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Stay connected as we bring you the latest updates on innovations and trends in the tech industry. From TikTok’s Whee App to Netflix House and more, we have you covered on the week’s major headlines. Read on for what’s buzzing across the World Wide Web.

Netflix House Retail Destinations Announced

Netflix has revealed details about its upcoming permanent retail locations, set to open in 2025 in Dallas, Texas, and King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. Located in the Galleria Dallas and King of Prussia Mall, these venues will occupy over 100,000 square feet each, repurposing former department store spaces. The sites will feature immersive experiences, unique food and drink offerings, and striking sculptures and murals of popular Netflix characters. This initiative aims to create engaging physical spaces for fans, echoing the nostalgic appeal of Stranger Things’ Starcourt Mall.

New AI Company Focused on Safety

Ilya Sutskever, OpenAI’s co-founder and former chief scientist, has launched Safe Superintelligence Inc. (SSI), a startup dedicated to creating a safe and powerful AI system. SSI aims to balance safety and capabilities, avoiding the external pressures faced by larger companies. Co-founded by Daniel Gross and Daniel Levy, SSI focuses solely on developing safe superintelligence. Sutskever, who left OpenAI amid concerns over safety priorities, emphasizes that SSI’s business model ensures progress without short-term commercial pressures.

Apple Shifts Focus to Cheaper Vision Headset

Apple is reportedly halting development of a new high-end Vision headset due to slowing sales of the Vision Pro, according to The Information. Instead, Apple is working on reducing component costs for the existing model and developing a more affordable version, codenamed N109, targeting a release by the end of 2025. The new headset aims to retain the high-res displays but will be lighter and cost between $1,500 and $2,500. Despite these changes, Apple continues to support the Vision Pro with international releases and new features.

Snapchat’s Upcoming AR AI Model

Snapchat previewed its upcoming on-device AI model that transforms surroundings using augmented reality (AR). This model allows creators to turn text prompts into custom lenses, enabling dynamic real-time transformations. Users will see lenses using this model in the coming months, while creators can start making them by year’s end. Additionally, new AI tools in Lens Studio will simplify creating custom AR effects, including face transformations and 3D asset generation. This follows Snapchat’s recent AI innovations like AI-generated snaps and a ChatGPT-powered chatbot .

Nvidia Becomes World’s Most Valuable Company

Nvidia has surpassed Microsoft and Apple to become the world’s most valuable company, driven by its key role in generative AI technology. At the close of trading on Tuesday, Nvidia’s market cap reached $3.335 trillion, with shares priced at $135.58. This significant rise, up 160% in 2024, follows Nvidia’s recent earnings report and upcoming release of the Blackwell GPU architecture. CEO Jensen Huang announced the high-cost Blackwell units, priced at $30,000 to $40,000 each, with plans for new AI chips annually.

TikTok Launches New Photo-Sharing App Whee

TikTok has introduced Whee, a new photo-sharing app designed for sharing photos with close friends, similar to Instagram. Whee allows users to capture and share real-life moments privately, emphasizing authenticity. Currently available on Android in over a dozen countries (excluding the US), the Whee app features a photo viewfinder, friend messaging, and a feed for sharing with close friends. This launch follows TikTok’s previous image-sharing app, TikTok Notes. TikTok and ByteDance have not commented further on the release of Whee.

Discover the best restaurants in Los Angeles for group dining, including Osteria La Buca, Raffi’s Place, The Front Yard, Ruen Pair, and Guelaguetza. Perfect for large gatherings and celebrations.

Osteria La Buca

Location: 14235 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423

Despite its name, which means “hole in the wall,” Osteria La Buca is a spacious gem. Both the original Melrose spot and the newer location that opened in 2020 offer delectable dishes like rigatoni bolognese and bucatini carbonara. Reservations are recommended for group dining.

Raffi’s Place

Location: 211 E Broadway, Glendale, CA 91205

Celebrating over 30 years in Glendale, Raffi’s Place is renowned for its Persian cuisine. The family-owned restaurant features dishes such as filet mignon shish kebab, koobideh, and shirazi salad. With expansive indoor and courtyard seating, it’s perfect for large celebrations.

The Front Yard

Location: 222 Vineland Ave, North Hollywood, CA 91602

Located in the Garland hotel, The Front Yard offers a dreamy patio ideal for group dining. Open from 7 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. on weekends, the menu includes unique options like 24-hour smoked carnitas and a plant-based butternut squash shepherd’s pie.

Ruen Pair

Location: 5257 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027

In the heart of Thai Town, Ruen Pair serves affordable Thai-Chinese cuisine. The restaurant’s long tables and open seating make it great for groups, though be prepared for a wait during peak hours. In addition, parking is convenient with a large valet lot.

Guelaguetza

Location: 3014 W Olympic Blvd (at Normandie Ave), Los Angeles, CA 90006

Guelaguetza is a celebrated Oaxacan restaurant known for its spacious dining room, making group dining a breeze. Menu highlights include shareable options like queso fundido dip, meat platters, and family-style mole dishes.

Loreto

Location: 1991 Blake Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90039

Situated in Frogtown, Loreto offers ample seating in a sleek warehouse space, perfect for group dining. Cozy corners and banquettes indoors, along with outdoor seating, provide a comfortable setting to enjoy an extensive seafood menu. Sample dishes like ceviches, tostadas, and zarandeados in this stylish and spacious venue.

Girl & the Goat Los Angeles

Location: 555-3 Mateo St, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Chef Stephanie Izard’s spacious DTLA dining room at Girl & the Goat can comfortably fit large groups. Likewise, the flexible seating arrangement and private dining room make it an excellent choice for group dining in Downtown LA.

Cassia

Location: 1314 7th St, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Booking a table in advance is key, but the restaurant’s long tables can accommodate dining groups. Chef Bryant Ng’s menu features powerful renditions of dishes like chickpea curry, Singapore chile crab, and wok-tossed lobster, perfect for sharing.

The Strand House

Location: 117 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

Steps from the Manhattan Beach Pier, The Strand House offers stunning Pacific Ocean views and can accommodate groups up to 12 or even entire wedding receptions. Enjoy the cold seafood bar and a California-inflected menu in a picturesque setting ideal for special occasions.

La Cabana Venice

Location: 738 Rose Ave, Venice, CA 90291

Since 1963, La Cabana in Venice has been a go-to for casual group dining. Large booths and a colorful patio provide ample space for gatherings. Feast on margaritas, enchiladas, and rice and beans while enjoying the lively atmosphere, complete with occasional mariachi performances.

Summer is a time for fun in the sun, family gatherings, and outdoor adventures. However, it’s crucial to keep safety in mind to ensure everyone enjoys the season without mishaps. Here are some essential summer safety tips for families, focusing on pool safety, grilling precautions, and home security during vacations.

Pool Safety

Swimming pools are a fantastic way to cool off and have fun, but they can also pose serious risks, especially for children. Here are some key pool safety tips:

1. Supervision: Always supervise children when they are in or near the pool. Designate a responsible adult to keep a constant eye on swimmers.
2. Fencing: Install a fence around the pool area to prevent unsupervised access. Ensure the gate is self-closing and self-latching.
3. Pool Covers and Alarms: Use pool covers and alarms as additional safety measures. Pool covers can prevent accidental falls, while alarms can alert you if someone enters the pool.
4. Swimming Lessons: Enroll children in swimming lessons to help them become confident and skilled swimmers.
5. CPR Training: Ensure that at least one adult in the household is trained in CPR. This can be a lifesaver in case of emergencies.

Grilling Safety

Grilling is a popular summer activity, but it comes with its own set of safety concerns. Follow these tips to keep your grilling sessions safe and enjoyable:

1. Location: Set up your grill in a well-ventilated area, away from your home, deck railings, and overhanging branches.
2. Supervision: Never leave the grill unattended while it’s in use. Keep children and pets at a safe distance.
3. Cleanliness: Clean your grill regularly to prevent grease buildup, which can cause flare-ups.
4. Tools and Clothing: Use long-handled tools to keep a safe distance from the flames and avoid wearing loose clothing that could catch fire.
5. Fire Safety: Keep a fire extinguisher, baking soda, or a bucket of sand nearby to extinguish any unexpected fires. Avoid using water on grease fires.

Home Safety During Vacations

Summer is also a prime time for family vacations. While you’re away, it’s important to keep your home secure to prevent break-ins and other issues:

1. Lock Up: Ensure all doors and windows are locked before you leave. Don’t forget to secure any secondary entrances, such as garage doors and basement windows.
2. Light Timers: Use light timers to give the appearance that someone is home. Set them to turn lights on and off at different times in various rooms.
3. Mail and Packages: Arrange for a neighbor or friend to collect your mail and packages, or put a hold on your mail at the post office. Overflowing mailboxes can signal that no one is home.
4. Security Systems: If you have a security system, ensure it is activated before you leave. Consider adding security cameras for extra peace of mind.
5. Neighbors: Inform a trusted neighbor of your travel plans so they can keep an eye on your property and report any suspicious activity.

By following these summer safety tips, you can help ensure that your family enjoys a fun, safe, and worry-free summer season. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, grilling up a feast, or heading out on a vacation, a little preparation and vigilance can go a long way in keeping everyone safe.

As June continues on, we’re staying connected with what’s happening in the world of tech. From Sony’s Alamo Acquisition to Apple Pay and more, we have you covered. Read this week’s tech news blog below for the major headlines, you want to know!

Sony Pictures Acquires Alamo Drafthouse Cinema

Sony Pictures Entertainment has acquired Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, a popular movie theater chain known for its unique movie-dining experience. The theaters will be managed under Sony’s new division, Sony Pictures Experiences, while Alamo Drafthouse will continue to operate its 35 cinemas across 25 metro areas with Michael Kustermann remaining as CEO. The Alamo Drafthouse acquisition includes maintaining the Fantastic Fest film festival. Sony is purchasing Alamo Drafthouse from Altamont Capital Partners, Fortress Investment Group, and founder Tim League, who acquired the chain after its Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2021. This move follows the 2020 reversal of the Paramount Consent Decrees, allowing movie distributors like Sony and Netflix to own theaters again.

Apple Expands Apple Pay to Non-Safari Browsers

Apple is expanding Apple Pay to work on non-Safari desktop web browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, and even Windows PCs, as reported by MacRumors. Demonstrated in a WWDC 2024 video, users will soon be able to click an Apple Pay button on these browsers, scan a special code with an iPhone running iOS 18, and complete transactions on their phone. Previously limited to Safari on Macs, this update will increase the visibility of Apple Pay buttons across the web. Additionally, the video detailed iOS 18’s redesigned event tickets in Apple Wallet, set to debut this fall.

Meta Enhances WhatsApp Video Calls for Large Groups

Meta is enhancing WhatsApp video calls with features that benefit large group conversations. A new speaker spotlight feature will automatically highlight the current speaker on-screen, while improved screen sharing will now include audio when showing videos. Additionally, video calls will support up to 32 participants across all devices, removing previous limits on the desktop apps. These updates are set to roll out over the next few weeks.

TikTok Launches “Off the Record” Video Series for Musicians

TikTok is launching a new video series, “Off the Record,” to help musicians promote their music on the platform. Produced by TikTok, the series features artists like Shakira, Charli XCX, and Meghan Trainor discussing their inspiration and creative process in short clips. The videos are shared throughout June, with a dedicated hub available via the #OfftheRecord search. This initiative is part of TikTok’s ongoing efforts to support artists and strengthen connections between them and their fans.

OpenAI, Microsoft, and Oracle Collab for Increased Compute Capacity

A partnership has been announced by OpenAI, Microsoft, and Oracle. The move will provide more computing capacity for running ChatGPT. OpenAI will utilize Microsoft’s Azure AI platform on Oracle’s infrastructure to meet the growing demand for its services. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman emphasized the need for additional infrastructure, and the Oracle deal aims to scale OpenAI’s operations. While OpenAI has primarily relied on Microsoft, which has invested $13 billion in the company, this partnership highlights the necessity for more compute resources. Despite potential sensitivities, OpenAI assures that its strategic relationship with Microsoft remains unchanged, with core model pre-training continuing on Microsoft’s supercomputers. Notably, Oracle also supports xAI, a rival AI company founded by Elon Musk.