Don’t miss out on what’s happening in the world of tech! We have you covered with this week’s top technology headlines. Read on for what’s new from Netflix to Nvidia and more!
Netflix Tests New TV App Homepage Design
Netflix is testing a significant redesign of its TV app homepage, replacing static tiles with dynamic boxes that expand when highlighted. The new interface features short previews and detailed information, making it easier to decide what to watch. The updated design includes a streamlined top menu for quicker navigation, consolidating options like “search,” “home,” and “My Netflix.” This redesign aims to enhance user experience, potentially rolling out to more subscribers soon if initial tests are successful.
Apple Commits to Minimum Five Years of iPhone Security Updates
Apple has pledged to provide at least five years of security updates for iPhones, aligning with the UK’s new PSTI Act, which mandates defined support periods for internet-connected products. While this sets a minimum, Apple often extends updates beyond this period, as seen with the nearly 10-year-old iPhone 5S. Starting with the iPhone 15, released on September 22, 2023, users can expect security updates until at least 2028. This commitment contrasts with Google and Samsung, which guarantee seven years of updates for their newer devices.
HP Considering Acquisition of Humane’s AI Pin Business
Following widespread criticism of its $699 AI Pin, Humane is reportedly seeking a buyer, with HP emerging as a potential contender. According to The New York Times, discussions with HP about a sale valued at over $1 billion began shortly after negative reviews surfaced. This aligns with Bloomberg’s report suggesting Humane is looking for a price between $750 million and $1 billion. Led by former Apple employees, Humane has faced challenges including product overheating and fire safety risks, as well as internal dissent. Despite aiming to sell 100,000 units, the company had only received about 10,000 orders by early April.
Samsung’s High-End MicroLED TVs: Massive Sizes and Prices
Samsung’s quest to sell massive and expensive MicroLED TVs began in 2018 with its modular “The Wall” design. Now, the lineup includes 89-inch ($109,999), 101-inch ($129,999), and 114-inch ($149,999) models. These self-emitting TVs offer deep blacks and high contrast similar to OLED, but without burn-in risks. Samsung’s MicroLEDs are bezel-less and versatile, suitable for various setups. Despite their high price, current models, including a 76-inch version from last year, are listed as “out of stock” on Samsung’s online store.
Nvidia Becomes World’s Second Most Valuable Company
Nvidia has become the world’s second most valuable company, reaching a market capitalization of $3.01 trillion, just surpassing Apple’s $3 trillion. Dominating the AI market with its H100 chip, Nvidia’s value soared past $2 trillion in early 2024 and reported $14 billion in profit recently. Now trailing only Microsoft, Nvidia’s stock is over $1,220 per share, with a planned stock split on June 7th. Nvidia controls up to 95% of the AI chip market and plans to release a new AI chip annually, starting with the Blackwell B200 GPU later this year.
Boeing Starliner’s Successful Crewed Launch to ISS
Boeing’s Starliner successfully launched its first crewed mission, lifting off atop the Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida, and reaching a safe, stable orbit. NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams are en route to the International Space Station (ISS), where they will test the Starliner’s capabilities over the next week before returning to Earth. This marks a significant milestone for Boeing, which has faced setbacks since the start of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program in 2014, including a failed uncrewed launch in 2019 and two previous scrapped crewed launch attempts earlier this year.