There is a lot of buzz in the world of tech, so it’s important to stay connected. Rather than search the world wide web, we have you covered with our weekly tech news wrap-up. Read on for the latest in tech from the Meta Quest 3 to Ea’s Nike Collab and More!
Polestar’s Newest Software Update Brings YouTube and Enhanced Apple CarPlay 
Polestar’s recent software update, P2.9, brings enhanced in-car entertainment to Polestar 2 owners with the introduction of YouTube, allowing for streaming videos while the vehicle charges. This marks a significant step as YouTube wasn’t previously included in the native Android OS used by automakers like Polestar. Additionally, the update expands Apple CarPlay functionality, including a notable feature to project Apple Maps onto the instrument cluster, hinting at Apple’s future CarPlay version with multi-display support. This update, Polestar’s 15th over-the-air (OTA) upgrade since 2020, underlines the growing trend of automakers relying on OTA updates to enrich infotainment controls in the era of connected cars.
Meta Unveils Quest 3 VR Headset Priced at $499.99
Meta has officially introduced its Quest 3 VR headset, set to be released this fall. The 128GB model, priced at $499.99, boasts a lighter design and superior graphics performance due to a new Snapdragon chip. Furthermore, the headset is compatible with games from the previous model, Quest 2. Interestingly, Meta also announced a price reduction for Quest 2, making it more affordable. The tech giant additionally revealed an impending software update to enhance CPU and GPU performance and enable Dynamic Resolution Scaling for the Quest 2 and the Quest Pro. This announcement comes as we anticipate Apple’s mixed reality headset reveal and a showcase for Meta’s VR platform games.
Your Web Browser is on the Verge of an AI Revolution
AI assistants are rapidly becoming a revolutionary addition to web browsers, potentially reshaping how users interact with web content. SigmaOS, a company focused on productivity, is among the trailblazers with its newly launched AI assistant, Airis. Integrated across the browser, Airis allows users to query webpages by highlighting a term or phrase and seeking explanations within the page’s context. This new tool could fundamentally transform browsing experiences, enabling webpages to be more interactive and tailored to individual needs.
EA Sports Collaborates with Nike on NFT Sneaker Initiative
EA and Nike have announced a collaboration to incorporate .Swoosh, Nike’s Web3 marketplace, into future EA Sports titles, bringing virtual apparel and footwear to the gaming world. This aligns with Nike’s earlier suggestion that its digital apparel could be integrated into video games and other immersive experiences. Despite recent slow sales and the declining NFT market, Nike’s latest .Swoosh NFT drop fetched over $1 million. Interestingly, both Nike and EA have avoided using the term ‘NFT’, despite EA CEO Andrew Wilson’s belief that NFTs could play a significant role in the industry’s future.
Custom Cards and State IDs are to be added to Google Wallet This Month
Google Wallet is set to introduce the addition of state ID or driver’s licenses. This change will start with Maryland and extend to Arizona, Colorado, and Georgia in the coming months. Google Wallet’s product management director confirmed their intent to partner with all states ready for this feature. The update also allows the creation of digital versions of any card or pass with a barcode or QR code. Google has not yet confirmed the release date for these new features.