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Tag: The Verge

  • Pentagon Designates Anthropic as Supply-Chain Risk Over AI Policy Dispute

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    The Defense Department has formally labeled Anthropic a “supply-chain risk” following disputes over the AI company’s acceptable use policies. According to The Wall Street Journal, defense contractors will be prohibited from collaborating with the government if they incorporate Claude, Anthropic’s AI program, in their products. While typically applied to foreign entities linked to adversarial governments, this is the first instance of an American firm receiving such a designation.

    The conflict revolves around Anthropic’s refusal to permit the Pentagon to utilize Claude for autonomous lethal weapons and mass surveillance without human oversight. The Pentagon contends that ceding control to a private entity would result in excessive power concentration, whereas Anthropic raised concerns about the government’s respect for their boundaries. Negotiations soured as the Pentagon threatened to impose the supply-chain risk label if Anthropic didn’t comply. Subsequently, following Anthropic’s non-compliance announcement, the Pentagon implemented the designation.

    The scope of the Pentagon’s enforcement strategy remains uncertain. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that any company engaged in “any commercial activity” with Anthropic, even beyond Pentagon projects, would risk contract cancellations. Anthropic countered, deeming such a broad application illegal.

    Source: The Verge

  • House Committee Advances Online Safety Bills with Age Verification Requirements for App Stores

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    The House Committee on Energy and Commerce has pushed forward a series of child safety bills, including the Kids Internet and Digital Safety (KIDS) Act, Sammy’s Law, and the App Store Accountability Act. The latter requires app stores to implement age-gating measures to enhance online safety for young users. The KIDS Act, spearheaded by Congressman Brett Guthrie, consolidates various child safety laws, omitting the ‘duty of care’ provision present in the Senate’s version, which mandates tech giants to address risks to minors. Despite bipartisan efforts, some Democrats have voiced concerns, fearing that the legislation could impede states from fortifying online safeguards for children.

    Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez criticized the bill, alleging that it serves the interests of Big Tech lobbyists rather than genuine child protection. She highlighted Discord’s retreat from age verification plans due to user backlash over privacy and security worries, questioning the platform’s alignment with third-party verification services like Persona.

    Source: The Verge

  • Roku Unveils ‘Roklue’ Trivia Game to Tackle Streaming Indecision

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Roku users facing the overwhelming task of choosing what to watch now have a new solution in the form of ‘Roklue,’ a pop culture trivia game set to debut on the streaming platform on March 7th. Revealed recently, Roklue aims to assist users in discovering fresh content by challenging them with questions about trending movies and TV shows, along with beloved classics they may wish to revisit.

    The inaugural theme for Roklue will revolve around ‘awards season,’ featuring hints inspired by significant moments from Hollywood’s top award ceremonies and acclaimed films. The game will introduce various themes over time, keeping the experience engaging and diverse. Users can access Roklue effortlessly without any downloads; it will automatically show up on the Roku home screen upon its launch this Saturday.

    Roklue will join Roku’s existing catalog of games accessible through its gaming channels. In a similar vein, Netflix has been offering games for some time now, integrating them into its streaming service and offering free games on mobile platforms exclusively for Netflix subscribers.

    Source: The Verge

  • Roblox Introduces AI-Powered Real-Time Chat Rephrasing Feature

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Roblox has implemented a new AI-driven feature that modifies chat messages in real-time on its platform, going beyond traditional filtering for banned language. This advanced system, launched today, aims to maintain a respectful and civil environment by rephrasing inappropriate content while preserving the user’s original intent.

    Unlike conventional filters that simply replace prohibited words with symbols, Roblox’s AI can translate offensive language into more polite expressions. For example, a message like ‘Hurry TF up!’ will be automatically revised to ‘Hurry up!’ by the AI. To ensure transparency, all users in the chat are informed when a message is altered for decorum.

    In comparison, Minecraft’s profanity filter primarily obstructs offensive words with symbols or blocks messages containing them, rather than rephrasing the content like Roblox’s new feature.

    This real-time chat rephrasing functionality is currently limited to ‘in-experience’ chats among verified users within similar age groups. Roblox recently implemented age verification checks for chat access on its platform, allowing users to engage in conversations with peers of corresponding age ranges.

    Source: The Verge

  • OpenAI Unveils GPT-5.4: Advancing AI Autonomy

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    OpenAI has introduced the latest iteration of its AI model, GPT-5.4, marking a significant advancement in the realm of artificial intelligence. This new model is designed to excel in reasoning, coding, and professional tasks like working with spreadsheets, documents, and presentations. Notably, GPT-5.4 stands out as OpenAI’s first model with native computer usage capabilities, empowering it to undertake tasks autonomously across various applications.

    One of the key features of GPT-5.4 is its ability to interact with computers directly, enabling it to execute commands, operate applications, and respond to screenshots. OpenAI is integrating GPT-5.4 into its API and Codex, the AI-driven coding tool, while also deploying its reasoning model, GPT-5.4 Thinking, to enhance ChatGPT. This new model showcases improved performance in web browsing tasks and demonstrates enhanced accuracy in utilizing tools and APIs to efficiently accomplish designated tasks.

    OpenAI emphasizes that GPT-5.4 excels in processing multifaceted queries that demand information aggregation from diverse sources. The model’s capability to search persistently across multiple rounds to extract pertinent data, especially for complex inquiries, sets it apart. Furthermore, GPT-5.4 is described as OpenAI’s most factually reliable model to date, with a significantly reduced likelihood of false claims compared to its predecessor, GPT-5.2.

    Within ChatGPT, the introduction of GPT-5.4 Thinking enhances user interactions by providing detailed work outlines for intricate requests. Users can now refine their queries during the model’s response, facilitating a more precise outcome without restarting the process. This feature is presently accessible on the ChatGPT web app and Android platforms, with an imminent rollout planned for the iOS app.

    Source: The Verge

  • TerraPower Receives Approval for Next-Generation Nuclear Reactor in Wyoming

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Bill Gates-founded nuclear energy company TerraPower has received approval from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to construct a next-generation reactor in Wyoming. This marks a significant milestone as the first commercial-scale, advanced nuclear power plant to receive such federal authorization, as reported by The Verge. The reactor, named ‘Natrium,’ is expected to be completed by 2030 and is part of efforts to enhance electrical grids supporting AI data centers.

    In a 2024 interview with The Verge, Bill Gates highlighted the potential of nuclear energy in addressing climate challenges through innovative designs that prioritize safety, fuel efficiency, and waste management. Unlike traditional water-cooled nuclear plants, TerraPower’s Natrium design utilizes liquid sodium to lower costs and operate at reduced pressures. Additionally, the plant incorporates a unique ‘molten salt-based energy storage system’ enabling it to quickly increase power output to 500 megawatts during peak demand.

    This development signifies a step forward in advancing cleaner energy solutions while meeting growing electricity demands. With TerraPower pioneering new reactor technology, the landscape of nuclear power generation is poised for transformation, offering potential benefits in efficiency and sustainability.

    Source: The Verge

  • Google Unveils Programs to Reduce App Store Fees and Support Developers

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Google has announced significant changes to its app store fees and introduced new programs aimed at supporting developers. The tech company has eliminated its 30% app store fee and updated its fee structure, generally charging developers 20% for in-app purchases and 10% for subscriptions starting in July, with variations based on location.

    One of the key initiatives introduced is the Games Level Up Program, designed to enhance the quality and availability of gaming titles across various platforms. Developers must meet specific requirements related to form factors, stability, quality standards, and gamer experience consistency to be part of this program. The program aims to encourage developers to publish titles on multiple form factors while ensuring a high-quality gaming experience for users.

    These changes reflect Google’s strategic shift to support app developers and improve the overall ecosystem for mobile gaming. By offering reduced fees and introducing structured programs like the Games Level Up initiative, Google aims to create a more developer-friendly environment and enhance the diversity of gaming experiences available to users.

    Source: The Verge

  • Epic CEO Tim Sweeney Barred from Criticizing Google Until 2032

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Epic CEO Tim Sweeney has entered into a controversial agreement with Google that restricts his ability to criticize the tech giant until 2032. The binding term sheet, part of a settlement with Google, prohibits Sweeney from suing or disparaging the company and requires him to publicly support Google’s app store practices and acknowledge Google and Android as procompetitive platforms.

    Under the terms of the contract, Sweeney must defend the deal in courts worldwide and ensure his statements align with the agreement. While Epic can still participate in the “Coalition for App Fairness,” a group primarily targeting Google and Apple, Sweeney’s focus must now solely be directed towards Apple.

    Source: The Verge

  • Tech Giants Partner with Trump to Address Data Center Energy Costs

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Seven tech industry leaders, including Google, Meta, Microsoft, Oracle, OpenAI, Amazon, and xAI, have signed a ‘ratepayer protection pledge’ with President Donald Trump. This agreement aims to address concerns about increasing electricity rates as tech companies and the government accelerate the development of AI data centers.

    During the event, Trump emphasized the need to manage public perceptions, stating, ‘People think that if a data center goes in, their electricity prices are going to go up.’ The signed proclamation outlines the commitment of these companies to build or acquire new energy resources to meet their demands, including covering the costs of necessary infrastructure upgrades for their data centers.

    As the demand for electricity in data centers rises due to the training and operation of AI models, concerns have been raised about the potential impact on household electricity bills. A report from Climate Power indicated a 13% increase in national electricity bills by 2025, with the Department of Energy estimating a potential doubling or tripling of data center electricity demand by 2028.

    The companies involved have agreed to the terms of the Ratepayer Protection Pledge, aligning with the national energy policy. However, voluntary negotiations with utilities and state governments will still be required to implement these commitments effectively.

    Source: The Verge

  • Automakers Ranked on Supply Chain Sustainability Efforts

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Tesla, Ford, and Volvo have emerged as leaders in a recent ranking of 18 global automakers, focusing on their initiatives to reduce carbon emissions, environmental impacts, and human rights violations within their supply chains. However, Toyota, the world’s largest car manufacturer, finds itself near the bottom of the list, highlighting the ongoing challenges it faces in addressing supply chain sustainability.

    The evaluation was conducted by Lead the Charge, a coalition comprising prominent climate, environment, and human rights organizations like the Sierra Club and Public Citizen. This marks the fourth iteration of the annual assessment, reflecting a nearly twofold improvement in automakers’ performance concerning environmental and human rights concerns since the initiative’s inception.

    While progress has been made, no automaker has achieved a score exceeding 50% in ensuring clean supply chains, with Tesla leading the pack at 49%. Notably, Ford, Volvo, Mercedes, and Volkswagen stand out for their substantial advancements in this area, outpacing the remaining companies by a significant margin.

    The progress made by these automakers is attributed to initiatives such as Volvo and Mercedes’ investments in decarbonizing steel and aluminum production and the detailed raw material reports released by Mercedes, Volkswagen, and Tesla. The transition to electric vehicles has been a key driver for advancements in decarbonization, recycling, and sustainable sourcing within the industry.

    Source: The Verge

  • Google’s NotebookLM Introduces AI-Powered Cinematic Video Overviews for Research Summaries

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Google has unveiled a new feature for NotebookLM that transforms users’ research and notes into animated, cinematic-style videos. This enhanced capability goes beyond the previous video overview feature introduced last year, leveraging several of Google’s AI models, such as Gemini 3, Nano Banana Pro, and Veo 3, to create dynamic visuals based on the content of the notes.

    According to Google, the Gemini model plays a crucial role in determining the optimal narrative, visual style, and format for the videos. It also autonomously refines its output to maintain consistency throughout the video creation process. This advancement represents Google’s continued efforts to enhance AI-driven video capabilities, following recent updates to its Veo AI video model and the broader accessibility of Flow, an AI video generation tool.

    While the cinematic video overviews are now accessible on NotebookLM, they are currently limited to English-speaking users aged 18 and above with a Google AI Ultra subscription. Additionally, users can generate a maximum of 20 cinematic video overviews per day using this feature.

    Source: The Verge

  • Epic Games and Google Collaborate on Metaverse Browser Technology

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Epic Games and Google have reached a significant agreement to collaborate on a new category of apps known as ‘metaverse browsers.’ This partnership showcases a shared vision between the two tech companies to enable navigation, exploration, and interaction within metaverse environments.

    While the term ‘metaverse’ has seen a decline in popularity, Epic CEO Tim Sweeney has long been a proponent of the concept, recognizing its potential. The collaboration isn’t entirely new, as previous discussions about an Unreal Engine deal had hinted at a metaverse connection.

    The specifics of these metaverse browsers remain partially concealed due to redactions in the term sheet. However, key highlights include enabling users to navigate and explore metaverse worlds, facilitating the portability of virtual items and identities across different metaverse realms, and emphasizing modern security measures such as Sandbox capabilities and secure connections.

    In response to Google’s evolving landscape, Epic has indicated that Google is poised to support the forthcoming open metaverse. This strategic move underscores a shift towards fostering an interconnected digital ecosystem.

    Source: The Verge

  • Google Expands AI-Powered Workspace Capabilities in Search for US Users

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Google is expanding access to its AI-powered workspace feature, Canvas, to all users in the US through AI Mode in Search. This functionality creates a dedicated workspace within Google’s search tool, leveraging real-time Search data to assist in organizing plans, developing tools, and drafting documents alongside chat conversations.

    The Canvas feature was initially introduced within the Gemini app for real-time document creation and coding. After successful testing in AI Mode for visualizing travel plans, Google has now extended the functionality to support creative writing and coding tasks. Users can benefit from an AI-generated dashboard presenting information related to their prompts or interactive prototypes of tools under development.

    To utilize Canvas in AI Mode, users can access it through Search, click the ‘plus’ button in the chat window, and select Canvas. By describing the intended creation, users can view the results in a panel on the right side of the screen. This feature is currently only available in English.

    Source: The Verge

  • Uniting for a Human-Centric AI Future: The Pro-Human AI Declaration

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    In a private gathering of 90 political, community, and thought leaders in New Orleans, the focus was on the future of artificial intelligence (AI). Church leaders, conservative academics, labor union representatives, and progressive advocates convened with AI experts to address the critical implications of AI on society. The outcome was the Pro-Human AI Declaration, a set of five guidelines emphasizing the importance of prioritizing humanity in AI development.

    The declaration underscores the need to prevent the concentration of power among the elite, safeguard the well-being of children and communities, and uphold human agency and liberty as AI technologies advance. The document boasts an extensive list of signatories, spanning diverse sectors beyond tech, including major unions, religious organizations, political advocacy groups, and prominent individuals like Ralph Nader, Randi Weingarten, and Sir Richard Branson.

    This declaration marks a significant milestone in the discourse surrounding AI ethics and governance, as it brings together a wide array of stakeholders to advocate for a human-centric approach to AI innovation. By uniting voices from varying backgrounds and ideologies, the Pro-Human AI Declaration sets a precedent for collaborative efforts in shaping the ethical landscape of AI development.

    Source: The Verge

  • Activision’s Cease and Desist Order Against Call of Duty Leaker Raises Questions About Information Control in the Gaming Industry

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Activision, the developer behind the popular gaming franchise Call of Duty, has recently silenced a prominent leaker known as TheGhostOfHope, triggering discussions on information control within the gaming community. The individual, recognized for sharing accurate details about Call of Duty titles, has agreed to comply with legal demands to refrain from leaking confidential information related to the games.

    The decision by TheGhostOfHope to halt disclosures comes after receiving a cease and desist order from Activision. Despite his commitment to no longer reveal insider information, he expressed intentions to engage with the community on official Call of Duty updates and other non-leak topics.

    Notably, TheGhostOfHope had previously shared credible insights on past, present, and upcoming Call of Duty titles, including rumors about a standalone Call of Duty Zombies game in development for next-gen consoles. The move to silence the leaker has sparked reactions, with some speculating that his accuracy in leaks might have prompted the legal action.

    In response to the situation, the official Call of Duty account emphasized the potential negative impact of leaks on game development and player expectations, regardless of their accuracy. This development raises broader questions about the balance between transparency and controlled information in the gaming industry, highlighting the challenges faced by developers in safeguarding their creative work from premature exposure.

    Source: The Verge

  • Wildlight Entertainment Shuts Down Free-to-Play Shooter Highguard

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Wildlight Entertainment has announced the closure of its free-to-play squad shooter Highguard, despite the game reaching 2 million players. Highguard, which launched on January 26th, will permanently shut down on March 12th due to the developer’s inability to establish a sustainable player base for long-term support.

    Before the final shutdown, Highguard will receive one last update introducing a new character and weapon, along with other adjustments. The abrupt end of the game reflects the challenging environment for live-service titles, with recent closures of Sony’s Concord and Riot’s layoffs on 2XKO highlighting the industry’s struggles in sustaining such projects.

    Publishers and developers continue to strive for the success of live-service giants like Fortnite, but breaking into this space remains a daunting task. Even established single-player studios like Remedy, known for titles such as Alan Wake, have faced difficulties in transitioning to live-service models.

    Source: The Verge

  • TikTok US Service Disrupted by Oracle Outage for Second Time

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    The US version of TikTok is facing operational challenges once again as an Oracle outage disrupts its services, marking the second such incident within a month following a similar occurrence in February.

    The disruption, affecting Oracle’s Ashburn, Virginia data center, began on Tuesday afternoon, with reports on Downdetector surging around 1 PM Eastern time. In response, TikTok USDS acknowledged the issue, informing US users of potential delays in content posting as Oracle works to resolve the situation.

    This recent setback comes after a transition in January that saw the majority control of TikTok’s US operations shift away from Chinese firm ByteDance. The earlier service interruption occurred shortly after a partnership, TikTok USDS, involving Oracle, assumed control over the US app as part of the ownership adjustment. The prior disruption was attributed to a power outage at an Oracle data center.

    Source: The Verge

  • Google Pixel Watch Introduces Streamlined ‘Express Pay’ Feature

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Google has unveiled a new ‘express pay’ feature for the Pixel Watch, enabling users to tap their watch for payments without opening the Wallet app. This enhancement, set to debut on the Pixel Watch 2 and later models, streamlines the payment process by eliminating the need to access the app manually.

    Similar to Apple Watch’s ‘express mode,’ the Pixel Watch’s ‘express pay’ requires user opt-in and an unlocked device for transactions. Previously, Pixel Watch users had to navigate through the Wallet app to make payments, but this new feature provides a more efficient and user-friendly experience.

    In addition to ‘express pay,’ Google is rolling out other functionalities for the Pixel Watch lineup, including automatic phone locking when out of range and alerts for phone abandonment. The company is also optimizing identity verification processes for faster actions when the watch is paired with a compatible phone, enhancing user experience and security.

    These updates aim to provide a seamless and integrated experience for Pixel Watch users, reinforcing the device’s position as a convenient companion to Pixel smartphones.

    Source: The Verge

  • Google Brings Desktop Mode to Pixel Devices, Enhancing Productivity

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Google has introduced a new desktop mode feature for its Pixel phones and tablets, as part of the recent March Pixel update. This functionality allows users with a Pixel 8 or newer device to connect to an external monitor via USB-C, enabling a desktop-like multi-window experience. With this feature, users can seamlessly utilize a mouse and keyboard for enhanced productivity.

    The desktop mode is also compatible with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold and the Pixel 10 Pro Fold devices. Additionally, the Pixel Tablet is receiving a desktop windowing feature, providing users with a familiar interface to organize and resize overlapping windows efficiently.

    While Google has not released visual representations of these new capabilities, the company has been exploring a desktop experience for Android. Collaborating with Samsung on expanding Samsung’s DeX feature, Google aims to offer users a seamless transition to a desktop environment when connecting their devices to larger displays. Testing of these features began for Pixel 8 and above users in June, following the initial announcement last year.

    Source: The Verge

  • Google Introduces Gemini AI Assistant for Pixel Phones, Enhancing Task Automation

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Google has unveiled a new set of features in its latest March update for Pixel phones, with a significant highlight being the integration of the Gemini AI assistant. This AI assistant is now capable of handling tasks on behalf of users, such as ordering groceries or booking rides, bringing a new level of convenience to Pixel device owners. Initially showcased during Samsung’s recent Unpacked event, the Gemini AI functionality is currently being rolled out to the Pixel 10 series, including the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro XL.

    With the introduction of Gemini’s task-handling capability, users can delegate specific tasks within apps like Uber and Grubhub, allowing the assistant to operate in the background while still providing the option for user oversight or intervention. Notably, this feature will also be available on Samsung S26 phones, preceding the delayed similar features for Siri.

    Aside from Gemini, Google is enhancing the Circle to Search feature across the Pixel 10 lineup, enabling users to search for items on their screen by drawing a circle around them. This update extends the utility of Circle to Search by facilitating outfit breakdowns and virtual try-ons for individual clothing pieces.

    Furthermore, Google is updating Magic Cue, a feature that offers proactive suggestions based on contextual cues from various applications like messaging, email, and weather apps. For instance, Magic Cue can now automatically recommend restaurants based on a friend’s preferences. This upgraded feature is set to launch on select Pixel devices in specific countries and languages, accompanied by a new ‘comfort’ view that reduces visual intensity from overly bright or saturated colors.

    Source: The Verge