Here are the top trending stories from the world of technology. Stories that every tech enthusiast should keep a tab on.
1)
Microsoft snatches Sam Altman in a Major Coup
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella announced that former OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and OpenAI co-founder Greg Brockman are all set to join Microsoft. Both will lead a new advanced AI research team. They will basically oversee variety of AI projects, including natural language processing, computer vision, and robotics. They will also be responsible for developing new AI products and services for Microsoft’s customers. This development is seen as a major victory for Microsoft as Altman and Brockman are among the brightest minds in the AI industry. Altman joining Microsoft is a culmination of series of dramatic events during last 72 hours, which saw Altman being sacked as the CEO of Open AI.
2)
Amazon launches Free AI Courses
If you want to learn or brush up your AI skills then you can join free AI courses started by Amazon. This program will be called as ‘AI Ready’ and will include eight free courses that basically covers AI project management and development. Amazon aims to train nearly 2 million people globally through this initiative. These courses will be available online and in person, and will be taught by experts from Amazon and other leading organizations. Amazon’s decision could be motivated by several factors, including the fact that the company seriously needs AI talent and wants to stay ahead in the AI race. Amazon currently offers AWS based AI skills training program.
3)
Google and Spotify had made a secret deal over app store fees
In a major revelation, it has come to light that Google had struck a secret deal with Spotify that allowed the music streaming platform to completely bypass the company’s app store fees for Android users. This deal was reportedly in place for several years and was only revealed during the Epic Games v. Apple antitrust trial. Under the terms of the deal, Spotify was able to avoid paying Google’s standard 30% commission on in-app purchases. Instead, Spotify paid a much lower commission rate of just 10%. The existence of such a deal has raised concerns about Google’s business practices. This deal is currently under investigation by the European Commission.
4)
Satya Nadella Slams OpenAI’s Corporate Governance
During an interview with CNBC, Microsoft’s CEO and Chairman Satya Nadella has said that the governance structure of OpenAI needs a serious change. He further added that Microsoft will soon have a good dialogue with OpenAI’s board over this issue and is even willing to take a more hands-on role in OpenAI’s governance. Nadella’s comments come days after OpenAI dramatically sacked Sam Altman as the CEO of the company. Nadella’s statement also assumes huge significance as Microsoft owns substantial stake in OpenAI. However, it is currently unclear what specific changes Microsoft will propose to OpenAI’s governance.
5)
Tinder revamps profile page and adds new features
Popular dating app Tinder has redesigned its profile page by adding several new features as it tries to enhance the user experience of the app. Some of these new features include profile prompts, which is a new way for Tinder users to share their personality and interests with potential matches. Profile Quizzes are another new feature that allows Tinder users to share more about themselves in a fun and interactive way. Separately, Tinder users will also get to use the dark mode feature that will make it easier to use the app in a low light condition and will put less strain on users’ eyes.
