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In Tech Spotlight: Breaking Down This Week’s Top Stories A roundup of all the latest news that shook up the world of technology this week

By Neha Mehrotra

From Apple’s unveiling of the new iPad Air and iPad Pro boasting cutting-edge features and unmatched performance, to OpenAI’s launch of the versatile GPT-4o promising smarter, more accessible AI interactions, the industry is witnessing rapid advancements.

Whether you’re looking to make a tech investment or simply want to stay informed about the latest in AI, we’ve compiled the top tech insights that are making waves worldwide. Read Below!

1. Apple Launches the New iPad Air and iPad Pro

Apple recently launched the redesigned iPad Air and the new iPad Pro. The new iPad Air, equipped with the M2 chip, boasts unprecedented power and versatility, delivering outstanding performance, a landscape front camera, and accelerated Wi-Fi speeds. Meanwhile, the iPad Pro introduces the revolutionary Ultra Retina XDR display and the cutting-edge performance of the new M4 chip, all housed in an exceptionally thin and lightweight design, making it Apple’s slimmest product yet. With their blend of a faster CPU, advanced GPU, integrated neural engine, and intelligent features in iPadOS, both the iPad Air and iPad Pro are formidable tools for artificial intelligence. They also seamlessly support the Apple Pencil Pro.

2. Google Wallet Enters the Indian Market

Google has introduced Google Wallet in India, a standalone app tailored for Android devices, providing users with a convenient platform to store and manage digital documents like boarding passes, loyalty cards, and movie tickets. Google announced its collaboration with 20 leading brands in India to enhance the Google Wallet experience. Among these partners are well-known names such as PVR, INOX, Air India, Indigo, Flipkart, Pine Labs, Hyderabad Metro, Kochi Metro, VRL Travels, Abhibus, Dominos, Shoppers Stop, and many more. Additionally, Google plans to onboard more partners in the coming months to further enrich the user experience.

3. OpenAI Releases GPT-4o

OpenAI has unveiled GPT-4o, its latest flagship model designed to bridge the gap between ChatGPT 3.5 and GPT-4. Dubbed “omni” for its versatility, this middle-ground solution aims to make AI-powered interactions smarter, more accessible, and easier to engage with. With improvements such as being twice as fast and 50% cheaper than its predecessor, GPT-4 Turbo, GPT-4o features multimodal capabilities and can make conversations across audio, vision and text in real time.

4. GOVO Launches the First ‘Made in India’ Dolby Atmos-Enabled Go Surround Soundbars

GOVO has introduced its new soundbars, the GOVO GoSurround 975 and 940, marking the first “Made in India” soundbars with Dolby Atmos support. Produced at Channelplay’s facility in Manesar, Gurgaon, these soundbars represent a significant milestone in India’s audio industry. Featuring a powerful chipset, advanced DSP signal processing, and a 2.1.2 configuration, they ensure superior audio quality. With a 400-watt output and mega bass, they offer an impactful sensory experience. Additionally, the seamless connectivity options, including HDMI, Bluetooth 5.3, AUX, and USB, make them versatile for any home setup.

5. Google Announces the Launch of Gemini 1.5 Pro

At its annual I/O developer event in Mountain View, California, Alphabet, Google’s parent company, showcased its latest advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) across various ventures. A highlight was the introduction of the Gemini 1.5 Flash. Users can look forward to a seamless conversational experience with natural-sounding voices and the capability to interrupt or clarify mid-response. Additionally, Gemini Advanced subscribers will soon be able to create Gems—customised versions of Gemini tailored to specific needs and preferences. These Gems can act as workout partners, sous chefs, coding companions, or writing guides, providing a highly personalised AI experience.

6. Microsoft to Unveil Advancements in AI at Microsoft Build 2024

Microsoft Build 2024 will centre on the theme of AI, with the tagline “How will AI shape your future?” The event is anticipated to highlight new AI capabilities for Windows and Office, along with programming insights for its AI-powered assistant, Copilot. Additionally, Microsoft may unveil “AI Explorer,” a feature enabling users to interact with their digital lives on Windows through advanced AI. Updates to Copilot, already seen in Windows Insider preview builds, are also expected to be showcased, underscoring Microsoft’s commitment to integrating AI into everyday digital experiences.

By Neha Mehrotra
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By Neha Mehrotra