Insyte Weekly: OpenAI and Google AI Battle Heats Up, XBox's Transparency Report and More

Although OpenAI may have grabbed all the headlines this week, there were other intriguing stories that caught our attention. Here’s a breakdown of some of the week’s top stories.

Artificial Intelligence

In line with its mission to advance AI technology for widespread accessibility and benefit, OpenAI introduced its latest model, GPT-4o earlier this week to much media frenzy. This new model boasts GPT-4-level intelligence, enhanced speed, and expanded capabilities across text, voice, and vision domains.

GPT-4o stands out for its superior ability to understand and discuss images, offering users the capability to engage in tasks such as translating foreign menus, learning about food history, and receiving recommendations based on images. Future updates will enable real-time voice conversations and live video interactions with ChatGPT, promising a more immersive user experience.

Not to be outdone by OpenAI, Google announced on Tuesday a significant update to its search engine, integrating responses generated by artificial intelligence (AI). This move marks one of the most substantial changes to Google's iconic search platform since its inception as reported by Broadband. 

Media & Entertainment

LinkedIn, initially a job-search and professional networking site, has transformed into a social media platform by adding features such as algorithmic updates, a publishing platform, and influencer content. Recently, LinkedIn introduced self-improvement games like puzzles and word games to boost user engagement and retention, similar to trends seen on platforms like Facebook, Netflix, and YouTube as reported by John Herrman. This move aligns with a broader tech-industry shift where companies incorporate gaming to keep users engaged. These changes are part of a larger trend of tech companies becoming "Everything Apps," integrating diverse content and features beyond their original scope to maintain user interest.

A recent article by The Verge shared some insights from a podcast episode about audio-only games. Audio-only games, which rely entirely on sound rather than visuals, have created immersive experiences that are accessible to players who are visually impaired. Paul Bennun and his team developed the Papa Sangre series, which utilized technological advancements to enhance gameplay. Bennun argues that now is an ideal time for a resurgence of audio games, thanks to spatial audio technologies, advanced location tracking, and improved multiplayer gaming. He hints at new projects in the pipeline, suggesting a promising future for audio-first gaming.

As cited in Yahoo! Finance, Apple has announced new accessibility features set to launch later this year, aimed at enhancing usability for individuals with disabilities. Key features include Eye Tracking, which allows users to control iPads and iPhones using their eyes, and Music Haptics, enabling those who are deaf or hard of hearing to experience music through the iPhone's Taptic Engine. Vocal Shortcuts will allow custom sound commands, and Vehicle Motion Cues will help reduce motion sickness when using devices in moving vehicles. Additional updates include Voice Control for CarPlay, systemwide Live Captions in visionOS, and various enhancements for users with vision, speech, and physical disabilities. These innovations reflect Apple’s ongoing commitment to inclusive design, leveraging advanced technologies like Apple silicon and machine learning.

Finally, Xbox shared some insights about how they’ve been improving players’ safety in their Transparency Report. The Report highlights advancements in player safety and their use of AI to detect toxicity. By applying Microsoft's Responsible AI Standard, Xbox ensures accurate and fair moderation. Notable AI-supported investments include Auto Labeling to quickly identify harmful text and Image Pattern Matching to remove toxic imagery. Key achievements in the report include the success of the voice reporting feature, improved player behaviour following the launch of the Enforcement Strike System, and the effective blocking of inauthentic accounts. Additionally, Xbox has introduced the Microsoft Family Safety Toolkit and Minecraft Education’s Good Game to promote online safety and digital parenting. These efforts underscore Xbox's ongoing dedication to fostering a positive gaming environment where all players can enjoy their experiences free from intimidation and distractions.

Fintech

Investment in Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) technology doesn’t seem to be stopping. Morningstar reported that Aplazo, an omnichannel payment platform that provides flexible payment solutions and commerce enablement tools, has secured $70 million in additional equity financing, including a $45 million Series B. The financing round was led by QED Investors, with participation from new investor Volpe Capital and existing investors Oak HC/FT, Kaszek, and Picus Capital. Since its launch in late 2020, Aplazo has raised over $100 million in equity financing and $75 million in committed debt funding. The new capital will be used to enhance Aplazo’s product offerings, drive product innovation, and leverage AI to better understand consumer and merchant needs.

Retail

According to Sam Silverstein, Instacart is pushing forward with its smart cart technology as part of its strategy to expand its presence in grocery stores. These screen-equipped carts are anticipated to be in "thousands" of supermarkets by the end of 2024, with potential for even broader adoption, according to CEO Fidji Simo during the company's first-quarter earnings call. Retailers are particularly enthusiastic about Smart Carts as they represent a new revenue stream. The carts can display targeted advertisements to shoppers, which is a significant factor driving Instacart’s optimism about its growth potential. Instacart is collaborating with major grocers like Kroger, Wakefern Food Corp., and Schnuck Markets to test these smart carts.

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