5.2.2024

Trends in AI: January

Dive into the AI Trends of January, highlighting significant advancements in AI, including Apple's entry into spatial computing, Samsung's AI-powered smartphones and smart ring, Amazon's sustainable innovations, and broader tech landscape transformations, promising to enhance digital experiences and drive sustainability in tech operations.

Cedric May

Chief Technology Officer

Trends

Welcome to the latest edition of Frontnow - Trends in AI, your monthly digest of the most compelling advancements, innovations, and discussions in the realm of artificial intelligence. As AI continues to shape our world in unprecedented ways, this month we've witnessed groundbreaking developments that promise to redefine how we interact with technology, enhance our digital experiences, and drive forward the sustainability agenda in tech operations.

From spatial computing platforms that merge the digital with the physical to the latest smartphones equipped with sophisticated AI capabilities, and significant strides towards greener technology infrastructure, the landscape of AI is evolving at an exhilarating pace. Let's explore how these innovations are setting new benchmarks and what they signify for the future of technology and our society.

In this issue, don't miss out on:

  • Apple's Leap into Spatial Computing: Discover how Apple's Vision Pro is pushing the boundaries of how we interact with digital content, offering a mesmerizing three-dimensional user experience controlled by eyes, hands, and voice.
  • Samsung's AI-Powered S24 Series: Unveil the features of Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra, Galaxy S24, and Galaxy S24 Plus. These devices not only boast top-tier hardware but also introduce Galaxy AI, Samsung's new AI platform designed to enrich user interaction and device functionality.
  • Amazon's Sustainable Innovations: Learn about Amazon's partnership with Plug Power to integrate hydrogen fuel technology into its fulfillment centers. This initiative marks a significant step towards achieving a greener future and showcases how AI and tech companies are contributing to sustainable operations.

Stay ahead of the curve with Frontnow - Trends in AI. Enjoy the read, and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of AI that continues to challenge the limits of what's possible.

Diving Into the Future: From Spatial Computing to Smart Health Wearables

Apple Unveils Vision Pro: A New Era of Spatial Computing

Apple has announced the release of Apple Vision Pro, a spatial computer that transforms user interaction with digital content. Available from February 2, the device is powered by visionOS and offers a three-dimensional user interface controlled by a user's eyes, hands, and voice. It allows users to immerse themselves in dynamic landscapes, interact with apps in new ways, and capture and relive memories with spatial photos and videos. The device also introduces a new feature called EyeSight, which makes the device appear transparent to others when a user is engaged with it.

An image of a woman of color wearing the new Apple Vision Pro.
© Apple

Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked Reveals S24 Series with Groundbreaking AI

Samsung unveiled three new smartphones at its Galaxy Unpacked event: the Galaxy S24 Ultra, Galaxy S24, and Galaxy S24 Plus. The S24 Ultra features a 6.8-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, a 200MP main camera, and a titanium frame. The S24 is a smaller, cheaper alternative with a 6.2-inch FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display and a 50MP main camera. The S24 Plus features a QHD+ display, a 50MP wide camera, and a 4,900mAh battery. Samsung also introduced its new artificial intelligence platform, Galaxy AI, with features like Live Translate, Interpreter, Chat Assist, Note Assist, and Transcript Assist. Additionally, a new Circle to Search feature powered by Google was announced, as well as a promise of seven years of software updates for the new Galaxy S24 lineup. Lastly, Samsung teased a new health-tracking wearable, the Galaxy Ring.

An image of the new Samsung Galaxy S24 in white, black and yellow.
© Digital Trends

Introducing Galaxy Ring: Samsung's Leap into Smart Ring Health Technology

Samsung's announcement of the Galaxy Ring, a smart ring with health tracking capabilities, might signal a shift in the wearable technology market. The ring, which is designed for 24/7 wear, is expected to have leading sensor technologies and aims to provide consistent and accurate health data. This move by Samsung, a tech heavyweight, validates the smart ring form factor and could potentially change how smart rings are viewed, from standalone devices to accessories for other gadgets.

An image of the Samsung Galaxy ring revealed on stage.
© The Verge

AI Transforms the Tech Landscape: From Creative Meetings to Universal Control

OpenAI Unveils GPT Store: A New Era for Custom AI Chatbots

OpenAI's GPT Store, a platform for sharing custom chatbots, has launched after several delays. Since the announcement of the GPT Builder program, over 3 million bots have been created by users. The company also plans to start a revenue sharing program with GPT creators based on user engagement. OpenAI has established a new review system to ensure custom GPTs meet its guidelines and usage policies. The GPT Store will be available to users of ChatGPT Plus, Enterprise users, and subscribers to a new tier called Team. ChatGPT Team is a paid version targeted for smaller teams, priced at $25 a month per user when billed annually or $30 a month per user for monthly billing.

Figma Unveils FigJam AI: Revolutionizing Design Meetings with AI Tools

Figma, a popular design platform, has launched a public beta of FigJam AI, a set of tools aimed at improving meetings. The AI can suggest icebreakers, summarize notes, and even rewrite them in the form of an email. Despite Adobe's failed acquisition of Figma, the company continues to invest in AI, including the acquisition of Diagram, an AI startup. Figma's AI tools are being used in various industries, including at Code and Theory, a technology-first creative agency. The company believes that AI can enhance creativity and productivity in meetings.

Rabbit Launches R1: The Ultimate $199 AI Universal Controller

AI startup Rabbit has launched the R1, a $199 standalone AI device that aims to act as a universal controller for apps. The device, which is about half the size of an iPhone, features a 2.88-inch touchscreen, a rotating camera, and a scroll wheel/button for navigation. It is powered by Rabbit's operating system, Rabbit OS, which is based on a "Large Action Model". The R1 can control music, order cars, buy groceries, send messages, and more through a single interface. The device is available for pre-order and is expected to start shipping in March.

An image of Rabbits R1 device.
© The Verge

Google CEO Announces More Job Cuts Amidst AI Focus in 2024

Google CEO Sundar Pichai announced in a memo that further job cuts are expected in 2024 as the company shifts its focus towards areas like artificial intelligence. This follows a series of layoffs that began in 2023. Despite the cuts, shares of Google's parent company Alphabet rose by 58% in the previous year, driven by excitement about AI.

OpenAI CEO Altman Eyes Billion-Dollar AI Chip Factory Network

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is planning to raise funds to establish a network of AI chip factories, believing that existing foundries will not be able to meet future AI technology needs. Altman is reportedly in discussions with potential investors, including G42 and SoftBank Group, to raise billions for this project.

Green Horizons: Amazon's Bold Stride Toward Sustainable Operations

Amazon Leaps Towards Greener Future with Hydrogen Fuel at Fulfillment Centers

Amazon is partnering with Plug Power to produce hydrogen fuel at its fulfillment centers, starting with a location in Aurora, Colorado. The initiative aims to make the use of hydrogen more energy efficient and contribute to Amazon's goal of decarbonizing its operations by 2040. However, the environmental benefits of hydrogen are dependent on the supply chain and production methods. Currently, the electrolyzer at the Colorado center is powered by the grid, which is still 60% fossil fuel-based. Amazon is considering pairing the electrolyzer with on-site renewable energy, aligning with its goal to match its operations' electricity use with renewable energy by 2025.

An image of Amazon's Hydrogen Fuel in a factory.
© The Verge

That's a wrap on this month's journey through the cutting-edge landscape of artificial intelligence with Frontnow - Trends in AI. From Apple's groundbreaking entry into spatial computing to Samsung's latest AI-powered marvels, and Amazon's strides toward a more sustainable future, we've covered the innovations poised to shape our interaction with technology and the environment. As we close this edition, we look forward to the endless possibilities that AI continues to offer, promising a future where technology not only enhances our daily lives but does so with an ever-increasing awareness of our planet's health.

In the meantime, remember to stay informed, inspired, and engaged with the evolving world of AI. Whether you're a tech aficionado, a professional in the field, or simply curious about the future of technology, there's never been a more exciting time to be part of the conversation. Join us again next month for more insights, breakthroughs, and discussions as we delve deeper into the AI revolution. Until then, keep exploring, questioning, and innovating. The future is being written today, and it's ours to shape.

Welcome to the latest edition of Frontnow - Trends in AI, your monthly digest of the most compelling advancements, innovations, and discussions in the realm of artificial intelligence. As AI continues to shape our world in unprecedented ways, this month we've witnessed groundbreaking developments that promise to redefine how we interact with technology, enhance our digital experiences, and drive forward the sustainability agenda in tech operations.

From spatial computing platforms that merge the digital with the physical to the latest smartphones equipped with sophisticated AI capabilities, and significant strides towards greener technology infrastructure, the landscape of AI is evolving at an exhilarating pace. Let's explore how these innovations are setting new benchmarks and what they signify for the future of technology and our society.

In this issue, don't miss out on:

  • Apple's Leap into Spatial Computing: Discover how Apple's Vision Pro is pushing the boundaries of how we interact with digital content, offering a mesmerizing three-dimensional user experience controlled by eyes, hands, and voice.
  • Samsung's AI-Powered S24 Series: Unveil the features of Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra, Galaxy S24, and Galaxy S24 Plus. These devices not only boast top-tier hardware but also introduce Galaxy AI, Samsung's new AI platform designed to enrich user interaction and device functionality.
  • Amazon's Sustainable Innovations: Learn about Amazon's partnership with Plug Power to integrate hydrogen fuel technology into its fulfillment centers. This initiative marks a significant step towards achieving a greener future and showcases how AI and tech companies are contributing to sustainable operations.

Stay ahead of the curve with Frontnow - Trends in AI. Enjoy the read, and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of AI that continues to challenge the limits of what's possible.

Diving Into the Future: From Spatial Computing to Smart Health Wearables

Apple Unveils Vision Pro: A New Era of Spatial Computing

Apple has announced the release of Apple Vision Pro, a spatial computer that transforms user interaction with digital content. Available from February 2, the device is powered by visionOS and offers a three-dimensional user interface controlled by a user's eyes, hands, and voice. It allows users to immerse themselves in dynamic landscapes, interact with apps in new ways, and capture and relive memories with spatial photos and videos. The device also introduces a new feature called EyeSight, which makes the device appear transparent to others when a user is engaged with it.

An image of a woman of color wearing the new Apple Vision Pro.
© Apple

Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked Reveals S24 Series with Groundbreaking AI

Samsung unveiled three new smartphones at its Galaxy Unpacked event: the Galaxy S24 Ultra, Galaxy S24, and Galaxy S24 Plus. The S24 Ultra features a 6.8-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, a 200MP main camera, and a titanium frame. The S24 is a smaller, cheaper alternative with a 6.2-inch FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display and a 50MP main camera. The S24 Plus features a QHD+ display, a 50MP wide camera, and a 4,900mAh battery. Samsung also introduced its new artificial intelligence platform, Galaxy AI, with features like Live Translate, Interpreter, Chat Assist, Note Assist, and Transcript Assist. Additionally, a new Circle to Search feature powered by Google was announced, as well as a promise of seven years of software updates for the new Galaxy S24 lineup. Lastly, Samsung teased a new health-tracking wearable, the Galaxy Ring.

An image of the new Samsung Galaxy S24 in white, black and yellow.
© Digital Trends

Introducing Galaxy Ring: Samsung's Leap into Smart Ring Health Technology

Samsung's announcement of the Galaxy Ring, a smart ring with health tracking capabilities, might signal a shift in the wearable technology market. The ring, which is designed for 24/7 wear, is expected to have leading sensor technologies and aims to provide consistent and accurate health data. This move by Samsung, a tech heavyweight, validates the smart ring form factor and could potentially change how smart rings are viewed, from standalone devices to accessories for other gadgets.

An image of the Samsung Galaxy ring revealed on stage.
© The Verge

AI Transforms the Tech Landscape: From Creative Meetings to Universal Control

OpenAI Unveils GPT Store: A New Era for Custom AI Chatbots

OpenAI's GPT Store, a platform for sharing custom chatbots, has launched after several delays. Since the announcement of the GPT Builder program, over 3 million bots have been created by users. The company also plans to start a revenue sharing program with GPT creators based on user engagement. OpenAI has established a new review system to ensure custom GPTs meet its guidelines and usage policies. The GPT Store will be available to users of ChatGPT Plus, Enterprise users, and subscribers to a new tier called Team. ChatGPT Team is a paid version targeted for smaller teams, priced at $25 a month per user when billed annually or $30 a month per user for monthly billing.

Figma Unveils FigJam AI: Revolutionizing Design Meetings with AI Tools

Figma, a popular design platform, has launched a public beta of FigJam AI, a set of tools aimed at improving meetings. The AI can suggest icebreakers, summarize notes, and even rewrite them in the form of an email. Despite Adobe's failed acquisition of Figma, the company continues to invest in AI, including the acquisition of Diagram, an AI startup. Figma's AI tools are being used in various industries, including at Code and Theory, a technology-first creative agency. The company believes that AI can enhance creativity and productivity in meetings.

Rabbit Launches R1: The Ultimate $199 AI Universal Controller

AI startup Rabbit has launched the R1, a $199 standalone AI device that aims to act as a universal controller for apps. The device, which is about half the size of an iPhone, features a 2.88-inch touchscreen, a rotating camera, and a scroll wheel/button for navigation. It is powered by Rabbit's operating system, Rabbit OS, which is based on a "Large Action Model". The R1 can control music, order cars, buy groceries, send messages, and more through a single interface. The device is available for pre-order and is expected to start shipping in March.

An image of Rabbits R1 device.
© The Verge

Google CEO Announces More Job Cuts Amidst AI Focus in 2024

Google CEO Sundar Pichai announced in a memo that further job cuts are expected in 2024 as the company shifts its focus towards areas like artificial intelligence. This follows a series of layoffs that began in 2023. Despite the cuts, shares of Google's parent company Alphabet rose by 58% in the previous year, driven by excitement about AI.

OpenAI CEO Altman Eyes Billion-Dollar AI Chip Factory Network

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is planning to raise funds to establish a network of AI chip factories, believing that existing foundries will not be able to meet future AI technology needs. Altman is reportedly in discussions with potential investors, including G42 and SoftBank Group, to raise billions for this project.

Green Horizons: Amazon's Bold Stride Toward Sustainable Operations

Amazon Leaps Towards Greener Future with Hydrogen Fuel at Fulfillment Centers

Amazon is partnering with Plug Power to produce hydrogen fuel at its fulfillment centers, starting with a location in Aurora, Colorado. The initiative aims to make the use of hydrogen more energy efficient and contribute to Amazon's goal of decarbonizing its operations by 2040. However, the environmental benefits of hydrogen are dependent on the supply chain and production methods. Currently, the electrolyzer at the Colorado center is powered by the grid, which is still 60% fossil fuel-based. Amazon is considering pairing the electrolyzer with on-site renewable energy, aligning with its goal to match its operations' electricity use with renewable energy by 2025.

An image of Amazon's Hydrogen Fuel in a factory.
© The Verge

That's a wrap on this month's journey through the cutting-edge landscape of artificial intelligence with Frontnow - Trends in AI. From Apple's groundbreaking entry into spatial computing to Samsung's latest AI-powered marvels, and Amazon's strides toward a more sustainable future, we've covered the innovations poised to shape our interaction with technology and the environment. As we close this edition, we look forward to the endless possibilities that AI continues to offer, promising a future where technology not only enhances our daily lives but does so with an ever-increasing awareness of our planet's health.

In the meantime, remember to stay informed, inspired, and engaged with the evolving world of AI. Whether you're a tech aficionado, a professional in the field, or simply curious about the future of technology, there's never been a more exciting time to be part of the conversation. Join us again next month for more insights, breakthroughs, and discussions as we delve deeper into the AI revolution. Until then, keep exploring, questioning, and innovating. The future is being written today, and it's ours to shape.

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