This week in the tech industry, several noteworthy developments took place. Bowers & Wilkins partnered with McLaren Automotive to create an innovative speaker, Instagram introduced a new feature for selective group posting, Disney faced criticism over the alleged use of AI in a poster design, and SpaceX’s Starlink announced plans for a satellite-based SMS service.
In a collaboration between Bowers & Wilkins and McLaren Automotive, a cutting-edge wireless speaker called the Zeppelin McLaren Edition was unveiled. This speaker combines high-quality sound with a sleek design, resembling a blimp and featuring a “Galvanic Grey” finish with “Papaya Orange” details. With 240W of amplification, it also pays homage to Bruce McLaren with a Speedy Kiwi on the rear.
Instagram is working on a feature that allows users to post Stories for select groups of people. This new capability will enable users to share their Stories with a more specific audience, providing more control over who can view their content. This feature aims to enhance privacy and customization options for Instagram users.
Disney’s Loki poster for the second season of the show faced criticism for its alleged use of AI in the design process. Fans pointed out issues such as the artist’s lack of knowledge of the Roman numeral for four and the unnatural appearance of the figures. This controversy raises questions about the role of AI in creative processes and the potential impact on artistic expression.
SpaceX’s Starlink announced plans to launch a satellite-based SMS service called Direct-to-Cell in partnership with T-Mobile. Scheduled for 2024, this messaging system will initially offer SMS capabilities and aims to provide ubiquitous access to texting, calling, and browsing. Starlink plans to add voice and data services in 2025, expanding its reach and connectivity options.
These developments highlight the ongoing advancements and trends in the tech industry. From innovative collaborations to new features and controversies surrounding AI, the industry continues to evolve and shape the way we interact with technology. Stay tuned for more updates on these and other tech-related topics.
