Innovation and Technology

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Check Out Microsoft’s New AI App for Android and iOS: It’s Like ChatGPT for Your Phone!

Big news from Microsoft: they’ve just rolled out a rebranded-new app called Copilot for both Android and iOS users. It’s like having a mini ChatGPT right on your phone. Here’s the lowdown on what this app’s all about:

  1. Easy Access to AI-Powered Features:
    • Microsoft’s Copilot app brings AI directly to your Android and iOS devices.
    • It simplifies access to advanced AI capabilities, no longer requiring the Bing mobile app.
  2. A Suite of Smart Tools:
    • The app is packed with features like an intuitive chatbot, image generation through DALL-E 3, and text drafting for emails and documents.
    • It harnesses the power of OpenAI’s latest GPT-4 model, offering cutting-edge AI technology for free.
  3. A Standalone AI Experience:
    • Designed to be a standalone service, the Copilot app provides a unique experience akin to ChatGPT.
    • It operates with its dedicated domain, making it a focused and efficient tool.
Image credit: Microsoft

So, there you have it – Microsoft’s Copilot app is here to make your life easier with some serious AI power. If you’re on Android, give it a whirl and see how it changes your game. Stay tuned for any news on an iOS version!

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Midjourney Version 6 Enhances AI Image Generation

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:

  1. AI Goes Mobile: Apple’s integrating large AI models into iPhones, making smart tech even smarter.
  2. Privacy and Speed: This approach means your data stays on your phone, offering quick AI responses without relying on the internet.
  3. 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

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:

  1. Smart Call Handling: The AI listens to your call and notifies you when a real person returns to the line.
  2. 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.
  3. 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:

  1. Tax Help at Your Fingertips: The chatbot answers tax-related questions, functioning like a digital tax expert.
  2. Human Expert Backup: It connects users to human tax experts for more personalized advice, blending AI convenience with human expertise.
  3. 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:

  1. Improved Realism: V6 steps up the game in creating more lifelike and high-quality images.
  2. Text Generation: A standout feature is its capacity to include readable text in images, expanding its creative possibilities.
  3. 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. 🎄✨🤖

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Stunningly realistic AI-generated image by Midjourney V6

Midjourney’s Latest Version 6 Update

Midjourney’s newest update, Version 6 (alpha) is creating quite a buzz in the AI image generation scene. Let’s dive into what makes V6 the talk of the town.

Meet Midjourney V6: A New Era of AI Art

Sharper, More Realistic Images: V6 isn’t just an update; it’s a game-changer. It brings to the table enhanced realism in image generation. We’re talking about visuals that blur the lines between AI art and reality.

Text Generation Game Strong: Ever wanted legible text in your AI-generated images? Well, V6 heard you. This feature adds a new layer of creativity, opening doors for more intricate and meaningful artwork.

New Prompting Method: Midjourney knows one size doesn’t fit all. That’s why V6 introduces a fresh way to prompt the AI, giving artists more control and flexibility in their creations.

Navigating V6: The Alpha Adventure

How to Access: V6 still wears its ‘alpha’ badge, which means it’s a work in progress. To get your hands on it, you’ll need to use specific commands. It’s like having an exclusive pass to the future of AI art.

What’s Missing, For Now: Every masterpiece has its initial sketches. V6 is no exception. It currently lacks some features from the previous version, but don’t worry, updates are on their way.

The Road Ahead for Midjourney

Continual Evolution: Midjourney isn’t stopping here. V6 is just the beginning. With ongoing updates and new features in the pipeline, the journey of AI art is set to reach new heights.

Rising Above Challenges: Sure, the road to innovation isn’t without hurdles. V6 steps into a competitive landscape, facing its share of legal challenges. But, it stands as a testament to the relentless evolution of AI art.

In Conclusion

Midjourney’s V6 is more than an update; it’s a statement. It’s about pushing boundaries and redefining what AI can create in the art world. As we witness this significant progression, it’s exciting to imagine what the next chapter of AI art will look like.

Stay tuned to see how Midjourney continues to revolutionize AI art, one pixel at a time! 🎨🤖

Also, check out Midjourney’s Niji here.

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EU’s Big Move on AI: A Simple Breakdown

Hey there, tech folks! Big news from the EU – they’ve just rolled out a plan to keep AI in check. It’s a huge deal and kind of a first of its kind. Let’s break it down.

What’s the Buzz?

So, the EU lawmakers got together and decided it’s time to regulate AI. This isn’t just any agreement; it’s being called a “global first.” They’re setting up new rules for how AI should work.

The New AI Rules

Here’s the scoop:

  • Total Ban on Some AI Uses: The EU is saying no to AI for things like scanning faces randomly and categorizing people without a specific reason. It’s all about using AI responsibly.
  • High-Risk AI Gets Special Attention: AI that’s considered ‘high risk’ will have to follow some strict new rules.
  • A Two-Tier System: Even regular AI systems have to stick to these new guidelines.

Helping Startups and Innovators

It’s not all about restrictions, though. The EU is also setting up ways to help small companies test their AI safely before it goes to market. Think of it like a playground where startups can test their AI toys.

The Timeline

This new AI Act is set to kick in soon, but the full impact might not show until around 2026. The EU is taking its time to make sure everything works out smoothly.

Why Does This Matter?

This agreement is a big step for tech in Europe. It’s about making sure AI is safe and used in the right way. The EU is trying to balance being innovative with respecting people’s rights and values.

Wrapping Up

So, there you have it! The EU is making some bold moves in AI. For anyone into tech, this is something to watch. It’s about shaping how AI grows and making sure it’s good for everyone.

For more AI and ethics read our Ethical Maze of AI: A Guide for Businesses.

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