more AI updates, and keep exploring this amazing tech world. 🎄✨🤖
