Here is top trending news from the world of technology and AI during last 24 hours
1)
OpenAI’s ChatGPT expands to desktops, challenging Copilot
OpenAI has just launched significant updates to its ChatGPT desktop applications for both Windows OS as well as macOS. Following this update, macOS version of ChatGPT now allow users to work with third party applications including VS Code, Xcode, Terminal and iTerm2. As for Windows app, it has transitioned from beta to full-release, integrating some useful features like ALT + Space shortcut for quick access, a parallel window for ongoing conversations and advanced voice interaction capabilities. These new features will be immediately accessible only to Plus and Team subscribers while Enterprise and Education users may have to wait for few weeks. With these important updates, ChatGPT desktop app will directly compete with Microsoft’s Copilot desktop app, which interestingly is also powered by OpenAI’s LLM models.
2)
OpenAI could launch an AI agent codenamed ‘operator’ next year
OpenAI is all set to launch an AI agent codenamed ‘operator’ in January 2025, according to Bloomberg. This innovative tool is designed to automate various tasks on users’ computers, such as writing code, booking travel, and managing complex workflows with minimal human oversight. It will function more like personal assistant without needing any assistance from prompts. It could execute multiple step tasks independently. For example, it can book flights and hotels based on your preference without needing any continuous input or prompts. The company is initially planning to unveil Operator as a research preview through its developer API. OpenAI is breaking into AI agent space at a time when its nearest competitors including Google and Anthropic are also planning a similar move.
3)
Meta could introduce ads on Threads in early 2025
In a move that is least surprising, Meta is reportedly planning to launch ads on its microblogging platform, Threads, as early as January 2025. Threads has recently seen a significant growth in active users, clocking 275 million active users as of October 2024. The functioning of ads on Threads will be overseen by a specialized team within Instagram’s advertising division. Although ad formats likely to be used is still not known, ads could mostly appear as sponsored posts within the user feeds’. Threads was launched in July 2023 as a main competitor to X (formerly known as Twitter).
4)
Google launches Gemini app for iPhone users
Google has officially launched its standalone Gemini AI app for iPhone users, making it available for download worldwide as of November 14, 2024. This new app allows iPhone users to interact with Google’s AI assistant independently from the main Google app, which previously provided limited access to Gemini’s features. Users can interact with Gemini through both text and voice queries, which will certainly improve its accessibility as well as the user experience. The app is inclusive of several IOS specific features, such as dynamic island support, which facilitates instant interaction without the need to open the app fully.
5)
Google Maps now lets you search for products.
There is a good news for shoppers. Google has just launched a new product search feature, which will allow users to search for specific products directly within Google Maps. This will make it easier for holiday shoppers to find and discovery cloths, fashion accessories and other popular products at nearby stores. Users can not only see product listings but also store location including real-time inventories from select retailers. However, currently this product search feature could be available in limited markets or countries.
