News reporting focused on AI and machine learning, covering the companies behind these technologies, their real-world applications, and the ethical concerns they raise. This includes areas like generative AI (large language models, text-to-image and video), speech tech, and predictive analytics.
h3-metal is a new open-source project that brings MiniMax-H3 text-to-video generation to Apple Silicon via native Metal. It supports prompt-to-video, prompt-to-audio, first/last frame conditioning, and Ref2VA references. The release includes performance optimizations, quality tradeoffs, and a tutorial for building fast videos on M3 Max and M5 Max hardware.
SwitchBot has launched Kata, an LLM-powered AI assistant integrated into its app, enabling natural language control of smart home devices, automation creation, product setup, and troubleshooting. The assistant maintains context, handles ambiguous commands, and offers privacy safeguards, with a daily limit of 100 AI processes. This move aligns with industry trends as competitors like Amazon, Google, and Apple also advance AI-driven smart home interactions.
Google's Pixel 11 series launches with a $100 price increase, 16GB RAM baseline for on-device AI, and Android 17's stricter app distribution rules. These changes set new industry standards, potentially influencing rivals like Apple, which partnered with Google for AI services in 2026.
OpenAI's first smart speaker is expected to launch in 2027 at a price above $300, according to Bloomberg. The screenless, donut-shaped device is designed to feel more alive than current smart speakers, with features like a camera, microphones, and moving parts. However, Apple's lawsuit over alleged trade secret theft could delay the launch.
OpenAI's first hardware device is a donut-shaped smart speaker, priced above $300 and set to ship in 2027. Co-designed with Jony Ive's LoveFrom, the screenless device features moving parts, a camera, and lights to signal interaction. Apple is suing OpenAI over alleged trade secret theft, adding legal challenges to the launch.
OpenAI's upcoming AI smart speaker, developed with Jony Ive's LoveFrom, may cost between $300 and $400, according to Bloomberg. The donut-shaped device, expected in 2027, features premium metal construction and moving parts. It aims to be a physical manifestation of ChatGPT, though legal disputes with Apple and market challenges remain.
OpenAI's first hardware collaboration with former Apple designer Jony Ive is reportedly a doughnut-shaped, battery-powered smart speaker without a display. Expected to launch in 2027 at over $300, the device features moving parts, lights, and a camera, and is designed to be carried around the home. The report, from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, suggests it may be the first in a family of devices.
OpenAI has filed a motion to dismiss Apple's trade secrets lawsuit, calling the allegations 'meritless' and 'rotten to its core.' The dispute began in July when Apple accused former employees who joined OpenAI of taking proprietary documents. OpenAI argues the lawsuit is about competition for talent and Apple's AI struggles, with a hearing set for October 1st.
MacPaw has partnered with Liquid AI to bring locally hosted AI models to its products, starting with the Eney assistant. The collaboration aims to enable offline use and agentic workflows, with plans to offer the tech stack to developers via SetApp. This move differentiates MacPaw from Apple's local AI offerings.
OpenAI has published chat logs and emails in response to Apple's trade secret lawsuit, showing Apple employees voluntarily contacting former engineer Chang Liu for technical help after his departure. OpenAI also accused Apple of legal missteps, including sending an initial email to the wrong person and claiming a phone call that never happened. The case, which also involves former Apple executive Tang Tan, remains unresolved as the evidence complicates Apple's narrative but does not refute core allegations.
Apple's long-delayed Siri AI has finally arrived in the iOS 27 beta, offering natural conversations, personal context, and photo/document retrieval. The launch feels anticlimactic as the AI industry has moved ahead, but the improvements are significant, powered by a partnership with Google's Gemini models. The official release is expected in September.
Apple has capped bug bounty submissions after a flood of AI-generated, low-quality reports clogged its review pipeline. The move backfired when Italian startup Bynario discovered a critical macOS flaw but couldn't submit it, leaving a vulnerability worth up to $200,000 unreported. The incident highlights the growing tension between AI-assisted vulnerability discovery and the need for human verification in cybersecurity.