Keeping up with the fast-paced technology announcements happening every day can be a daunting task. But have no fear. From Apple introducing a new “repair state” to the iOS 17.5 beta to OpenAI signing a new licensing agreement with the Financial Times, we've put together a comprehensive list of this week's top tech stories. Without further ado, here's our list of this week's top technology articles.
1) iOS 17.5 comes with a “Repair Condition” feature to repair your iPhone.
Apple introduced a new “State Repair” feature in iOS 17.5 beta. This allows users to send their iPhone in for repair without disabling Find My and Activation Lock. A new repair state reportedly resolves this issue by allowing users to put their iPhone into “Ready for Repair” mode while keeping “Find My” active. This means that your device remains trackable and secure as Activation Lock is enabled during the repair process. Users can also mark the device as lost if needed during repair.
2) Google's new AI-powered English learning features:
Google has introduced an innovative AI-powered feature to its search platform called 'Speaking Practice' designed to help users improve their English speaking skills. New AI capabilities listen to your voice, interpret it, and respond with natural responses or perform requested actions. This interactive interaction allows users to practice English conversation, providing a more engaging way to use new words in context and improve fluency.
3) Pixel 8a prices leaked ahead of May 14th launch:
According to several media reports, the Pixel 8a may start at $499 in the US, which translates to around ₹41,000 in India. This pricing suggests that the new device could be the same as the previous Pixel 7a, which was launched at ₹43,999 with the 128GB storage option.
The leak also reveals that the Pixel 8a will have a 256GB storage model and is likely to be priced at $599, or around ₹50,000. If Google adjusts its prices, the Pixel A series could become more popular and offer a more attractive alternative to other midrange devices.
4) iPhone 16 series is likely to have a price increase:
Rumor has it that Apple's iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max will feature a lighter and thinner design, an advanced camera system, and a new A18 chipset. Additionally, these devices are expected to incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) technology, which may contribute to further increases in production costs. These factors, along with inflation and generally high production rates, are believed to be the main reasons for the increased prices of the iPhone 16 series.
5) OpenAI signs agreement to train AI models Financial Times Content:
The Financial Times announced this week that it had signed a licensing agreement with OpenAI that will allow the Sam Altman-led company to train artificial intelligence (AI) models on FT content.
The deal will see OpenAI's generated AI chatbot ChatGPT powered by attributed FT content, and OpenAI will also work to develop new AI products and features for FT readers.
6) iPad Pro lineup likely to feature new M4 chipset:
A report from Bloomberg's Mark Gernman suggests that the next iPad Pro lineup could be powered by the latest M4 chipset, with the latest chipset releasing for iMacs, MacBook Pros, and Mac minis later this year. This is a deviation from the plan. Notably, the current generation iPad Pro version is powered by his M2 chipset, and the addition of his M4 chipset to the new version of the Pro lineup means that Apple is introducing his M3 chipset for the Pro version. This suggests that it should be completely abolished.
7) X introduces a new “Stories” feature.
Elon Musk's social media platform X (formerly Twitter) has launched a new feature powered by Grok AI called “Stories.” This allows users to read an overview of trending posts on social media platforms. This feature is currently only available to his X Premium subscribers on the iOS and web versions and has not yet been introduced to the Android application.
Unlock a world of benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time inventory tracking, breaking news and personalized newsfeeds, it's all here, just a click away. Log in here!
