OpenAI is currently testing a new AI search tool called SearchGPT that is directly competing with Google’s search capabilities. This new feature aims to provide users with quick and relevant answers from across the internet, as well as the ability to ask follow-up questions. Although SearchGPT is still in the prototype stage and only available to a limited group of users and publisher partners for testing and feedback, interested individuals can join a waitlist to try it out.
In other tech news, CrowdStrike recently faced a global IT outage due to a faulty update, causing inconvenience to many users. To apologize for the incident, the company offered its partners $10 Uber Eats gift cards as a gesture of goodwill. However, some individuals reported that the vouchers were canceled when they tried to redeem them.
Wiz, a tech company, turned down a lucrative $23 billion acquisition offer from Alphabet, Google’s parent company. Despite the significant premium offered over Wiz’s last private valuation, the company’s management team decided to remain independent. Wiz’s CEO expressed their focus on achieving a $1 billion in ARR and preparing for an IPO in the future.
Moving on to some recent tech developments, Elon Musk announced that Tesla plans to start selling its humanoid robot, Optimus, in 2026. This move could make Tesla the first company to bring a humanoid robot to market successfully. Additionally, Apple Maps can now be accessed directly from a browser in a new public beta, expanding its reach and competing with Google Maps.
Furthermore, Waymo has begun testing a new robotaxi developed by Chinese automaker Zeekr on public roads in San Francisco. Although the vehicle is not fully autonomous yet, this marks a significant step in Waymo’s journey towards autonomous driving technology. Meanwhile, former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick has launched an AI storytelling platform called Lumi, focusing initially on creator tools for manga and comic book artists.
Alphabet has committed an additional $5 billion to its self-driving subsidiary, Waymo, to further develop autonomous driving technology. The California Supreme Court ruled in favor of Prop 22, allowing app-based gig workers to remain classified as independent contractors. Meta introduced a new AI selfie feature called “Imagine Yourself,” enabling users to create AI-generated avatars for various scenarios.
Google has made improvements to its Gemini chatbot, expanding its availability to more languages and countries. Asus is releasing an updated version of its handheld PC gaming device, the ROG Ally X, offering a bright seven-inch display and enhanced gaming features.
In terms of analysis, there has been a surge in memes featuring Vice President Kamala Harris, which some see as a potential political strategy. Additionally, social fitness app Strava is contemplating its future as CEO Michael Martin discusses what’s next for the platform.
