Connect with top technology headlines of the week! Check out this week’s rundown on what’s happening from Google Meet to WhatsApp and more. We have you covered on the news you won’t want to miss from across the world-wide-web!
Google Meet Introduces Seamless Device Switching During Calls
Google has introduced a new feature in Google Meet that simplifies switching devices during meetings. With the “Switch here” option, users can seamlessly transfer an ongoing call from their computer to their smartphone or vice versa, without interruption. This feature is particularly useful when moving from sitting at a desk to being on the go. Additionally, Google Meet now allows users to be on a call simultaneously from multiple devices, such as a tablet in the kitchen and a computer in the office, making multitasking more manageable. This functionality is accessible via the meeting link on the desired device, and it is available to both personal Google accounts and Workspace customers, starting today.
Lamborghini’s Urus SUV Adds Hybrid Model with New Plug-In Feature
Lamborghini continues its commitment to hybrid technology with the release of the plug-in hybrid Urus SE, now the most powerful version of their best-selling SUV. This luxury hybrid boasts a combined 800 CV (789 hp) from its twin-turbo V8 and electric motor, capable of driving up to 37 miles on electric power alone. The Urus SE features enhanced driving dynamics, including a new four-wheel drive system with electric torque vectoring and an electronic rear differential, enhancing its performance with various driving modes. Priced at $258,000, it surpasses the cost of competitors like the electric Mercedes G-Wagen. This release is part of Lamborghini’s broader €1.9 billion electrification strategy, positioning the Urus SE as a new benchmark in the Super SUV category and paving the way for the brand’s future all-electric models.
Zuckerberg Indicates Generative AI Monetization for Meta Is Years Away
During Meta’s recent first-quarter earnings call, CEO Mark Zuckerberg emphasized that while generative AI is being integrated across platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, monetizing it will be a long-term project, taking several years. Despite Meta’s significant profit of over $12 billion last quarter, Zuckerberg projected slower revenue growth and highlighted substantial investments in AI and the metaverse. He likened the integration of AI to past successful additions like Stories and Reels, noting promising early engagement. Meta plans to explore multiple revenue streams from its AI assistant, including business messaging, ads, and premium services. Additionally, Zuckerberg was optimistic about the demand for Meta’s smart glasses, developed in collaboration with Ray-Ban, indicating a strong market interest in AI-enhanced wearable tech without a display.
WhatsApp for iOS Introduces Passkey-Based Login Without Passwords
WhatsApp is advancing towards a passwordless future by introducing passkey support in its iOS app, a feature that has been available to Android users since October. This update allows users to log in using iPhone biometrics—Face ID or Touch ID—or their phone’s passcode, enhancing security beyond the existing capability to unlock the app. Passkeys, designed to be a more secure alternative to traditional passwords and SMS two-factor authentication, enable login without a network connection as the authentication key is stored on the device. iOS users can expect to see this feature in the “Settings > Account > Passkeys” section in the coming weeks. Additionally, logging into WhatsApp on non-primary devices like Mac, Windows, or web will still require scanning a QR code from the “Linked Devices” menu.
Reddit Revamps App to Emphasize Comment Interaction
Reddit is enhancing its mobile app on iOS and Android to put a greater emphasis on comments, aiming to streamline the user experience. The update includes faster loading and immediate access to comments by clicking the comments icon, which now directs users straight to the top comment, with the original post summarized in a pinned “context bar” at the top of the screen. Users can interact with the original post by clicking its thumbnail in the context bar. Navigation has also been unified across media types, allowing users to swipe between posts or directly to comments. While these changes promote more active comment engagement, they may cause users to overlook some details of the original posts, especially if they bypass expanding images or reading captions. Reddit developed these updates based on user feedback.