Stay connected with the latest tech news from across the web! Check out this week’s blog for our round-up of headlines you won’t want to miss. From black Friday deals to Xbox’s AI update and more, we have you covered!
Mercedes-Benz Previews All-Electric CLA Prototype with AI-Driven Features for 2025
Mercedes-Benz recently showcased its all-electric CLA prototype, offering glimpses into what the 2025 production model may hold. CEO Ola Källenius took viewers on a brief video tour, introducing the vehicle’s AI assistant and demonstrating the drive. The camouflaged CLA model reveals Mercedes’ star logo headlights and a sneak peek of its interior, reflecting advanced technology from the 2022 EQXX Concept. Built on the new Mercedes Modular Architecture (MMA), the CLA marks the first of a new generation of vehicles. It includes a Porsche Taycan-inspired two-speed transmission, 800V battery architecture enabling rapid 250kW charging, and Mercedes’ latest operating system, MB OS, which debuted at CES. Notably, Mercedes-Benz is also developing a hybrid version of the CLA, using a 48-volt system with MMA electric transmission, catering to both electric and hybrid preferences.
Lyft Partners with Three Autonomous Tech Firms to Boost AV Efforts Against Uber
In a bid to keep pace with Uber’s advances in autonomous vehicle (AV) services, Lyft announced partnerships with three AV startups: Mobileye, May Mobility, and Nexar. Mobileye, an Intel subsidiary, and May Mobility will integrate their autonomous vehicles on Lyft’s network, with May Mobility’s autonomous Toyota Sienna minivans slated for a 2025 debut in Atlanta. Nexar, specializing in smart dash cams, will collaborate with Lyft to utilize its vast data from 200 million monthly miles driven to enhance AV technology through “video telematics.” Lyft’s CEO David Risher described these moves as part of Lyft’s “Lyft Ready” turnkey solution, aiming to unify AVs, drivers, and riders into a single network, potentially creating new income streams for participants. This expansion reflects Lyft’s strategy to compete with Uber, which has already established alliances with AV leaders like Waymo, Cruise, and Aurora.
Apple to Introduce Estimated Charging Time Feature for iPhone
Apple is reportedly developing a “BatteryIntelligence” feature for iOS 18.2. The feature will estimate and notify users how long it will take to fully charge their iPhones. Currently, this feature is standard on many Android phones. The feature provides a convenient way to manage charging times across various chargers and cables. While this update is still in progress and may take time for a full release, it builds on Apple’s recent enhancements to iPhone battery management. Recent iPhones already include features like optimized charging to preserve battery health and the ability to view battery cycle count, aiming to prolong device longevity.
Black Friday Deals Begin Early with Major Retailers Offering Discounts and Price Protection
Although Black Friday officially kicks off on November 29, retailers like Best Buy, Target, and Walmart have already launched early holiday discounts. The deals offer price protection, allowing shoppers to buy now and claim lower prices later. Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy will roll out their main Black Friday deals through November, with special access for premium members. Walmart Plus members receive early access to waves of deals, while Target Circle members enjoy daily discounts until December 24. Newegg and Costco are also offering early Black Friday promotions. Additionally, Newegg’s price-protected items are automatically refunded if they drop in price. Each retailer’s Black Friday schedule varies. Likewise, this provides options for shoppers eager to start saving now or those holding out for Black Friday’s official arrival.
Microsoft Tests AI-Powered Xbox Chatbot for Support Assistance
Microsoft has launched a new AI-powered “Xbox Support Virtual Agent” for Xbox Insiders in the US. The tool allows users to test a chatbot designed to help players resolve support-related issues more efficiently. Accessible via support.xbox.com, this AI chatbot answers questions about Xbox console and game support. The feature appears as an animated AI character or colorful Xbox orb. Feedback from Insiders will guide further improvements, according to Xbox’s senior product manager lead, Megha Dudani. This initiative marks a shift in Microsoft’s approach to integrating AI within Xbox services. Likewise, this update extends beyond developer tools to user-facing support. Additionally, there are plans for broader AI-powered features for Xbox consoles on the horizon.