YouTube Unveils AI-Powered Ad Feature – But You Might Not Love It
YouTube is taking a bold step into the world of advertising with its latest feature, Peak Points. This AI-driven tool promises to display ads at the most compelling moments of a video, ensuring that viewers are interrupted just when they’re most engaged.
Utilizing Google’s Gemini technology, Peak Points analyzes video transcripts and visual elements to pinpoint these optimal ad placements. The idea, according to YouTube, is to boost the effectiveness of ads by increasing impressions and click-through rates. However, early user reactions are far from positive, with many perceiving this as just another tactic to nudge viewers towards YouTube Premium. Are we ready for more interruptions during our favorite shows?
Microsoft’s New Wake Word – “Hey, Copilot” – A Familiar Tune
In an effort to further embed its AI assistant, Microsoft is currently testing a wake word: “Hey, Copilot.” Yes, it sounds a lot like “Hey, Cortana,” but this time, the reception is much warmer.
The popularity of Copilot is evident, as it’s integrated across various platforms—from Office apps to Windows and even on mobile devices. Users simply need to say “Hey, Copilot” to activate the assistant, which then prompts a brief chime and visual cue on-screen. However, privacy concerns linger, as some users question how their data is managed during interactions. Microsoft reassures that there’s a ten-second listening window before any data transmission occurs, minimizing potential privacy pitfalls. Will this be an AI assistant you can trust?
Apple Turns Down Fortnite’s iOS Comeback—Fans Left Disappointed
In a surprising move, Apple has blocked Epic Games’ latest attempt to return Fortnite to the U.S. and European App Stores. After a brief glimmer of hope following Epic’s announcement that they had complied with Apple’s payment system requirements, fans are now left in dismay.
This latest twist continues the ongoing saga between Apple and Epic Games, which has seen the two giants clash since 2020 over issues of app store control and payment methods. While a judge ruled in Apple’s favor before, recent changes in U.S. and EU regulations regarding third-party payments have further complicated the matter. Epic hopes to utilize its European developer account to revive Fortnite’s presence on the App Store—only time will tell if they can overcome Apple’s barriers.
Google Chrome Shifts to Lower Security Risk—Will No Longer Run with Admin Rights
In a bid to enhance user security, Google Chrome will no longer operate with elevated privileges. This decision aligns Chrome more closely with best practices, echoing a similar feature in Microsoft Edge introduced back in 2019.
Running browsers with admin rights poses security risks, allowing malicious downloads unwarranted access to the operating system. If Chrome detects it’s running with admin privileges, it will automatically restart without these privileges. Great news for those using automation tools, as this change will not disrupt their operations. Is this a necessary step toward safer browsing?
Valve Expands SteamOS Compatibility Beyond the Steam Deck
In an exciting development for gamers, Valve has unveiled SteamOS compatibility ratings for third-party gaming consoles, starting with the Lenovo Legion Go S. This means that handhelds featuring SteamOS can now optimize performance for a range of games.
As these ratings evolve, gaming hardware will likely improve, offering features superior to those found on the Steam Deck. This opens up exciting new possibilities for gamers checking if their consoles can handle their favorite titles. Additionally, there are whispers that Valve may extend SteamOS to personal computers, potentially challenging the dominance of Windows in the gaming realm. Could we see a shift in the gaming landscape?
