Google launches new AI video generator Veo 2, claims it to be better than Sora

Here is the top trending news from the world of technology. News that every tech enthusiast should keep a tab on.

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Google launches new AI video generator Veo 2, claims it to be better than Sora

Google has just debuted Veo 2, an advanced AI video generator that aims to outperform OpenAI’s Sora. Veo 2 can generate videos in up to 4K resolution and supports longer clips, with a maximum length of two minutes, compared to Sora’s limitations of 1080p and 20 seconds. Google claims that Veo 2 boasts significant improvements in realism, including a better understanding of human movement and facial expressions. Google further claims that its new AI video model comes with better customization feature, allowing users to input detailed prompts, including specific instructions for scenes and camera techniques. Veo 2 is currently available on Google’s VideoFX platform. However, you’ll have to join the waitlist for accessing this model.

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Instagram is adding a DM scheduling feature

Instagram has rolled out a new feature that allows users to schedule direct messages (DMs). Users can schedule a DM by typing out a message, holding down the send button, and selecting a specific date and time for delivery. Messages can be scheduled up to 29 days in advance. Once a message is scheduled, users will see a notification indicating the number of scheduled messages whenever they open the chat. This will ensure they remain aware of their upcoming communications. This new feature will be immensely useful for brands and general Instagram users alike.  The DM scheduling feature has come at a time as Instagram prepares to introduce broader scheduling options for posts and Reels, which is currently available only for professional accounts.

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Waymo Robotaxi all set to make debut in Tokyo in 2025

Waymo has announced plans to begin testing its robotaxis in Tokyo in early 2025. This marks a significant milestone as it will be the first time that company will be operating its autonomous vehicles outside United States. Waymo will initially deploy a fleet of 25 Jaguar I-Pace electric vehicles across different locations in Tokyo. Waymo robotaxi will be will be manually operated by drivers from Japan’s well known taxi company, Nihon Kotsu. The company is also collaborating with taxi-hailing app GO for better navigation. Operating robotaxis will be immensely challenging for Waymo as Tokyo is one of the most densely populated urban cities in the world. 

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TikTok requests US Supreme Court to postpone the upcoming ban

TikTok has formally requested the U.S. Supreme Court to temporarily block a federal law that necessities the app’s parent company, ByteDance, to part away its ownership by January 19, 2025, or face an imminent ban in the country. TikTok has applied for this emergency appeal in the supreme court after the DC Circuit Court of Appeals rejected its previous appeal to halt the implementation of the law. The company claims that enforcing the law would cause “immediate irreparable harm” to both itself and its users, who number over 170 million in the U.S. However, many US experts argue that with Donald Trump set to take the control of White House in January next year, TikTok is unlikely to get any reprieve.