It’s time for our weekly wrap-up of the top tech news from across the web! From Microsoft AI to Segway and more, we have you covered. Read on below and stay connected with the major tech news headlines of the week.
Microsoft introduces its initial AI-powered PCs
Microsoft is preparing for its “year of the AI PC” with the introduction of two new Surface devices, the Surface Pro 10 for Business and the Surface Laptop 6 for Business. Both feature Intel’s latest Core Ultra processors and Microsoft’s new Copilot key, alongside a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) to enhance AI-powered features in Windows 11. The devices, slated for commercial release on April 9th, maintain a familiar design externally but boast significant upgrades internally. The Surface Pro 10 for Business offers a choice between Core Ultra 5 135U and Core Ultra 7 165U options, while the Surface Laptop 6 for Business is equipped with Intel’s Core Ultra H-series chips for enhanced performance. Both devices include various improvements such as upgraded displays, improved cameras, NFC readers, and optional 5G connectivity. Microsoft plans to unveil consumer versions of these devices at a later date, coinciding with the introduction of new AI features for Windows 11.
Threads opens beta for Fediverse, enabling post sharing on Mastodon
Threads introduces beta testing for its fediverse integration in the US, Canada, and Japan, allowing users to cross-post and view likes from federated platforms such as Mastodon. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced the feature’s rollout, which requires users to have a public account to activate. While the integration enables interaction with content across platforms, there are limitations, including the inability to view replies and follows from the fediverse. Nonetheless, this move marks Threads’ expansion into the fediverse after initially testing its ActivityPub integration last year, offering users more options for sharing and interacting with content.
Google Introduces Satellite Messaging to Android 15
Google has released the second developer preview for Android 15, featuring long-awaited satellite messaging support alongside enhancements to contactless payments, multi-language recognition, volume consistency, and PDF interaction within apps. Scheduled for public release later this year, the beta addresses user concerns, such as apps understanding service unavailability during satellite connection use, and introduces screen recording detection and improved contactless payment reliability. Additionally, developers gain expanded access to flip phone small cover screens, adherence to a new loudness standard, and enhanced PDF features like password protection and annotation.
YouTube TV introduces multiview for iPhones and iPads, just in time for March Madness
YouTube TV has expanded its multiview feature to iOS and iPadOS devices. The update allows subscribers to watch multiple programs simultaneously, just in time for March Madness. While Android users will have to wait for the feature, iOS users can now enjoy watching up to four different streams at once. However, the feature remains focused on sports content, limiting its flexibility for other types of programming. Users can access multiview streams through the YouTube TV app, provided they have updated to version 8.11 or later.
Segway Introduces Sub-$1,000 Smart Robot Mower to the US Market
Segway’s Navimow i series robot lawn mower is now available in the US. The news marks one of the first robotic mowers priced under $1,000 with autonomous navigation capabilities. The series includes the i105N and the i110N covering 0.125 acres and 0.25 acres. Utilizing Segway’s Exact Fusion Locating System 2.0 the mower promises efficient lawn care. With AI-powered mapping, the Navimow i series offers advanced features previously available only in pricier models. The release signifies a step towards the mainstream adoption of robotic mowers.
Former co-founder of Google DeepMind appointed as CEO of Microsoft’s newly formed AI division
Microsoft appoints Mustafa Suleyman, co-founder of Google DeepMind, as CEO of its new consumer-facing AI division. As such, Suleyman will oversee products like Copilot, Bing, and Edge. Suleyman, also named executive vice president of Microsoft AI, brings a wealth of experience in AI leadership. Alongside Suleyman, Microsoft hires talent from his startup Inflection AI, including co-founder Karén Simonyan. This move signifies Microsoft’s commitment to advancing AI technologies.