Stay connected with what’s happening in the world of tech with the latest headlines. From LG’s ThinQ ON to Plaud AI Pin and more, we have you covered on the top tech news. Read on for this week’s wrap-up!
Tumblr Blogs to Migrate to WordPress Backend
Automattic, the parent company of WordPress.com and Tumblr, has announced that all Tumblr blogs will soon be hosted on WordPress’s infrastructure. This migration aims to enhance stability and streamline feature updates across both platforms. While users are unlikely to notice any changes, Automattic acknowledges that the transition will be challenging and has not provided a timeline for completion. Since acquiring Tumblr in 2019, Automattic has been working to revitalize the platform with varying success, now focusing on running it more efficiently.
LG Unveils ThinQ ON: It’s First Dedicated Smart Home Hub
LG has announced the ThinQ ON, its first dedicated smart home hub, set to debut at IFA 2024 in Berlin. This AI-powered hub connects and controls LG appliances and other smart devices via Thread, Matter, and Wi-Fi, operating on LG’s ThinQ platform. With voice control capabilities and natural language processing, the ThinQ ON is designed to learn user preferences and automate smart home routines. This move marks LG’s expansion into a more comprehensive smart home ecosystem, although pricing and availability details are yet to be revealed.
Plaud Launches NotePin: A Wearable AI Device for Productivity
Plaud, known for its AI-powered voice recorder, has introduced the NotePin. The Plaud NotePin is a wearable gadget designed to help users capture notes and meetings on the go. Resembling early Fitbits, the Plaud NotePin can be worn as a pendant, pinned to clothing, or strapped to the wrist. Positioned as a productivity tool, it transcribes, summarizes, and extracts action items from recorded content. With a 20-hour battery life and manual recording activation for privacy, the Plaud NotePin is priced at $169, with advanced AI features available for an annual subscription of $79.
Apple Music Playlists Can Now Be Transferred to YouTube Music
Apple Music subscribers can now transfer their playlists to YouTube Music. This update marks the first time Apple has allowed native playlist migration to a rival service. However, only songs available on YouTube Music can be transferred. Likewise, this excludes podcasts, audiobooks, and curated or non-collaborative playlists. Users need active subscriptions to both Apple Music and YouTube Music to initiate the transfer via Apple’s Data and Privacy page. Despite this update, Apple still requires third-party tools for playlist transfers to other services like Spotify or Amazon Music.
Meta Developing Lightweight Mixed-Reality Glasses for 2027
Meta is reportedly working on a smaller mixed-reality device, codenamed Puffin, that resembles a large pair of glasses. According to The Information, these glasses could weigh around 110 grams. In addition, the device might feature an external battery and processor pack, similar to the Apple Vision Pro. Expected to arrive by 2027, if the project proceeds, the glasses may include pancake lenses for a slimmer design. Likewise, they will offer video passthrough with hand- and eye-tracking controls. This development suggests Meta is aiming to create more user-friendly alternatives to bulkier headsets.