Stay connected with this week’s leading tech news headlines, from Adobe AI to Nikon Acquisitions and more! Our weekly round-up of what’s happening from across the web provides a bite-size version of the week’s news. Read on for the latest tech news!
Apple Aims to Simplify Transition from iPhone to Android Due to EU Regulations
Apple is set to introduce changes for EU-based iPhone users to align with the European Union’s new Digital Markets Act, aiming to facilitate the uninstallation of its Safari browser by late 2024 and enhance the process of transferring data to non-Apple phones by fall 2025. A compliance document from Apple highlights efforts to comply with the EU regulations, including a browser switching solution and the ability to select alternative default navigation apps by March 2025. While it remains unclear if these changes will apply globally, Apple’s initiative reflects an effort to develop more user-friendly data transfer solutions, potentially addressing gaps in current transfer tools like Google’s “Switch to Android” app, which does not support the migration of certain data types.
Adobe Introduces Generative AI Capabilities of Firefly in the Latest Express Mobile Application
Adobe has unveiled a new Adobe Express app for mobile devices, extending the creative, editing, and Firefly-powered generative AI functionalities of its desktop version to iOS and Android users. Available in beta, this app offers free access to features like generative fill and text-to-image effects, enabling users to create social media posts, posters, and website banners, with the added advantage for Creative Cloud members to access and edit Photoshop and Illustrator files directly on their mobile devices. While the app is currently free, Adobe plans to transition its premium features to a subscription model post-beta. The beta version promotes collaborative workflows across devices, though not all smartphones are supported, and iOS users face beta access restrictions. This mobile integration of Firefly AI positions Adobe Express competitively against platforms like Canva, offering a consolidated design solution on mobile platforms.
Nikon to Purchase American Camera Maker RED
Nikon is set to acquire RED Digital Cinema, a leading digital cinema camera manufacturer. While financial details remain undisclosed, the acquisition will see RED becoming a fully integrated subsidiary under Nikon. This strategic move aims to bolster Nikon’s presence in the professional digital cinema market, leveraging RED’s advanced cinema camera technology, including its unique image compression and color science. RED’s impressive portfolio, featuring work on major Marvel films, acclaimed nature documentaries, and popular TV shows, underscores the brand’s industry impact. RED, founded in 2005 with about 220 employees and based in Foothill Ranch, California, also made a brief foray into the smartphone sector in 2018 with the RED Hydrogen One.
Target to Introduce Unlimited Expedited Shipping Service, Competing with Amazon Prime
Target is rolling out Target Circle 360, a subscription service priced at $99 per year. The service also offers free, unlimited delivery and expedited shipping on online orders. Target’s service is set to launch on April 7, with an early bird price of $49 until May 18. The service also provides free two-day shipping and same-day delivery for orders over $35. Target Circle 360 is essentially an enhancement and rebranding of existing services. Subscribers will also gain access to the Shipt Marketplace for free delivery from additional stores.
Meta Details Integration of WhatsApp’s Encrypted Conversations with External Services
With the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) now in effect, Meta is outlining how WhatsApp and Messenger will maintain end-to-end encryption. Likewise, they are also seeking to ensure interoperability with third-party chat services as mandated. Although Meta is required to prepare for service interoperability within three months of a request, actual public deployment may take longer. Initially, this interoperability will support individual chats and file sharing. In addition, the plans to extend to group chats and calls. Third-party services must agree to certain conditions.
Meta Introduces ‘Lying Down Mode’ for Quest 2 and Pro VR Headsets
The latest v63 software update for Meta’s Quest 2 and Pro VR headsets introduces a “lying down mode.” The feature enables users to comfortably use their headsets while reclining. Of course, the feature’s comeback is celebrated for enhancing accessibility. Activation is simple via the Experimental Settings in the headset menu. The update also launches Quest Cash, a payment system for the Meta Quest store. There’s no confirmation yet on whether the anticipated Quest 3 headsets will feature this accessibility option.