Stay connected in the world of technology with the latest headlines. From ESPN to Xbox and more, we have you covered with what’s happening from across the web. Read on for this week’s top tech news headlines!
Apple Shifts Away from iTunes with New Apps for Windows PC
Apple has officially rolled out its Apple TV, Apple Music, and Apple Devices apps for Windows, transitioning out of the preview phase in collaboration with Microsoft. These apps, along with an updated iCloud for Windows, aim to reduce Windows users’ dependence on iTunes, as reported by MacRumors. The introduction of these apps means that iTunes is now primarily needed for podcast and audiobook access on Windows. The Apple Music app allows users to access their iTunes library and make purchases, while Apple TV offers access to iTunes movies, TV shows, and subscription streaming. The Apple Devices app facilitates iPhone and iPad backups, restorations, and content syncing. Microsoft has supported Apple in this initiative, also integrating iCloud Photos into Windows 11’s Photos app. However, Apple’s new apps are currently limited to x86-based PCs running Windows 10 or 11, with no ARM64 versions available for Qualcomm-powered devices.
ESPN, Fox, and Warner Bros. Collaborate on a Major Sports Streaming Platform
Warner Bros. Discovery, ESPN/Disney, and Fox Sports are set to launch a collaborative sports streaming service this fall. The service will feature content from major sports networks and leagues including the NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, and more. This initiative, where each company holds an equal stake, aims to offer a broad range of sports through a single platform. Disney CEO Bob Iger sees this as a pivotal moment for ESPN and sports enthusiasts. This could either streamline sports viewing or introduce new complexities, with more details expected during Disney’s earnings announcement.
OpenAI Introduces New Watermarks for DALL-E 3
OpenAI is enhancing DALL-E 3 with new watermarks, including invisible metadata and a visible CR symbol. The move is meant to support the Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA) standards. This move, aimed at improving content authenticity, enables users to verify the origin of images generated by OpenAI through platforms like Content Credentials Verify. The watermarks are designed to have minimal impact on image quality and generation speed. This initiative, part of broader efforts by companies including Adobe and Microsoft, seeks to distinguish AI-generated content. However, OpenAI notes that the effectiveness of watermarks could be limited as social media platforms often strip metadata.
Microsoft Set to Reveal Plans for Xbox Games on PlayStation Next Week
Microsoft is set to unveil its strategy for bringing Xbox exclusives like Hi-Fi Rush to PS5 and Nintendo Switch, responding to leaks and speculation about its cross-platform ambitions. The announcement, teased by Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer, aims to clarify the company’s vision for Xbox’s future, particularly after recent rumors suggested titles like Hi-Fi Rush and the anticipated Indiana Jones game might hit PlayStation consoles. This move comes as Microsoft prepares to discuss its gaming direction following the significant acquisition of Activision Blizzard, with a business update event announced for next week to address these developments and outline what’s next for Xbox in the gaming ecosystem.
Tim Cook Announces Apple to Introduce Generative AI Capabilities ‘Later This Year’
Apple CEO Tim Cook has confirmed that generative AI features are slated for release “later this year.” Cook hinted at a significant update in the pipeline, possibly with iOS 18 as suggested by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. Cook’s remarks align with expectations for a major fall release. Likewise, this emphasizes Apple’s commitment to advancing AI technologies across its platforms, including iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. While specifics were not disclosed, Cook’s enthusiasm suggests a significant expansion of AI capabilities in Apple’s software. Of course, this means potentially including advanced photo editing and word processing tools. This move signals Apple’s response to similar innovations by competitors like Google and Samsung.