Wrap up the week with the latest in tech and media news. From the Samsung Galaxy Ring to CES 2025 and more, we have covered you on the top headlines. Check out what’s happening in the world of tech below!
Google Unveils Gemini 2.0 Flash Thinking AI Model with Advanced Reasoning Abilities
Google has unveiled Gemini 2.0 Flash Thinking, an experimental AI model designed to answer complex questions while offering insights into its step-by-step reasoning process, positioning it as a competitor to OpenAI’s o1 reasoning model. According to Google DeepMind’s chief scientist Jeff Dean, the model is “trained to use thoughts to strengthen its reasoning” and leverages the speed of the Gemini Flash 2.0 platform to break down problems into smaller tasks for more robust solutions. Demonstrations highlight its ability to tackle physics problems and handle challenges involving both visual and textual inputs, with Google product lead Logan Kilpatrick calling it “just the first step in our reasoning journey.” Available for testing on Google’s AI Studio, Gemini 2.0 reflects Google’s push into advanced “agentic” AI, coinciding with OpenAI’s recent release of its o1 reasoning model for ChatGPT subscribers.
Lenovo to Unveil SteamOS Handheld at CES 2025
Lenovo is set to debut its first SteamOS handheld, likely the Legion Go S, at CES 2025 in Las Vegas on January 7th. The event, titled “Lenovo Legion x AMD: The Future of Gaming Handhelds,” will feature Valve’s Pierre-Loup Griffais, co-designer of SteamOS and the Steam Deck, alongside Microsoft VP Jason Ronald. Leaks suggest the Legion Go S will come with detachable controllers, with possible AMD Z2 Extreme chips powering the devices. While Microsoft isn’t unveiling an Xbox handheld, the event may position all handhelds as part of its Xbox ecosystem in line with its new marketing campaign.
Instagram to Launch AI Video Editing Tools in 2024
Instagram plans to roll out a generative AI video editing feature in 2024, powered by Meta’s Movie Gen AI model, enabling creators to transform videos using simple text prompts. Previewed by Instagram head Adam Mosseri, the tool can adjust backgrounds, clothing, and even appearances seamlessly, as demonstrated in a teaser where Mosseri’s outfit and environment change, and he transforms into a felt puppet. While early demos appear polished, real-world performance remains to be seen. This marks Instagram as the first platform to adopt Meta’s Movie Gen AI. Likewise, this allows Meta to compete with similar tools like OpenAI’s Sora and Adobe’s Firefly Video.
Samsung Galaxy Ring to Offer Larger Sizes in 2025
Samsung is expanding its Galaxy Ring lineup with two new larger sizes, 14 and 15. The newer sizes are expected to launch in January 2025, according to leaks and a user manual uncovered by 91mobiles. These sizes aim to compete with the Oura Ring, which already offers a similar size range. The new models (SM-Q514 and SM-Q515) will weigh 3.2 grams and join the current size options. The company continues to provide sizing kits to ensure a comfortable and effective fit. Of course, proper sizing is crucial for smart rings to function optimally.
Samsung Introduces Hybrid Cooling Tech for 2025 Refrigerators
Samsung is launching hybrid cooling technology in its 2025 refrigerators. Likewise, the change combines a traditional compressor with a Peltier module to minimize temperature variations and keep food fresher longer. The Peltier module activates during significant cooling demands, such as after loading groceries, while the compressor handles regular cooling efficiently. This innovation, debuting in the RM80F23VM model, adds 25 liters of usable space to a 900-liter fridge. Additionally, it improves energy efficiency, earning it Energy Star recognition. Samsung claims the tech can extend the freshness of pork by 1.4 times and salmon by 1.2 times. More details are expected at CES 2025 in January.