From SpaceX to Google Wallet and more, we have you covered! Check out your tech news in this week’s blog as we wrap up the top headlines from across the web.
Meta Updates AI Content Labels on Social Platforms
Meta is refining how it labels AI-edited content across Instagram, Facebook, and Threads. The new “AI Info” tag will now appear in a menu in the top-right corner of images and videos edited with generative AI, rather than directly beneath a user’s name. Users can click the menu to access details about any AI modifications. This change aims to better represent the extent of AI involvement in content creation, whether it’s light edits or fully AI-generated. The update follows criticism of Meta’s previous “Made with AI” label and will start rolling out next week.
SpaceX Achieves First Private Spacewalk with Polaris Dawn Mission
In a historic milestone, SpaceX’s Polaris Dawn astronauts completed the first private company-led spacewalk. Jared Isaacman, the billionaire funding the mission, emerged from the Dragon capsule early Thursday, testing SpaceX’s new, more mobile spacesuits. After Isaacman’s tests, SpaceX engineer Sarah Gillis also exited the capsule for further evaluations, both tethered by 12-foot oxygen cords. The mission, which saw the crew reach the highest orbit since the Apollo missions, marked a major achievement for commercial space exploration.
Google Wallet to Begin Beta Testing Digital IDs for TSA Checkpoints
Google Wallet will soon beta test digital IDs at TSA checkpoints in nearly half the U.S., including states like New York, California, and Texas. Google Wallet users can create a digital ID by scanning their passport’s security chip and verifying their identity with a selfie video. Though encrypted and accessible via passcode or fingerprint, Google advises keeping physical IDs as back-up. In addition to digital IDs, Google Wallet is rolling out updates like real-time pass notifications and support for prepaid commuter benefit cards. States like Iowa, New Mexico, and Ohio will soon allow residents to store their IDs digitally in Google Wallet.
OpenAI Launches New “o1” Reasoning AI Model
OpenAI has introduced its new “o1” model, the first in a series of AI models. The model is designed to tackle complex questions and reasoning tasks, outperforming previous models like GPT-4o. Released alongside a smaller version, “o1-mini,” the model excels at problem-solving, coding, and math, with an 83% success rate on a math Olympiad test. Although more expensive and slower, “o1” represents a step toward human-like intelligence, using reinforcement learning and a “chain of thought” process for more accurate results. Access is available to select users, with wider availability expected soon.
Apple AirPods Pro 2 to Gain Hearing Aid Functionality
Apple announced that its AirPods Pro 2 will soon offer a hearing aid function. The feature provides a more affordable alternative to traditional hearing aids. Pending FDA approval, the feature will roll out as a free software update. It will allow users to take a home hearing test, create personalized hearing profiles, and enhance specific sounds like speech. The feature is designed for mild to moderate hearing loss. Likewise, the update integrates with the Apple ecosystem and offers hearing protection features. At $249, the AirPods Pro 2 is a more accessible option than many over-the-counter hearing aids on the market.